7 Best Day Trip Ideas Around Charlotte, NC

Looking for the best day trips around Charlotte?

When you live in the greater Charlotte region, you have quite a bit at your fingertips. From fine dining to unlimited shopping and nightly entertainment, there isn’t any shortage of things to do. However, what do you do to escape the buzz of Uptown Charlotte? These day trips (that I list here at Robin Hickman Realty of Charlotte) are EXACTLY what you need!

It’s all within reach, from exploring the city’s rich history to soaking up breathtaking nature or venturing into charming small towns—even dipping into South Carolina. Thanks to Charlotte’s central location, you can swap city life for relaxation or adventure in no time. So, grab your keys and hit the road—these perfect getaways practically beg for your attention (and maybe a playlist, too).

7 Best Day Trip Ideas for Charlotteans

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From learning about the city’s history to checking out the Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, Charlotte offers plenty of places to explore, visit, and experience. When you are feeling more adventurous or simply want to change up the scenery, here are seven-day trip ideas we personally recommend!

1. Lake Norman – The Ultimate Waterfront Fun

Distance from Charlotte: ~30 minutes
Why visit: Boating, fishing, and scenic lakeside dining.
Best for: Water lovers and families.
Highlights: Visit Jetton Park for picnics and nature trails or rent a kayak for water adventures.

Lake Norman is the ultimate spot for waterfront fun, just a short day trip from Queen City. As the largest man-made lake in the Charlotte region, Lake Norman offers everything from boating and fishing to paddleboarding. Stroll along the scenic walking paths or enjoy a picnic at one of the many parks.

Don’t forget to check out local vendors offering everything from fresh seafood to rental gear for your day on the water. Whether you’re looking to relax or get active, Lake Norman has something for everyone, making it the perfect escape from the city without going too far. A pro suggestion is to see if you can rent “Efoiling” boards and try them out! What an experience!

>> Efoil Charlotte

2. Crowders Mountain – Hike for Stunning Views

Distance from Charlotte: ~40 minutes
Why visit: Easy to moderate hikes with rewarding summit views.
Best for: Hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Highlights: Enjoy panoramic views of the Charlotte skyline and surrounding hills from the top of King’s Pinnacle.

Crowders Mountain is one of the best day trips around Charlotte. It offers breathtaking views and hiking trails for all skill levels. Easily accessible and just 40 minutes from the city, it’s a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking for an adventurous day trip.

Located in North Carolina, the park features two prominent peaks—Crowders Mountain and King’s Pinnacle—that provide stunning views of the Charlotte skyline and surrounding areas. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a leisurely walk through nature, Crowders Mountain has it all. Pack a picnic and enjoy the scenic trails, making it an ideal getaway from city life.

3. Asheboro and the North Carolina Zoo

Distance from Charlotte: ~1.5 hours
Why visit: One of the largest natural habitat zoos in the country.
Best for: Families with kids and animal lovers.
Highlights: Walk through Africa and North America exhibits in one day. The zoo is a perfect blend of adventure and education.

Asheboro, home to the famous North Carolina Zoo, is a perfect day trip for families and animal lovers alike. The zoo, one of the largest natural habitat zoos in the world, offers a journey through Africa and North America with hundreds of animals in expansive environments.

After exploring the zoo, treat yourself to some local food at one of Asheboro’s charming restaurants or grab a coffee at a cozy coffee shop nearby. The town also boasts food halls featuring delicious food from local vendors. If you’re looking to unwind, stroll through the town’s peaceful botanical garden, making this day trip educational and relaxing for visitors of all ages.

Lastly, if Zoos are not your thing, you can hike various trails in the region such as the Birkhead National Park trail and more!

4. Charlotte Motor Speedway – Adrenaline on the Track

Distance from Charlotte: ~20 minutes
Why visit: A must for race fans! Experience NASCAR, car shows, and racing events.
Best for: Motorsports enthusiasts and thrill-seekers.
Highlights: Through their “Racing Experience” programs, you can take a tour of the track, attend a live race, or even drive a race car yourself.

Charlotte Motor Speedway is the ultimate destination for adrenaline junkies and race fans alike. Located just outside the city, this iconic track hosts thrilling NASCAR events, offering the perfect blend of speed and excitement.

For a deeper dive into the action, take a Segway tour to Charlotte Motor Speedway and get an up-close look at the pit stop areas and track. If you’re in the mood for more motorsports history, make a pit stop at the nearby NASCAR Hall of Fame in Uptown Charlotte. Afterward, unwind by exploring the area’s modern art galleries or local attractions, making this an exciting and well-rounded day trip for all.

5. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden – Serenity in Bloom

Distance from Charlotte: ~45 minutes
Why visit: A peaceful retreat with beautifully landscaped gardens.
Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, and those looking for relaxation.
Highlights: Explore the stunning orchid conservatory, butterfly pavilion, and a variety of themed gardens throughout the year.

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is a peaceful retreat just a short drive from Charlotte, offering a perfect escape for nature lovers. Spread over 380 acres, it boasts stunning themed gardens, including fountains, vibrant seasonal blooms, and a serene orchid conservatory.

It’s an ideal day trip to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty, whether you’re wandering along the tranquil paths or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden also hosts events and educational programs year-round, making it an excellent destination for families, couples, or solo explorers. With its stunning landscapes and peaceful atmosphere, Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is a true gem for anyone seeking serenity.

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6. ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center – A Creative Haven for Kids and Teens

Distance from Charlotte: Located right in Uptown Charlotte.
Why visit: ImaginOn is a unique destination that blends a children’s library with a world-class theater, making it perfect for kids and teens to explore stories and creativity.
Best for: Families with children or teens looking for a fun, educational day out.
Highlights: This 102,000-square-foot center offers interactive exhibits, a multimedia studio, and performances from the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte.

ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center is an inspiring, one-of-a-kind destination in North Carolina, offering an engaging blend of storytelling, creativity, and learning. Located near historic sites and just a short walk from Discovery Place Science, this center is a perfect family day trip. With its interactive displays, a multimedia studio, and a dedicated children’s library, the Joan Martin Center brings stories to life for kids of all ages. Teens can also explore digital learning through audio and video production at Studio i. Recognized across North Carolina, ImaginOn is a cultural hub that fosters creativity and literacy, making it a must-visit for families in the Charlotte area.

7. U.S. National Whitewater Center – Thrills on the Water Features

https://www.instagram.com/usnwc

Distance from Charlotte: ~30 minutes
Why visit: The world’s largest man-made whitewater river.
Best for: Adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Highlights: From whitewater rafting and kayaking to zip-lining and mountain biking, there’s a thrill for everyone.

The U.S. National Whitewater Center, just outside of the Queen City, is the ultimate spot for outdoor adventure in the Charlotte region. This massive facility offers thrills like whitewater rafting, kayaking, and zip-lining, making it a go-to for adrenaline junkies. Beyond water sports, visitors can enjoy rock climbing, hiking, and mountain biking trails.

After a day of adventure, take a short trip to nearby attractions like Discovery Place Science or explore more of what the Charlotte region has to offer. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just looking to connect with nature, the National Whitewater Center is the perfect outdoor escape and is super close to the Charlotte downtown area.

The Verdict on Day Trips

Whether you are in search of a place to hike, a museum, history, or thrills – a short drive out of Charlotte offers it all. While the beach might be a bit of a stretch – though it can be done in one day – you have access to water features, professional sports, amusement parks, nature, eaters, breweries, culture, and much more within 30 minutes of Charlotte.

To discover more, simply use some of our top picks from the list above or spend time searching independently. Be sure to let us know if you have the perfect place to add to this list and share it with us!

What is your favorite place to visit? Let us know below!