Sports, skylines, shopping, and art in Charlotte
Spend a few hours, or a few days, in Queen City with walkable routes to the city’s top attractions.
Edited by Kaitlyn Dreyling | December 18, 2025
Charlotte, N.C., is built for short, high-impact stays. Whether you have a few hours or a full weekend, Queen City's walkable neighborhoods and light rail make it easy to maximize every moment. Choose one (or all) of three time-based itineraries: an effortless layover at CLT, a day in Uptown, or two days to explore the Rail Trail and SouthPark’s shopping and dining.
Effortless layover near CLT
Layover in Charlotte Douglas International Airport? CLT’s single-terminal design allows you to move from gate to gate with ease, making layovers feel manageable. If you have a few hours, refresh and regroup at Hilton Charlotte Airport, where a free shuttle takes you from the terminal to a quiet guest room or inviting lobby. Even if you don’t have time to check in, you can enjoy Southern flavors and light bites at the on-site restaurants.
A day in Uptown
Begin your Uptown exploration at the NASCAR Hall of Fame, where interactive exhibits immerse you in racing history. Wander to Romare Bearden Park for skyline views and an illuminated waterfall, then pass Bank of America Stadium as you make your way through the heart of Charlotte. The city’s walkability and LYNX Blue Line access make it easy to pivot between museums, parks, and dining spots — ideal for making the most of your time. Hilton Charlotte Uptown is steps from it all, placing you close to the top things to do in the district. Return to your room or enjoy Southern-inspired cuisine, small plates and more at Coastal Kitchen when you need a break.
Rail Trail art and skyline views
The Charlotte Rail Trail runs along the LYNX Blye Line and connects South End to Uptown, offering a convenient way to get around town. Murals, art installations, and dining spots invite you to linger, while the light rail offers easy hop-on, hop-off access. Embassy Suites by Hilton Charlotte Uptown is a convenient base for exploring both the Rail Trail and Uptown. Enjoy spacious suites and an indoor pool — perfect for unwinding after a day on your feet.
SouthPark shopping and dining
Shopping therapy awaits you at the upscale shops and local boutiques of SouthPark: Explore more than 150 stores at the upscale shopping center. When you’re ready for food, you’ll find restaurant options ranging from elevated cuisine to family-friendly chains. DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Charlotte – SouthPark is adjacent to the shopping center, so you can easily recharge with a nap in your roomy suite, a waterfront stroll, or tranquil time by the firepits. Uptown explorations are only 15 to 20 minutes away.
Disclaimer: We used AI assistance to generate this content. All information was reviewed by Hilton's team to ensure it meets our standards for accuracy and ethics, allowing us to better match your travel needs and connect you with the right stay.
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