Although the Queen City is a destination within itself and an incredible place to live, work and play, sometimes it’s just nice to get away! Luckily, there are plenty of amazing destinations within driving distance from Charlotte. Here are a few of our favorites.
Lake Norman
Hop in the car and take a quick ride just outside of Charlotte to Lake Norman, North Carolina’s largest lake! It’s a wonderful destination for boating, fishing, swimming and water skiing... all less than an hour away. Plan a day trip and rent a boat for the day, or plan to stay at a waterfront vacation rental for a long weekend. There are plenty of restaurants and shops located along the lakeshore for entertainment during your stay!
Greenville, SC
Beautiful Greenville, SC is just an hour and 40 minutes away from the Queen City. It is known for its lush, tree-lined Main Street and Falls Park on the Reedy River’s spectacular waterfall setting with its award-winning Liberty Bridge. Downtown offers extensive cultural and entertainment options, as well as restaurants that will satisfy even the most dedicated foodie’s appetite.
Badin Lake
Plan a visit to Badin Lake for a day of kayaking, hiking, boating, fishing, paddle boarding and more. Since much of the lake’s eastern shoreline borders the Uwharrie National Forest, Badin Lake is known for its incredible views, great camping spots and calm waters. Various outdoor activities are permitted in the national forest, including hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, water activities and even ATV trails. And if you get the invitation to play Old North State Club’s Tom Fazio golf course, take it! It is consistently ranked as a top-five course in North Carolina with beautiful scenery and incredible panoramic lake views.
Boone and Blowing Rock, NC
Take in spectacular views and the brisk mountain air just about two hours northwest of Charlotte. Boone and Blowing Rock are small mountain towns known for hiking, fishing and camping experiences. Blowing Rock is also home to the famous Blowing Rock, a natural rock formation that juts out over a cliff, with breathtaking views of the gorge and the Pisgah Forest.
Asheville, NC
Just about two and a half hours west of Charlotte, Asheville is a charming city located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. In addition to the Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville is known for its thriving art scene, breweries and its proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Some of the must-see attractions in Asheville include the Biltmore Estate, the Asheville Art Museum and the Omni Grove Park Inn.
Hilton Head Island, SC
Less than a four-hour drive from Charlotte, Hilton Head Island is a special beach town worth a visit. Its beautiful beach, iconic lighthouse, pleasant weather year-round and world-class golf courses all make it a wonderful family-friendly getaway.
Wrightsville Beach, NC
Wrightsville Beach is a short drive from Wilmington, NC and just about three and a half hours from the Queen City. It is known for its outdoor activities and watersports – National Geographic even named it one of the top surfing towns in the world! Is it a beach town perfect for family vacations since it is easy to get around and find fun things to do.
These are just a few of the many amazing destinations within driving distance from the Queen City. Whether you enjoy a beach, lake, mountain or city getaway, with so many options to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect place to escape for a weekend or even longer!
