Charlotte is a lovely place to while away the summer months, with a pleasant climate and plenty to do and see. Whether you are visiting our city or have put down roots, there is always something new to explore in Charlotte. Check out these recommendations for celebrating summer in the South, provided by the team at Vein Specialists of the Carolinas.
Commune with Nature
The Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden lies on 400 acres of pristine meadows and woodlands. With 12 different themed gardens to choose from, you will never tire of enjoying the beauty of North Carolina. Water features abound, along with a vast and colorful array of plants and flowers that are sure to stimulate your inner green thumb.
If the coast is more your style, Wrightsville Beach just east of Charlotte does not disappoint. This quaint Oceanside village is equipped with everything you need to enjoy a getaway from the bustles of life amid the sand and waves. In the summer, this community lights up with concerts, water sports and activities for visitors of all ages.
Shop ‘til You Drop
Shoppers will find a little bit of everything in Charlotte, from discount designer fashions to comfortable antiques. The Southpark Mall features the finest retailers in the country with more than 150 stores and shops to choose from. The climate-controlled indoor mall also boasts a wide array of dining opportunities to tempt every palate.
Discount hounds will enjoy spending a day at the Charlotte Premium Outlets, scouting out the deals from top designers like Kate Spade and Ann Taylor. Antique shops also abound in Charlotte, with a wide variety of merchandise that changes regularly. Get your fill of Southern charm and hospitality at these shops and pick up a few gems from the past along the way.
Take a Ride
What better way to take in the sights of Charlotte on a summer evening than be horse-drawn carriage? Southern Breezes Carriages is one of a selection of carriage ride providers in the area, but the only one to offer carriage tours full-time. In addition to tours throughout Charlotte, this company also provides carriage service for weddings, funerals and special events.
If water travel is more to your liking, ferry rides are also abundant in the Charlotte area. There are more than 20 operating ferry services in the area, providing transportation as well as a taste of Southern living. Travel to quaint towns, breathtaking islands or view a piece of history as the ferry takes you past at least one battleground from the Civil War.
Embark on Adventure
If a ferry sounds too tame to please, you can also opt for adventure on the white waters of the Catawba River. Choose from rafting, kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding on the river. If you prefer your adventure to take place on dry land, there is also rock climbing, zip lines, and mountain biking to try. The U.S. National Whitewater Center is the place to go for all types of outdoor adventure in Charlotte and surrounding areas.
Visit History and Enjoy the View What visit to North Carolina would be complete without at least one lighthouse tour or two? These buildings served as a beacon in times past to guide ships to safety. Today, they still offer some of the best views of the North Carolina coastline. There are seven lighthouses dotting the shoreline, most just a short drive from Charlotte.
Summer in North Carolina is a popular time that brings in many visitors to join residents in their seasonal fun. Don’t let painful varicose veins keep you from enjoying all that Charlotte has to offer this season. If those bulging vessels are causing you pain or embarrassment, contact Vein Specialists of the Carolinas and find out how we can get rid of those unsightly veins with minimal discomfort and downtime. To learn more, contact Vein Specialists of the Carolinas today at 704-861-2072.