Things To Do
Sycamore
Sycamore is a lively, two-story brewery located in the heart of South End. It's one of the busiest spots in town—so be prepared for a fun crowd (and yes, a lot of 25-year-olds). It’s family- and pet-friendly, with live music Thursday through Sunday. They have a large beer garden, a rooftop patio overlooking the Rail Trail, with views of the Charlotte skyline. Plus, it’s within walking distance of plenty of shops, salons, restaurants, and bars in South End.
Optimist Hall
Optimist Hall is a lively food hall just 5 minutes north of Uptown, set inside a restored 1892 textile mill. With over 20 restaurants, it offers a diverse mix of cuisines (pizza, ramen, barbeque, mediterranean, dumplings, sushi, fried chicken, and more). You’ll also find a craft cocktail lounge, brewery, coffee shops, and retail shops. Whether you’re stopping for a quick coffee, beer, or settling in for a meal, Optimist Hall has something for everyone.
U.S. National Whitewater Center
If you love adventure and the outdoors, Charlotte is home to the U.S. National Whitewater Center, just 20 minutes from Uptown. It offers whitewater rafting, kayaking, zip-lining, and trails—all set in a beautiful natural space. Family-friendly and great for all skill levels, they offer day passes so you can stay for a few hours or the whole day. They have a bar and restaurant on site, and they often have live music in the evenings.
Lottie’s Cafe
Located directly across the street from the Omni Hotel, Lottie’s is a cute coffee shop with a full breakfast menu that goes beyond just pastries. They’re known for their “Airplane Latte” (made with cookie butter and served with a Biscoff cookie)— if you’re into sweet coffee drinks.
Vicente
If you’re a pastry lover, you have to try Vicente for breakfast. Everything is delicious, and they sell out every day—so don’t go too late! Even if you’re not into sweets, Chris always gets their Bacon, Egg, and Cheese on a croissant, and it’s amazing. Check out their website or Instagram if you want to be tempted.
Monday Night Brewing
Another one of our favorite spots in South End, Monday Night Brewing is a lively brewery with a great outdoor seating area. It’s family- and dog-friendly and tends to attract a young crowd. They have a wide selection of beers, cocktails, and pizza. Plus, it’s within walking distance of plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars in South End.
Merchant and Trade
A 7-minute walk from The Omni—If you're looking for a bougee rooftop cocktail with a great view of Uptown, Merchant & Trade is your spot. It’s stylish, lively, and perfect for a dressed-up night out or sunset drinks.
Rosie's Coffee & Wine Garden
Just a 4-minute drive from the Omni, Rosie’s Coffee & Wine Garden is a charming café and wine bar nestled in a 2-acre urban garden. Sip your drink of choice under twinkle lights and wander the garden paths. They often host food trucks and live music.
Tipsy Pickle
Just 7 minutes from the Omni - Tipsy Pickle is a fun, lively spot with indoor pickleball courts and golf simulators that you can book online in advance. They have a full bar and food menu (though I will say the food is not the reason to go.. its meh), but the drinks and activities make it a great place to hang out. It is located within Camp North End, a large complex of shops and food vendors set in a industrial warehouse space.
Pizza Baby
Pizza Baby is a staple in our weekend takeout orders, but they also have a cool industrial warehouse space if you want to enjoy their pizza in person. Our favorites are the Rosemary pizza and the Little Gem salad, but honestly, you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. There are 2 locations, east and west, so if you make reservations be careful to go to the right one.
Hawkers Asian Street Food
Located in the heart of South End, Hawkers Asian Street Food serves a variety of flavorful small plates inspired by Southeast Asian street markets. Chris and I love the Roti Canai, soup dumplings, and chicken lettuce wraps. Plus, it’s within walking distance of plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars in South End.
Supperland
This is a special-occasion kind of place—we go here every year for Chris’s birthday! It’s a Southern-inspired steakhouse set inside a beautiful restored 1950s church. Most dishes are served family-style, so it’s best to go with more than two people. They have amazing cocktails as well. Reservations are a must, so be sure to plan ahead if you’re interested!
O-Ku
O‑Ku is an upscale Japanese restaurant and one of our absolute favorites in Charlotte. Chris is a sushi snob, and this place fully delivers. It’s definitely a special-occasion spot, with a dark, moody atmosphere and a menu of sushi, small plates, and cocktails. It’s located in the heart of South End, surrounded by bars, shops, and plenty to explore before or after dinner.
The Cellar at Duckworth's
Just a 7-minute walk from the Omni, The Cellar at Duckworth’s is one of Charlotte’s top-rated spots. It’s an upscale gastropub with a speakeasy vibe. Fair warning: it can be dark and a bit loud, so if that’s not your thing, you might want to skip it.