CHARLOTTE where traveler.com
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FIRST LOOK Here’s where those in the know go for thrills, spills, spiritual entlightenment and contemporary art.
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BUILDING BLOCKS Ths best way to measure the growth of the Queen City is through its public art. TEXT BY JENNIFER MCKEE PHOTOS BY RYAN MASON
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KINGS OF THE QUEEN CITY Charlotte’s founding fathers continue to influence her sense of place. BY VIRGINIA BROWN
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THREE CHEERS FOR NORTH CAROLINA WINE COUNTRY The Tar Heel state is home to America’s oldest grape vine, the first Native American winery and wine trails galore. BY JENNIFER MCKEE
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ON THE LINE Charlotte’s Blue Line extension is a boon to visitors—and businesses alike. BY LAUREN BLAKE
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CONTROLLING YOUR A.P.E. How Panthers head coach Ron Rivera enlightens his team, on the field and off. BY JENNIFER MCKEE
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ALL ABOUT TOWN From Uptown and NoDa to Ballantyne and University City, the Queen City’s neighborhoods boast character and charm.
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PARTING SHOT ON THE COVER: UPTOWN CHARLOTTE AT DUSK, ©THERESA SCARBROUGH/ ALAMY STOCK PHOTO
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CHARLOTTE MORRIS VISITOR PUBLICATIONS MVP I EDITORIAL & DESIGN EDITOR Jennifer McKee ART DIRECTOR Chris Cardelli CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lauren Blake, Virginia Brown
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For the wonderer in everyone Discover the wonder of science, beauty of nature and excitement of technology at Discovery Place’s three museums. Filled with exciting exhibitions, explosive experiments and extraordinary live programs, a day at Discovery Place inspires curiosity in all ages. We wonder. Do you?
Where GuestBook® publishes editions for the following U.S. cities and regions: Arizona, Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Colorado, Dallas, Florida Gold Coast (Fort Lauderdale & Palm Beach), Fort Worth, Island of Hawai‘i, Houston, Jacksonville/St. Augustine/Amelia Island, Kansas City, Kaua‘i, Los Angeles, Maui, Miami, Nashville, New Orleans, New York, Northern Arizona, O‘ahu, Orange County (CA), Orlando, Philadelphia, Reno/Lake Tahoe, San Antonio, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle/The Eastside/Tacoma, Southwest Florida (Naples), Tampa Bay, Tucson, Washington D.C. ©2018 by Morris Visitor Publications. All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, in whole or in part, without the express prior written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility to any party for the content of any advertisement in this publication, including any errors and omissions therein. By placing an order for an advertisement, the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher against any claims relating to the advertisement.
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FIRST LOOK
©BILLY GRAHAM LIBRARY
A visit to Charlotte would be incomplete without a stop at any of these attractions, which reveal the city’s culture, spirit—in addition to spirits—and need for speed.
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Billy Graham Library
A humble farm boy from the outskirts of Charlotte, Billy Graham became a spiritual advisor to presidents and a confidante to world leaders—but most importantly, “The People’s Pastor.” He was the salve for a nation grieving after 9/11 and a voice speaking out against the injustices of war, apartheid and other oppressions. In his 55 years of ministry, his message of love and hope reached more than 215 million people in 185 countries. The uplifting journey at his namesake library takes you through his life, artifacts and passions. 4330 Westmont Drive, 704.401.3200
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U.S. National Whitewater Center
The home to the U.S Canoe/Kayak Team trials, this 1,300-acre facility beckons the adventureous. Get a view of all the action from the Pump House Biergarten and get tips before you take to the rapids—whitewater activities include family and adventure rafting. There are activities for all ages and skill levels; also flatwater kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, rock climbing, zip lines, ropes courses, various canopy tours and mountain biking on a 40-mile trail system 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway, 704.391.3900
Craft Breweries
Charlotte’s craft beer scene is bustling. With four dozen and counting—in addition to meaderies and cideries—you’ve got to add at least one beer house to your bucket list. Start at Olde Mecklenburg Brewery (704.525.5644), Charlotte’s first, which follows the German beer purity law and opened in 2009. Then, head to the hip NoDa neighborhood to discover gems such as Growlers Pourhouse (above, 704.910.6566). New tastes are around every bend. 10
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Charlotte Motor Speedway
This storied track was the first to host a 600-mile NASCAR sanctioned event; Jeff Gordon, Matt Kenseth and Bobby Labonte all had their first 600 wins there. Three Monster Energy Cup NASCAR Series events are among those held here each year. 5555 Concord Parkway, Concord, 704.455.3200
LEFT: ©KYO H. NAM. TOP RIGHT: ©VISIT CHARLOTTE. BOTTOM RIGHT: ©CHARLOTTE MOTOR SPEEDWAY. OPPOSITE: ©BILL RUSS/VISIT NC
FIRST LOOK
Bechtler Museum of Modern Art
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One of Charlotte’s most iconic buildings, the Bechtler was designed by Swiss architect Mario Botta, his only commission in the U.S. outside of San Francisco’s MoMA. Gracing the entrance to the minimalist structure is Niki de Saint Phalle’s Firebird—or the “Disco Chicken”—covered from top to bottom in mirrored glass, a favorite Charlotte photo opp. 420 S. Tryon St., 704.353.9200
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What’s the best way to measure the growth of the Queen City? Through its public art. PHOTOGRAPHY BY RYAN MASON
Public art not only allows people to make a connection to their city, but is also an indication of that city’s growth. Charlotte’s expansion is so great, it’s no surprise her public art scene is so rich—and the Arts & Science Council has created its own public art walking tour for those who want to learn about these imaginative pieces. 12
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Left: “The Writer’s Desk” by Larry Kirkland (2005) represents a tenet of the free press. Right: “Il Grande Disco” by Arnaldo Pomodoro (1974) is engraved with a city map; it’s a thoughtful look at what Charlotte’s future could look like.
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BUILDING BLOCKS
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This page: At left, Andrew Leicester’s “Bobbins” (2007) are a nod to the textile industry that launched Charlotte as a hub; at right, Raymond Kaskey’s “Transportation” (1995) pays tribute to the African Americans who built the railroads in the 1800s. Facing page: “Cascade” by Jean Tinguely (1991) comments on industry in the Queen City.
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This page: “Before Dawn” by Romare Bearden (1989), regarded as one of the most creative visual artists of the 20th century. Opposite: “making/building” by Ben Long (1998) is a literal take on Charlotte’s building boom.
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Not only was Harvey Gantt Charlotte’s first African American mayor, he was the first black student admitted to Clemson University.
KINGS OF THE QUEEN CITY Charlotte claims many founding fathers who have influenced her sense of place. Here are eight of the Queen City’s greats and where to go to honor their legacies.
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©POPPERFOTO/GETTY IMAGE COURTESY OF CLEMSON LIBRARIES SPECIAL COLLECTIONS AND ARCHIVES
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BY VIRGINIA BROWN
Spanning eras, professions and politics, from a man who declared war to a renowned preacher of peace, many men who were born or raised in and around the Queen City have forged the path forward for Charlotte, today a culturally diverse, thriving New South city. Known as the “Pastor to Presidents,“ Billy Graham was a rural farm boy raised in Charlotte and the nation’s foremost Christian evangelist. Lyndon B. Johnson and Richard Nixon regularly sought his counsel, and both Bill Clinton and George W. Bush have cited Graham as having been an important part of their spiritual lives. Reverend Graham pioneered the use of television specials in the 1950s and preached to more than 215 million people in 185 countries around the world. He was born in November of 1918 and was laid to rest in March 2018. Graham served as a preacher, revivalist and televangelist for more than 50 years. Learn about the man, his modest start and his legacy at the Billy Graham Library (billygrahamlibrary.org), just four miles from the Graham homestead off of what today is Park Road. Born in Charlotte during the first part of the turn of the 20th century, Romare Bearden was a New York-based artist and writer, known primarily for his collages and photomontages, a signature technique of Bearden’s. Largely influenced by the 1920s Harlem jazz scene, Bearden likened his improvisational artistic approach to that of the composers of the genre, many of whom were his friends. For Bearden, jazz, the blues and folk music embodied the black American experience. Today many of his works are on display at The Mint WHERE GUEST B OOK
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Top: The James K. Polk birthplace and museum in Pineville, just outside of Charlotte. Opposite, clockwise from top left: Billy Graham’s spirit and ministry live on at the Billy Graham Library; philanthropist Leon Levine and his wife, Sandra; Richard “The King” Petty fulfills your need for speed at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
ASSOCIATION; ©THE LEON LEVINE FOUNDATION; ©RICHARD PETTY DRIVING EXPERIENCE
$6,000—his entire life savings—and invested in what he thought was an even better idea: a similar self-serve store in which nothing sold was priced over one dollar. Fifty years later, Family Dollar had burgeoned into a $15 million company, and today in Charlotte, not only does Levine’s legacy live on through the “dollar stores” still sprinkled throughout the city, but at the Levine Museum of the New South (museumofthenewsouth.org), where visitors can learn about the historical significance of the Charlotte region during the sit-in movements of the 1960s, among other important Civil Rights-era events in the Charlotte region. The Levine Center for the Arts is also home to four cultural arts venues including three museums (The Mint Museum, Gantt Center, Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, and Knight Theater, resident theater to the Charlotte Symphony among other cultural institutions.) Another man deeply dedicated to the cultural fabric of the Queen City is Hugh McColl. As the story goes, from his office atop the Bank of America building, Chairman McColl, who, during his tenure, helped build Charlotte into the banking center it is today, could see a burned-out building sitting vacant along one of the city’s most visible streets, Tryon Street. From that pile of rubble and with backing from McColl sprouted the McColl Center for Art + Innovation (mccollcenter.org). Located in the once-ruined neo-Gothic church, the McColl Center is a nationally acclaimed contemporary art hub dedicated to several in-house artists in residence studios plus gallery space.
TOP: ©OHSO37/FLICKR, CREATIVE COMMONS. OPPOSITE PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: ©BILLY GRAHAM EVANGELISTIC
Museum Uptown (mintmuseum.org) in an exhibition exploring the impact music had on Bearden’s work. His art, of course, is showcased at the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture (ganttcenter.org), named for another Queen City icon. Harvey Gantt was born in Charleston, South Carolina, and raised in the segregated South. The first black student admitted to Clemson University, Gantt graduated with honors and went on to study at MIT. He eventually made his way to the Queen City, where he set up shop as an architect and became an active voice in not only the business community, but in the city’s political landscape. He served as Charlotte’s first African American mayor from 1983 to 1987. As part of the Levine Center for the Arts (levinecenterarts.org), an Uptown cultural complex, the Gantt Center celebrates the work and legacy that influential African-Americans had on American culture. The Center’s location is significant, located in what was once the epicenter of Charlotte’s thriving black community, Brooklyn, demolished during urban renewal efforts in the 1960s. Visit another home site, the James K. Polk historic site (nchistoricsites.org/polk), which commemorates events that took place during the administration of the 11th president of the United States, from the MexicanAmerican War to the annexation of California. A reconstruction of a typical home site of the era, the complex, located just south of Charlotte near Pineville, North Carolina, includes a replica log cabin, kitchen and barn complete with authentic period furnishings. NASCAR Hall of Famer Richard “The King” Petty is one of the most illustrious names in racing. With a record 200 career wins, there is a reason he wears the crown. Visit the Richard Petty Driving Experience (drivepetty.com) at the Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord, North Carolina, for various authentic racing experiences complete with in-car communications, driver’s meetings with crew chief training and of course, NASCAR-grade velocity. Another nearby racing hub—Rockingham, North Carolina—claims yet another legend of the Queen City, Leon Levine. Levine was a hardworking entrepreneur born to parents who ran a department store. Inspired by a visit to Tennessee later in life, where he came across a store that sold everything for under two dollars, in 1959, Levine took
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THREE CHEERS FOR NORTH CAROLINA’S WINE COUNTRY Watch out Napa Valley: our state is home to the America’s oldest grapevine, the first Native American winery and wine trails galore
ABOVE: ©CHIP HENDERSON/VISIT NC
LEFT: ©BILL RUSS/VISIT NC;
BY JENNIFER MCKEE
North Carolina’s Yadkin Valley is referred to as the “Napa of the East.” One of its largest wineries is Raffaldini Vineyards, which shares a tie with the poet Virgil.
North Carolina’s wine country may not be as well known as California’s, but it’s just as impressive. The state has more than 400 vineyards and 185 wineries; it’s all centered around the Yadkin Valley, less than two hours from Charlotte, which is often referred to as the “Napa of the East.” When captains Philip Amadus and Arthur Barlowe led Sir Walter Raleigh’s first expedition to the New World in 1584, they discovered an island “so full of grapes as the very beating and surge of the seas overflowed them.” Today, Roanoke Island’s Mother Vine is regarded as the oldest cultivated grapevine in America, and more than 20 varieties of muscadine are made from this vine. The valley’s contribution to the industry was so vast that in 2003 it became North Carolina’s first federally approved American Viticultural Area—it encompasses more than 1.4 million acres and three dozen vineyards. The 6,200-person strong Elkin is considered the soul of the wine-making industry here, and it’s the starting point for a handful of Yadkin Valley wine trails.
Destination winery Elkin Creek Vineyard sits on the site of a historic grist mill that was built in 1896. Its four rustic-chic cabins offer creekside accommodations and all the modern conveniences of home, with a waterfall and vineyards as its backdrop. Its kitchen, currently available only for special events, was named by Southern Living magazine as “the best in the valley.” Former NASCAR driver Richard Childress’ Childress Vineyards is the headliner among the four wineries on the Southern Gateway Wine Trail. Within an hour’s drive of Charlotte, the Southern trail takes you through 15 miles of Lexington’s barbecue country. On its 72 acres, Childress Vineyards makes a broad range of white and red wines from its 11 varieties of European vines; since it opened in 2004 the winery has won more than 750 medals in competitions from New York to California. Other notable wineries on this trail include Junius Lindsay Vineyard, which has the state’s only open-air tasting room and Native Vines Winery, the first American Indian-owned-and-operated winery in the United States. WHERE GUEST B OOK
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ALL IMAGES ©VISIT NC
The Swan Creek Wine Trail is also 60 minutes from Charlotte and features six wineries within close proximity to each other at the foothills of the Brushy and Blue Ridge mountains. Because of its rocky, mineral-rich soil, vinifera wine grapes thrive here, and the growing season is longer due to its higher elevation. The poet Virgil has long influenced the practices of Raffaldini Vineyards and Winery—for centuries, the family has owned and lived on the farm where Virgil lived in his youth. Its founding principles are thus guided by his philosophies: that a harmonious relationship to the land is key to producing outstanding wines. Raffaldini’s commitment to these agrarian principles has created a space for wildlife to thrive—it’s home to an official Certified Wildlife Habitat with birds, butterflies and frogs. The Yadkin River Wine Trail takes you to five wineries along one of the longest rivers in North Carolina. Wine growers here were the first to cultivate the Scuppernong, a Native American grape variety which produces sweet wine. At an hour and a half from Charlotte, the miniature horses, organic vegetable farm and the historic Century Family Farm make this a delightful day trip. Soak in nature and get a unique perspective of the wines at the aptly named Treehouse Vineyards. Three treehouse rentals are available, but the newest, Horsefeathers Hideaway, is nestled in the woods next to a running creek with bird’s-eye views of the vineyards. Venture a little further to live it up like a Vanderbilt at the Biltmore Winery in Ashville—located on the 8,000-acre Biltmore Estate, it’s considered to be one of America’s most-visited wineries. And those who wish to pair their wines with a dreamy, beachside destination will find Silver Coast Winery a relaxing experience. Ocean Isle Beach is home to North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands’ first winery; wines here are modeled after traditional European styles, but a number of the winery’s signature selections are made from hybrid grapes. Its labels feature works of art from local Brunswick Islands artists.
Top left: Ashville’s Biltmore Winery. Bottom left: wine barrels in the Piedmont. This page: The muscadine grape is abundant in North Carolina wine country.
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Travelers wait for the LYNX Blue Line in Uptown. In March 2018, the transit line almost doubled in size; it now covers almost 20 miles between I-485 and University City.
ON THE LINE The expansion of the LYNX Blue Line is a game-changer
PHOTOS COURTESY CHARLOTTE’S GOT A LOT
BY LAUREN BLAKE
Around seventy years ago, in 1938, Charlotte’s original streetcar was disbanded to make way for a new mode of transportation: the bus. Several decades later, the streetcar made a return—in a sense—as an electric light rail. The LYNX Blue Line opened for service in November of 2007, making it easier for commuters to get from I-485 just outside Pineville to center city Charlotte. The city’s first light rail service—and North Carolina’s first major rapid rail service—the Blue Line offers a congestion-free commute for residents as well as an easy way for visitors to get around. For years, residents and visitors in South End and Uptown have enjoyed riding the Blue Line to get everywhere—from the office to Panthers football games and everything in-between. Recently—in March of 2018—the much-anticipated Blue Line extension was completed, adding 9.3 miles and 11 stations to the already existing 9.6 miles. Now, the entire Blue Line transit line runs just shy of 20 total miles. The extension from Uptown’s 7th Street Station includes stops through NoDa—Charlotte’s historic arts and entertainment district—in addition to the University area, terminating at UNC Charlotte’s campus.
With fare the same cost as the local bus service, at $2.20 each way, the Blue Line is an ideal mode of transportation for those looking to explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods. Jason Glunt—owner of Salud Beer Shop and Salud Cerveceria in NoDa—opened his business six years ago in March of 2012, before the Blue Line extension broke ground. “We hope it will make it a lot easier for people to get to NoDa because parking has been such an issue for years,” said Glunt. “It’ll give people easier access to the neighborhood to see all the great businesses and see what we’ve got going on in the area.” NoDa, along with the rest of the city, has experienced tremendous growth in the last few years, with the addition of several new restaurants, breweries, shops and residential complexes. The neighborhood is also home to two popular and long-standing music venues, Neighborhood Theatre and The Evening Muse. “Back when we opened in 2012 there were like four breweries,” said Glunt. Now, the city is home to more than 40 breweries, including more than five in NoDa alone. WHERE GUEST B OOK
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Crown Station, a coffeehouse and pub that was formerly located in the Elizabeth neighborhood—parallel to the LYNX Gold Line, a free street car that runs from Uptown to Elizabeth. “We were always big on the streetcar before,” said owner Billy Dail. “You know, ‘Station’ was in our name. We were really bummed we had to leave but we found this place and we decided to keep the name and the theme. Being right here next to these two tracks [the Blue Line and the Amtrak], it just seemed perfect.” Crown Station, which is about a quarter of a mile in between two light rail stops (36th Street Station and Sugar Creek Station) plays host to weekly events including live jazz on Mondays, comedy on Wednesdays and open mic on Thursdays. The 22-minute ride from Uptown to the extension’s last stop at UNC Charlotte offers many new opportunities to explore Charlotte’s booming areas, including the upbeat South End neighborhood to the quirky pocket of NoDa. In fact, by 2035, it’s projected that the Blue Line extension will provide, on average, 24,500 weekday trips. And who knows what’s in store for the weekends, when Charlotte’s neighborhoods come alive with bustling restaurants and bars, live music and packed breweries.
The expansion of the Blue Line allows accessability to more neighborhoods and local businesses.
THIS PAGE: ©VISIT NC. OPPOSITE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: COURTESY CROWN STATION COFFEE HOUSE & PUB (2); ©CHARLOTTE’S GOT A LOT; COURTESY POPBAR
“We started here in this one tiny space and we had four taps and pretty much didn’t know what we were doing,” Glunt said, joking. “We took over the space next door and now we have the upstairs space...we’re trying to evolve constantly.” The original space is still Salud, a retail shop with a few rotating tap handles and a small amount of seating options. Now, though, the shop has a food menu offering wood-fired pizzas, baked oysters, charcuterie and cheese boards and more. The upstairs space is shared by Trade and Lore—a passion-driven coffee shop—as well as Salud Cerveceria, a craft beer bar with a unique tap list. Glunt is interested to see how the Blue Line will impact his business as well as the neighborhood as a whole. “With the light rail coinciding with the food opening, I think it’s a really great opportunity for us,” he added. Kia Lyons, who owns PopBar—a popular ice cream shop in NoDa that serves handcrafted gelato on a stick—thinks the Blue Line is a great addition to the neighborhood. “Ninety percent of our visitors are still new,” said Lyons. “So we’re still getting those new customers and this offers an opportunity for those who don’t have transportation, like students.” A few blocks away in the north end of NoDa, there’s
Q&A
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PHOTO CREDIT ©MELISSA MELVIN-RODRIGUEZ GOTHAM BOOK 5.5/9PT
Ron Rivera took a struggling Carolina Panthers team to a franchise-best INTERVIEWED BY he NAME TK the team relevant. record in three years. This is how keeps
Ron Rivera is all smiles in the War Room on Draft Night 2018. Rivera said that beating division rivals is one key to a successful season.
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BOARDWALK BILLY’S RAW BAR & RIBS Billy’s has been packing in the crowds since 1998 for great food, fresh margaritas, cold craft beer and free peanuts! (It’s ok ,throw the shells on the floor) Billy’s is a great place to watch the game, listen to live music or just hang out on the deck enjoying Charlotte’s best smoked wings! Boardwalk Billy’s has the best seafood in town but is also famous for their house smoked, dry rubbed, baby back ribs and delicious pulled pork barbecue served with homemade sauces! Try Billy’s famous Crab Con Queso Dip. It’s not to be missed. Each location features great outdoor dining! The University Place location overlooks the lake and the Sardis Rd. location features a large outdoor patio and a corn hole game area. On the water at University Place, 9005 JM Keynes Blvd Charlotte Located on the Blue Line light rail system
704-503 RIBS(7427) In the Galleria at Crown Point, 1636 Sardis Rd. North, Charlotte
704-814-RIBS(7427) Order On-Line at www.boardwalkbillys.com
STEAKS THIS GOOD ARE
RARE CHARLOTTE
227 W. Trade St. 704.333.2602 Mortons.com
ALL ABOUT TOWN Discover the charm, history and variety of these distinctive neighborhoods.
DILWORTH Originally the brainchild of Edward Dilworth Latta in the 1890s, Dilworth was Charlotte’s first streetcar suburb. To attract residents and businesses to the area, Latta built a 90-acre park. The community was constructed as a grid that centered on East Boulevard, welcoming families to the turn-of-the-century, colonial-revival and Craftsman-style architecture. Today, a new generation has discovered the charm and neighborliness of Dilworth, with its tree-lined streets, front porches and family-friendly sidewalks. It continues to thrive as one of the city’s most historic and popular neighborhoods. Freedom Park is a year-round hub for outdoor activity and festivals. Shops and restaurants add to the area’s appeal, especially on East Boulevard, which has earned a reputation as being Charlotte’s boutique row.
ELIZABETH Where Uptown’s East Trade Street turns into Elizabeth Avenue is where you enter the charmingly hip neighborhood of Elizabeth. No, this place isn’t named after the HRH Queen Elizabeth II (as one might assume given that Charlotte is named for a former 34
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MYERS PARK Driving under a canopy of towering old willow oaks gives credence to the “Park” in Myers Park. You’ve entered Charlotte’s most prestigious ZIP code. The lush suburb includes a mix of spacious parks, stately colonial-revival and Tudor-revival homes, Queens University and exclusive shops. For newcomers, you’ll know you are in the right neighborhood not only because of its beauty, but also because every other street is named “Queens.”
NODA Following New York City’s penchant for catchy neighborhood acronyms (think: SoHo and Nolita), Charlotte presents this “North Davidson”-at-36th Street enclave as, simply, NoDa. This diverse ‘hood manages to cram a lot into a mere square mile, much of it art-related and all of it eclectic. Visitors can see the work of local artists in galleries, during monthly art walks and, often, in progress on a street corner. NoDa boasts a couple of craft breweries, as well as
©VISIT NC
Charlotte
royal). It actually takes its moniker from Elizabeth College, the small Lutheran women’s school that is situated within its bounds. The suburban-style burgh and leafy historic district is another that thrived in the early part of the 20th century, thanks to the streetcar. Independence Park is one of the neighborhood’s larger attractions.
independently owned specialty boutiques and restaurants with food programs that span the globe. It is equal parts hippie and hip, ground zero for the creative crowd.
FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: ©KYO H. NAM; ©CHARLOTTE’S GOT A LOT (2)
PLAZA MIDWOOD The Plaza and Central Avenue are the two main drags of this affluent, residential neighborhood that originated in the 1920s as a streetcar suburb. Plaza Midwood ran the gamut of socioeconomic standings during the 20th century, from moneyed socialites like the VanLandinghams (their enormous bungalow on The Plaza is now an inn that also hosts weddings) to a rather scruffy vibe in the 1980s and 1990s. Today, Plaza Midwood attracts a crowd that finance-focused Uptowners might label as “gritty,” at least those outside the lawns of the Charlotte Country Club. There are diners, ethnic eateries (sushi, tapas, Irish, North African) and other casual restaurants—one of the most famous being the Midwood Smokehouse—as well as shops focused on skateboarding, vintage gear, records and LGBTQ books.
SOUTHPARK The central feature of this neighborhood is the SouthPark Mall, the largest shopping
From left: The charms of NoDa by night; a lovely Dilworth sidewalk; the beautiful layout of Ballantyne Village; the burgeoning South End.
mall in the entire state of North Carolina. With designer stores like Louis Vuitton, Tory Burch, Trina Turk, Burberry, David Yurman, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Frye and Peter Millar, one can surmise the type of resident SouthPark attracts. Six miles from Uptown, SouthPark sits on the former site of a 3,000-acre farm, and clearly today’s atmosphere sharply contrasts with any previous rural sentiment.
SOUTH END The remnants of a thriving, turn-of-the-century textile industry give this Charlotte enclave a beer-fueled identity with upwards of a dozen local craft breweries and taprooms taking up residency in former mill buildings. But brewers aren’t the only people walking these streets just south of Uptown. In the same neighborhood where the region’s first railroad steamed into Charlotte in 1852, the recently expanded Blue Line light rail transports more visitors to and from the South End than ever before. Hundreds of designers—from the fashion industry to the web—have
Constructed as a grid, Dilworth was Charlotte’s first streetcar suburb.
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ALL ABOUT TOWN
UNIVERSITY CITY This ‘hood gets its name because it’s home to the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Having 20-somethings at its core makes this a destination for nightlife, casual dining and retail, and it sits just northeast of Uptown. In the 1960s, visionaries saw past the area’s farming fields and imagined a great learning center, complete with research facilities and places to live, work and play. Today, that vision has become the reality. Charlotte’s greenway system also boasts one of the best trails in this area of the city, the Mallard Creek Greenway.
UPTOWN Charlotteans call their downtown neighborhood Uptown, perhaps because it’s located on a hill. Major corporation headquarters like Duke Energy, Bank of America and BB&T keep business travelers in this part of town (and you will notice the suits), while leisure travelers and residents can soak up culture at the Mint Museum, the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, the Gantt Center, the Levine Museum of the New South and the Blumenthal Performing Arts 36
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From left: The University of North Carolina at Charlotte is University City’s anchor; sun streams through a tree-lined street in Myers Park.
Center, to name just a few. Uptown is also the site of Bank of America Stadium, home of the NFL Carolina Panthers. At night, Uptown’s abundance of restaurants, bars and live music venues keeps things lively. This ‘hood is best experienced on foot.
VILLA HEIGHTS Adjacent to NoDa—but not part of it—Villa Heights is one of Charlotte’s neighborhoods on the rise. The traditionally African-American enclave is undergoing urban renewal and, consequently, the demographic is gentrifying and property price tags are ringing in higher.
WEST END A mile from Uptown, on the other side of the Fourth Ward, Johnson C. Smith University anchors this traditionally African-American, middle-class neighborhood. Just off the campus, the 5 Points intersection is fast becoming a commercial destination; development here, and across the West End, is ongoing, and the LYNX Gold Line streetcar attracts an influx of residents, especially millennials.
PHOTOS ©CHARLOTTE’S GOT A LOT
offices here. By the way, American novelist Carson McCullers wrote the opening chapters of her first book, “The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter,” while living in a boarding house on East Boulevard.
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ARIA Bringing the best of Italy to Charlotte, Aria captures the flavors of Tuscany, serving old world comfort food re-imagined in a modern Italian setting. Featuring a bird’s eye view of Uptown from the dining room and bar, an open kitchen, Chef’s Table, a striking wine wall with 40 wines by the glass, amazing local beers, craft cocktails, live music every weekend, and incredible menu staples and nightly features from Executive Chef Alex Piatt. Aria is open daily, excluding Sunday, offering lunch and dinner, private and semiprivate dining, full service catering and boxed lunch delivery. *Located in the Bank of America Corporate Center, adjacent to the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, with entrances from Founders Hall and Trade Street, valet begins at 6pm. 100 N. Tryon St., Charlotte, NC 28202 On the corner of College & Trade Streets
704.376.8880
www.ariacharlotte.com
HISTORIC ROSEDALE PLANTATION Built in 1815, Rosedale Plantation is one of the finest Federal-style homes in North Carolina. Famous for its decorative architectural features, it is the Carolinas’ Southern Piedmont treasure. Our 8.9 acres of green space feature the renovated formal garden, heirloom plants, numerous Treasure Trees, and the beginning of new nature trails. Guided home tours offered 1:30 and 3:00pm Thurs. - Sun. 11:00am home tour offered Saturdays, May - Sept. 12:30pm garden tour offered on Wednesdays, May - Sept. Blacksmith on site in the smithy 1st, 2nd and 3rd Saturdays. No reservations required and group tours of 15+ available with 2 weeks notice. Grounds rentals available. Follow us on Facebook.
CAROLINAS AVIATION MUSEUM Carolinas Aviation Museum has a comprehensive collection of commercial, civil, and military aircraft that spans years of aviation history. Explore the Museum’s interactive exhibits and follow aviation history from the Wright Brothers’ historic flight to present-day technology. Experience the cockpit of an F-4 Phantom and see US Airways Flight 1549—“The Miracle on the Hudson.” 4672 First Flight Drive, Charlotte, NC 28208
704.997.3770 www.carolinasaviation.org
3427 N. Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC
704.335.0325
www.historicrosedale.org
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LARK & KEY GALLERY
HARVEY B. GANTT CENTER
Established in 2008, Lark & Key Gallery is celebrated for its diverse selection of contemporary art and functional craft from local, regional and national artists. The welcoming gallery interweaves a calming and rustic sensibility with an eye towards the slightly whimsical, the subtly surreal and quiet nature. Whether first time buyer, long-term collector, gift seeker or fine craft scavenger you are sure to find something that inspires.
The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture is a multi-disciplinary arts institution located in the heart of Uptown Charlotte. The Gantt Center features fine art exhibitions from around the world and is home to the nationally celebrated John and Vivian Hewitt Collection of African-American Art. Generously donated by Bank of America, the collection includes works by Romare Bearden and other masters. Named for former Charlotte mayor Harvey Bernard Gantt, we offer an array of arts workshops, cultural programs and works by local artists in our museum store. Visit ganttcenter.org or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
128 E. Park Ave, Ste B, Charlotte , NC 28203
704.334.4616 larkandkey.com fb: larkandkey | instagram: larkandkey
551 South Tryon Street at Levine Center for the Arts
704.547.3700 ganttcenter.org
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LEVINE MUSEUM OF THE NEW SOUTH
Levine Museum of the New South is an interactive museum housing the nation’s most comprehensive interpretation of post-Civil War, southern history. Through the award-winning exhibit, Cotton Fields to Skyscrapers, changing galleries and complementing programs, the Museum tells the stories of the diverse people who have reinvented and shaped the region since 1865. 200 E. Seventh Street, Charlotte
704.333.1887 www.museumofthenewsouth.org
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BECHTLER MUSEUM OF MODERN ART The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art is dedicated to the exhibition of mid-20th-century European and American modern art. Cosmopolitan in nature and intimate in scale, the Bechtler offers a collection that is inspiring and approchable with works by Giacometti, Warhol, Miró, Ernst and other modern art masters. Owing to its size and focus, the museum provided an in-depth visual art experience that can be explored in an afternoon but still reward repeated visits. A museum shop is located on the lobby level. 420 South Tryon Street, Charlotte at Levine Center for the Arts
704.353.9200 www.bechtler.org
SOZO GALLERY Tucked in a small storefront on the plaza of the beautiful Hearst Tower in Charlotte’s Center City, Sozo Gallery is a contemporary art gallery that brings fresh, original artwork from local, national and international artists to Charlotte collectors. Our focus is to inspire soulful connections between collector, art and artist by supporting and promoting a variety of artists, and displaying works that excite, calm and engage all of the senses. We want our clients to discover a connection – souls to be stirred up a bit – and conversations evoked. We love to see our clients’ eyes squint with a tilt of the head. Then, the half-smile, the eyes open a bit wider, the heart begins to melt... sparking the beginnings of that indescribable connection. 214 N. Tryon Street
704.575.6777 www.sozogallery.net
ANNE NEILSON FINE ART Anne Neilson Fine Art is located in the Shops at Morrison in the SouthPark area of Charlotte. In our 5200 square foot gallery, we house a variety of traditional and contemporary artwork from over fifty national and international artists. With a catalog of artwork from emerging to established artists, Anne Neilson Fine Art is proud to contribute to Charlotte’s ever growing art community. We are dedicated to being a lighthouse in Charlotte and beyond. With an eye on bettering the world, a portion of all sales are given to non-profit organizations devoted to enriching the lives of those less fortunate. Anne Neilson is an artist who is dedicated to painting with a purpose. She opened the gallery in 2014 with a vision to give back through art. 532 Governor Morrison Street, Suite 110 Charlotte, NC 28211
704.496.9181
anneneilsonfineart.com
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
BEECH MOUNTAIN
RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE
Beech Mountain is the highest town in Eastern America and an ideal vacation spot in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains. The town’s elevation of 5,506 feet sets it apart 12 months a year. Summer temperatures hover in the 60s and 70s, creating a cool mountain getaway for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, whitewater rafting and exploring. For the less adventurous, Beech Mountain Club offers spectacular golf and summer programs for children and adults, while Buckeye Recreation Center provides fitness and other activities in 22,500 square feet of comfort. Popular events include Family Fun Month in June, Mile High Kite Festival in September and Autumn at Oz in September at the old Land of Oz theme park. Winter snows average nearly 90 inches and transform Beech Mountain into a wonderland for skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, ice skating, sledding and aprés ski activities. The slopes at Beech Mountain Resort are the highest slopes east of the Rockies.
Step away from the hustle and bustle of the ever-growing Uptown area in the city of Charlotte and join us for a piece of serenity and melt-in-your-mouth sizzlin’ steaks! Uptown Ruth’s Chris, remodeled in late 2016, highlights blue hues and lighter colors enticing our guests to relax and enjoy what we are known for – steaks cooked to perfection on 1800 degree broilers. We pride ourselves as one of the rare Ruth’s Chris restaurants throughout the world that proudly offers an award-winning wine list, boasting the Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence. Mention this ad to receive a COMPLIMENTARY APPETIZER when you dine with us for lunch or dinner. Not applicable with our Sizzle Swizzle and Swirl menu. Make the most of your trip to the Queen City by adding the Ruth’s Chris experience to your agenda! 222 S. Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28202
403-A Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain, NC, 28604
800.468.5506 www.beechmtn.com
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704.338.9444 www.ruthschris.com/restaurant-locations/charlotte-uptown/
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
SILVERFOX LIMOS Since opening up for business in April of 2004, with one 14 passenger stretch limo, SilverFox has become the preferred luxury chauffeured transportation company for 3 of Charlotte’s largest Hotels. These include the Ballantyne Resort and Lodge and The Westin Charlotte. We are also known for our alliance with many of Charlotte’s top companies and sports teams such as: The Charlotte Hornets, Coca-Cola, Husqvarna, Hendrick Automotive, Sonic automotive, SouthPark Mall as well as Charlotte’s most elite Wedding and event planners. We believe in a 5 star level of customer service, insuring that every passenger whether it’s a trip to the airport, a relaxing
ride to dinner, or a fun night on the town in one of our stretch limos or party buses, they all get the same treatment. With over 50 vehicles in our fleet we can handle any size individual or corporate group transportation. Our office staff is available M-F 9am – 7pm and reservation/dispatch lines are open 24/7. We hope to work with you soon! 10722 Carmel Commons Blvd., Suite 420
704.622.9944 silverfoxlimos.com
Go Gaston. Get Outside. High Shoals
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North Carolina South Carolina
MUST SEE ATTRACTIONS 1 2 3 4 5
GET OUSIDE
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden Crowders Mountain State Park The Schiele Museum of Natural History Christmas Town USA U.S. National Whitewater Center
6 7 8 9 10
Tailrace Marina Floating Goat Canoe & Kayak Rentals Riverside Marina Sun’s Up Scuba Rankin Lake Park
HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS 11 12 13 14 15
Belmont Abbey College Gaston County Museum C. Grier Beam Truck Museum Cherryville Historical Museum Brevard Station
16 Dallas Downtown Historic District 17 Cherryville Downtown Historic District 18 Millican Pictorial History Museum 19 Bessemer City Downtown Historic District 20 Kings Mountain Historical Museum
DISTILLED, BREWED & BLENDED
ROOT FOR THE HOME TEAM
21 Ole Dallas Brewery 22 Cavendish Brewery 23 York Chester Brewing Company 24 Fiddler’s Vineyard 25 Rivermen Brewing Company 26 Muddy River Distillery 27 Growler USA
28 Gastonia Grizzlies 29 Belmont Abbey Athletics 30 Carolina Speedway
Call us today for a FREE Visitors Guide. 800-849-9994 | 704-825-4044 | gogaston.org
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DANIEL STOWE BOTANICAL GARDEN Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is the Carolinas’ Garden for all seasons, providing guests a chance to reconnect with nature and to create lifelong memories with friends and family. Located within 380 acres on the banks of Lake Wylie, spectacular gardens, sparkling fountains, a children’s garden, a conservatory dedicated to the display of tropical plants and orchids, a visitor pavilion, a garden store and nature trails await the visitor. The Garden also hosts events year-round, including Holidays at the Garden. Music festivals, beer and wine tastings and special exhibitions are also part of the Garden’s annual calendar of events. It’s located about 20 minutes from downtown Charlotte in the city of Belmont.
DOWNTOWN GASTONIA ARTS & ANTIQUES DISTRICT
Two of life’s most enjoyable pursuits – arts & antiques – have found the perfect home in Downtown Gastonia, just 20 minutes west of Charlotte. Within just several blocks you’ll find a major artists enclave, Arts on Main, housing 30+ artists’ studios, galleries, and gift shop as well as standalone artist studios and a stylish art and stationery store curated for the shopping pleasure of both artists and non-artists. If you like your art on a grand scale, Downtown’s two urban parks feature an outdoor gallery of public art. Nearby, or within a short drive, are several large antiques emporiums and a variety of collectible and thrift shops. Come for the day and enjoy dining options from pizza to prime rib, free parking, and walkable, tree-lined streets.
6500 South New Hope Road, Belmont
704.825.4490 dsbg.com
For More Information
704.825.4044
www.visitgaston.org
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NEAR I-77 & BILLY GRAHAM PARKWAY 116 EAST WOODLAWN RD., CHARLOTTE 704-525-5110
SUN-THURS 10:30AM - 10:30PM FRI 10:30AM - 11PM SAT 10:30AM - 2AM (KARAOKE NIGHT)
9709 EAST INDEPENDENCE BLVD., CHARLOTTE 704-814-9877 LIVE MARIACHI BAND PLAYING EVERY SUNDAY 6-9PM
FOSTER-SMITH CORNERS 730 SMITH CORNERS BOULEVARD, SUITE 1200 704-598-4068 LIVE MARIACHI BAND PLAYING EVERY SUNDAY 12-3PM OPEN TIL 2AM SATURDAY (KARAOKE NIGHT)
OPEN FOR LUNCH AND DINNER SUN-THURS 11AM-10PM • FRI-SAT 11AM-11PM ALL ABC PERMITS • MAJOR CREDIT CARDS • TAKE OUT ORDERS.
Reservations for groups of 40-60 required.
www.aztecarestaurantcharlotte.com
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
THE ASBURY
CITY SMOKE
BERNARDIN’S
In an era of extreme culinary trends and techniques, a quiet revolution is afoot inside The Asbury. One that stresses simplicity and flavor, allowing the ingredients to be the star. Executive Chef Matthew Krenz hails from a farming family. So he understands how delicious ‘freshly picked, straight from the earth ingredients’ are. Intriguingly, he also utilizes his graphic design background, which guides his eye in terms of contrasting colors and unusual combinations. At The Asbury, you have a critical thinker as head chef, blending seafood fresh from the coast, mushrooms, and edible berries. Your plate–his canvas. Experience The Asbury’s everchanging menu that updates with the season’s harvest. Seven days a week, adjacent to The Dunhill Hotel. Do something delicious today: join us.
City Smoke dishes out the flavors of the South, the contemporary South, where comfort food meets food fit for foodies. Imagine your grandmothers roasted chicken, rotisserie meats and fish turning over an open flame, and the rich flavors of classic Southern barbecue, you’ll find them all at City Smoke, rotisserie and smokehouse. Featuring a great view of Center City, 15 beers on tap, 75 whiskies, craft cocktails, an all-world wine list, an open kitchen and amazing nightly features - top that off with true Southern hospitality and it’s all right here at City Smoke! City Smoke is located in the heart of Uptown Charlotte, adjacent to the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center on the corner of College & Trade Streets. *Valet parking begins at 6pm.
Bernardin’s Fine Dining is renowned for its impeccable service, elegant atmosphere and sophis ticated, succulent Modern American Cuisine. Specializing in Seafood, Lamb, Steaks, Game Meats, Poultry and Pasta. Relax and enjoy soothing music, inviting accommodations, unbelievable entrees, specialty desserts and an extensive wine list. Serving the Triad of North Carolina since 1992, new to Uptown Charlotte. Hours: Lunch, Monday thru Friday, 11 AM to 2 PM; Dinner, Monday thru Saturday 5 PM to 11 PM 435 5. Tryon St., Charlotte, NC
704.332.3188
www.bernardinsfinedining.com
235 N. Tryon Street, Charlotte NC 28202
704.342.1193 TheAsbury.com
100 N. Tryon St., Charlotte, NC 28202 On the corner of College & Trade Streets
704.376.2295
www.citysmokeclt.com
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PARTING SHOT
Shores of Tranquility DREAM—WITH 520 MILES OF SHORELINE, IT’S A SWEET SPOT FOR BOATING, FISHING, PICNICKING OR JUST LYING BENEATH A TREE IN A HAMMOCK AND LETTING RELAXATION SOAK IN.
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©VISIT NC
LAKE NORMAN, THE LARGEST MAN-MADE LAKE IN THE CAROLINAS, IS A WATER ENTHUSIAST’S