Your Guide to the Light Rail in Charlotte
Here's where to eat, drink and explore near each of the 26 stations along the LYNX Blue Line.
by Kristen Moore
The LYNX Blue Line light rail has been a game-changer in Charlotte since operations began in 2007 with 15 stations linking the south side of I-485 to Uptown. In 2018, the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) added an extension, connecting Uptown to UNC Charlotte and bringing the total north-to-south route to 18.9 miles with 26 stations, including 10 park-and-ride locations.
From getting a taste of the Queen City’s culinary scene to treating yourself to new finds at a locally owned boutique, there’s a variety of experiences to enjoy at each stop. Before you start exploring, download the CATS-Pass mobile app to find the schedule, purchase tickets and plan your trip, as well as the CATS Art in Transit mobile app to learn about the art along your ride.
Eastway/Hidden Valley/University City
UNC Charlotte - Main Station
The northernmost light rail station takes you to UNC Charlotte’s main campus on Cameron Boulevard. Stroll through the UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens, cheer on the Charlotte 49ers at a game and watch shows at the university’s performing arts venues.
Eat & Drink: Bojangles, Charlotte Greens, Chick-fil-A Express, Mamma Leone’s Panda Express, Salsaritas, Thoughtful Cup, Panda Express, Salsarita’s, Mamma Leone’s and other on-campus options.
JW Clay Station
Start or end your light rail excursion at the JW Clay Station, which has a parking deck with 800 spaces. Take the pedestrian bridge to cross over to North Tryon Street toward the UNC Charlotte campus. Or head in the other direction to explore the food, drinks and fun at The Shoppes at University Place.
Eat & Drink: Armored Cow Brewing Co., Binki Cafe Charlotte, Boardwalk Billy’s, City Barbeque, Edgewater Bar & Grille, Famous Toastery, Golden Owl Tavern, Ninety’s Milkshake Bar, Sarangi, Zapata’s Mexican RestaurantDo: Dave’s Paddle Boats, Jerry Richardson Stadium, Paradise Valley Par 3 The Shoppes at University Place
McCullough Station
Just before the intersection of North Tryon Street and East W.T. Harris Boulevard, hop off at the McCullough Station for a taste of local eats and a game of mini golf.
Eat & Drink: Banh Mi Brothers, Chex Grill & Wings, Crackin’ Crawfish, The Juicy Crab, King Fish Poke, Le Kebab Grill, Papi’s Puerto Rican Cuisine, Picasso’s Sports Cafe, Soul Central, Tea Fusion Café, Thai House - UniversityDo: McCullough Commons shopping center, Monster Mini Golf Charlotte
Stay: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Extended Stay America - Charlotte - University Place, Extended Stay America - Charlotte - University Place - E. McCullough Dr., Hampton Inn Charlotte - University Place, Holiday Inn Charlotte University, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Charlotte NE - University Area, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Charlotte/University Place, Sleep Inn University Place
University City Boulevard Station
Hop off the train at the University City Boulevard Station and head to the only IKEA in the Carolinas for home décor inspiration and Swedish meatballs. This area is a popular retail destination for locals searching for clothing, accessories, furniture and more at the surrounding shopping centers. Or have a fun day or evening out at Topgolf. This station also offers a parking deck with more than 1,500 spots, as well as short- and long-term bike racks.
Eat & Drink: Mi Pueblo Mexican Grill, Outback Steakhouse, South 21 Jr. Family Restaurant, Waffle House
Do: Belgate Shopping Center, IKEA, Topgolf, The WearHouse,
Stay: Comfort Suites University - Research Park, InTown Suites Extended Stay Select Charlotte NC – University, WoodSpring Suites Charlotte - University Research Park
Tom Hunter Station
Located between east Charlotte and University City, the Tom Hunter Station has several authentic local Latin restaurants close by that are worthy of a quick stop.
Eat & Drink: El Taco Veloz, Ely Tortilleria, La Casita, La Michoacana, Panaderia Odalys
Do: Fashion Warehouse, Tapers Barbershop
Old Concord Road Station
Explore the east side of Charlotte at spots near the Old Concord Road Station. Start your journey here by using one of 332 park-and-ride spots or grab a quick ride share from the station to Eastway Park, which features a state-of-the-art recreation center, disc golf, athletic fields, community art and more.
Eat & Drink: American Deli, La Zima Bar, Lempira Restaurant, Mr. Seafood, Tryon House RestaurantDo: AMF University Lanes, Eastway Park/Eastway Regional Recreation Center
Optimist Park/NoDa
Sugar Creek Station
If you need an easy place to park to get to NoDa, grab one of the more than 600 parking spots at the Sugar Creek Station, then hop on the light rail to head to your destination. While you’re here, don’t skip over the culinary and cultural experiences available near this station.
Eat & Drink: Crown Station Coffeehouse & Pub, Deejai Thai Noodle Bar, Divine Barrel Brewing, Free Will Craft + Vine, Great Wagon Road Distilling CompanyDo: Blackbox Theater, Charlotte Art League, The Fitness Factory of Charlotte, The Independent Picture House
36th Street Station
Explore all the fun and funky restaurants, bars and shops the NoDa neighborhood offers by hopping off at the 36th Street Station. This station is right in the heart of North Davidson Street, which is the main street that runs through the district and gives the neighborhood is nickname.
Eat & Drink: Amélie’s French Bakery & Café, Bar à Vins, Boudreaux’s Louisiana Kitchen, Cabo Fish Taco, The Chamber by Wooden Robot, Ever Andalo, The Exchange at 36th, The Goodyear House, Growlers Pourhouse, Haberdish, Idlewild, JackBeagle’s NoDa, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, NoDa Company Store, Oh My Soul, Popbar, Protagonist Beer, Reigning Doughnuts, Salud Cerveceria, Smelly Cat Coffee, The Ugly
Do: The Dog Bar, The Evening Muse, Johnny Fly, Mac Tabby Cat Café, Milk Money Vintage, Neighborhood Theatre, The Rat’s Nest
25th Street Station
While not on NoDa’s main strip, the 25th Street Station provides access to much of Charlotte’s up-and-coming Mill District. Stop by Urban District Market to grab a bite to eat or visit old favorites like NoDa Brewing Company’s OG location.
Eat & Drink: The Degenerate, Free Range Brewing, The Hobbyist, NoDa Brewing Company - The OG, Pho @ NoDa, Rhino Market & Deli, Seoul Food Meat Co. Mill District, Urban District Market
Parkwood Station
Parkwood Station provides access to the quickly developing Optimist Park neighborhood between Uptown and NoDa. Start your experience at Optimist Hall, the largest food hall in the city, then explore surrounding eateries, bars and parks while enjoying a skyline view.
Eat & Drink: Bird Pizzeria, Birdsong Brewing Co., Optimist Hall, NoDa Market and Deli, Rosie’s Coffee & Wine Garden, Substrate, Starlight on 22nd
Do: Cordelia Park, Optimist Hall retailers including Archer Paper Goods, Paradiso Plant Shop, Pet Wants and more
Uptown
9th Street Station
This Uptown station is the most northern stop before the train crosses I-277 from NoDa. Situated near First Ward Park and UNC Charlotte Center City, this station provides access to several restaurants, along with arts and culture attractions, in the First and Fourth Wards.
Eat & Drink: Alexander Michael’s, The Landing at Fourth Ward, McNinch House Restaurant, Pizzeria Sapienza, Queen City GroundsDo: Aerial CLT, First Ward Park, Charlotte Ballet, McColl Center, UNC Charlotte Center City, VAPA Center
7th Street Station
This station sits next to the 7th Street parking deck for easy parking and is right in front of The Market at 7th Street, the city’s first urban food hall and retail space.
Eat & Drink: 204 North Kitchen & Cocktails, The Capital Grille, The Cellar at Duckworth’s, Church & Union, Cowbell Burger & Whiskey Bar, Dandelion Market, The Market at 7th Street, Mert’s Heart and Soul, Sea Level NC, Sophia’s LoungeDo: Discovery Place Science, ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center, Victoria Yards
Stay: The Dunhill Hotel, Holiday Inn Charlotte Center City, The Ivey’s Hotel, SpringHill Suites by Marriott Charlotte Uptown
Charlotte Transportation Center/Arena Station
Just two blocks down from Trade and Tryon Streets, the main intersection where the city was originally founded, the Charlotte Transportation Center (CTC)/Arena Station gives riders easy access to restaurants, bars, hotels and Spectrum Center, the home of the NBA Charlotte Hornets and the largest indoor concert venue in the city.
Eat & Drink: Aria Tuscan Grill, The Fifth Fork, Cicchetti, Eddie V’s Prime Seafood, Monarch Market, Nuvole Rooftop TwentyTwo, Rooster’s Uptown, Tupelo HoneyDo: Bad Axe Throwing, Blumenthal Performing Arts, Bowlero Charlotte, Spectrum Center
Stay: AC Hotel Charlotte City Center, Aloft Charlotte Uptown, Charlotte Marriott City Center, Grand Bohemian Hotel Charlotte, Hyatt House Charlotte Center City, Omni Charlotte Hotel, Residence Inn Charlotte City Center, The Ritz-Carlton
3rd Street Station
If you're coming from the south, you’ll ride the light rail through the Charlotte Convention Center. The LYNX Blue Line is one of the only light rail systems in the country that cuts through a building. Hop off and head to your next destination, such as a museum, park, restaurant and more all within walking distance.
Eat & Drink: Angeline’s, Bernardin’s, Fahrenheit, Haymaker, Ink n Ivy, La Belle Helene, Merchant & Trade, Mimosa GrillDo: Charlotte Visitor Info Center, Marshall Park, Mecklenburg County Aquatic Center, Middle C Jazz, NASCAR Hall of Fame, Romare Bearden Park, Truist Field, Uptown Farmers Market
Stay: Embassy Suites by Hilton Charlotte Uptown, Hampton Inn Charlotte Uptown, Hilton Charlotte Uptown, Hilton Garden Inn Charlotte Uptown, Home2 Suites by Hilton Charlotte Uptown, Hyatt Place Charlotte Downtown, Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel, Residence Inn by Marriott Charlotte Uptown
Brooklyn Village Station
The Brooklyn Village Station is located above The Westin’s parking deck and connects to the Charlotte Convention Center and Whole Foods on Brooklyn Village Avenue, a street named to honor the historic African-American neighborhood that once occupied this area of Uptown. The southernmost stop in Uptown, it’s just a short walk to multiple museums and Bank of America Stadium, home of the NFL Carolina Panthers and MLS Charlotte FC.
Eat & Drink: Aura Rooftop, Chex Grill & Wings, Coquette, Dean’s Italian Steakhouse, Famous Toastery, Fin & Fino, Golden Cow Creamery Uptown, Mariposa, Rhino Market & Deli, Sandwich ClubDo: , Bank of America Stadium, Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, The Green, Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture, Knight Theater, Mint Museum Uptown, Museum of Illusions
Stay: JW Marriott Charlotte, Le Méridien Charlotte, Sheraton Charlotte Hotel, The Westin
South End
Carson Station
Carson Station is the northernmost stop in South End from Uptown. This station is the perfect spot to start exploring this buzzing neighborhood, filled with breweries, bars and restaurants.
Eat & Drink: Capishe, Charlotte Beer Garden, The Good Wurst Company, HopFly Brewing Company, Nikko, Sixty Vines, Uptown Yolk, Wildroots CoffeeDo: Dowd YMCA
Bland Street Station
Another popular spot in South End, Bland Street Station offers riders a variety of cultural and culinary experiences just a short walk away.
Eat & Drink: All American Pub, Condado Tacos, Flower Child, Futo Buta, The Gin Mill, Golden Cow Creamery, Hellenic Greek Kitchen, Hoppin’, North Italia, Stir, Tavern on the Tracks, Wooden Robot Brewery
Do: Amos’ Southend, Arrichion Hot Yoga & Circuit Training, Elder Gallery of Contemporary Art, Slate
East/West Boulevard Station
Find even more of South End’s hot spots within walking distance from the East/West Boulevard Station. With shopping, breweries and eateries galore, you can spend the whole day hanging in the heart of South End and nearby Dilworth. Don’t miss the public art on display at the station and along the Rail Trail.
Eat & Drink: 300 East, Bang Bang Burgers, Barcelona Wine Bar, Canopy Cocktails & Garden, Dilworth Tasting Room, Hawkers Asian Street Food, Jeni’s Ice Creams, Leroy Fox, QC Pourhouse, Roots Café, Salted Melon, Sunflour Baking Company, Superica, Sycamore Brewing, Trolley Barn Fermentory
Do: Atherton Mill, Dilworth Artisan Station, Girl Tribe Co., Latta Park, Paddywax Candle Bar, Revolution Clothiers & Co., Wilmore Centennial Park
New Bern Station
The New Bern Station is the southernmost stop in South End. More than a dozen restaurants, breweries, bars and entertainment hot spots are within walking distance. The stop is right along the Rail Trail, a pedestrian-friendly walkway that runs parallel to the rail line.
Eat & Drink: Lenny Boy Brewing, Link & Pin, Mac’s Speed Shop, SouthBound, Suffolk Punch Brewing, Triple C Brewing, The Waterman Fish BarDo: Canine Cafe, F45 Training South End, MADabolic, South End Exchange
Montclaire South/Lower South End
Scaleybark Station
Scaleybark Station is the northernmost stop in Charlotte’s Lower South End neighborhood, also known as LoSo. This station is just a short walk to a cidery, breweries and entertainment.
Eat & Drink: Brewers at 4001 Yancey, Gilde Brewery, The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, Phat Burrito, Protagonist LoSo, Red Clay Ciderworks, Seoul Poke Bowl, SupperClub SouthEnd, State of Confusion, Sugar Creek Brewing CompanyDo: Chef Alyssa’s Kitchen, Escape Tactic, Goldie’s, GW: A Goodwill Boutique, Infinity Ballroom Charlotte, Queen Park Social
Woodlawn Station
Park your car in one of the 382 park-and-ride spots or secure your bike in the bike locker and hop on the train. Or explore the shopping and popular local restaurants near Woodlawn Station, such as Beef ‘N Bottle which has been a Charlotte institution for more than 40 years.
Eat & Drink: Azteca Mexican Restaurant, Beef ‘N Bottle Steakhouse, Brasas Arepas & Grill, McKoy’s Smokehouse and Saloon, Skyland Family Restaurant, Sidelines Sports Bar and Billiards, Tacos El Nevado
Do: Woodlawn Marketplace shopping center
Stay: Best Western Sterling Hotel & Suites, Clarion Hotel Airport & Conference Center, Courtyard by Marriott Charlotte Airport/Billy Graham Parkway, Days Inn by Wyndham Charlotte/Woodlawn, Embassy Suites by Hilton Charlotte, Quality Inn Airport South, Radisson Hotel Charlotte Airport, Ramada Charlotte Airport Hotel & Conference Center
South Charlotte
Tyvola Station
The Tyvola Station is situated on a bridge that runs above Grover Road. The station features 465 spots to park and ride and has several global food options nearby, including Latin American and Indian cuisine.
Eat & Drink: American Deli, Curry Gate, Lupitas Carniceria & Tortilleria, Morazan Restaurant, Romeo’s Vegan Burgers
Do: Tyvola Square shopping center
Stay: DoubleTree by Hilton South Charlotte Tyvola, Sonesta Charlotte Executive Park, Wyndham Garden Charlotte Executive Park
Archdale Station
Park in one of the 432 park-and-ride spots then head up the stairs or elevator to get to the station platform, on the bridge over Archdale Drive. This is a great station to experience some local international favorites, including the nearby Latin American grocery stores and authentic eateries.
Eat & Drink: 500 Degrees Pizzeria, Doan’s Vietnamese Cuisine, Fonda Mexicana El Paraiso, Lempira Restaurant, Pollo Campero, Sumaq Coffee, Tacos Bar
Do: Bloom Movement Artistry, Esperanza Supermarket, La Unica Supermercado
Arrowood Station
Just a short walk from the Arrowood Station, you’ll find locally owned international restaurants to create your own global tasting tour. This station also has nearly 300 park-and-ride spots, a covered waiting area and is the pick-up/drop-off spot for Megabus.
Eat & Drink: Cherry House II, Choi’s Korea & Wing, Don Juan Bakery, JC Tacos, La Catracha, Mi Tierra Restaurant, Pelican's SnoBalls of South Charlotte
Sharon Road West Station
Located at the intersection of South Boulevard and Sharon Road West, this station features a parking lot with 188 spots, bike lockers and public art. It’s also near Campbell’s Snacks, formerly the historic Snyder’s-Lance Factory.
Eat & Drink: Costa Del Sol #1
Do: Jambox
I-485/South Boulevard Station
The southernmost site on the LYNX Blue Line, this station features more than 1,100 parking spots across a deck and lot, as well as bike racks, a covered waiting area and public art. The I-485/South Boulevard Station is a short walk from the Carolina Pavilion shopping center, filled with national restaurant chains along with retail and entertainment options.
Do: Carolina Pavilion shopping center, featuring Nordstrom Rack, Target, DSW, AMC Carolina Pavilion 22, Just Play and more
Coming Soon
Charlotte’s Metropolitan Transit Commission approved funding to add another light rail stop in South End, between the New Bern and East/West Boulevard Stations. The new station, which is slated for completion by the end of 2026, will be near Publix and Sycamore Brewing with a pedestrian crossing.
Article originally written by Kristen Moore. Updates by Arielle Patterson in May 2024.
