The Girl's Trip Guide to Charlotte
The ultimate guide to planning a girls’ trip to the Queen City.
by Asha Ellison
Since Charlotte is named after Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, some might say the city is fit for a queen! Whether you’re a lady who lounges, lunches or lunges, this regal city has much to offer. Charlotte is an ideal location for ladies looking to level-up their next girls’ getaway.
For the Foodies
Alley 51
Area: Pineville
One thing a girls’ trip should have is options. At Alley 51, discover Charlotte’s newest food destination which serves a variety of authentic Asian delights all under one roof. Step inside the Super G-Mart to indulge in street fare from China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, the Philippines and Vietnam.
Optimist Hall
Neighborhood: Optimist Park
Hunger and happiness aren’t one-size-fits-all. Luckily, Optimist Hall, one of Charlotte’s premier food halls, is a one-stop-shop for every food mood and vibe in between. The converted textile mill spans two floors and houses over 20 tenants that offer everything from fast-casual eats and brews to specialty cocktails, novelty shops and desserts.
Uptown Yolk
Neighborhood: South End
Brunch is a love language, and for the ladies who speak it fluently, Uptown Yolk is a mealtime must. Close your eyes and imagine brown butter biscuits with smoked chicken gravy and jalapeño jam. Now, open your eyes, notice the hip decor and drool dripping down your chin.
Yunta Nikkei
Neighborhood: South End
Built on the premise of friendship, this Japanese and Peruvian Nikkei-style gastrobar is all about bringing people – and flavors – together. Enjoy a lush, relaxing atmosphere with stunning decor. Yunta is a place where everything's meant to be shared, from photo-ops to the handmade maki rolls. The cocktails are also exceptional!
For the Beer, Wine and Cocktail Lovers
Babe Cave
Neighborhood: Lower South End
A female-centered social house, Babe Cave boasts an expertly curated menu of signature cocktails named for and inspired by some of the world’s most remarkable and influential women. Think: Frida Kahlo, Josephine Baker, Coco Chanel, Beyonce, Rihanna and Grace Jones. Babe Cave also offers cocktail classes and a photo studio experience.
Flight
Neighborhood: Elizabeth
The global wine list at Flight won’t be lost on the girlies who fancy culture, adventure and romance. Each bottle on the premises is hand selected from the owner’s travels, with some local favorites sprinkled in. Whether you’re a lady who knows her wines, or still learning, Flight is calling you.
Nuvole Rooftop TwentyTwo
Neighborhood: Uptown
The elevator of the AC Hotel & Residence Inn Charlotte City Center will take you up 22 floors to one of the city’s best rooftop bars and lounges. Expect immaculate views, expertly crafted cocktails and vibes no other city can duplicate.
Rosie's Wine Garden
Neighborhood: Optimist Park
Rosie's Wine Garden is the cutest spot for sipping rosé under twinkling lights with your besties! With floral vibes and dreamy decor, it's the perfect place to toast to a fabulous day
Salud Cerveceria
Neighborhood: NoDa
Craft beer connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike can find something to love about Salud Cerveceria. Sip everything from locally brewed IPAs to rich stouts, then pair your craft beer selection with a wood-fired pizza. Don’t forget to visit the beer shop downstairs for a six pack to-go.
For the Artsy Girls
Art Walk at Camp North End
Neighborhood: Camp North End
No map, no problem! For the girls who like to immerse themselves in art on their own terms, the Art Walk at Camp North End pairs agency with adventure. This self-guided tour of the camp’s murals allows the artful explorer to freely tour colorful local art at your own pace.
Bechtler Museum of Modern Art
Neighborhood: Uptown
When you see The Firebird statue, you’ve found the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art. The towering, mosaic-mirrored installation, designed by French-American artist Niki de Saint Phalle, has become a Charlotte icon. It also sets the tone for the exciting art on display in the Bechtler’s permanent collection and exhibits.
Blumenthal Performing Arts
Neighborhood: Uptown
Pack your theater best and book a show at one of Blumenthal Performing Arts’ venues. On any given day, Blumenthal Arts hosts touring Broadway shows, concerts, dance performances, comedians and more. Venues like Belk Theater and Booth Playhouse offer orchestra- and gallery-level seating, ensuring the best view in the house.
For the Outdoor Adventurers
Carrigan Farms
Area: Mooresville
Pick strawberries, apples or pumpkins, go for a swim down at The Quarry or join farmer William Carrigan on his in-field adventures. No matter the season, there is always something to explore at Carrigan Farms, a former indigo and tobacco farm that’s been in the Carrigan family for five generations.
Rally
Neighborhood: Lower South End
Be social! If you’re traveling alone, you’re sure to make new friends over a game of pickleball at Rally. Rolling with friends? Even better. Share the indoor/outdoor courts in pairs and don’t worry about working up an appetite. You’ll find sustenance in the on-site cafe.
UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens
Neighborhood: University City
Stroll the Susie Harwood Garden to experience the beauty of native and non-native plants. Venture over to the Van Landingham Glen, the woodland section of the gardens, which feature a collection of rhododendrons, towering trees and a few hidden gems inside. Be sure to stop by the Greenhouse before you leave.
For the Self-Care Girlies
Brown Sugar Collab
Neighborhood: South End
Calling all naturalistas! Located at South End’s Centro Railyard, Brown Sugar Collab is a collective shopping experience that features natural, handcrafted artisan products from more than 20 women makers who are also Black, Indigenous or other people of color.
Mood House
Neighborhood: Dilworth, Oakhurst
Choose your location, service and mood, then let Mood House’s masters of relaxation do the rest. Whether you choose to book a massage or an infrared sauna session, you’ll leave this modern spa feeling rejuvenated and ready to live your best life.
SouthPark Mall
Neighborhood: SouthPark
Whether you wish to center yourself or seek to swipe your card, you can do it all at SouthPark Mall. In addition to a luxe shopping experience, with more than 150 stores to choose from, you can also find high-end beauty salons and fitness studios among Saint Laurent and Tiffany’s.
Where to Stay
AC Hotel Charlotte SouthPark
Neighborhood: SouthPark
With luxury shopping and incredible dining options nearby, the AC Hotel Charlotte SouthPark is a fantastic choice for rest and exploration – it’s also a prime place to play. At the hotel’s rooftop bar, Cordial, you’ll enjoy craft cocktails, light bites and gorgeous city views.
JW Marriott
Neighborhood: Uptown
JW Marriott Charlotte takes the cake for location. It’s close to the city’s most distinguished arts and culture venues, as well as Bank of America Stadium, and the views from the rooftop are stunning. At the top, you’ll enjoy Aura Rooftop for delicious bites, cocktails and maybe even a dip in the pool.
The Ivey’s Hotel
Neighborhood: Uptown
A perfect escape for a girl about town, The Ivey’s is located in the heart of Uptown. Should a lady slip away to the conjoined Sophia’s Lounge for the evening, she’ll discover her bed turned down, moon-shaped chocolates and the hum of soothing sounds when she returns to her room.
