Are you looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Charlotte, NC for a day? Explore the beauty and charm of the surrounding areas with exciting day trips from Charlotte NC. From picturesque mountain getaways to historic towns and vibrant cities, there are plenty of options to satisfy your wanderlust. Join us as we uncover the best destinations for unforgettable day trips from Charlotte NC.
Asheville, NC
Travel tips
- Distance from Charlotte, NC: Approximately 125 miles
- Time to get there: Around 2.5 hours by car
- How to get there from Charlotte, NC: You can drive to Asheville via I-85 N and I-26 W. If you prefer public transportation, you can take a Greyhound bus from Charlotte Transportation Center to Asheville Transportation Center. There is no direct train service between the two cities.
- Click for Google maps directions: Asheville, NC
Exploring Asheville, NC: Things to do
Asheville, NC is a vibrant city known for its artsy vibe, stunning mountain scenery, and rich cultural heritage. One of the top attractions in Asheville is the Biltmore Estate, a grand mansion built by the Vanderbilt family in the late 19th century. Visitors can explore the opulent rooms, beautiful gardens, and even enjoy wine tastings at the estate’s winery.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers breathtaking views and numerous hiking trails. The Asheville Urban Trail is a self-guided walking tour that takes you through the city’s historic sites and vibrant street art scene. Don’t miss a visit to the River Arts District, where you can watch local artists at work and purchase unique handmade souvenirs.
Foodies will delight in Asheville’s thriving culinary scene, with farm-to-table restaurants, craft breweries, and artisanal bakeries scattered throughout the city. Be sure to sample some local favorites like biscuits and gravy, barbecue, and craft beer.
Overall, Asheville, NC is a must-see destination for those seeking a blend of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and delicious food in a picturesque mountain setting.
Boone, NC
Travel tips
- Distance from Charlotte, NC: Approximately 100 miles
- Time to get there: Around 2 hours drive
- How to get there: You can drive to Boone from Charlotte via I-85 N and I-77 N. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Charlotte to Boone with Greyhound or catch a train from Charlotte to Greensboro and then transfer to a bus to Boone.
- Click for Google maps directions: Boone, NC
Exploring Boone, NC: Things to do
Boone, NC, a charming town in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant cultural scene, Boone offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy.
One of the top attractions in Boone is the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, where you can take a leisurely drive and soak in breathtaking mountain views. Outdoor enthusiasts will also appreciate the hiking trails in the area, such as the popular Grandfather Mountain Trail, offering stunning vistas and a chance to connect with nature.
For those interested in history and culture, a visit to the Appalachian State University campus is a must. Explore the campus grounds, visit the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts, or catch a performance at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts.
Don’t miss the chance to experience the local food scene in Boone, with a variety of restaurants offering delicious Southern cuisine and farm-to-table dining options. Be sure to try some local favorites like BBQ, fried green tomatoes, and sweet tea.
Whether you’re looking to relax in a picturesque setting, explore the great outdoors, or immerse yourself in the local culture, Boone, NC has something for everyone. Plan your day trip from Charlotte and discover the beauty and charm of this mountain town.
Greenville, SC
Travel tips
- Distance from Charlotte, NC: Approximately 100 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1.5 to 2 hours by car
- How to get there: You can drive from Charlotte to Greenville via I-85 S. If you prefer public transportation, you can take a Greyhound bus from Charlotte to Greenville. The bus station in Charlotte is located at 601 W Trade St, and the bus station in Greenville is at 610 W Washington St.
- Click for Google maps directions: Greenville, SC
Exploring Greenville, SC: Things to do
Greenville, SC is a vibrant city known for its charming downtown area, beautiful parks, and thriving arts scene. One of the must-see places in Greenville is Falls Park on the Reedy, where you can stroll along the Liberty Bridge and enjoy stunning views of the waterfalls. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Swamp Rabbit Trail offers a scenic route for walking, running, or biking.
Art lovers will appreciate a visit to the Greenville County Museum of Art, which houses an impressive collection of American art. If you’re interested in history, the Upcountry History Museum provides insight into the region’s past. For a taste of local culture, explore the shops and restaurants along Main Street, where you can sample Southern cuisine and shop for unique gifts.
In the evening, catch a show at the Peace Center, a premier performing arts venue that hosts a variety of concerts, plays, and musicals. Greenville’s food scene is also worth exploring, with a range of dining options to suit every palate. Whether you’re craving barbecue, seafood, or international cuisine, you’ll find something delicious to try in Greenville, SC.
Winston-Salem, NC
Travel tips
- Distance from Charlotte, NC: Approximately 80 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1.5 to 2 hours by car
- How to get there: You can drive from Charlotte to Winston-Salem via I-85 N. If you prefer public transportation, you can take the Greyhound bus from Charlotte to Winston-Salem. The bus station in Charlotte is located at 601 W Trade St, and the bus station in Winston-Salem is at 100 W 5th St. There is no direct train route between the two cities.
- Click for Google maps directions: Winston-Salem, NC
Exploring Winston-Salem, NC: Things to do
Winston-Salem, NC, is a vibrant city known for its rich history and cultural attractions. One of the top must-see places in Winston-Salem is the Old Salem Museums & Gardens, where visitors can step back in time and explore the restored Moravian village. History buffs will also enjoy a visit to the Reynolda House Museum of American Art, which showcases a stunning collection of American art in a historic setting.
For outdoor enthusiasts, a trip to Pilot Mountain State Park is a must. Hiking trails offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, and the iconic peak is a popular spot for rock climbing. If you’re interested in the arts, be sure to check out the Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art (SECCA), which features rotating exhibitions of contemporary art in a modern setting.
Foodies will delight in the culinary scene of Winston-Salem, with a variety of restaurants offering everything from Southern comfort food to international cuisine. Don’t miss the chance to sample some North Carolina barbecue or indulge in a sweet treat at a local bakery.
Overall, Winston-Salem, NC, is a diverse destination that offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventures, art, or food. Plan a day trip from Charlotte to explore all that this dynamic city has to offer.
Lake Norman, NC
Travel tips
- Distance from Charlotte NC: Approximately 25 miles
- Time to get there: Around 45 minutes by car
- How to get there from Charlotte NC: Lake Norman can be easily reached by car via I-77 N. If you prefer public transportation, you can take the CATS bus service from Charlotte to Mooresville, which is a town near Lake Norman. From there, you can take a taxi or rideshare service to reach the lake.
- Click for Google maps directions: Lake Norman, NC
Exploring Lake Norman, NC: Things to do
Lake Norman, NC is a popular day trip destination from Charlotte due to its scenic beauty and abundance of outdoor activities. Boasting over 500 miles of shoreline, this man-made lake offers a variety of water-based adventures such as boating, fishing, and water sports. Visitors can rent a pontoon boat or kayak to explore the tranquil waters or simply relax on the sandy beaches.
For nature enthusiasts, Lake Norman State Park is a must-visit spot. The park features hiking and biking trails that wind through lush forests and offer stunning views of the lake. Birdwatching is also a favorite pastime here, with the chance to spot various species in their natural habitat.
If you’re a history buff, don’t miss the Historic Rural Hill Farm, a preserved 265-acre historic site that offers a glimpse into the region’s agricultural past. Explore the farm’s buildings, gardens, and learn about the area’s rich heritage through guided tours and interactive exhibits.
For a more leisurely experience, take a scenic drive along the Lake Norman Loop, a 150-mile route that circles the entire lake and showcases the beauty of the surrounding countryside. Stop at charming lakeside towns like Davidson and Cornelius to browse local shops and enjoy delicious waterfront dining options.
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing day by the water, Lake Norman, NC has something for everyone. Plan your day trip and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and recreational opportunities this picturesque destination has to offer.
Blowing Rock, NC
Travel tips
- Distance from Charlotte, NC: Approximately 90 miles
- Time to get there: Around 2 hours by car
- How to get there: Take I-85 N from Charlotte and then merge onto US-321 N towards Blowing Rock. The nearest bus station is the Boone Transportation Center, and the closest train station is in Hickory, NC.
- Click for Google maps directions: Blowing Rock, NC
Exploring Blowing Rock, NC: Things to do
Blowing Rock, NC is a charming mountain town that offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Known for its stunning views, outdoor activities, and quaint downtown area, Blowing Rock is a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
One of the top attractions in Blowing Rock is the iconic Blowing Rock itself, a natural rock formation that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. Visitors can also explore the nearby Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, which features miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as a historic manor house.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Blowing Rock offers a variety of activities such as fishing, horseback riding, and rock climbing. The town is also home to several beautiful parks and gardens, perfect for picnicking or simply enjoying the fresh mountain air.
In addition to its natural beauty, Blowing Rock boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, shops, and restaurants to explore. Visitors can sample local cuisine, shop for unique souvenirs, or attend one of the town’s many festivals and events throughout the year.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, Blowing Rock, NC has something for everyone. Plan your day trip today and discover the beauty of this charming mountain town.
Chimney Rock State Park
Travel tips
- Distance from Charlotte NC: 25 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 45 minutes by car
- How to get there: Take I-85 S from Charlotte and continue on US-74 E to Chimney Rock. Take exit 167 from US-74 E. The nearest bus station is in Asheville, and the nearest train station is in Spartanburg, SC.
- Click for Google maps directions: Chimney Rock State Park
Exploring Chimney Rock State Park: Things to do
Chimney Rock State Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The park offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains, making it a perfect spot for hiking and photography. One of the main attractions is the iconic 315-foot granite monolith, Chimney Rock, which offers a challenging yet rewarding hike to the top.
Visitors can also explore the Hickory Nut Falls Trail, a moderate hike that leads to a breathtaking 404-foot waterfall. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the park offers picnic areas and scenic overlooks perfect for relaxation and enjoying the fresh mountain air.
Birdwatching is another popular activity at Chimney Rock State Park, with a variety of bird species to spot throughout the park. The park is also home to diverse plant life, making it a great place for nature enthusiasts to explore and learn about the local flora and fauna.
Overall, Chimney Rock State Park provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature and experience the beauty of the North Carolina mountains. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike, a peaceful picnic spot, or simply a place to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors, Chimney Rock State Park has something for everyone.
