Ballantyne Travel Guide

Set in the southern part of Charlotte, North Carolina, Ballantyne blends upscale living with leisure, local culture, and Southern hospitality. Its tree-lined streets, high-end amenities, and vibrant community events make it one of the region’s most inviting destinations.

From luxury golf resorts to eclectic dining, spa retreats, and scenic walking paths, Ballantyne offers visitors a balanced mix of activity and relaxation. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, the area provides everything needed for a memorable experience.

Best Places to Visit

Explore Ballantyne’s key attractions that define its personality and charm.

• Ballantyne Village – A hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment with chic boutiques and upscale restaurants.
• Ballantyne District Park – A family-friendly park with trails, sports fields, and playgrounds nestled among shady trees.
• Ballantyne Corporate Park – A business center surrounded by serene walking paths, fountains, and landscaped greens.
• Ballantyne Arts Center – A creative space that offers classes, art exhibits, and community events year-round.
• Dana Rader Golf School – A top-tier facility where golf enthusiasts can refine their skills with expert instruction.
• Spa Bliss – A wellness sanctuary offering massages, facials, and spa packages for relaxation and recovery.
• Ballantyne Beer Garden – A casual outdoor venue serving local brews with live music and food truck events.
• Ballantyne Village Theatre – A cozy cinema showcasing mainstream and indie films in an upscale setting.

Things To Do

Ballantyne invites visitors to unwind, explore, and immerse themselves in diverse activities.

• Golf at The Golf Club at Ballantyne – Tee off on a championship course with well-groomed fairways and stunning landscaping.
• Enjoy a Spa Day at The Spa at Ballantyne – Treat yourself to high-end spa treatments in a luxurious resort atmosphere.
• Shop Local at Ballantyne Farmers Market – Browse seasonal produce, handmade crafts, and fresh flowers every weekend.
• Attend a Community Festival – From food truck rallies to live music events, there’s always something happening.
• Take a Morning Run in Ballantyne Corporate Park – Enjoy quiet, paved paths perfect for an early jog or evening stroll.
• Visit the Morrison Family YMCA – Participate in fitness classes or swim in state-of-the-art recreational facilities.
• Catch a Film at the Village Theatre – Watch the latest blockbusters or indie features in a comfortable, boutique cinema.
• Relax at Ballantyne District Park – Pack a picnic or explore playgrounds with kids in this neighborhood favorite.

Where To Stay

Ballantyne offers lodging options that combine comfort, convenience, and distinctive style.

• The Ballantyne, A Luxury Collection Hotel – A refined resort with spa, golf, and fine dining in a stately setting.
• Aloft Charlotte Ballantyne – Trendy and youthful with a sleek bar, splash pool, and tech-savvy amenities.
• Residence Inn by Marriott Charlotte Ballantyne – Ideal for extended stays with spacious suites and kitchenettes.
• Hampton Inn & Suites Charlotte/Ballantyne – A warm and affordable option with free breakfast and cozy accommodations.
• Courtyard by Marriott Charlotte Ballantyne – Business-friendly and central, offering modern rooms and ergonomic workspaces.
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Charlotte Ballantyne – Perfect for families, with roomy suites and complimentary evening socials.
• SpringHill Suites by Marriott Charlotte Ballantyne Area – Modern design meets comfort with suites that fit small groups.
• Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Charlotte Ballantyne – Practical and clean, offering value and a daily hot breakfast.

Best Accommodations

These standout hotels promise exceptional stays whether for leisure or business.

• The Ballantyne, A Luxury Collection Hotel – A premier destination offering an upscale retreat with first-class amenities.
• AC Hotel by Marriott Charlotte Ballantyne – Sleek interiors and smart design make it a favorite for modern travelers.
• Residence Inn by Marriott Charlotte Piper Glen – Spacious suites with kitchens make long stays feel just like home.
• Courtyard by Marriott Charlotte Ballantyne – Conveniently located with excellent service and updated furnishings.
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Charlotte Ballantyne – Comfortable suites, full kitchens, and hot breakfast included daily.

Scenic Road Trips

Ballantyne is an ideal starting point for scenic drives through North Carolina’s most beautiful regions.

• Ballantyne to Asheville – A 2.5-hour trip through rolling countryside to a mountain town known for art and food.
• Blue Ridge Parkway Drive – One of the most celebrated drives in America, with sweeping views and hiking pull-offs.
• Ballantyne to Charleston – Head southeast through charming towns and coastal lowlands to reach historic Charleston in four hours.
• Lake Lure and Chimney Rock – Explore the natural beauty of lakes and rock formations just a couple of hours away.
• Ballantyne to Boone – Travel northwest into the Appalachian Mountains for a mix of small-town charm and outdoor adventure.

Best Beaches

While Ballantyne is inland, nearby beach getaways are well within reach for day trips or weekend escapes.

• Golden Sands Beach – A lively beach spot ideal for volleyball, sunbathing, and nearby casual dining.
• Sapphire Cove – Secluded and peaceful, perfect for snorkeling and swimming in crystal-clear waters.
• Shell Beach – Family-friendly and filled with colorful seashells; a great place to relax and explore.
• Wrightsville Beach – A popular North Carolina coastal beach with soft sand and water sports facilities.
• Carolina Beach – Offers a classic boardwalk, arcades, and beachside food stands for a nostalgic feel.

Must-Visit Mountains

Experience nature at its peak with these incredible mountain destinations near Ballantyne.

• Sugar Mountain – A four-season resort with skiing in winter and hiking trails in summer.
• Grandfather Mountain – Known for the Mile High Swinging Bridge and panoramic views of the region.
• Blue Ridge Mountains – Easily accessed via scenic byways for leaf-peeping, hiking, and outdoor picnics.
• Pisgah National Forest – Wild terrain, waterfalls, and biking trails make this a hotspot for adventurers.
• Mount Mitchell – The highest peak east of the Mississippi with a summit trail and breathtaking lookout deck.

Must-Try Restaurants

Ballantyne’s culinary scene is diverse, polished, and full of flavor.

• The Blue Taj – Offers refined Indian dishes in an elegant space with standout curries and naan.
• The Blue Heron – A seafood-focused restaurant with creative dishes like lobster bisque and grilled tuna.
• Red Olive – Mediterranean flavors shine in dishes like lamb skewers, falafel, and house-made hummus.
• Via Emilia – Handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, and rustic Italian dishes highlight this local favorite.
• Sakura Garden – Artfully prepared sushi, sashimi, and Japanese entrees in a serene and stylish setting.

Best Theme Parks

These attractions provide entertainment ranging from high-octane thrills to interactive family fun.

• Carowinds – A massive amusement park with roller coasters like Fury 325 and a seasonal water park.
• Frankie’s Fun Park – Offers mini golf, arcade games, go-karts, and more for all ages.
• Lazy 5 Ranch – A drive-through safari with exotic animals you can feed from your car window.
• Discovery Place Science – Interactive exhibits make science exciting for kids and curious adults alike.
• Great Wolf Lodge – A short drive from Ballantyne, featuring an indoor water park and themed family rooms.

Best Time To Visit

These months offer ideal weather and fewer crowds.

• March to May – Enjoy blooming trees, mild temperatures, and outdoor events.
• September to November – A comfortable season for festivals, hiking, and sightseeing.
• Weekdays Year-Round – Great for avoiding crowds at top attractions and restaurants.
• Winter (December–February) – Cooler but still pleasant for shopping, spas, and business travel.

Transportation Tips

Ballantyne is accessible and easy to navigate with various transport options.

• Rent a Car – Ideal for exploring scenic drives and nearby towns.
• Public Buses – Operate daily with reliable service within Charlotte and Ballantyne.
• Rideshare Services – Quick and convenient for short trips or evening outings.
• Biking and Walking Paths – Safe and scenic routes for pedestrians and cyclists.
• Stay Near Ballantyne Village – Walkable to restaurants, shops, and entertainment.
• Airport Access – Charlotte Douglas International Airport is about 25 minutes away.
• Parking – Most attractions and hotels offer free or low-cost parking.
• Hotel Shuttles – Some hotels offer complimentary rides to local destinations.
  

Things To Know

A few local customs and tips to make your visit smoother.

• Tipping Norms – A standard 10–20% tip is expected at restaurants and for service workers.
• Friendly Locals – Southern hospitality is real; greetings and politeness go a long way.
• Mild Weather – Be ready for warm sun and the occasional rain shower.
• Cultural Events – Check calendars for community festivals and open-air concerts.
• Street Markets – Great for local crafts, fresh produce, and trying new foods.

What to Pack

Prepare according to season and daily activities.

• Light Layers – Spring and fall are mild, so bring layers for temperature shifts. A light jacket or sweater may be needed in the evenings.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes – Many attractions are best explored on foot. Sneakers or walking sandals are ideal for parks and shopping centers.
• Rain Gear – Sudden showers are common. A small umbrella or waterproof jacket is useful.
• Sun Protection – Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat help shield you during outdoor activities.
• Swimwear – If visiting nearby beaches or a hotel pool, be sure to pack your swimsuit.
• Golf Attire – If you plan to golf, bring appropriate clothing including collared shirts.
• Refillable Water Bottle – Stay hydrated while walking or driving around the area.
• Tech Chargers – Most venues have outlets, but carrying your charger or power bank is smart.

Facts & Info

• Country: United States
• Capital: Washington, D.C.
• Largest Metropolitan Area: Charlotte, NC (includes Ballantyne)
• Time Zone: Eastern Time (EST/EDT)
• Currency: US Dollar (USD)
• Population: Approximately 30,000 in Ballantyne
• Airports: Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)
• Universities: University of North Carolina at Charlotte (nearby)
• Religion: Predominantly Christian, with diverse places of worship available

Estimated Costs

• 3-Star Hotel Room: $100–$150 per night
• 1 Bedroom Apartment Rental: $1,800–$2,200 per month
• Rental Car: $40–$70 per day
• Public Transit Ticket: $2.20 per ride or $6 for a day pass
• Take Out Meal for Two: $25–$40
• Sit Down Dinner for Two: $60–$120
• Draft Beer: $6–$8

FAQs

Is Ballantyne family-friendly?
Yes, with parks, community events, and kid-friendly attractions, Ballantyne is great for families.

How far is Ballantyne from downtown Charlotte?
It’s about a 25-minute drive from Uptown Charlotte.

Are there hiking trails near Ballantyne?
Yes, local parks and nearby mountains like Sugar Mountain offer excellent hiking options.

Is Ballantyne good for business travelers?
Absolutely. It features a major corporate park, upscale hotels, and meeting facilities.

Do I need a car in Ballantyne?
While walkable in parts, having a car is helpful for accessing road trips, beaches, and mountain destinations.