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Charlotte has the air of a
congenial southern town, where hospitality is taken seriously and guests are
made to feel not only welcome but at home. At the same time, it is a bustling
cosmopolitan city, and also home to the NFL Panthers and the NBA Hornets.
Charlotte's outdoor activities
include sightseeing in the surrounding countryside as well as a number of more
structured events. Charlotte offers over 14,000 acres of parks and 17 designated
recreation centers. Charlotte Metro Zoo prides itself on letting visitors
"see the animals up close at a safe distance," including its prized
collection of large primates, bears, and big cats. The Lazy 5 Ranch allows
visitors to drive through a real ranch and look at over 600 animals. Visitors
can enjoy the 3 ½ miles safari drive in their own cars or in horse-drawn
wagons. Some outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Balloons Over Carolina,
offering one-hour balloon rides over Charlotte and the surrounding environs 7
days a week. Two large lakes nearby encourage a variety of water sports
including water skiing, boating and fishing.
The city's museums and
galleries display many of the much sought after crafts produced by area
residents. The Brem House Artisans Gallery and the Fieldcrest Cannon Textile
Museum offer visitors a look at local handicrafts from times past and from the
present. The First Light Fine-Craft Gallery and the Harris Holt Gallery also
showcase local artists and their creative talents. For more traditional art
offerings, visitors should seek out the Mint Art Museum, the first art museum in
North Carolina. Children love Discovery Place, which is rated one of the top
hands-on science museums in the country.
North Carolina has become one
of the nation's premiere vacation spots in recent years, and Charlotte is the
ideal place to begin an exploration of this remarkable state. Natural splendor
is only a short drive in any direction, whether one is looking for spectacular
beaches or for the Blue Ridge Mountains. There is so much to see and explore in
this family friendly southern city. Some parts of the itinerary can be planned
in advance, but leave room in the schedule for the enjoyable discoveries that
will be sure to occur during a Charlotte, North Carolina vacation. |
