Family-Friendly Adventures in Charlotte , North Carolina !

Wing Haven Garden and Bird Sanctuary

Why Visit?

Wing Haven Garden and Bird Sanctuary, located in the heart of Charlotte, North Carolina, is a captivating retreat perfect for families seeking a blend of nature and tranquility. Here"s a detailed and engaging itinerary for your visit:

### Morning Arrival

- Start at the Entrance: Arrive early at Wing Haven located at 248 Ridgewood Avenue. Parking is available on site, and it"s best to get there early to enjoy the cooler morning temperatures and active birdlife.

- Explore the Gardens: After picking up your tickets at the entrance (consider purchasing them online in advance for convenience), begin your tour of the gardens. Wing Haven consists of two main areas: the original gardens and bird sanctuary created by Elizabeth and Edwin Clarkson in the 1920s, and the more recent addition, the Children’s Garden.

### Mid-Morning Exploration

- Bird Watching: As you wander through the garden, keep an eye out for the various bird species. Wing Haven is home to over 150 species of birds throughout the year. Kids will enjoy spotting cardinals, finches, and perhaps even a hawk. Binoculars can be rented at the entrance.

- Children’s Garden: Head over to the Children’s Garden which is designed to engage younger visitors with its interactive elements like a fairy village and a working sundial. It’s a perfect spot for children to learn and play.

### Lunch Break

- Picnic Time: Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the designated areas or visit a nearby café in Charlotte"s historic Myers Park neighborhood.

### Afternoon Activities

- Seasonal Workshops: Check Wing Haven’s calendar for family-friendly workshops where kids can learn about plants, birds, and more through hands-on activities.

- Gift Shop: Before leaving, stop by the gift Shop which offers a variety of garden-themed souvenirs, books, and crafts that children might find fascinating.

### Departure

- Reflect on Your Visit: As your day ends, take a moment to relax in the serene settings, perhaps near the soothing sounds of a garden fountain, and reflect on the day"s discoveries.

Wing Haven is a delightful experience where nature"s beauty is accessible to visitors of all ages, offering both educational and recreational opportunities in a peaceful setting.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Bank of America Stadium

Why Visit?

Welcome to a family-friendly adventure at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina, home to the NFL’s Carolina Panthers! Here’s how to make the most out of your visit:

Morning Arrival & Stadium Tour

Start your day early by arriving at the stadium around 9 AM to beat the crowds. Parking is conveniently available onsite. Begin with the official stadium tour, which usually starts at 10 AM. This 90-minute guided experience will take you through the heart of Panthers’ territory including the field, the locker room, and the press box. Each location is filled with stories – like how the stadium was designed to provide the perfect sightlines from every seat! Tours are not only educational but filled with photo opportunities, so have your cameras ready.

Lunch Break & Hall of Honor

Post-tour, head to one of the local eateries near the stadium for lunch. Try some classic Carolina BBQ! After lunch, return to the stadium to visit the Hall of Honor, a recent addition showcasing the legacies of iconic players and contributors. It"s a great way to introduce the little ones to the history and values of teamwork and perseverance.

Interactive Activities & Team Store

In the afternoon, participate in interactive activities often held in the stadium’s kids’ zone area. These activities are designed to engage younger fans with football basics and fun. To wrap up your day, stop by the Panther’s Team Store. It’s a treasure trove of souvenirs, from jerseys and footballs to unique memorabilia. It"s perfect for grabbing a keepsake from your visit.

Departure

Plan to head out by late afternoon, allowing plenty of time to reminisce about the day’s excitement on your drive home. This visit to the Bank of America Stadium will surely be a memorable highlight for the entire family, combining sports, education, and fun in one of the NFL’s most renowned stadiums.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

SEA LIFE® – Charlotte-Concord Aquarium

Why Visit?

Embark on an enchanting underwater adventure at SEA LIFE® Charlotte-Concord Aquarium, conveniently located at the Concord Mills mall. Ideal for families, this magical aquarium offers a blend of education, fun, and marine conservation.

### Morning Arrival

Start your journey early to make the most of the day. The aquarium opens at 10 am. It"s easily accessible by car, with plenty of parking available at Concord Mills. Upon entering, grab a map and check the day"s schedule for any special events or talks.

### Interactive Touchpool

Begin at the Interactive Touchpool, where you can roll up your sleeves and touch a variety of sea creatures such as starfish and sea urchins. It’s a tactile experience that delights children and teaches them about marine life"s texture and resilience.

### Ocean Tunnel

Next, venture into the captivating Ocean Tunnel. Walk through this 180-degree ocean tunnel while awe-inspiring sharks, rays, and colorful fish glide overhead. This immersive experience gives you the sensation of being deep under the sea. Here, explain to the kids about the importance of sharks in marine ecosystems and debunk myths about their danger to humans.

### Seahorse Mangrove Exhibit

After the thrill of the Ocean Tunnel, slow down at the Seahorse Mangrove Exhibit. Learn about these delicate creatures and their unique method of childbirth: it"s the males that carry and deliver the babies! The exhibit is both educational and fascinating, highlighting the biodiversity of mangrove ecosystems.

### Conservation Cove

End your visit at Conservation Cove, a section dedicated to SEA LIFE"s conservation initiatives. Engage with interactive displays that teach about protecting marine environments and how each visitor can help.

### Departure

Conclude your tour by browsing the gift shop for souvenaries or having a snack at the nearby food court in Concord Mills. The aquarium visit typically takes about 2 to 3 hours, making it a perfect morning adventure with a leisurely lunch to follow.

This itinerary through SEA LIFE® Charlotte-Concord ensures a memorable and educational day for the entire family, filled with learning and close encounters with marine life.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Fourth Ward

Why Visit?

Welcome to the historic Fourth Ward in Charlotte, North Carolina, an enchanting neighborhood brimming with Victorian homes, lush parks, and fascinating history. Here"s a family-friendly itinerary to explore the charm and beauty of this neighborhood.

Morning: Fourth Ward Park

Start your day at Fourth Ward Park, a peaceful green space perfect for a family picnic. Kids will love the playground, and parents can appreciate the scenic walking paths. To get there, take the light rail to 7th St Station, and the park is a short walk away. Interesting fact: Fourth Ward Park is part of Charlotte"s original four wards, dating back to the 1800s when the city was first designed.

Midday: Discovery Place Science

Next, head to Discovery Place Science, just a 15-minute walk from the park. This interactive science museum offers thrilling educational experiences for all ages, with exhibits on technology, biology, and the natural world. Don"t miss the IMAX theater for an immersive movie experience. Get there by walking south towards Tryon St and turn left.

Afternoon: Historic Fourth Ward Homes

After your museum visit, take a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood to admire the beautifully restored Victorian homes. Many homes have plaques detailing their history and significance. Walking tours are available, which provide fascinating insights into the area"s architectural and cultural heritage.

Evening: Alexander Michael’s

Cap off your day with dinner at Alexander Michael’s, an old-school tavern housed in a 19th-century building. It"s a local favorite with a cozy atmosphere, located just a 10-minute walk from the heart of Fourth Ward. Their menu offers classic American comfort food that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

This itinerary offers a delightful mix of educational opportunities, historical exploration, and relaxation, perfect for a family day out in Fourth Ward, Charlotte.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Mint Museum of Art

Why Visit?

Embark on an enchanting family day out at the Mint Museum of Art in Charlotte, North Carolina. Renowned for its diverse collection, the museum offers an inspiring blend of art from around the globe and thrilling activities tailored for all ages.

Morning Arrival

Start your day by getting to the Mint Museum Uptown, easily accessible by car or public transport. If you prefer to drive, parking is available in the Levine Center for the Arts garage. Alternatively, hop on the LYNX Light Rail to the 3rd St/Convention Center Station, which is just a short walk from the museum.

Exploring the Museum

Begin your tour by exploring the Craft + Design collection, which showcases innovative uses of glass, ceramics, and wood—sure to capture the kids" imaginations. Don"t miss the interactive family gallery, where children can engage with hands-on activities that complement the exhibits they"ve seen.

Lunch Break

Around noon, take a break and enjoy lunch at the museum’s café, offering kid-friendly meals and snacks. You can also opt for a picnic at nearby Romare Bearden Park, a perfect spot to relax and play amidst beautiful outdoor sculptures.

Afternoon Activities

Post-lunch, delve into the American Art collection, featuring fascinating works from the colonial period to modern day. Engage your kids with stories about the artists and the historical contexts of the artworks. The museum often hosts family art-making workshops in the afternoon, so check the schedule to participate in creating your own masterpiece.

Departure

Conclude your visit by browsing the museum store for unique souvenirs and educational toys that will remind your family of the creative day spent at the Mint Museum.

Throughout your visit, keep an eye out for family tour brochures and audio guides tailored to make your experience both fun and informative. Enjoy your artistic adventure at the Mint Museum of Art, where every turn brings a new discovery!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.