Where to stay in Charlotte: your ultimate guide

Charlotte, more regally known as Queen City, proudly carries its legacy as one of the most influential cities in the Southeast of the US. If you're thinking about a trip to the area, this guide covers where to stay in Charlotte, so you can find a neighbourhood that feels most like you. From the financial epicentre of Uptown Charlotte to the artsy scene of NoDa, find your perfect base.

Uptown Charlotte is known for working hard and playing hard. Home to some major financial institutions, while also being an entertainment and hospitality hub, here you'll be sure to get the best of both worlds.

Business first

If you’re looking to experience the business side of Charlotte, Uptown is just the place for you. Here, you can explore some financial institutions: the HQ of Bank of America and the regional hub of Wells Fargo. Charlotte's Premier Historical City Walking Tour will transport you through history, where you can explore how Charlotte’s small-town beginnings gave way to big-city banking.

Uptown Charlotte also has a booming tech scene, particularly within the financial technology sector, so if you’re interested in the latest innovations, it’s a great spot to see what’s new and upcoming. Grab a bench and watch the busy atmosphere of the financial district unfold around you. Recharge for the night at Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel by IHG, right in the heart of the district.

Entertainment later

Uptown Charlotte has an outstanding entertainment hub, including a variety of cafes, bars and attractions. For a surreal day out, try out the Museum of Illusions, where you can explore the distorting images, seemingly gravity-defying illusion rooms and mind-boggling installations. 

Other unique attractions in the area include The Mint Museum – Uptown. This contemporary art museum has various interactive installations and community events, like yoga. The museum also promotes a ‘Free Wednesday Evening’ scheme, so if you’re travelling on a budget, you can still get in on the action. 

In search of a drink or two? Well, there are plenty of spots for beverages. Local-loved bars include the upmarket Aura Rooftop, the arcade-bar hybrid Slingshot Social Game Club and the swanky Sophia's Lounge. Consider staying at Hyatt House Charlotte Center City on your holiday. Here, you’ll be able to soak the adventures of the day away in the outdoor swimming pool.

For nature lovers, Dilworth is one of the best places to stay in Charlotte, NC. From greenways to parks, you can connect to the greener side of Charlotte in this area.

Green spaces

Little Sugar Creek Greenway is a beloved green space in Dilworth. This natural oasis is over 17 miles long and stretches throughout various pockets of the city. With many openings along the way, you can choose how long you want your walk to be – whether that’s one mile or the full 17. Rest your legs at Kasa Dilworth Charlotte, situated right next to the greenway. 

A variety of parks 

This area of Charlotte has a variety of parks that make for a slower-paced getaway and one of the most popular spots is Freedom Park. This is a hotspot for families and dog owners, boasting 98 acres of park and a seven-acre lake in the centre. 

Whether you want to explore or relax, the park will have something to offer. After a slower-paced day? Find a bench and people-watch. Looking to do a spot of exercise? Popular with both cyclists and runners alike, you can explore the park at your own pace. 

Latta Park is another great choice if you’re looking to connect with nature. Pack up a picnic for a late lunch and finish the day trying out the various activities available in the park, such as tennis. Booking a stay at Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Charlotte Uptown puts you a mere ten-minute drive away from the park. And the sun terrace and year-round outdoor swimming pool are sure to keep you connected to the outdoors.

NoDa, short for North Davidson, is known for its vibrant art scene and is sure to be the perfect area to visit if you have a passion for creativity. This area is also well connected by public transport, so if you’re not planning on hiring a car on your holiday, you’ll still be able to get around.

Thriving arts scene

From galleries to street art, NoDa oozes with creativity. Take a stop by Charlotte Art League, the city’s oldest non-profit art gallery that exhibits art from lesser-known, local artists, giving the space a real community feel. Another popular art gallery in the area is Artisan’s Palate, a restaurant, craft cocktail bar, a wine bar and art gallery – yes, you read that right – sip and socialise while you sample the best of NoDa’s art.

The district’s art isn’t just limited to its galleries either. Simply taking a stroll through the area will reveal the locals’ artistic prowess via street murals. These murals are often in rotation, so while there aren’t any must-visit spots, you can expect brightly coloured portraits, art collections and even painted skips. In this area, the community chips in to make everyday objects into unexpected pieces of art. Consider a stay at On the Move in Plaza Midwood. Particularly great if you’re travelling with a group, this townhouse puts you a ten-minute drive from the heart of the district.

Budding breakfast spots

If the first meal of the day is your favourite, NoDa is full to the brim with unmissable breakfast and brunch spots. The Smelly Cat Coffee House & Roastery is a local-loved spot in the area, and don’t let the name fool you, no peculiar-smelling felines will be found here. Instead, you’ll be welcomed with a menu that features biscuits, burritos and a build-your-own-breakfast option. The cafe is also surrounded by nearby street art, so it’s really a feast for the senses. 

Other brunch-loving spots include Haberdish. Here, you can expect mouth-watering US classics such as waffles, gravy and biscuits, mac and cheese and cinnamon rolls. Also, make sure to try out Local Loaf, boasting baked artisan bread and Amélie's French Bakery & Café for a French-style breakfast – quiche du jour, anyone?

Last up on our list of where to stay in Charlotte is Ballantyne: another corporate hub found in the city. While the district may seem all business, it has a surprising side to explore. Boasting various entertainment complexes and retail stores, there’s also heaps of fun to be had here. 

Corporate hub

Similar to Uptown Charlotte, there’s a buzzing business heart to Ballantyne. If you’re interested in the corporate side of the district, make sure to stop by the Ballantyne Monuments. These are four towering sculptures at the intersection of Johnston Road and Ballantyne Commons Parkway that symbolise finance, technology and transportation. Stay at The Ballantyne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Charlotte, a high-end stay that will place you in the centre of the district.

Entertainment galore

There is so much choice when it comes to entertainment in Ballantyne. If you’re looking for a bit of everything, Ballantyne Village is just the place to explore for the day. Featuring various eateries, shops, events and even offices, you can see both sides of the district in this complex. Try out the smoothie stores, spas and have a peek into the Superior School of Real Estate.

If you’re in search of a retail haven, The Bowl is another great spot. This dining and entertainment complex offers a real mix: from fine dining to get-and-go fast food, whatever vibe you’re after, this complex is sure to deliver. Not to mention, there’s also ‘The Amp’ outside – an amphitheater that puts on various concerts and events. For a convenient stay, the AC Hotel by Marriott Charlotte Ballantyne situates you a 15-minute walk from the Bowl and a few minutes walk from Ballantyne Village.

When it comes to deciding where to stay in Charlotte, it’s clear that each neighbourhood offers its own distinct vibe. From the retail haven of Ballantyne to the nature of Dilworth, there’s a perfect base for your adventure. So what are you waiting for? Charlotte’s calling.