Falling For Charlotte: Here’s your autumn adventure guide
CHARLOTTE, N.C. β As the Queen City cools down and the leaves start to glow in shades of gold and crimson, Charlotte comes alive with cozy vibes and outdoor adventures.
From pumpkin-spiced treats to skyline sunsets, here are a few canβt-miss ways to savor fall in Charlotte:
1. Catch a Panthers Game at Bank of America Stadium π
Whether youβre a diehard fan or just there for the atmosphere, nothing says fall in Charlotte like football season.
2.Enjoy a Spooky Evening at Scarowinds π»
The park has been fully transformed for a terrifying Halloween celebration to commemorate 25 years of fear.Β Prepare for terrifying haunted mazes, sinister scare zones, exhilarating live show, and specialty food & drink.
3. Savor Seasonal Flavors at Camp North End βοΈ
This former industrial site turns into a foodie haven in cooler weatherβthink pumpkin beer releases, cider tastings, and pop-up markets.
4. Take a Day Trip to the U.S. National Whitewater Center π₯Ύ
Zipline over changing leaves, hike riverside trails, or warm up with their seasonal craft beer festival and ice skating later in the season.
5. Visit a Nearby Apple Orchard π
Less than an hourβs drive, Windy Hill Orchard & Cider Mill and Sky Top Orchard offer apple-picking, cider donuts, and crisp mountain air.
6. Explore the Charlotte Regional Farmers Market π©π½βπΎ
Local farmers showcase autumn harvestsβpumpkins, squash, and late-season peachesβplus handmade crafts perfect for early holiday gifts.
7. Hop Aboard the Carolina Renaissance Festival π
Technically in Huntersville, but worth the short drive for medieval jousting, giant turkey legs, and whimsical costumes every weekend through mid-November.
8. Enjoy a Skyline View at a Rooftop Bar π·
Sip a spiced cocktail at Merchant & Trade or Fahrenheit while watching the city lights sparkle against a brisk fall evening.
9. Take a Haunted History Tour ποΈ
From Uptown ghost walks to spooky South End tales, discover Charlotteβs eerie past on a guided evening tour.
10. Wander Through Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardenβs Pumpkin Festival π
Their annual pumpkin-themed displays and night-time luminaries make for an enchanting autumn stroll.
11. Stroll Through the Fall Foliage at Freedom Park π
The 98-acre park is stunning when the leaves turn shades of amber and crimson. Pack a picnic or grab a latte from nearby Dilworth and soak in the colors.
12. Head To Scarrigan Farms Haunted Trail πΎ
The farms haunted trail returnsΒ this October, starting Friday, October 3rd and will be open Thursday through Sunday evenings through November 1st!
13. Attend Charlotte’s Candlelight Concerts π»
As the the sun goes down, gleaming candle light and a string quartet settle in, making your daylight saving evening enjoyable! Spend your night serenaded by beautiful string instruments covering your favorite artist. Tickets for the Halloween edition on sale now.
Quick Tips
- Best Photo Ops: Freedom Park and the Whitewater Centerβs trails.
- What to Wear: LayersβCharlotteβs fall can swing from 75Β° afternoons to 50Β° nights.
- Getting Around: A light jacket and comfortable shoes will serve you well if youβre Uptown hopping.
