Feel the pulse of Charlotte as you join our signature experiences: from discovering public art on the Charlotte Art Walk to tackling photo quests during a Thompson Park Scavenger Hunt or raising a glass during a lively Bar Crawl—all while soaking in views of iconic landmarks.
Bring your group together for trivia challenges, quirky photo dares, and creative missions that rack up points in our user-friendly app—compare scores instantly and celebrate every victory as a team.
Top Outdoor Activities In Charlotte, North Carolina
Step into the energetic heart of Charlotte, where Uptown's skyline glows against Carolina blue skies and vibrant neighborhoods buzz with life. Whether you are a visitor or a local, these outdoor activities invite you to experience Queen City in a fresh, unforgettable way. Wander through lively streets, uncover hidden gems, and soak up the spirit that makes Charlotte truly unique. Outdoor Activities in Charlotte promise new adventures around every corner.
Outdoor Experiences in Charlotte, North Carolina
Welcome to our expertly curated collection of Outdoor Activities in Charlotte! Each experience is designed for maximum fun—whether you crave art walks through colorful districts, interactive bar crawls with friends, or ghost tours after sunset. These unique adventures blend sightseeing with playful challenges and local flavor. Get ready to view Charlotte from bold new angles as you discover must-see spots and create lasting memories. Dive into each activity below and let your next adventure begin.
Top Rated
4.9 (551 reviews)
A Lap Around Charlotte Scavenger Hunt
Downtown, Charlotte
Prepare to uncover hidden gems in Downtown Charlotte on our two-mile scavenger hunt!...
4.9 (25 reviews)
Charlotte's Downtown Delightful Hunt Scavenger Hunt
Forth Ward, Charlotte
Get ready to uncover the hidden gems of Charlotte's Downtown neighborhood! Our two-mile...
4.9 (13 reviews)
Colossal Collection of Mural Beauties
Downtown Art Walk, Charlotte
Get ready to "Crown" your adventure skills! Our two-mile scavenger hunt takes you through...
5.0 (25 reviews)
Uptown Charlotte Showdown
Uptown Bar Crawl, Charlotte
Join us in Uptown Charlotte on this exciting bar crawl scavenger hunt filled with photo...
4.9 (22 reviews)
Thompson Park Scavenger Hunt in Charlotte’s Elizabeth Greenway Scavenger Hunt
Thompson Park, Charlotte
Join our thrilling scavenger hunt in Charlotte‘s lively neighborhood, unveiling hidden...
5.0 (21 reviews)
Freedom Park Discovery Challenge: Rails, Trails & Tales! Scavenger Hunt
Downtown, Charlotte
Swing, stroll & solve clues! Explore Freedom Park’s historic engine, playful KidZone,...
5.0 (20 reviews)
University of North Carolina at Charlotte Hunt
University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte
Experience a self-guided, app-led University of North Carolina at Charlotte tour with...
5.0 (17 reviews)
Queens University of Charlotte Hunt
Queens University of Charlotte, Charlotte
Experience a self-guided, app-led Queens University of Charlotte tour with interactive...
5.0 (13 reviews)
Charlotte Ghost Hunt
Downtown, Charlotte
Unearth Charlotte’s haunted past on a self-guided, app-led ghost hunt filled with eerie...
An epic Charlotte, North Carolina experience
How Our Charlotte, North Carolina Outdoor Activities Work
Our expert team researches 3,050+ cities worldwide—including dozens throughout Southeast—to bring you authentic local routes packed with must-sees and offbeat finds tailored just for each activity type.
During every experience participants set out on foot using clear instructions via our mobile app: answer trivia at historic spots, snap photos by street art installations, solve puzzles at famous landmarks—and track your score against other teams instantly!
Top Outdoor Attractions In Charlotte
Charlotte is bursting with top attractions perfect for unforgettable outdoor activities. Explore iconic sites like the bustling Uptown District, where art galleries meet live music venues, or stroll through historic Fourth Ward’s leafy avenues lined with Victorian homes. Take on creative challenges at Thompson Park or uncover stories at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte campus. With so many things to do—family friendly tours, craft beer stops, and more—you will always find something exciting here. Click on each location to see related activities.
The Green
Explore The Green, a literary-themed park in the heart of Charlotte. Stroll among giant book sculptures and enjoy a peaceful escape in the Uptown District. A must-see for outdoor enthusiasts!
Bechtler Museum of Modern Art
Visit the Bechtler Museum, a modern art gem in Charlotte. It's unique architecture and vibrant exhibits make it a top attraction for art lovers exploring the Queen City.
First Presbyterian Church of Charlotte
Admire First Presbyterian Church's Gothic Revival architecture from outside. This historic site offers a glimpse into Charlotte's past, making it a fascinating stop on your city tour.
Dunhill Hotel
Marvel at the Dunhill Hotel's historic charm from outside. Built in 1929, this boutique hotel is a testament to Charlotte's rich history and architectural beauty.
Wake Forest University
Walk through Wake Forest University's beautiful campus. It's stunning architecture and vibrant student life make it an inspiring stop for visitors to Charlotte.
NASCAR Hall of Fame
Stand outside the NASCAR Hall of Fame to honor racing legends. This iconic spot celebrates motorsport history right in the heart of NASCAR Capital.
Romare Bearden Park
Enjoy Romare Bearden Park with it's gardens and splash areas. A favorite spot for locals to relax before catching a game or attending events in Downtown Charlotte.
Two Wells Fargo Center
Pause at Two Wells Fargo Center to admire it's soaring architecture and bustling plaza area—a key part of Uptown's skyline.
204 North Kitchen and Cocktails
Explore 204 North Kitchen and Cocktails for a taste of Charlotte's vibrant scene. Enjoy outdoor seating with Southern charm, perfect for a day trip in the Queen City.
Rí Rá Irish Pub
Visit Rí Rá Irish Pub in Uptown Charlotte for live music and sports-watching parties. Experience the Hornets Nest vibe with outdoor fun and local trivia games.
Graham St. Pub & Patio
Graham St. Pub & Patio offers stunning views of the Queen City from it's rooftop. Enjoy craft beer while taking in the urban energy of this must-see location.
Tilt on Trade
Tilt on Trade is an Uptown gem with outdoor seating perfect for enjoying Charlotte's lively atmosphere. Join friends for drinks and good times under the city's skyline.
Cowbell Burger & Whiskey Bar
Cowbell Burger & Whiskey Bar invites you to enjoy gourmet burgers outdoors in Charlotte's bustling scene. A perfect spot for first-time visitors seeking unique experiences.
McGlohon Theater
Experience live performances at McGlohon Theater, a historic venue in Uptown Charlotte. It's grand architecture makes it a must-see for art lovers visiting the city.
Overcarsh House
Stroll by Overcarsh House and admire it's Victorian charm. This historic home is a gem in the NoDa Arts District, perfect for architecture enthusiasts exploring Charlotte.
Old Fire Station #4
Admire Old Fire Station #4's red-brick beauty from outside. This landmark tells tales of bravery and is a fascinating spot for those interested in Charlotte's firefighting history.
The Dunhill Hotel
Marvel at The Dunhill Hotel's elegant facade as you explore Uptown Charlotte. This historic hotel blends old-world charm with modern luxury, making it a must-see attraction.
Fourth Ward Fountain
Relax by Fourth Ward Fountain, nestled in a historic park. This tranquil spot offers shaded benches and soothing water sounds—ideal for unwinding during your visit to Charlotte.
Frederick Apartments
Admire Frederick Apartments' elegant brickwork as you explore Charlotte's architectural heritage. This historic building adds charm to any walking tour through the city.
Fourth Ward Park
Wander through Fourth Ward Park, an oasis amidst city bustle. With lush greenery and charming paths, it is ideal for outdoor activities while visiting the Hornets Nest.
Thompson Orphanage: A Place to Grow
Explore Thompson Orphanage, a historic site where young lives were nurtured. Today, it offers family services. Stroll through the grounds and imagine the echoes of laughter in this Queen City gem.
Lewis Thompson and Pattie Clark Thompson
Discover the plaque honoring Lewis Thompson and his daughter Pattie Clark in Charlotte. This memorial highlights their contributions to local orphanages—a must-see for history enthusiasts.
They Came From Mecklenburg… / Dedicated To Those Who Serve
Reflect at this Vietnam War memorial in Charlotte, an arc of Georgia granite honoring sacrifices from Mecklenburg County. A must-see for history buffs on our scavenger hunt.
Ainsa III
Admire Ainsa III, an abstract sculpture in First Ward Park. This artistic marvel connects Charlotte to global culture with it's unique design—an intriguing stop for art enthusiasts.
First Ward Park
Experience First Ward Park, a vibrant space in Charlotte's heart. Enjoy summer concerts or relax by the fountains—ideal for outdoor activities and soaking up local culture.
The Writers Desk
Visit The Writers Desk, a public artwork celebrating Rolfe Neill's legacy. This creative installation is a must-see for those interested in Charlotte's literary history.
Musical Parking Garage
Discover the Musical Parking Garage, an architectural wonder where music meets structure. This unique attraction offers an interactive experience unlike any other in Charlotte.
Effervescence
Marvel at Effervescence, a colorful mosaic mural reflecting Charlotte's vibrancy. This recycled glass artwork is breathtaking when sunlight hits it—an artistic gem worth visiting.
Wolf Eyes by Matt Moore and Matt Hooker
Discover 'Wolf Eyes' in the Queen City, where surrealism meets photorealism. This mural is a must-see for art lovers exploring Charlotte's Uptown District.
EGO by Ledania
Visit 'EGO' in the NoDa Arts District, where Ledania's bold colors and emotions create an unforgettable sight. Perfect for those seeking unique outdoor activities in Charlotte.
Delight in Dancing by PichiAvo
Stroll past 'Delight in Dancing,' where classic Greek beauty meets graffiti grit. This vibrant fusion is a highlight of Charlotte's outdoor art scene.
Equity by Nick Napoletano
Experience 'Equity,' a mural that bursts with color and symbolism. Located in Charlotte, it invites art lovers to ponder it's message while enjoying the city's attractions.
Back to the Future by Alex DeLarge
Join the nostalgia at 'Back to the Future,' an iconic mural scene perfect for movie buffs exploring Charlotte's vibrant street art culture.
Musical Parking Garage
The Musical Parking Garage transforms everyday architecture into an urban symphony. As part of Charlotte's public art walk, it offers an interactive experience that resonates with creativity.
Effervescence
'Effervescence' sparkles with recycled glass tiles reflecting Charlotte's vitality. A must-see on any mural tour, it captures natural energy under sunlight—a true gem of public art.
Seven‑acre Lake Overlook
Explore the NASCAR Hall of Fame in the heart of Uptown Charlotte. Feel the adrenaline as you discover racing history and interactive exhibits. A must-see for motorsport enthusiasts visiting Queen City.
Historic Steam Engine
Stroll through the Mint Museum, nestled in Charlotte's vibrant Uptown District. Admire diverse art collections that captivate visitors. An ideal spot for art lovers seeking unique things to do.
Mahlon Adams Pavilion (Historic Shelter)
Enjoy a day at Freedom Park, a serene oasis near Charlotte's bustling center. Perfect for outdoor activities like picnics and leisurely walks amidst nature's beauty.
Playground Zones (KidZone & Main Playground)
Wander through NoDa Arts District, Charlotte's creative hub. Experience live music and vibrant street art that define this eclectic neighborhood.
Boardwalk Fountain
Discover Charlotte's Uptown District with it's lively murals, buzzing street corners, and the sound of live music drifting from nearby venues. Feel the Queen City's energy as you explore outdoor gems locals love.
Jerry Richardson Stadium
Stroll past iconic NASCAR Capital landmarks and catch the hum of excitement near Charlotte Motor Speedway. Outdoor activities here offer a taste of local pride and a peek into racing history.
Barnes and Noble Charlotte
Enjoy Lake Norman's breezy shoreline, where locals picnic and paddleboard under Carolina blue skies. Outdoor things to do here include watching sailboats glide by or spotting hidden coves along the water.
Atkins Library
Wander through NoDa Arts District, where colorful murals and quirky sculptures line the streets. Outdoor art galleries make this spot a recommended thing to do for creative explorers in Charlotte.
Kennedy Building
Pause outside the Mint Museum to admire it's modern facade and public sculptures. Locals know this area is perfect for people-watching or catching pop-up performances on sunny days.
Robinson Hall for the Performing Arts
Explore green spaces tucked between skyscrapers in Charlotte's Banking Hub. Locals unwind here after work, making it an ideal spot for outdoor relaxation amid city energy.
Freedom Park
Discover outdoor gems in the Queen City. Stroll through lively Uptown District streets, spot public art, and feel the energy of Charlotte's Hornets Nest. Locals say the murals change with every season.
North Carolina Liberty Tree
Explore Charlotte's green spaces for outdoor activities. Wander near Lake Norman or catch a breeze by the Mint Museum. Locals whisper about hidden picnic spots perfect for a day trip adventure.
Charlotte Nature Museum
Step outside and enjoy Charlotte's open-air plazas and bustling parks. The Carolina Panthers Home area is full of energy on game days, and you might spot local musicians tuning up nearby.
Queens Hall
Take a stroll around Charlotte Motor Speedway's exterior for an adrenaline rush without stepping inside. Locals know the best photo ops are at sunset when engines are quiet but excitement lingers.
Everett Library
Enjoy outdoor fun along Lake Norman's scenic trails just outside Charlotte. Locals recommend early mornings for peaceful views and spotting herons—plus it is a great spot for group selfies.
Dana Auditorium
Wander through NoDa Arts District for outdoor inspiration—colorful murals, quirky sculptures, and pop-up markets await. Local tip: some artists paint live on weekends, adding fresh flair each visit.
Old Settlers’ Cemetery
Discover outdoor gems in the Queen City. Explore Uptown District streets, where murals and art installations surprise you at every turn. Locals say the best street performers gather near the Mint Museum.
First Presbyterian Church
Wander Charlotte's NoDa Arts District, where outdoor murals burst with color. The area is known for it's buzzing street art scene and occasional pop-up performances—perfect for urban explorers.
The Dunhill Hotel
Take in the energy of the NASCAR Capital outdoors. Near Charlotte Motor Speedway, fans gather for tailgates and car shows. Local trivia: The roar of engines can be heard blocks away on race days.
Carolina Theatre
Lake Norman invites you to unwind by the water just outside Charlotte. Locals kayak at sunrise or picnic along shaded banks—an ideal spot for outdoor relaxation away from city bustle.
Rí Rá Irish Pub
Explore the Banking Hub's green spaces in Uptown Charlotte. Outdoor sculptures dot the plazas, while fountains offer a cool retreat—locals know lunchtime brings food trucks to these lively spots.
Connolly's On Fifth
Catch Carolina Panthers Home excitement outside Bank of America Stadium. Fans tailgate with flair, painting the town blue and black—insider tip: murals nearby celebrate team legends.
See our Top Outdoor Activities By Neighborhood
Charlotte neighborhoods are alive with energy and offer endless options for outdoor activities—from NoDa’s artsy corners to South End’s trendy vibes and Plaza Midwood’s eclectic charm. Explore these areas on foot and unlock new experiences—click on these neighborhoods to see the related activity.
Top Rated
4.9 (1 reviews)
Downtown
Downtown, Charlotte
Downtown Charlotte is a top attraction, offering a mix of culture and excitement. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, it's a must-visit for anyone exploring Queen...
4.9 (1 reviews)
Forth Ward
Forth Ward, Charlotte
Forth Ward is a top attraction in Charlotte, offering visitors a chance to explore it's historic charm. From the Fourth Ward Fountain to Founders Hall, there is always...
4.9 (1 reviews)
Thompson Park
Thompson Park, Charlotte
Explore Thompson Park, a top attraction in Charlotte. With landmarks like the Levine Museum of the New South and vibrant parks, it is ideal for sightseeing and unique...
5.0 (1 reviews)
Downtown
Downtown, Charlotte
Explore Downtown Charlotte's charm with it's scenic Seven-acre Lake Overlook and bustling streets. A top attraction in the Hornets Nest, it is ideal for those seeking...
5.0 (1 reviews)
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte
Looking for unique things to do in Charlotte? The University of North Carolina at Charlotte neighborhood offers vibrant sights like Jerry Richardson Stadium and Robinson...
5.0 (1 reviews)
Queens University of Charlotte
Queens University of Charlotte, Charlotte
Looking for top things to do in Charlotte? Explore the Queens University of Charlotte neighborhood, home to the iconic Dana Auditorium and Charlotte Nature Museum. It's...
See what people say about our outdoor activities in Charlotte
Our guests rave about their experiences exploring Charlotte through our outdoor activities! With glowing star ratings and testimonials like 'the most fun I have had sightseeing,' it is easy to see why locals and visitors trust us for memorable adventures in Queen City.
This experience in First Ward neighborhood was awesome! I appreciated how it highlighted local history and artistic flair all around.
Daniel A.
We had an amazing time exploring Effervescence during our scavenger hunt. A perfect mix of fun and education!
Megan W.
Such a cool thing to do in Charlotte! I loved finding murals and historical spots throughout the city on this self-guided adventure.
James R.
I really enjoyed this interactive walking tour. It was a great way to learn about local culture while having fun around Uptown.
Laura M.
Exploring downtown Charlotte with ScavengerHunt.com was such a memorable experience. We saw iconic sites we never noticed before.
Chris G.
A great family activity! The kids loved running around and discovering interesting spots like Thompson Orphanage together.
Jessica D.
This walking tour of Fourth Ward was an amazing way to explore Charlotte's rich history and beautiful architecture.
David B.
What a fun date idea in the Queen City! We enjoyed learning about Carolina Theater Park while bonding over our scavenger hunt.
Sarah W.
The outdoor experience at First Ward Park was fantastic. I loved discovering hidden gems while enjoying the fresh air.
Michael S.
I had a blast exploring the Writers Desk in Uptown. It was a unique way to see local history and art around the city.
Emily J.
The experience at Thompson Orphanage was eye-opening and meaningful. A great way to appreciate our city's history while walking around.
Megan T.
This was an excellent way to see points of interest in the city. I highly recommend it for tourists wanting to explore Charlotte!
Daniel A.
Exploring downtown Charlotte with ScavengerHunt.com was a blast! I loved how interactive it felt, making history come alive.
W.
'Effervescence' was one of my favorite stops on this tour. Such an engaging way to see artistic expressions around Uptown!
Laura G.
We had an amazing time at Carolina Theater Park. It’s such a beautiful spot, and this self-guided tour made it even more enjoyable.
Chris M.
A unique way to explore the city! We found so many cool places we would have missed otherwise. A must-do activity in Charlotte.
Jessica D.
This experience was perfect for my family. The kids enjoyed discovering interesting spots in Downtown while we learned together.
Michael B.
The walking tour around Fourth Ward was fantastic. I loved seeing the historic sites and learning about Charlotte's rich past.
Sarah W.
What a fun date idea in Uptown! We discovered hidden gems while strolling through the area. Highly recommend for couples.
Jake J.
I had a blast exploring First Ward Park. It was a great way to enjoy the outdoors and learn about local history in the Queen City.
Emily S.
A must-do experience if you're visiting Charlotte. The interactive elements kept us entertained while discovering local treasures!
James W.
We had so much fun on our scavenger hunt! It was an engaging way to explore downtown and learn about its fascinating past.
Sophia L.
A great Charlotte tour! The app made it easy to navigate while we explored unique spots like Ainsa III and more.
Chris H.
This was such a fun experience! We discovered art installations like Wolf Eyes that we would have missed otherwise.
Laura M.
The walking tour through Fourth Ward was amazing. I loved learning about its rich history while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Daniel G.
What a fun way to see iconic landmarks around downtown. I highly recommend this for anyone looking for things to do in Charlotte.
Jessica D.
Exploring the Musical Parking Garage was an unexpected treat. Such a cool outdoor experience in Charlotte's vibrant scene.
David B.
A fantastic date idea! We enjoyed wandering through First Ward Park and uncovering hidden gems together.
Sarah W.
This was a great family activity in Uptown. The kids loved discovering new spots and learning fun facts along the way.
Michael S.
I had a blast exploring the Thompson Orphanage. It was such a unique way to learn about local history in the Queen City.
Emily J.
This self-guided tour made exploring Charlotte feel fresh and exciting. Great for tourists wanting to see local landmarks!
Chris W.
A fun way to discover local history! I loved how interactive this experience was while wandering through Fourth Ward.
Megan L.
Such an engaging experience! We explored Carolina Theater Park and learned so much about its significance in the community.
James H.
'They Came From Mecklenburg' was an intriguing stop on our adventure. This is definitely one of the best things to do in Charlotte.
Laura M.
We enjoyed a great walking tour of Downtown, discovering interesting places like The Writers Desk. A must-do experience!
Daniel G.
Exploring Charlotte's history through this tour was amazing. I highly recommend it for anyone wanting to see iconic spots.
Jessica D.
The scavenger hunt led us to Effervescence, which was such a cool spot. A great outdoor activity around Uptown for anyone!
David B.
What a fantastic date idea in the Queen City! Strolling through Fourth Ward while uncovering hidden gems was so much fun.
Sarah W.
This walking tour was perfect for our family. We loved discovering First Ward Park and learning about its history together.
Michael S.
I had a blast exploring the Musical Parking Garage in Uptown. Such a unique experience and a fun way to see the city.
Emily J.
FAQs.
What are some fun Outdoor Activities in Charlotte?
Are scavenger hunts good for groups in Charlotte?
I am new to Charlotte what do you recommend?
I am a Charlotte local would this be fun for me?
What is the full list of all the scavenger hunts and activities that I can do in Charlotte
LOCAL INSIGHTS
Fun Charlotte Facts and Hidden Gems
Charlotte earned it's nickname Queen City after being named for Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz—the wife of King George III—which gives this Southern hub royal roots dating back centuries.
Did you know NASCAR has deep ties here? The city is home to both the NASCAR Hall of Fame and legendary speedways—and it's vibrant culture blends old
Did you know NASCAR has deep ties here? The city is home to both the NASCAR Hall of Fame and legendary speedways—and it's vibrant culture blends old
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