Grab a beer and a bite where Caroline and Jonas first met! Caroline had graduated college and was waiting for her first Army assignment, so she started waitressing at the local brewery. Jonas was a shift lead at Royal Bliss, when one Sunday morning in August of 2023, he was asked to train the new girl. A little over two years later, they turned Royal Bliss into Marital Bliss!
Located Near the Hotel and Wedding Venue: There is always more to explore at Concord Mills, the largest outlet and value retail shopping destination in North Carolina. Home to more than 200 stores paired with unique family dining and entertainment options all under one "climate controlled roof", Concord Mills is a great place to visit any time of year. Find impressive savings at: Adidas, Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, Best Buy, Brooks Brothers, Coach, Dick's Sporting Goods, Eddie Bauer, Forever 21, H&M, J.Crew Factory, The LEGO Store, Lucky Brand, Michael Kors, Nike Clearance Store, Polo Ralph Lauren, Steve Madden, Vera Bradley Factory Outlet and more. A refreshed Dining Pavilion featuring 14 restaurants BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse. Bonefish Grill, Chipotle Mexican Grill, Dave & Buster's and Outback Steakhouse, all within steps of our amazing retailers!
Located near the Hotel and Wedding Venue: Skybrook is one of Mr. Wasko's favorite golf courses in Charlotte. It is widely regarded as one of Charlotte’s premier semi-private golf destinations. Skybrook continues to raise the bar with ongoing improvements year after year. Located in Huntersville, NC, the golf course is designed by renowned architect John LaFoy.
Located Near the Hotel and Wedding Venue: The UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens features both a 10-acre outdoor garden and a large greenhouse, offering a diverse range of plants and educational opportunities for the public. The McMillan Greenhouse showcases exotic plants year-round, while the outdoor gardens provide a variety of themed areas like the Susie Harwood Garden and the Ralph Van Landingham Glen. The gardens are free to the public.
Located Near the Hotel and Wedding Venue: Take a daytime tour and get a behind-the-scenes look at Charlotte Motor Speedway, seeing the garages and victory lane! Have lunch afterwards at the Speedway Club, overlooking the race track. Fun Fact: Experience the raceway that Jonas and Caroline visited for the NASCAR Coca-Cola 600!
Located Near the Hotel and Wedding Venue: Speedway Christmas is a must-see holiday celebration in North Carolina. Drive through a dazzling display of five million holiday lights set to music over a 4-mile course at the legendary Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord. Thursday to Sunday evenings explore the infield Christmas Village. Open Daily 6 pm to 10 pm. Admission is around $40 per car.
Located 15 minutes from the Hotel. Gibson Mill Market is a one-of-a-kind dining, shopping, and entertainment experience. Gibson Mill in Concord is home to a Food Hall, 2 Breweries, Classic Cars Showroom, and the largest Antique Mall in the South. In addition, it hosts a small arcade, an axe throwing facility, and a board game cafe.
Located Near the Hotel and Wedding Venue: SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord is an interactive aquarium located at Concord Mills in Concord, North Carolina, a suburb of Charlotte. The aquarium contains thousands of aquatic creatures, plus an interactive touch pool and an 180° ocean tunnel. Hours: 10am to 6pm.
The Whitewater Center has an array of activities to enjoy throughout the Holiday season. 24,000 square feet Ice Skating Rink is available for all ages and skill levels. When you need a break, stop by the on-ice Airstream for a hot beverage. The Whitewater Center has expanded its Winter Trail to include more lights and opportunities for play throughout the Canyon. Follow the illuminated path across two suspension bridges. The whole family will love the variety of obstacles and play structures along the tree-laden path. Visit the Whitewater Center’s Winter Market where you can shop for winter gear and other gifts as you sip festive beverages. Experience the Whitewater Center’s North and South Rim ziplines at night. Glide across the illuminated Canyon and cross the rope bridges beneath the twinkling stars. Fun fact: Caroline and Jonas spent a few evenings here, especially before she moved to Fort Eisenhower, GA.
Each December, just west of Charlotte, the quaint town of McAdenville becomes a Christmas wonderland. Almost overnight, the vibrant little town transforms into Christmas Town U.S.A.®, attracting visitors from across the country. Begins December 2nd. Admission is free. You can drive through and see all the lights. Or drive to McAdenville before 4 pm, grab a bite to eat at Terra Mia (reservations necessary) and walk around the town of McAdenville.
Experience the holiday magic at Carowinds' WinterFest, featuring festive lights, seasonal shows, ice skating, and visits with Santa Claus. The park offers a variety of holiday-themed attractions and entertainment. Fun Fact: Jonas took Caroline here for her birthday when they first started dating. He even rode a few roller coasters to impress her.