Soak up that Vitamin D!
Even though bars and restaurants are open, that doesn’t mean we still shouldn’t be spending these warm spring-to-summer days outdoors every once in a while. Charlotte’s got a lot to do, that’s true, but sometimes it’s nice to just lay back, snack on some food or play some tennis with friends, and enjoy a slow day in the sun. Here’s 6 of our favorite parks around Charlotte where you can people watch, skateboard, and picnic.
1. Park Road Park
Park Road Park surrounds an 11-acre lake with its own fountain, making it a stunningly peaceful place to spend an afternoon. There are a ton of ways to have fun–from horseshoe pits to picnic tables to basketball courts, volleyball and tennis, there’s something to keep you occupied on those warm summer nights. Just be careful of the beavers, as they’re thought to be quite the nuisance for the local vegetation.
Where: 6220 Park Rd, Charlotte, NC 28210
2. Freedom Park
Another uptown park, Freedom Park is a 98-acre area where you can play recreational sports, grill with the family, have a picnic, or enjoy the summer sun. Did you know it’s also the biggest park in Charlotte? It’s centered around a 7-acre lake and is set in Charlotte’s downtown area. It’s also the host of many free cultural festivals, such as the five day, Festival in the Park, that takes place every year. This September will be the 57th one, and we couldn’t be more excited. Adjacent to the park is the Charlotte Nature Museum, a place where adults and kids alike can have fun and learn.
Where: 1908 East Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203
3. Eastover Park
Eastover Park resides in the residential area of Eastover. Not only is Eastover a nice and quiet place to lay down a checkered blanket and enjoy some homemade picnic goodies, but it’s also next to some really fun and interesting spaces that you can check out afterwards. The Mint Museum, Charlotte Convention Center (which always has something going on), the NASCAR Hall of Fame, and the Bank of America Stadium are all nearby and iconic spots that you’ll have to check out after an afternoon park stroll with your doggo.
Where: 2730 Randolph Rd, Charlotte, NC 28207
4. Reedy Creek
Reedy Creek is definitely a lot more nature walk than park, but if you’re looking to get out of the downtown area, check it out. Part nature reserve and part recreational area, Reedy Creek is a great area, occupied by a lakeside meadow, golf course, ponds and fishing pier, recreational sports areas for tennis and soccer, outdoor and indoor picnic areas, and 10 miles of hiking trails.
Where: 2900 Rocky River Rd, Charlotte, NC 28213
5. Renaissance Park
Renaissance Park is an urban park adjacent to the Renaissance golf course. This is definitely a great park to check out if you’re into picnicking and sports. Lay out on the lush grass as the kids play softball courtesy of the 2 softball fields. There’s also quite a few tennis courts, volleyball courts in sand, and bike trails. Renaissance Park even has a new Skate Park that opened this year for teenagers to safely practice their shredding skills. That’s not even mentioning the lovely views of the bridge and lake nearby. Overall, this park has it all.
Where: 1536 W Tyvola Rd, Charlotte, NC 28217
6. Romare Bearden Park
This park is named after the Charlotte born artist and is located in upper Charlotte, spanning over 5.4 acres of public area. It features a few waterfalls, a play area with interactive digital chimes, a formal event green field, dining tables, two gardens, and a few public art installations. With so much to see and do, Roman Bearden feels like the prefect way to spend a sunny afternoon. Check out the Spiral Odyssey installation by Richard Hunt or lay a blanket down and check out a great view of the Charlotte city-scraping skyline.
Where: 300 S Church St, Charlotte, NC 28202