Visit Charlotte, North Carolina for these Beautiful Places

There are plenty of gorgeous places in the United States; however, very few know about how much Charlotte, North Carolina has to offer. Either than a choice of diverse restaurants, cafes, music venues, and museums, Charlotte is also a green city with parks, gardens, and greenways. Home to a number of breathtaking places, the construction of these greenway systems allows individuals to hike, cycle and leisurely stroll through lush landscapes.

Here, we’ve rounded up some of the most beautiful places that Charlotte, North Carolina has to offer. Take a visit to Charlotte, and you’ll be sure to be enthralled by the natural scenic beauty of this unique city.

Freedom Park

This expansive park covers nearly a hundred acres and is also known as the Central Park of Charlotte. It’s located in the Myers Park and Dilworth area and is surrounded by upscale residential buildings. To cater to active individuals, there are plenty of paved trails from the lake that’s located at the park’s center. You’ll be able to relax and soak up the sun amongst the 98 acres of rolling meadows and plants. To see some of the finest horticulture in the state, you can also visit the Freedom Park Master Gardener Demonstration Garden.

If you’re traveling with family, there are plenty of activities to partake in such as tennis, basketball, volleyball and even practicing your swing in the batting cages. There are also two playgrounds and even an NFL Play360 KidZone as well as an outdoor shelter for a picnic or barbeque. You may even be able to catch a concert at the bandshell.

Wing Haven Gardens and Bird Sanctuary

You wouldn’t expect to find this natural oasis in the heart of Charlotte, North Carolina. The Wing Haven Gardens and Bird Sanctuary is not only a habitat for birds and wildlife but is also rich in Southern horticulture. Founded in 1927 by Elizabeth and Edwin Clarkson, this picturesque public garden and bird sanctuary is open all year round.

The garden resembles a Cross of Lorraine and is home to a wealth of ornamental trees, shrubs, and flowers as well as foundations, sculptures and even an English sundial that dates back to 1705. Either than wandering through these pristine gardens, keep a lookout for an array of birds and wildlife. There have been over 150 species of birds that were seen in both the gardens and sanctuary.

UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens

Since Charlotte, North Carolina is such a green city; it comes as no surprise that there’s another garden on the list of beautiful places. The UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens is located on the east side of the University campus and was opened in 1966. There are three distinct areas situated in the gardens – the Van Landingham Glen that’s seven-acres, the Susie Harwood Garden that’s three-acres and the McMillan Greenhouse complex. All three areas are catered to different plant life, the greenhouse, for example, houses over 1,000 species of exotic orchids, carnivores and succulents.

The UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens even houses the famous titan arum – a flowering plant with the largest, unbranched inflorescence in the world. Due to its unpleasant odor, it’s also known as the corpse flower. Either than its vast array of flora and fauna, there are also a wealth of classes, workshops and guided group tours available at the botanical gardens.

Lake Norman

Just a short 15 miles away from Charlotte, North Carolina is the beautiful and scenic Lake Norman. This man-made lake is a total of 34 miles long and houses numerous attractions such as the Cowans Ford Dam and the Marshall Steam Station. It was created in 1963 by Duke Energy and till this day is still the largest man-made lake in the Carolinas.

Either than admiring the scenery, there are plenty of activities that you can do on the Lake. Water activities include wakeboarding, fishing, and sailing. You can also kayak, canoe and paddleboard on these sparkling waters.

Reedy Creek Park

If you want to head somewhere that’s removed from the Uptown crowds; Reedy Creek Park is a good choice. Either than 146 acres of activities and leisure spots, there are also plenty of sweeping lawns, ponds, playgrounds, sports facilities, and a golf course. The ruins of a revolutionary structure called the John Robinson Rockhouse that dates back to the 1780s also exists within Reedy Creek Park.

Either than the park, there’s also the Reedy Creek Nature Preserve that’s just adjacent. You’ll be able to explore the 927 acres of natural, forested habitat and be enthralled by its stunning nature. With over 10 miles of hiking trails, you’ll hike through different varieties of terrain and be exposed to scenic views of forests, fields, stream, and wildlife.

Latta Plantation Nature Center

While it may not be situated right inside Charlotte, it’s only a short drive away on the Northern Outskirts. Latta Plantation Nature Center provides entry to the expansive Latta Plantation Nature Preserve and is a must-see for some breathtaking views. You’ll be immersed in a variety of flora and fauna including some endangered plants. The plantation itself dates back to the 1800s; currently, it is now a historical museum that houses endangered livestock, cotton-picking demonstrations, honey bee exhibits and more.

Just adjacent to the plantation is the Latta Nature Centre that offers hiking trails, water activities and equestrian tours. Outside the nature center, you can also stop by the Backyard Habitat Garden to visit some bird feeding stations, butterfly gardens and more. There are also over 16 miles of hiking trails for you to enjoy the gorgeous views of the lakes, forests, and streams. Don’t forget to also head to Mountain Island Lake to see some unforgettable views that are sure to take your breath away.

Conclusion

Charlotte, North Carolina is home to a number of beautiful places. You’re sure to be captivated by the scenic views and lush landscapes. Either than these beautiful places, don’t forget to also explore the rest of Charlotte. There’s plenty to see including the NASCAR Hall of Fame for some history on racing and Carowinds for a thrilling adventure. Don’t forget to finish your day with some delicious food from Charlotte’s thriving food scene. For more destination guides and accommodation reviews, check out Trip101