Charlotte
Thrills & Chills
2008 10Best Bet - Award Winners
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MYERS PARK. While 24 hours on a bike may not sound like a good time, participants who complete the task come away with a great sense of accomplishment. The ride is an official event of the Lance Armstrong Foundation and is a fundraiser for cancer charities. Its name is taken from the 3-mile "booty loop" frequented by runners (named because you see most of them from behind) that cyclists cover for this endeavor. The route covers Queens Road East, Queens Road West, and Hopedale Road.
UPTOWN. The NFL Panthers are arguably the most popular pro sports team in Charlotte, and catching one of their games presents a terrific chance to enjoy Carolina blue skies, nail-biting gridiron action, and camaraderie with other excitable fans. Tailgating events before games are also great fun. Tickets, of course, can be tough to come by, especially since season ticket-holders actually "own" rights to their seats. If you're fortunate enough to attend a game, make sure to check out the Team Store and pick up a few Carolina souvenirs, maybe even a jersey or two.
Straddling the North Carolina-South Carolina border is the best theme park in either state. The park is home to roller coasters like Afterburn, Nighthawk, and Hurler, and the thrills definitely come fast and furious. During warmer months, things get wet and wild on WhiteWater Falls and Rip Roarin' Rapids, and at the adjacent Boomerang Bay waterpark, helping cool off summer crowds. For people seeking slower heart rates, the ice-skating show at the Carowinds Theatre provides plenty of entertainment.
UPTOWN. The newest sports franchise on the block helped bring Charlotte Bobcats Arena to Uptown and the NBA back to the Queen City. Although the team is finding its footing, taking in hoops action is a great way for fans to spend an evening. You can cheer on hometown guys, catch sight of well-known players, and argue the refs' calls with gusto. The arena, one of the most advanced in the league, is practically worth the price of admission on its own. Back Court and 333 are the two in-arena restaurants available to ticket holders in the premium sections.
If rock climbing is your thing, then Crowders Mountain is your place. Folks scale the rock faces at their own risk when they tackle the challenging terrain – but most climbers are quick to tell you that views of the countryside surrounding the cliffs are amazing. Other exciting outdoor activities are also available, including canoeing, kayaking, and hiking. After a long day of fun, take a break at one of the park's many picnic areas.
BALLANTYNE. Struggling with that splendid slice? How's that horrible hook working for you? Find the answers at this golf school, rated one of the top 25 by Golf Magazine. Located at the prestigious Ballantyne Resort, the school offers 1-, 2-, and 3-day group programs that will be sure to fix even the ugliest of swings. Private sessions are also available for serious golfers. Dana Rader, the school's founder, is an LPGA Master Professional and a Golf Digest Top 50 Teacher.
CORNELIUS. Lake Norman's 520 miles of shoreline create an oasis for fun in the sun, just north of Charlotte off I-77. The lake is where Charlotte's "beautiful people" – and those who imagine themselves to be – come to spend summer weekends. Boats are often tied together to create makeshift parties on the lake, and "float up" restaurants like The Rusty Rudder are worth checking out if you're cruising about. Contact the Visit Lake Norman Visitor Center for info about activities on the lake.
NODA. Set in an arts district, this quaint venue (capacity is 956) is perfect if you're interested in seeing an intimate show. Depending on the night, you'll find everything from national acts to "unsigned" locals. Booked headliners have included Herbie Hancock, George Clinton, and Stephen Stills. Make attending a show at the theater part of an evening of dining and gallery-browsing in the neighborhood.
Now in its second year, the Whitewater Center delivers high-octane outdoor adventures like rafting, kayaking, and paddling. Other – and dryer! – activities include rock climbing, mountain biking, and taking on ropes courses. The Eddy Restaurant and Bar offers healthy American cuisine and is a great place to quiet your heart after a long day on the rapids. An annual festival in September offers races, music, and fun for the kids.
UNIVERSITY AREA. Outdoor concerts are a big part of Charlotte's entertainment scene. Acts ranging from Faith Hill to Dave Matthews to Linkin Park are scheduled to take the stage on summer nights at this North Charlotte venue. Great sightlines, a friendly staff, awesome sound, and easy access to I-485 and I-85 make Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre a fantastic place to catch a concert. Big or small, these selections make a city exciting. They include stomach-churning rides at amusement parks, river action-packed rafting trips, and even festivals that titillate the senses. You might also find places that offer once-in-a-lifetime memories, breathtaking views, or unbeatable draws. We'll chime in to let you know what the city holds that you may not have considered at first glance.
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Big or small, these selections make a city exciting. They include stomach-churning rides at amusement parks, river action-packed rafting trips, and even festivals that titillate the senses. You might also find places that offer once-in-a-lifetime memories, breathtaking views, or unbeatable draws. We'll chime in to let you know what the city holds that you may not have considered at first glance.
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