Cheap Flights to Charlotte

Charlotte Travel Information

The biggest city in the state of North Carolina, Charlotte was a centre of unrest during the American War of Independence and the area even declared its independence prior to the American Revolution taking off. In the early 19th century, Charlotte became the centre of a miniature gold rush following the discovery of some seams. In more recent time, Charlotte has become something of a financial centre with various mergers of the North Carolina National Bank eventually becoming the Bank of America, an institution which has its headquarters in the city.

Charlotte enjoys a humid sub-tropical climate that is characterised by four distinct seasons. Although winters are cool, they are generally short with temperatures rising noticeably from February onwards most years. July and August are the hottest times of year to travel, but due to the proximity Charlotte has to the Gulf of Mexico, rainfall can come at just about any time of year. Autumn sees a little less rainfall than spring so late summer is probably the best time to head to Charlotte if you want to minimise the risk of your visit coinciding with a shower.

Located just outside of the city, the Carolina Renaissance Festival is well worth visiting. Providing multiple stages of outdoor entertainment, the festival is held in a 22-acre village marketplace setting, providing family entertainment. It features an interactive circus, an arts and crafts fair and even a jousting tournament. Another good family choice is Discovery Place, located in uptown Charlotte. It is a science and technology museum which will suit kids of all ages as well as adults and includes sections on androids and alien worlds.

For those seeking a more cultured experience, Charlotte has plenty to offer, too. The Blumenthal Performing Arts Center has no less than six theatres that operate from it, including the two thousand seater Belk. Here, a wide variety of stage plays, musicals and comedies can be seen. The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra, well known for the interpretations of Beethoven, Schubert, Mahler, often play at the Belk. Located on South Tryon Street, the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art is a four storey exhibition space that is well worth visiting.

Opened in 2006, Charlotte is also home to the nation's leading white water centre. Holding many rafting festivals and races, anyone can turn up and gain instruction in this exciting sport, with an all day pass. As well as white water skills, you can try your hand at flat water kayaking, rock climbing or mountain biking.