Tired of the hustle and bustle of the city? “Charlotte’s got a lot” but sometimes it can be overwhelming. Personally, I get overstimulated by large crowds in about 3.7 seconds. But there are lots of hidden gems just outside the city limits. Here is my guide to scenic activities that are all* within a two hour drive from Charlotte.
1. Glencairn Garden- Rock Hill, SC
For over 50 years, Glencairn Garden has been a spot of beauty just off the beaten path. It is full of beautiful blooms- azaleas, crepe myrtles, dogwoods, wisteria, and much more. There is an abundance of wildlife for your viewing pleasure as well. It has fountains, ponds, and magical flower-filled walkways. Open dawn until dusk, this stunning 11-acre garden is a perfect way to spend time surrounded by the beauty and peace of nature. Located at 725 Crest St. in Rock Hill, SC. Check out their website here for more info!
2. Charlotte Douglas International Airport Overlook- Charlotte, NC
Okay fine, this is still technically in Charlotte, but it’s chill! You can sit in your car with a picnic and enjoy the view, or you can get out and take advantage of the great amenities the site has to offer. From a playground, to educational displays, there is something for everyone. Not to mention the unparalleled views of the runways. Admission is free and they are open daily from 8am to 10pm. Check out some of the pictures from my last visit.
3. Moses H. Cone
Located in Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, the Cone estate- Flat Top Manor, is an elaborate 20-room mansion in the grand Colonial Revival style. The estate is 3,500 acres and has 25 miles of carriage trails that are available for horse-drawn carriages, hiking, and horseback riding. The Manor is also home to the Southern Highland Craft Guild that features handmade crafts from hundreds of local artists. It is located near mile post 294 on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Blowing Rock. For more information, check out their website here.
4. Lake James State Park
Located in Nebo, Lake James State Park has lots of options for outdoor lovers. They have boat rentals and lake access for swimming, plus picnic areas, and tons of trails for hiking and biking. They also allow events like birthday parties, reunions, etc. You can access the lake from the Catawba River access, or Paddy’s Creek access, where you’ll find campsites and much more. For more information and specific locations, visit their site here.
5. McDowell Nature Preserve
Just along the coast of Lake Wylie, McDowell Nature Preserve contains over 1,100 acres of protected land- 90% of which is undeveloped. There are playgrounds, picnic areas, and campsites, plus tons of hiking trails. Located within the preserve is the Nature Center, which houses live animals, plus exhibits highlighting the preserve’s plants and wildlife. They also offer reservations for events. Check out their website for more information and a map of the preserve.
*Honorable Mention- Oconaluftee Visitor Center
I know, I know… this is more than two hours away from Charlotte. But you can’t say no to elk! Located near Cherokee, in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is a beautiful visitor center with tons of friends that like to hang out. While you definitely shouldn’t approach or try to touch them, the elk are fairly used to humans, so they walk all around the visitor center for people to get a look at. It’s something you have to experience if you haven’t already.
Off-Road Options- South Carolina Adventure Route
The South Carolina Adventure Route (SCAR) is a loop of roads through the rural parts of South Carolina. It’s just over 1,000 miles altogether, but you can get on and off at any point. It’s made up of about 50% paved backroads, and 50% dirt or gravel roads. The views are unbeatable, plus it travels close to several state parks and National Forest campgrounds. For a full map, plus more info, visit their website here.
Off-Road Options- Old NC 105
This scenic gravel road in the Linville Gorge Wilderness area is one of my absolute favorites. The views are breathtaking and somehow different every time I go. It has tons of camping sites (tent camping and overlanding, not RVs) as well as access to several trailheads. It’s unbelievably quiet and peaceful. Bring a chair and sit and relax at one of the overlooks- you won’t regret this one.
Happy Exploring!
Let me know if you’ve been to any of these places, or if you have suggestions for more places!
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