Charlotte for Couples
Whether you’re planning a date night or a longer getaway to the Queen City, Charlotte has plenty to do for two.
by Rosa Sprinkle
From first dates to anniversaries and everything in between, no matter what occasion you’re celebrating or the type of couple you are, Charlotte has what it takes to entertain you and your favorite person.
For the Foodie Couple
For fine dining, it’s tough to top the royal treatment you’ll experience at McNinch House Restaurant, located in a charming turn-of-the-century home and regularly voted as Charlotte’s most romantic restaurant.
If you’re the type of couple who likes to share everything, head over to The Artisan's Palate or PARA for mouthwatering tapas. For a fully immersive dining experience, make reservations at Counter- and enjoy a 10-course tasting menu by James Beard-nominated chef, Sam Hart, with wine and nonalcoholic pairings to enhance your meal.
Culinary couples can also take a day or night to learn a new favorite dish at a cooking class at Chef Alyssa’s Kitchen, The Foodie School or Santhoshi’s Kitchen’s Indian cuisine class. Those who prefer to try their hand at something sweeter should look no further than Sweet Spot Studio or a chocolate-making class at The Secret Chocolatier. And, for the aspiring mixologists, The Cocktailery has you covered with themed cocktail classes.
For the Arts & Culture Couple
Although Charlotte has no shortage of music venues and arenas that host the hottest national headliners, couples shouldn’t miss the smaller, more intimate locales like The Evening Muse, Neighborhood Theatre and Visulite Theatre for local and regional acts. Jazz afficionados can enjoy live performances paired with small plates and cocktails at Middle C Jazz.
Have some laughs together at a performance by Queen City Comedy, CATCh, or at The Comedy Zone at AvidXchange Music Factory.
Step out on the town together and see exciting performances by Charlotte Ballet, Opera Carolina and the Charlotte Symphony. Several theaters, including Booth Playhouse, Belk Theater and Knight Theater, are part of Blumenthal Performing Arts and provide the right setting for any production.
For the Outdoorsy Couple
On any given day, there’s plenty to do with your number one while appreciating Charlotte's natural beauty. Take a hike at the U.S. National Whitewater Center or one of the state parks near Charlotte. Mark your calendar for one of the Whitewater Center’s multi-course, on-site culinary experiences that’s combined with one of the recreational activities like yoga, paddling or ziplining.
For a private-led outdoor adventure, book a hike or a kayaking trip with Issa Vibe Adventures.
For the Couple Who Loves Competition
Charlotte has several professional sports teams and dozens of ways for sports lovers to enjoy games in the Queen City, whether it’s in the stands or firsthand.
Get in on the action yourself at Queen Park Social, an 18,000-square-foot warehouse with drinks, food, bowling and games, or Slingshot Social Game Club, with games like Connect 4 Hoops, Mario Kart Grand Prix, Guitar Hero and Dance Dance Revolution Extreme.
Swing for the green from one of the bays at Topgolf, with locations in southwest Charlotte and University City. Or enjoy a game of pickleball and a craft cocktail at Rally Pickleball.
For the Couple Who Needs a Getaway
When you want to plan a getaway with your sweetie, check out this guide for themed staycation ideas based on your couple vibe, along with these other options.
Choose from the many spas in Charlotte, like The Ritz Carlton Spa or The Spa at Ballantyne, for a pamper-filled escape. After your spa treatment, unwind with the amenities at these top-rated hotels.
Spend a day or weekend enjoying the views and vintages at Treehouse Vineyards in Monroe or Veronét Vineyards & Winery in Kings Mountain, or venture farther to one of the other beautiful vineyards near Charlotte.
Article originally written by Rosa Sprinkle. Updates by Arielle Patterson in February 2024.
