Charlotte in a Day | Art, Speed & Rooftop Vibes

🍊Taking a day trip from RTP to Charlotte is surprisingly easy! You can hop on a FlixBus or Amtrak train (I went for the train—it’s about a 3-hour ride). Once you arrive, getting around via Uber/Lyft is totally doable—no need to rent a car!🚗 📍 Uptown Itinerary🚙 🎨 Mint Museum Uptown Don’t dismiss it as just another boring art museum! I’m not even into art, but this place totally blew me away. ✨ 🎁The exhibits are grouped by theme and medium, featuring Mexican culture, Native American art, sculptures, and handicrafts—each piece had me stopping to admire it for ages💛💛. Student tickets are only $10—such a steal! 📸 It’s also super Instagram-worthy!💜 Pro tip: Head here in the afternoon, and spend your morning at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. 🏁 NASCAR Hall of Fame💗 It’s like a mix of Macau Grand Prix Museum and a Disney Pixar Cars-themed dreamland! Basic tickets cost $27, and I highly recommend splurging an extra $5 for the racing simulator. 💕 👀I’ve tried simulators at four different venues, and this one has the most amazing setups! There’s also a free tire-changing challenge and driving simulators—just remember to sign up when you enter.👣 As an F1 fan, learning about NASCAR for the first time was so much fun.🍉 ☀️ Aura Rooftop This rooftop spot comes with my highest recommendation! 🌳 😻😻Brunch with drinks is just over $30 per person—unbeatable value for the amazing city views. Grab a bite, sip a drink, and enjoy the breeze—it’s perfect for date nights or girls’ get-togethers.🐾 If you’re looking for alternatives, check out Merchant & Trade or the more upscale Hestia Rooftop (prices start at $50 per person).🌳 🛍️ South Park Mall This shopping complex has all the brands you could want! When you’re worn out from browsing, the food court has great options—we even found tasty snacks for just $15.🍙 I scored some massive discounts at Victoria’s Secret here—total shopper’s paradise!🍣🍣 🍷 Veronét Vineyards & Winery Need a break from the city buzz? Drive 30 minutes out to this charming winery. 🥩🥑 🥘It’s the ideal spot for taking photos, wine tasting, or just zoning out—total soul-soothing vibes. 🌊 U.S. National Whitewater Center If you’re into outdoor adventures, book ahead for activities here—think white-water rafting, ropes courses, and mountain biking. 🥕 It’s a great way to add some adrenaline to your day!🧁 ✨ If you’re craving a quick escape from RTP for a one-day city break, Charlotte is such an underrated gem! It has art, speed, cozy wine moments, shopping sprees, and so many nice surprises❤️ #USA #CollegeLife #CharlotteVibes