The 10 Best Tours in Charlotte
By Caroline Alden | Updated 3 Days Ago
Welcome to Charlotte, North Carolina – a city brimming with southern charm, rich history, and an irresistible culinary scene. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie at heart, Charlotte has something special for you.
Let’s dive into the 10 best tours that promise an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Queen City.
Feast and Sip Through Charlotte’s Culinary Delights
Dive into Southern cuisine with the Charlotte Culinary Delights Tour. Wander through vibrant food markets, cozy local eateries, and acclaimed restaurants to savor the distinct flavors that make Charlotte unique. Enjoy the city’s signature smoky barbecue, fall-off-the-bone meats, and locally brewed craft beers that are sure to excite your palate. Along the way, culinary experts share their secrets, making each bite a story of Charlotte’s rich food culture.
This tour is a deep dive into Charlotte’s culture, community, and the connections that food creates among people. Here, you’ll explore the city’s lively streets, uncovering the hidden gems of the food scene and the stories behind them. Whether you’re enjoying a hearty Southern dish or a craft beer, the Culinary Delights Tour offers an immersive experience into the culinary world of Charlotte, making it an essential journey for every food lover.
- Tour Fee: Varies by package
- Schedule: Weekly on Fridays and Saturdays
- Inclusions: Food tastings at multiple locations, one drink per stop, guided commentary
Pedal Through the City’s Heart
Exploring Charlotte by bike allows you to fully embrace the city’s allure at a relaxed pace. As you cycle through lively neighborhoods, past significant historic sites, and along picturesque routes, you’re treated to stunning vistas of the city’s skyline. This gentle journey unveils the vibrant heart of Charlotte in a way that can’t be matched by any other mode of transport.
The guided bike tour caters to both families and solo adventurers, striking a perfect balance between physical activity and sightseeing. It’s an opportunity to uncover the tales that each landmark holds, all while immersing yourself in Charlotte’s scenic beauty. Riding on two wheels, you get to experience the city’s charm firsthand, making for an unforgettable exploration.
- Tour Fee: Starts at $30 per person
- Schedule: Daily, with morning and afternoon departures
- Inclusions: Bike rental, helmet, water bottle, guide
Explore the Rich Tapestry of Charlotte’s History
Step back in time with a tour that delves deep into Charlotte’s historic heart. This walking journey through the city’s past is an enlightening experience, revealing the layers of history that have shaped Charlotte into the vibrant metropolis it is today. From its early days to the bustling present, you’ll gain insights into the people, events, and movements that left their mark on the city.
Guided by experts with a deep love for Charlotte’s history, this tour is a captivating exploration of heritage and progress. You’ll wander through historic neighborhoods, stand in the shadows of landmarks, and hear tales of yesteryear. This is more than a history lesson; it’s an immersive journey into the soul of Charlotte, offering a profound connection to the city’s roots and a deeper appreciation for its journey through time.
- Tour Fee: $20 per person
- Schedule: Weekends, 10 AM – 12 PM
- Inclusions: Guided walk, admission to historical sites
Glide on a Segway Adventure
Glide through Charlotte’s streets and parks on a Segway City Adventure, an exhilarating tour that combines the thrill of motion with the beauty of exploration. Effortlessly navigate the city’s diverse landscapes, from bustling urban areas to serene green spaces, all while standing on the cutting edge of personal transportation technology. This tour is an invitation to experience Charlotte in a uniquely fun and engaging way.
After a brief training session to get comfortable, you’ll follow your guide on a journey to discover landmarks, hidden spots, and scenic views. It’s an effortless way to cover more ground than walking, allowing you to soak in the sights and sounds of the city. With every glide and turn, the Segway City Adventure promises a memorable day out, filled with laughter, discovery, and the sheer joy of gliding.
- Tour Fee: $65 per person
- Schedule: Daily, various times available
- Inclusions: Segway rental, helmet, training session, guided tour
Savor the Flavors of Chef Alyssa’s Kitchen
Step into the warm and welcoming world of Chef Alyssa’s Kitchen, where cooking is not just about the food. This cooking class tour offers a hands-on culinary experience, guiding you through the preparation of delicious recipes using fresh, local ingredients. Under the expert guidance of Chef Alyssa, you’ll learn new techniques, flavors, and the joy of creating beautiful meals.
But Chef Alyssa’s Kitchen is more than just a cooking class; it’s a communal dining experience where strangers become friends over shared dishes and stories. This tour is a heartwarming journey into the art of cooking and eating, leaving you with new skills, unforgettable memories, and a deeper appreciation for the power of food to bring people together.
- Tour Fee: Starts at $65 per person
- Schedule: Select dates, check the website for details
- Inclusions: Cooking class, ingredients, meal
Laugh Your Way Through Charlotte on the Funny Bus
Join a ride on the Funny Bus for a unique tour through Charlotte that combines laughter with landmark sightseeing. This comedy-driven journey takes you around the city, where stand-up comedians double as your guides. It’s an interactive experience that turns a simple city tour into a rolling comedy show, highlighting everything from NoDa’s colorful street art to Uptown’s historical architecture, all while keeping you entertained.
Designed for adults looking for a fun twist on exploring Charlotte, the Funny Bus offers a night of laughter-filled adventures. This tour is perfect for those eager to see the city in a new light, mixing educational content with humor. As you laugh your way through Charlotte, you’ll find this tour to be a memorable way to experience the city’s culture and history.
- Tour Fee: $30 per person
- Schedule: Thursday through Sunday, evening departures
- Inclusions: Bus tour, live comedy show
Step Back in Time with Queen City’s Historic Tours
Dive into the heart of Charlotte’s storied past with a tour that spans centuries, from its early days as a native settlement to its role in the Revolutionary War, and beyond. Queen City’s Historic Tours unwrap the layers of time. Each step through the historic neighborhoods is a step back in time, with tales of heroism, innovation, and resilience echoing through the streets.
As you wander through Charlotte’s quaint lanes and grand avenues, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the city’s significance and its contributions to the nation’s narrative. It’s an immersive experience that connects you with the soul of Charlotte, offering a profound appreciation for its heritage and an insight into its evolution as a contemporary urban center.
- Tour Fee: $15 per person
- Schedule: Saturdays, 10 AM – 12 PM
- Inclusions: Guided walking tour, admission to historic sites
Discover Charlotte’s Craft Beer Scene
Charlotte’s brewery scene is a vibrant testament to the city’s love for quality craft beer each with its unique flair. This brewery tour takes you behind the scenes, where the magic of brewing comes to life. Sample a variety of beers, from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, and meet the masterminds who pour their passion and expertise into every pint.
This tour is a celebration of Charlotte’s brewing excellence, offering a glimpse into the creative processes that yield some of the finest beers in the region. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local craft beer culture. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or new to the craft beer world, this tour promises an afternoon filled with discovery, delight, and, of course, excellent beer.
- Tour Fee: $50 per person
- Schedule: Fridays and Saturdays, afternoon and evening tours
- Inclusions: Brewery visits, beer tastings, transportation
Uncover the Artistic Soul of Charlotte
Charlotte is a canvas, its streets adorned with artistic expressions that range from sprawling murals to intricate sculptures. The Artistic Soul of Charlotte tour invites you to explore the city’s vibrant art scene, uncovering the stories behind each masterpiece. This is more than a tour; it’s a journey through the heart of Charlotte’s creative spirit, where every turn reveals a new visual wonder.
As you meander through galleries and gaze upon street art, you’ll witness the diversity and talent of Charlotte’s artists. This tour not only showcases the beauty of the city’s art but also highlights the cultural narratives woven into each piece. It’s an inspiring exploration that appeals to art lovers and curious minds alike, offering a deeper appreciation for the role art plays in shaping Charlotte’s identity.
- Tour Fee: $25 per person
- Schedule: Weekends, 2 PM – 4 PM
- Inclusions: Guided walk, gallery admissions
Adventure in the Great Outdoors
Charlotte’s natural surroundings offer a playground for the adventurous spirit. From the tranquil waters of nearby lakes to the lush trails winding through forests, the Great Outdoors tour is your gateway to nature’s bounty. Whether you’re paddling softly across a lake, hiking beneath towering trees, or soaring over canyons, this tour promises an exhilarating connection with the wild.
Embrace the thrill of adventure as you navigate the natural landscapes that surround Charlotte. This tour caters to all levels of outdoor enthusiasts, providing a refreshing escape into the heart of nature. It’s an invitation to step away from the urban bustle and immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of the great outdoors, where every activity is an opportunity to create lasting memories amidst Charlotte’s breathtaking scenery.
- Tour Fee: Varies by activity
- Schedule: Check with tour providers
- Inclusions: Equipment rental, guide, safety briefing
Charlotte is a city of endless discovery, and these tours offer just a glimpse into the vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes that make it unique. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or rediscovering the city, each tour promises memories that will last a lifetime. Pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore the Queen City like never before!