Charlotte benefits from a highly centralized location in the Carolinas, giving visitors the option of driving to either the beach or the mountains if they choose. Cities within day-trip range include Asheville, Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and the Raleigh/Durham area. If you are interested in seeing smaller Southern towns, consider a short drive to Matthews, Davidson, or Huntersville; all are within 15 minutes' drive on the interstate.
Concord Mills
see Malls.Lowe's Motor Speedway
(http://www.lowesmotorspee...). Located just out of northern Charlotte in nearby Concord, off I-85. Home of near-constant racing events including NASCAR's All-Star race and the Coca-Cola 600. Occasional home of concerts and other special events. Among other special attractions, includes the opportunity to drive around the track or attend racing school.Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
(http://www.dsbg.org). In Belmont just west of Charlotte, this is one of the most acclaimed attractions in the area. The natural beauty and serenity of the gardens make it a favorite for romantic day trips and family outings. Guided tours offered.North Carolina Zoo
(http://www.nczoo.org). Located in Asheboro, about 60 miles northeast of Charlotte. The largest zoo in North Carolina, featuring over 200 species of animal and many more botanical species. Highlights include gorillas, elephants, lions and an aviary.Reed Gold Mine
(http://www.ah.dcr.state.n...). Pan for gold in the USA's first gold mine. Very kid-friendly and educational, besides being pretty fun. Located in Cabarrus County, about 45 minutes from Charlotte.Schiele Museum of Natural History
(http://www.schielemuseum.org). A surprisingly high-quality museum in Gastonia, just west of Charlotte. Includes a planetarium, an aviary, and many special events and exhibits.Southwest of Charlotte are the Catawba lands. See how this Native American tribe used to live and lives today.
South of Charlotte along Route 16, in Waxhaw, is the Mexico Museum. Items of cultural and historical interest include pottery, costumes, and photographs.
Carowinds
(http://www.carowinds.com). Large theme park with a focus on movies. Many roller coasters and other such attractions; coasters include Top Gun, The Hurler, and the beloved Thunder Road. Give strong consideration to eating beforehand, as concession prices are very high. Go south on I-77 and get off at the state line. Bring sunscreen as most of the park is unshaded.Take I-85S to US-321N to Hickory for excellent furniture shopping at a host of furniture outlets. Two such are Hickory Furniture Mart (http://www.hickoryfurnitu...) huge and the Hickory Furniture Mall (http://www.catawbafurnitu...) quieter and less expensive.
Chimney Rock Park
(http://www.chimneyrockpark.com). Part of the highly scenic Blue Ridge Mountains in the Appalachian chain. One of the region's most visited parks, primarily because of its unusual rock formations and waterfalls.Nantahala Outdoor Center
(http://www.noc.com). About 3-4 hours west of Charlotte in the heart of the Appalachians. Excellent whitewater rafting and tubing for all experience levels; the river runs particularly well after big rains. Charlotte's own rafting center the U.S. National Whitewater Center is currently under construction, but will struggle to match the natural splendor of the Nantahala. Also an excellent place to hike, bike, bird watch, etc.