Charlotte has been one of my favorite weekend getaway cities for years. I’ve visited more times than I can count in my post-college era and for other work trips. and every trip seems to introduce me to a new neighborhood, restaurant, or local shop that makes me want to come back again.
During my latest visit, I stayed in a different area of town and that allowed me to check out some places that had been on my list for a while. From vintage markets and local boutiques to coffee gardens and food halls, these were the spots that stood out the most. If you’re planning a trip to Charlotte soon, add a few of these to your itinerary…
The Westin Charlotte
601 S. College Street, Charlotte, NC 28202
I stayed at The Westin Charlotte, which was full of energy and luxury. I was here at the hotel for a work conference, which seems to be common. It’s a huge space! It’s also directly connected to the Charlotte Convention Center, making it an easy choice if you’re in town for an event or conference.
Even if you’re visiting for fun, the location is hard to beat. You’re within walking distance of restaurants, coffee shops, sporting events, and plenty of things to do throughout Uptown. I always recommend checking the Convention Center calendar before your trip because there’s usually something happening nearby.
Inside, the hotel restaurant Dogwood Southern Table & Bar is worth a visit even if you’re not staying. The food and drinks were divine. I stopped by for lunch and a night cap almost every day.
Amélie’s French Bakery & Café
Several locations – I went to 380 S. College Street, Charlotte, NC 28202
Amélie’s has been recommended several times, and I’m glad I finally made it! As soon as you walk by and then enter, you can catch the eclectic french bakery vibe. The room is full of chandeliers, funky art work, striped details, and more. the pastry case is loaded with sweet delicacies from macaroons, eclairs, and more. You can order a variety of savory treats and sandwhichs as well as cocktails and coffee. It’s an easy stop if you’re staying downtown, whether you’re grabbing coffee before a busy day or taking your time over breakfast.
Lenny Boy Brewing Co.
3000 S. Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28217
A brewery is never far in Charlotte. Lenny Boy Brewing Co. rose to the top of my list because they hosted the Charlotte Vintage Market. More below!
I made sure to try the kombucha. I got the Good Ol’ Ginger flavor. See all the flavors here. I loved this as an alternative for not drinking. It was SO fresh and the perfect flavor. But, don’t worry, there’s beer, too! They regularly host event sand food trucks like Ugly Dumplings (more info below!). It has a laid-back atmosphere that makes it easy to spend an afternoon relaxing.
Charlotte Vintage Market
Various Locations + Dates
While I was at Lenny Boy, I caught the Charlotte Vintage Market, a rotating pop-up featuring dozens of local vintage vendors. This was one of my favorite experiences. Every booth had a different vibe. All the girls were helping each other try on clothes and make decisions. I went home with a few graphic tees, a cute shirt, and some jewelry after browsing booths from vendors like KayOtic Closet and Fossil Stone.
They pop up throughout Charlotte at places like Lenny Boy Brewing Co. and Suffolk Punch, so it’s worth checking their schedule on Instagram before your visit.
Dumpling Girls
Various Locations + Dates
I was so tickled to see the Dumpling Girls when i was visiting the brewery! It had my name written all over it. I knew I had to try them. I ordered the kids meal, which came with dumplings and spring rolls. It was the perfect quick lunch while I was out exploring. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and exactly what I was hoping for. If you spot their food truck around Charlotte, definitely stop.
Suffolk Punch Brewing
2911 Griffith Street, Charlotte, NC 28203
Another stop that was new to me was Suffolk Punch. I walked there from Lenny Boy. The brewery was hosting a pop-up with Shop Closet, a traveling designer resale boutique that brings incredible deals on contemporary brands directly to shoppers. I love when breweries double as community gathering spaces, and Suffolk Punch seems to do that really well. Between the events, food, drinks, and outdoor seating, it’s easy to see why people spend an entire afternoon here.
Lottie’s Café
210 E. Trade Street, Charlotte, NC 28202
Another favorite discovery this trip was Lottie’s Café, located in Charlotte’s Epicentre entertainment district and just a short walk from both The Westin Charlotte and the Charlotte Convention Center.
I actually visited because one of my clients hosted a small gathering there, and it couldn’t have been a cuter setting. The space feels warm, welcoming, and intimate, making it a great spot for everything from a morning coffee meeting to catching up with friends before heading out to explore the city.
Whether you’re in town for business or a weekend getaway, it’s one of those convenient places that’s easy to work into your itinerary. Grab a coffee, enjoy breakfast or lunch, and soak in the energy of Uptown before continuing your day.
Park Road Shopping Center
4101 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28209
One afternoon was dedicated entirely to shopping, and Park Road Shopping Center made it easy to hit several stores in one place. I finally got to visit K|LA Boutique in person after following them online for a while (stay tuned for a matching set you’ll definitely be seeing soon!). I also discovered Julie’s Boutique, where I found a great new top, before making a quick stop into J.Crew Factory for both me and my boyfriend.
If you enjoy mixing local boutiques with a few familiar stores, this is a fun place to spend an afternoon.
Optimist Hall
1115 N. Brevard Street, Charlotte, NC 28206
I love options, and a food hall is always a good move. Optimist Hall was a step above. With more than 20 restaurants and shops inside a beautifully restored historic mill, it’s one of those places where everyone can find something they’ll enjoy.
I ordered the Trio Poke Bowl from Zukku Sushi, which was fresh, filling, and exactly what I was craving. I also appreciated that they text you when your food is ready, giving you time to wander around while you wait.
Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, this is an easy lunch recommendation.
Rosie’s Coffee & Wine Garden
940 N. Davidson Street, Charlotte, NC 28206
Out of everything I visited this trip, Rosie’s Coffee & Wine Garden was my favorite. Located inside the historic McGill Rose Garden, it’s unlike anywhere else I’ve been. You can order a coffee or a glass of wine and then wander through the gardens at your own pace.
I especially loved reading about the pollinators, native plants, and wildlife along the walking paths. There are tables tucked throughout the gardens, making it just as perfect for catching up with friends as it is for enjoying a quiet afternoon by yourself. This is one of those places I’d recommend to anyone visiting Charlotte.
Charlotte Over Time
One of my favorite things about Charlotte is that every visit feels a little different. Even after multiple trips ove the past decade or so, I continue finding neighborhoods to explore, local businesses to support, and experiences that make me want to come back.
If you’ve been to Charlotte before, I hope this gives you a few new places to add to your list. And if it’s your first visit, I think these stops offer a great mix of shopping, food, local businesses, and places to slow down and enjoy the city.
I’m already looking forward to seeing what I discover on my next trip.
