Family-Friendly Things to Do in Charlotte, NC

Charlotte, North Carolina, is a vibrant city full of activities and attractions that cater to families. Whether you’re a local looking for new adventures or a visitor exploring the Queen City with your kids, there are plenty of family-friendly things to do. From educational museums to exciting outdoor adventures, Charlotte has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the best family-friendly activities in Charlotte.

1. Discovery Place Science

Why Visit?

Discovery Place Science is a hands-on science and technology museum located in Uptown Charlotte. It offers interactive exhibits, an IMAX theater, and live science demonstrations. Kids can explore topics like physics, biology, and engineering in a fun and engaging way.

Highlights:

• Project Build: A construction-themed exhibit where kids can build structures.
• World Alive: Features live animals and a rainforest environment.
• IMAX Dome Theater: Showcasing educational and entertaining films.

2. Carowinds

Why Visit?

Carowinds is a 400-acre amusement park located on the border of North and South Carolina. It features thrilling roller coasters, a water park, and a variety of family-friendly rides. Carowinds also hosts seasonal events like WinterFest and SCarowinds.

Highlights:

• Planet Snoopy: A section of the park designed for younger children with Peanuts-themed rides.
• Fury 325: One of the tallest and fastest roller coasters in the world.
• Carolina Harbor: A large water park with slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.

3. Charlotte Nature Museum

Why Visit?

Located in Freedom Park, the Charlotte Nature Museum is perfect for young nature enthusiasts. The museum features live animals, interactive exhibits, and nature trails. It’s a great place for children to learn about local wildlife and ecosystems.

Highlights:

• Butterfly Pavilion: Home to hundreds of free-flying butterflies.
• Creature Cavern: An exhibit featuring live animals such as snakes, frogs, and turtles.
• Nature Trails: Scenic trails for exploring the natural beauty of the area.

4. ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center

Why Visit?

ImaginOn is a unique children’s library and theater located in Uptown Charlotte. It combines educational resources with performing arts to create an engaging environment for kids. The center hosts storytimes, workshops, and theatrical performances.

Highlights:

• Story Lab: An interactive area where kids can create and tell their own stories.
• Children’s Theatre of Charlotte: Offering a variety of performances for young audiences.
• Teen Loft: A space designed for teenagers with books, games, and activities.

5. Lazy 5 Ranch

Why Visit?

Lazy 5 Ranch is a drive-through animal park located in Mooresville, just a short drive from Charlotte. Families can see and feed over 750 animals from around the world, including giraffes, zebras, and kangaroos. It’s a fun and educational experience for all ages.

Highlights:

• Wagon Rides: Enjoy a guided tour through the park in an open-air wagon.
• Petting Zoo: Get up close and personal with friendly farm animals.
• Animal Feeding: Purchase feed buckets to give to the animals along the way.

6. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden

Why Visit?

Located in nearby Belmont, the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is a beautiful destination for families. The garden features stunning displays of plants and flowers, a butterfly pavilion, and a children’s garden. It’s a peaceful place for a family outing and a great opportunity to learn about horticulture.

Highlights:

• Children’s Garden: Interactive features like water play areas and whimsical sculptures.
• Butterfly Bungalow: A seasonal exhibit with live butterflies.
• Seasonal Events: Special events and activities throughout the year, such as holiday light displays.

7. SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium

Why Visit?

Located at Concord Mills Mall, SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium offers an underwater adventure with over 5,000 sea creatures. Kids can explore interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and watch feeding demonstrations.

Highlights:

• Ocean Tunnel: Walk through a tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and other marine life.
• Interactive Touchpool: Get hands-on with starfish, sea urchins, and more.
• Educational Talks: Learn about marine conservation and animal care from expert staff.

8. Freedom Park

Why Visit?

Freedom Park is a 98-acre urban park located between Dilworth and Myers Park. It’s a popular spot for families with its playgrounds, sports fields, and scenic lake. The park also hosts events and festivals throughout the year.

Highlights:

• Playgrounds: Multiple playgrounds with equipment for all ages.
• Walking Trails: Paved trails perfect for walking, jogging, or biking.
• Lake Pavilion: A scenic spot for picnics and relaxing by the water.

Conclusion

Charlotte is a city brimming with family-friendly activities and attractions. From educational museums and thrilling amusement parks to peaceful gardens and interactive animal encounters, there’s something for everyone. Plan your visit to Charlotte and create unforgettable memories with your family in the Queen City.