Charlotte is an excellent base for family road trips. Its location in the center of the Carolinas puts it within easy reach of many of the region's most popular attractions and most beautiful sights. It has a mild climate, which means that drives are rarely disrupted or made uncomfortable by weather conditions, and it has a strong highway network, which helps you to get out of the city and on to your destination quickly and smoothly. All in all, it’s a great start and end point for family road trips and days out. But where should you go?
Sorting Your Ride
The Carolinas, between them, cover a significant amount of ground. Charlotte is central to both Carolinas - near the northern central border of South Carolina and more or less on the southern central border of North Carolina. This makes it an ideal spot for exploring both (as well as Tennessee and Virginia, if you don’t mind a bit of extra driving). That being said, these are huge states with incredibly diverse landscapes and long, rural distances with sparse amenities. So, before you set out, make sure that your car is well-equipped for varied and sometimes rough terrain. Pack a can of gas in case of long stretches without gas stations, and make sure the air conditioning is working properly (this is the South, after all!). If you’re flying in, check out travel options when leaving the airport, and pick a hire car that can keep you all comfortable and safe for long distances through a variety of landscapes.
Now, let’s take a look at some of the best destinations within an easy drive of Charlotte:
Lake Norman
Drive time from Uptown - 30-45 minutes, depending on which part of the lake you want.
Lake Norman is a large lake north of Charlotte that’s popular for daytrippers and watersports enthusiasts. There are plenty of waterside parks, marinas, and secluded beaches perfect for a lakeside picnic. You can rent boats, explore the lovely scenery, or relax in one of the many lakeside restaurants. Ideal for a peaceful, chill family day out.
US National Whitewater Center
Drive time from Uptown - 20 minutes, depending on traffic
The US National Whitewater Center is a large, family-friendly outdoor adventure park. You can enjoy whitewater rafting, ziplining, and mountain biking, or simply wander the mountain trails and enjoy some food while looking out over the water.
Carowinds
Drive time from Uptown - about 25 minutes
Carowinds is a must if you’re road tripping with kids. It’s a major theme park, complete with roller coasters, water rides, and other gentler attractions for younger children. It’s a full-day destination, so set out early and be prepared to head back late!
Asheville
Drive time from Uptown - around 2 hours
Asheville is a beautiful city set in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s lovely to drive around if you enjoy scenic mountain views. If you decide to stop, you’ll find some gorgeous hiking trails. You can also explore the historic Biltmore Estate, enjoy the creative River Arts District, and soak in the area's vibrant culture.
One word of warning - it’s a mistake to disregard the weather when you’re heading into any of the mountainous regions on this list. The weather can turn quickly in higher altitudes, and some roads may even be closed entirely in snowy conditions. So, look at the weather forecast before you set off.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Drive time from Uptown - about 3 hours.
This is a huge national park that’s perfect for nature-loving families. It’s teeming with wildlife, waterfalls, and wonderful views. There are hiking trails to suit all ages and abilities, and lots of beauty spots to have a picnic and enjoy the incredible scenery.
Boone and the High Country
Drive time from Uptown - about 2 hours
Boone - named for pioneer Daniel Boone - is the hub of the Blue Ridge ‘high country’. This is another mountainous area with plenty of outdoor activities, like tubing and hiking. You’ll also find scenic trails and, in the winter, skiing. Boone itself is a college town, with plenty of restaurants and independent stores.
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Drive time from Uptown - about 2 hours
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure are adjacent destinations in Hickory Nut Gorge. The area is currently recovering from Hurricane Helena, but the Rock and the Lake remain as beautiful as ever, and the local communities are grateful for tourists who come and support the area and its businesses. Chimney Rock itself is a 535-million-year-old monolith with stunning views over the gorge and the lake from the top. Lake Lure is a lovely waterfront destination with beautiful hikes to suit all abilities and plenty of relaxing picnic spots.
Greensboro Science Center
Drive time from Uptown - about 90 minutes
Greensboro Science Center has something for absolutely everyone. It’s a combined zoo, aquarium, and science museum that’s designed to give both children and adults a fun, interactive, and educational experience.
Charlotte Motor Speedway and Concord
Drive time from Uptown - about 30 minutes
This is one for the speed freaks and car enthusiasts in your family. Charlotte Motor Speedway and Concord are a motorsports hub with tours and museums that will keep car and racing fans occupied for hours. You’ll also find plenty of shopping and dining options nearby.
Enjoy Great Family Days Out From Charlotte
This is just a small selection of the many, many fantastic family days out within easy driving distance of Charlotte. Charlotte is a brilliant base for exploring the South, with a wealth of iconic sights and attractions within a few hours' drive. If you prepare for each day out by packing snacks and suitable clothing, filling up with gas for longer distances, and checking the weather and driving conditions beforehand, you’re sure to have many happy and successful day trips.
