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Planning Your Trip

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Soak up the Old South while exploring the lively range of modern pleasures — from farm-to-table dining to buzzing galleries — in Charlotte, whose nickname “Queen City” is apt, given the city’s majestic array of charm and style.

Ritz Carlton Hotel image
Ritz Carlton Hotel image
What to
Pack

An expanding system of new routes — light rail, greenways, bike paths — make it easy to explore Charlotte’s chic enclaves and natural beauty. Just a couple of miles from Uptown lies Dilworth, Charlotte’s oldest suburb, which was reached by streetcar back in the 1890s. These days, be sure to pack flat shoes and a helmet because you can rent a bike from the Charlotte BCycle program for a relaxing ride from Uptown to Dilworth’s historic bungalows and eclectic boutiques. A 24-hour pass is just $8, and you can return your bike to any of BCycle’s 24 stations around town — including the one at Trade and Tryon streets, one block from The Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte.

Exploring the City

Charlotte is a four-season city, so check the weather and pack for a mix of comfort and convenience.

  • Despite its Southern location, Charlotte can be cold in winter. Summer is hot, but not without rain. Be sure to bring a lightweight raincoat and travel umbrella.

  • A good rule of thumb is to err on the side of underpacking for clothes but preparedness for shoes. Basic items like white shirts and jeans can be dressed up or down with the right accessories, but if you forgot to pack comfy flats or evening-appropriate shoes, you may find yourself shopping in Charlotte.

  • Finding the right daytime bag is worthy of your attention. Something that goes with everything and leaves your hands free, like a roomy leather tote or sleek backpack — is best for toting your essentials while you’re on the go.
Weekend Getaway

The typical dress code in Charlotte is relaxed and unfussy, so don’t be afraid to pack just the essentials to mix and match together.

  • Underpack when it comes to clothes. Basic items like button-down shirts, tees and minimalist jeans can be dressed up or down with the right accessories.

  • But be prepared with shoes: Plan ahead and make sure you have the right footwear (comfy flats, evening-appropriate, sneakers) for each activity.

  • Even for a quick trip, you won’t want to miss a trip to the spa at The Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte. Bring waterproof slides or flip-flops for the pool or sauna, plus sneakers and workout gear for the fitness center.
Day Trips

It’s a quick drive from here to many Southern attractions, including the barbecue paradise of Lexington, Dirty Dancing-famous Lake Lure. Here’s what to bring.

  • The U.S. National Whitewater Center offers rock climbing, kayaking, rafting, zip-lining and more. Bring active clothes, sneakers and water-appropriate wear.

  • Sure, there’s a decent camera in your phone, but where’s the fun in that? Take along a GoPro, flexible tripod or camera drone to bring some adventure to your photo and video memories.

  • In summer, don’t forget to bring along sunscreen, sunglasses, extra bottles of water and bug repellent.
Ritz Carlton Hotel image
Ritz Carlton Hotel image
What to
Reserve

A walkable downtown, vibrant neighborhoods and a formidable dining and cocktail scene make the Queen City the ideal spot to soak up the new Old South.

Ritz Carlton Hotel image
Ritz Carlton Hotel image
Itineraries

One of the great cities of the modern American Southeast, Charlotte, North Carolina is one of the country's fastest-growing metro areas, attracting experiences for locals and visitors alike. The city pulses with the energy of a chic urban arts scene, a shopping destination complete with eclectic local goods and high-end stores, more than 50 craft breweries, and a variety of noteworthy dining ranging from food trucks to James Beard nominees. Just beyond the urban center lies myriad outdoor adventures and natural beauty. Relish every minute in this vibrant destination with The Ritz-Carlton as your home base.

Friends Getaway

The close proximity of exceptional restaurants, breweries, museums, shopping centers, and nightlife makes Charlotte the ideal destination for the urbane traveler. It’s also rife with adventure, as the home base for the high-octane sport of NASCAR auto racing and the site of the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Follow this itinerary to hit the top attractions for small groups.

Ritz Carlton Hotel image

The Perfect Weekend

Charlotte takes its name from Charlotte Sophia, the wife of England’s King George III, and is often referred to as “the Queen City.” The regal nickname is particularly appropriate considering Charlotte is not only chic and charming, but also America’s third-largest banking sector. Locals and visitors alike enjoy the many amenities of this attractive, prosperous city, particularly in the walkable Uptown city center. Follow this guide to see it all in a weekend.

Ritz Carlton Hotel image
Ritz Carlton Hotel image
Ritz Carlton Hotel image