One of the major attractions to living in Charlotte is its convenient location to great outdoor spaces near the coast, mountains, and even in our own neighborhoods. You don’t need to hop on a plane to have some fun in the sun this summer thanks to the ample outdoor entertainment space in the Charlotte area and beyond. There are many great destinations available for a quick day or overnight trip, depending on your plans. We’ve broken this list down by where, exactly, in the Carolinas these destinations are and how far they are from Charlotte.
South Charlotte + Upstate South Carolina
A quick drive south of Charlotte will lead you to several outdoor getaways and activity centers. Upstate South Carolina is known for many pick-your-own strawberry or apple fields, like Hall Family Farm or Windy Hill Orchard & Cider Mill and others.
With over 14 acres to explore, there’s no shortage of things to do outdoors on Copperhead Island, located right along Lake Wylie in Upstate South Carolina. The island includes fishing piers, nature trails, and a volleyball court. It’s also perfect for lakeside camping, featuring over 56 campsites open for reservation. While you’re exploring Lake Wylie, be sure to check out Papa Docs and Pumphouse, both waterfront restaurants on Lake Wylie.
Anne Springs Close Greenway is an area staple with a 2,100 acre nature preserve in Fort Mill offering countless outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, picnics, kayaking, and more. Read more about Helen Adams Realty’s partnership with the nature preserve here.
Lake Norman
Charlotte is perfectly located in between three local lakes, making it a great place to live whether you love sitting on the dock, cruising on the boat, or taking part in water sports. Lake Norman, about 20 miles north of Charlotte, is the largest man-made body of freshwater in North Carolina and offers tons of outdoor activity space for people around town.
Explore the lake at your own pace through Pontoon boat rentals and experience the beauty of Lake Norman for yourself. If boating isn’t your thing, there are many other ways to see the lake on foot. Check out the several waterfront parks around the lake including Jetton Park in Cornelius or Lake Norman State Park in Troutman. There are many other public access spots, restaurants, and neighborhoods adjacent to Lake Norman to enjoy the body of water in your desired capacity. Some popular lakefront restaurants are Hello, Sailor, Port City Club, North Harbor Club, and Eddie’s.
West Charlotte + Gaston County
The US National Whitewater Center, located west of Charlotte, often hosts races, festivals, and a busy schedule of daily activities and weekly outdoor concerts. Whether you’re interested in running a themed marathon, whitewater rafting, rock climbing, or just hanging out outdoors, the Whitewater Center is a must-see.
If you’re heading out west to that part of town, check out Latta Nature Preserve Waterfront, a 1,460 acre nature preserve extending into Mountain Island Lake. The Nature Center features live animals, a discovery hall, and an outdoor amphitheater. Outside, visitors can stop and observe nature in action at the National Wildlife Federation certified Backyard Habitat Garden which includes bird feeding stations, butterfly gardens, garden pond, and demonstration compost area. Crowders Mountain is another outdoor spot worth visiting, located roughly 30 miles west of Charlotte and offers hikes, cliffs, and 25-mile views of the piedmont.
Carolina Coast + Mountains
Further west, you’ll find yourself making your way up the Carolina Mountains. Many Charlotte-area residents escape the city for a day or weekend of fresh mountain air. The Blue Ridge Parkway, Downtown Asheville, and Appalachian State University are some of the closer mountain destinations but a bit further of a drive could get you to the Tennessee border and Great Smoky Mountains. Exploring the natural beauty through these scenic routes is an easy drive from Charlotte.
Depending on your desired travel time, there are countless beaches available for Carolinians to easily visit. With the closest being 3-4 hours away to Charleston or Wrightsville Beach and the furthest being the Outer Banks, at least a 6 hour drive, the Carolina coast is a major attraction. Reference QC Exclusive’s list of their favorite Carolina beaches and Coastal Towns here.
We are lucky to live in an area that’s filled with adventure, beautiful scenery, and close-to-perfect temperatures. Get outside this summer and take advantage of all that the Queen City has to offer in our backyards.