Embrace the sunshine this summer and enjoy the variety of outdoor activities and the natural beauty that Charlotte has to offer. Grab your sunscreen and check out this list of outdoor entertainment for the whole family. 
 

FIND A LITTLE ADVENTURE

• Head to Carolina Harbor Waterpark, located near Carowinds, for a day of waterslides
• Take a float or swim at The Quarry at Carrigan Farms
• Find your own fun at the Whitewater Center, where you can choose from climbing, ziplining, whitewater rafting, kayaking, paddle boarding, and more
• Boat or float on Lake Norman (NC) or Lake Wylie (SC)

ENJOY CHARLOTTE STAPLES

• Enjoy shopping, dining, live entertainment, and more at Camp North End
• Enjoy a drink al fresco at a local favorite, like Olde Mecklenburg Brewery,  Legion Brewing, Rosie’s Coffee and Wine Garden, Suffolk Punch, Vaulted Oak Brewing, or Bond Street Wines
• Root for the Charlotte Knights at Truist Field or cheer on Charlotte FC at Bank of America Stadium
• Watch young racers at Charlotte Motor Speedway’s Cook Out Summer Shootout
• Immerse yourself in nature’s beauty by exploring local botanical gardens: Stowe Conservancy (Belmont), UNC Charlotte, Wing Haven, and McGill Rose Garden.
   

CULTURE & CONCERTS

• Check out Viva La Fiesta at Carowinds from July 19th to August 10th to immerse yourself in Latin culture, cuisine, and more
• Rock out to live music at River Jam every Thursday-Saturday evening at the Whitewater Center
• Watch a movie under the stars, with regular summer showings at Crossroads Cinema (Camp North End), Movies in the Park (downtown Belmont), Lights, Camera, Birkdale (Birkdale Village), and Rock Hill’s Movies in the Park (Fountain Park)
• Attend a summer concert at one of Charlotte’s outdoor venues: PNC Music Pavilion, Skyla Credit Union Amphitheater, or The Amp Ballantyne
   

GREENWAYS & PARKS

• Explore the extensive network of Charlotte area greenways via bike or on foot
• Local parks, like Freedom Park, offer sports courts, walking trails, playgrounds, and more
• Hike or bike the miles of trails at McDowell Nature Preserve, a 1,100-acre preserve nestled next to Lake Wylie that offers a glimpse into the natural beauty. 
• Experience 2,100 acres of space and opportunity at Anne Springs Close Greenway, located in Fort Mill, SC, perfect for hitting the trails (on foot, by bike, or horseback!), kayaking, fishing, picnicking, and more
• Take a day outside of the city to climb Crowders Mountain
   

This is just a glimpse of the many outdoor activities Charlotte has to offer during the summer. So, lace up your shoes, grab your sunglasses, and prepare to discover the fun around the Queen City!