Filed under Living on November 24th, 2008:
Welcome to Queen City, Charlotte, North Carolina
With a population of 672,000 residents, Charlotte is the largest city in the state of North Carolina. Not only is it the largest city in its state, but it’s also the 19th-largest city in the entire nation. Charlotte was voted the “Best Place to Live in America” by relocate-america.com this year. Not only was this city chosen for its vibrant lifestyles but also for its opportunity for new business success. It holds the number eight spot of the 100 “Best Places to Live and Launch” by CNNMoney.com.
With the thrill of a booming cosmopolitan city and the simplicity of Southern charm, Charlotte presents an exceptional place where big city style meets down-home appeal. With weather described as enjoyable, moderate, and sun-drenched, Charlotte offers things to see and do unlike any other destination in the country. For more information about Charlotte, check out the appealing attractions, excellent shopping, tasty cuisine, and more listed below!
Take It Outside
Located only ten minutes from downtown Charlotte, the world’s premier outdoor recreation and environmental education center is sure to keep your adrenaline running. The U.S. National Whitewater Center is made up of over 300 acres along the Catawba River. Whether you are a sports enthusiast or a spectator you will enjoy this world-class sports center. If rafting isn’t your forte I am sure you would enjoy one of the many other activities including mountain biking, running trails, climbing center or kayaking.
As the world’s largest artificial whitewater river, this sports center is also home and training ground to the official U.S. Olympic team. The center is dedicated to promoting a healthy, active, outdoor way of life for Charlotte residents and visitors. So whether you want to participate or relax, the U.S. National Whitewater Center offers a breathtaking place to take it outside.
Charlotte Knows Styles
Charlotte definitely knows shopping. Everything from retail outlets to the chic boutiques Charlotte has style. Bargain hunters can clean out the antique villages, art galleries, and outdoor markets for limited finds. Meanwhile, frequent shoppers will still be content with shopping malls including SouthPark Mall, Northlake Mall, Carolina Place and more. And, while Hollywood may have couture, North Carolina’s Piedmont region is certainly the epicenter of the furniture world. Examine the immense number of furniture stores featuring remarkable selections and the latest designs. Shopping in Charlotte will leave you itching to indulge yourself and your wallet.
A Beautiful Day in Charlotte
Only half of the winter days fall below freezing, with snow being infrequent, with an average annual accumulation of less than six inches. But for the avid skiers Charlotte is only two hours away from countless ski resorts in the North Carolina Mountains. For the summer months clear blue skies are common along with moderate temperatures in the 70s.
However, one of the most beautiful times of the year is fall. The brilliant colors throughout the city make for wonderful picturesque views all the way up thru November. Charlotte’s spring brings a collection of vivacious colors that run mid-March through May. Both fall and spring are fairly long with moderate temperatures. Overall, you will enjoy every beautiful day in Charlotte.
A City that Sizzles
Prepare your taste buds for savory foods that range from Southern fried chicken to wood fired pizza. Even though Charlotte’s dining options continue to increase throughout this growing area, be sure to know that your meal will always be served with the charm that characterizes this city. Charlotte restaurants are second to none! Voted as one of the “Top 50 Cities That Sizzle” by Restaurant News Magazine, Charlotte’s culinary delights are seemingly endless. Be sure to check out a few of these top-notch restaurants:
Top 5 Charlotte Restaurants
- Upstream – $$$
- Nikko – $$
- Barrington’s – $$
- Noble’s – $$
- Town Restaurant – $$
Housing Options in Charlotte
Luxury Charlotte Apartments
Pet-Friendly Charlotte Apartments
Affordable Apartments in Charlotte
- Pleasant View – From $321
- Tyron Meadows Apartments – From $400
- Heatherwood Apartments
– From $430