Best Tours of Charlotte

If you're planning to visit Charlotte, one of the first challenges you'll face when planning your itinerary is choosing which tours to take in the city. As one of the most important cities in the Southeast region of the United States, Charlotte offers a wealth of attractions and guided tours can help you discover each site more clearly.

Some of the best things to do in Charlotte include taking a brewery tour, participating in a ghost and pub crawl, touring the city in a minibus, seeing the main sites of this destination on a golf cart tour, taking a photo tour with a professional photographer, participating in a scavenger hunt tour and opting for a self-guided tour.

Charlotte is known for many things: its financial scene, its sporting events and its growing brewing tradition. One of the most popular activities for locals and visitors alike, then, is to take part in a brewery tour, an experience that will transport you into the city' s rich history and culinary creativity.

These tours are much more than just a tasting; they offer a journey through the craftsmanship behind some of the region's most iconic beers. Typically, these itineraries will include stops at Triple C Brewing Company, where innovation and quality merge to offer a variety of beers ranging from IPAs to lighter, more refreshing lagers.

Another jewel in Charlotte's brewing crown is Wooden Robot Brewery, a brewery that combines tradition with modern, experimental tints. Here you can explore the fusion of local ingredients and craft methods that give life to highly rated beers. And for those looking for a more eclectic experience, a stop at NoDa Brewing Company is a must, offering creative brews and community events.

Details of interest

• Price: approximately 114 euros per person.
• Duration of these tours: about 5 hours.
• Advantages of these tours: you will be able to approach the local culture from a different perspective.
• Disadvantages of these tours: you will be able to visit several different neighbourhoods of the city, but you will not have free time to explore the sites on your own, as the tour focuses exclusively on the breweries.

On misty afternoons or mysterious nights in Charlotte, one of the most popular activities are the ghost and pub tours. These experiences combine the city's fascinating paranormal history with the vibrant local pub scene, creating a complete tour that appeals to locals and visitors alike.

These tours usually begin at iconic sites such as the Fourth Ward, where expert local guides will share with you chilling tales of supernatural events and paranormal encounters. Highlights include the Dunhill Hotel, which is reputed to be home to some curious spirits. The exciting mix of history and the paranormal creates a unique atmosphere for participants.

The second part of the tour, after also touring the Carolina Theatre and the Charlotte Police Headquarters with their corresponding histories, will take you on a tour of several selected pubs, where you can enjoy drinks of your choice and hear other local legends.

One of the most iconic pubs you'll see is The Thirsty Beaver, an authentic pub that has witnessed decades of history and, according to some visitors, harbours its own dark secrets, which are only revealed to those who ask. Are you up for the challenge?

Interesting details

• Price: approximately 28 euros per person.
• Duration of these tours: about 2 hours.
• Advantages of these tours: you will be able to take part in one of the most popular experiences in the city.
• Disadvantages of these tours: they are intense experiences, so they are not recommended for the elderly or people with reduced mobility.

Charlotte is a relatively large city with many attractions in different locations, so taking a minibus tour is a convenient way to experience the rich history and local culture. These tours will take you through some of the most iconic parts of this destination, starting with Downtown, with its skyscrapers and bustling financial activity.

These tours will usually also take you to the NoDa district, known for its street art and eclectic outdoor galleries. Here you can enjoy a stop to explore the local shops and discover the artistic energy that defines this community. You'll also find bars and restaurants that often make Charlotte's best nightlife lists.

The minibus will also take you to Freedom Park, a green oasis in the middle of the city, where you can relax and enjoy nature before heading to the historic Dilworth neighbourhood, famous for its elegant old homes and southern charm. Finally, the itinerary will take you to the South End district, known for its diverse food scene.

Interesting details

• Price: approximately 38 euros per person.
• Duration of these tours: about 1.5 hours for the full tour from end to end, although some experiences include stops.
• Advantages of these tours: convenient alternative for getting an overview of the city's main attractions.
• Disadvantages of these tours: Most of the alternatives do not include stops, so they are only scenic tours.

If you want to explore Charlotte in an eclectic and relaxing way, you can't miss out on a golf cart tour, a traditional experience that combines the convenience of these modes of transport with the opportunity to discover some of the city's highlights. These tours usually start at Freedom Park, in the heart of the local urban centre.

The golf cart will also take you through the bustling Uptown and South End districts, allowing you to admire the city's architecture and soak up the vibrant energy of its streets. The itinerary also includes a stop at the Mint Museum of Art, where you can explore one of North Carolina's most famous art collections and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding gardens.

This itinerary will also take you to the Fourth Ward Historic District, which is noted for its Victorian architecture and homes that will transport you back to the city's colonial past.

Details of interest

• Price: approximately 36 euros per person.
• Duration of these tours: about 1.5 hours.
• Advantages of these tours: You will be able to participate in a traditional Charlotte experience that will take you to see the city's attractions in a fun way.
• Disadvantages of these tours: Although they are small group tours, you will not be able to change the pre-arranged itinerary.

If you want to experience Charlotte in a different way, a photo tour is the perfect way to capture the most memorable moments of your journey through this vibrant city. Accompanied by a professional photographer, you'll begin your tour at the romantic Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens, a site characterised by the natural beauty of its trails.

The itinerary will also include stops in the financial district, where skyscrapers and modern architecture provide an unbeatable backdrop for your photographs. The Firebird sculpture in Bechtler Square and the Lions Fountain in the city centre are just a few of the iconic sites that will make your images stand out in their own style.

These tours will also take you through the NoDa district, famous for its street art and bohemian atmosphere. Every alleyway in this neighbourhood will offer unique opportunities for colourful and creative photography.

And if you're planning to visit Charlotte during Christmas, you'll also be able to capture the Christmas Eve decorations that are a regular feature of this destination and can be found in every corner of the city.

Interesting details

• Price: approximately 136 euros per person.
• Duration of these tours: about 2 hours.
• Advantages of these tours: you will be able to combine a tour of the main sights of the city with a photography experience.
• Disadvantages of these tours: they are expensive experiences and do not include the assistance of an expert local guide, only a photographer.

If you prefer alternative activities at your destination or plan to tour Charlotte with children, you can opt to take part in a scavenger hunt tour. Equipped with maps and clues, teams will begin the journey by exploring the city from the city centre, taking in the local history and culture as they search for clues to unravel the mystery and find the hidden treasure.

During these tours you can visit landmarks such as Discovery Place Science, where you can discover the interactive science exhibits. You can also explore the Fourth Ward, a historic district full of Southern charm and Victorian homes, as you follow the clues that will lead you closer to your goal.

With challenges tailored for all ages, these self-guided tours are an ideal choice for families who want to explore the city in a different and interactive way.

Interesting details

• Price: approximately 13 euros per group.
• Duration of these tours: the activity lasts around 2 hours, but you can do it at your own pace because it is self-guided through an app.
• Advantages of these tours: They offer a fun and interactive alternative for families to get to know Charlotte.
• Disadvantages of these tours: They can include tracks at points outside of the city, so you'll need to be prepared to travel by different modes of transport during the experience.

If you want to discover Charlotte at your own pace, the best alternative is to opt for a self-guided tour using a mobile app. This modern way of exploring the city gives you the freedom to customise your itinerary and explore each site at your convenience.

Some of the sights included in this tour include the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, which houses an exceptional collection, and Romare Bearden Park, an urban green space perfect for relaxing and enjoying the surrounding architecture.

During the self-guided tour, the historic district becomes the epicentre of this activity, with its skyscrapers and the Levine Center for the Arts, where you can find events of all kinds. The app will guide you through iconic architecture and take you to places like Bank of America Stadium, home of the NFL's Carolina Panthers, and the NASCAR Hall of Fame, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of auto racing.

Popular places to visit in Charlotte during a guided tour also include the Museum of History and the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, an oasis of natural beauty located in the middle of the city.

Details of interest

• Price: approximately 13 euros per person.
• Duration of these tours: the time will depend on the chosen itinerary.
• Advantages of these tours: You can explore the city at your own pace.
• Disadvantages of these tours: information on some popular sites in the city is scarce or not available, so it is advisable to find it on your own.

If you want to explore Charlotte in a fun and comfortable way, opt for a Segway tour, an experience that will take you to some of the area's most iconic sites such as Trade and Tryon Streets, where Native Americans fought to maintain control of the city, allowing you to discover the history of the region.

You'll also get a taste of Charlotte's cultural fabric with a stop at the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art. Here you'll find a collection of 20th century paintings that will transport you through the most innovative artistic expressions of their time.

On the other hand, one of the more relaxed parts of the itinerary is at The Green, the city's largest park, where locals choose to spend much of their days enjoying their surroundings, and nearby you'll also see the lavish Bank of American Stadium, home of the Carolina Panthers, the city's NFL team.

These experiences are equipped with the necessary safety features, such as the mandatory helmets for these vehicles, allowing you to take part in a safe and worry-free ride.

Interesting details

• Price: approximately 70 euros per person.
• Duration of these excursions: around 1 hour and a half.
• Advantages of these tours: you will be able to see the main sights of the city in a comfortable, safe and fun way.
• Disadvantages of these tours: they are expensive experiences.

You can either book a Charlotte tour in advance or book them once you are in the city. However, if you plan to travel during the summer or peak season months, I advise you to make sure you book before your visit so you can save time upon arrival and also money, as rates are dynamic.

Booking in advance will also help you organise a tour, which will help you get the most out of your stay in the city and will also help you plan your visit based on your preferences or the group you are travelling with, which is ideal if you are planning to visit Charlotte with children or as a couple.

When embarking on an excursion in Charlotte, it's essential to follow a few tips to make the most of your Charlotte experience. First, be sure to check the weather conditions before heading out, as North Carolina is known to experience abrupt changes in weather. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and don't forget to stay hydrated and carry a rain jacket during the rainy season.

Also, plan your itinerary in advance and consider using mobile apps or maps to optimise your route and save time. This destination is known for its cultural diversity and events, especially during Christmas in Charlotte, so check if there are any festivals, fairs or special celebrations during your visit to discover the local atmosphere.

Taking a guided tour of Charlotte or exploring the city on your own are both valid options, each with their own advantages. Opting for a guided tour offers you the opportunity to receive expert, contextualised information about the city's history, culture and points of interest. Local guides often share anecdotes and details that you would not find in individual research, which will substantially enhance your experience.

Note, too, that guided tours usually include exclusive and priority entry to the sites you visit, allowing you to rest easy in the comfort of having the logistics organised. This can save you time and ensure you get the most out of your visit.