Charlotte, North Carolina, is a treasure trove of family-friendly adventures, combining Southern charm with exciting attractions that delight visitors of all ages. From adrenaline-pumping theme parks to immersive educational experiences, the Queen City offers endless opportunities for creating lasting memories with your little ones.
From planning a weekend getaway to looking for new ways to explore your hometown, our comprehensive guide covers the best things to do in Charlotte with kids throughout the year.
Active & Adventure-Based Experiences
If your kids love to move, climb, bounce, or splash, Charlotte has no shortage of energy-burning activities. These thrilling attractions combine fun and fitness, offering the perfect mix of excitement and challenge for all ages.
1. Challenge Your Kids on Mission Grit’s Obstacle Courses
Mission Grit’s XPLOR Program offers an extraordinary indoor obstacle course experience unlike anything else in Charlotte. It’s an exciting after-school experience where children can develop physically, mentally, and socially through professionally designed indoor obstacle courses. This unique Charlotte activity center was founded by dedicated instructors who bring structure, purpose, and fun to children’s fitness and development. Ninety percent of parents note that their children leave with improved confidence.
Here’s what makes Mission Grit stand out among kids’ activities in Charlotte:
- Age-appropriate obstacle courses for kindergarten through 8th grade
- Focus on character development and leadership skills
- Professional instructors with extensive experience
- A non-competitive environment that builds confidence
- Flexible scheduling with multiple weekly class options
- Convenient location, serving South Charlotte and surrounding areas
Parents love that the XPLOR Program is more than just physical activity — it’s built on the S.P.I.R.I.T. method (Science, Problem-Solving, In-Motion, Respect, Interactive, Teamwork) that promotes complete development. The best part? You can drop your child off for a 45-minute class while you run errands, or stay to watch them conquer new challenges and grow in confidence with each visit.
2. Carowinds: The Ultimate Theme Park Experience
Straddling the Carolina border, Carowinds delivers family thrills with Camp Snoopy for little explorers and the world’s tallest, fastest giga coaster for adventure-seekers. Summer visitors cool off at Carolina Harbor water park, while seasonal events like SCarowinds and WinterFest transform the park throughout the year. With over 60 rides spanning all thrill levels, it’s no surprise that this premier attraction keeps families returning for new experiences.
3. Try Outdoor Activities at the U.S. National Whitewater Center
Looking for an outdoor experience with endless possibilities? The U.S. National Whitewater Center transforms 1,300 acres into an outdoor playground with over 30 land and water activities. Families tackle beginner-friendly rafting, zip through forest canopies, or explore 50+ miles of trails. While best for kids 8+, the center offers modified activities for younger adventurers. Summer’s River Jam concert series adds live music to this outdoor destination where Charlotte families connect with nature through active exploration.
4. Swim and Slide at Ray’s Splash Planet
Ray’s Splash Planet delivers year-long aquatic fun as Charlotte’s only indoor water park. Families escape weather worries while enjoying the lazy river, water slides, and interactive splash features in comfortably heated pools. This Mecklenburg County facility includes fitness areas where parents can work out while watching their kids play. Ray’s offers the perfect rainy day adventure for water-loving families.
5. Go Wild at Frankie’s Fun Park
Frankie’s Fun Park packs multi-generational entertainment into one location with go-karts, laser tag, and an expansive arcade featuring classic and cutting-edge games. The activities are varied; families compete on mini-golf courses, splash in bumper boats, or test batting skills. Their party packages make birthday celebrations effortless, while the on-site restaurant means families can extend their visit without hunger interruptions.
6. Leap and Fly at Sky Zone Trampoline Park
Sky Zone transforms physical activity into excitement with wall-to-wall interconnected trampolines where kids literally bounce off walls. Families challenge each other in foam pits, on ninja warrior courses, or during trampoline dodgeball matches. With locations in North and South Charlotte, these indoor parks provide climate-controlled energy release regardless of weather conditions. The whole family will leave tired and happy.
Educational & Imaginative Attractions
Make learning come alive with Charlotte’s interactive museums and creative spaces that inspire curiosity in science, storytelling, and technology. These destinations offer enrichment that feels nothing like homework — just pure discovery in one of the most dynamic cities in the country.
7. Discovery Place Science: Hands-On Learning That Feels Like Play
Discovery Place Science makes STEM subjects irresistibly fun through interactive exhibits where kids conduct experiments, explore rainforest ecosystems, and understand physics through play. The IMAX Dome Theatre immerses families in spectacular scientific journeys, while the “Think It Up” innovation space transforms young visitors into inventors.
8. Explore the ImaginOn Center
ImaginOn offers a magical fusion of library and theater that ignites young imaginations. This innovative space, consistently ranked among America’s top children’s libraries, houses two professional theaters, an expansive children’s library, dedicated teen spaces, and interactive multimedia studios. Kids can explore immersive story exhibits, attend captivating theatrical performances, and participate in creative workshops.
9. Race Simulators at the NASCAR Hall of Fame
The NASCAR Hall of Fame captures Charlotte’s racing heritage with high-tech simulators offering authentic driver experiences. Families tackle pit crew challenges, design virtual race cars, and explore historic vehicles along Glory Road. The Racing Insiders Tour grants access to actual team shops, connecting visitors to Charlotte’s motorsports community. Interactive exhibits make racing science and history engaging even for families who aren’t die-hard racing fans. This is the ideal activity for kids with a need for speed.
10. Take Off at the Sullenberger Aviation Museum
The Sullenberger Aviation Museum (formerly Carolinas Aviation Museum) centers around the actual “Miracle on the Hudson” Airbus A320. The museum now features expanded exhibits where children experience pilot simulators and explore historic aircraft. Educational programs include STEM workshops designed for young aviation enthusiasts, making complex flight principles accessible through hands-on discovery.
11. Learn and Laugh at the Museum of Illusions
Combine education and entertainment in one. The Museum of Illusions challenges perception through mind-bending exhibits that make scientific principles tangibly entertaining. Kids marvel at the Anti-Gravity Room, where objects defy physics, the Infinity Room with endless reflections, and the Rotated Room, creating impossible photo opportunities. Each interactive display includes educational explanations about the psychology and science behind these visual puzzles.
12. Step Back in Time at the Levine Museum of the New South
The Levine Museum of the New South transforms Charlotte’s post-Civil War history into interactive experiences where children can explore a tenant farmer’s house, operate a cotton gin, or sit at a Civil Rights era lunch counter. The museum’s family guide helps parents navigate age-appropriate historical discussions, while regular Family Fun Days offer special activities designed for young historians to connect with Charlotte’s diverse heritage.
Nature & Animal Encounters
Get outside and discover Charlotte’s wild side. From hiking trails and nature centers to underwater worlds, these experiences connect kids with the natural environment in fun and memorable ways.
13. Discover Local Wildlife at McDowell Nature Center and Preserve
McDowell Nature Center showcases Carolina’s natural heritage throughout 1,132 protected acres bordering Lake Wylie. The center features live native reptiles and amphibians, while surrounding trails offer wildlife spotting opportunities for all hiking abilities. Ranger-led family programs include pond exploration and animal tracking, while the lakeside campground provides an accessible introduction to outdoor life just 30 minutes from Charlotte’s downtown.
14. Go for Underwater Adventures at SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium
SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium immerses families in marine environments through its walk-through underwater tunnel. Children observe over 5,000 sea creatures, including tropical fish, graceful rays, and mesmerizing jellyfish. Interactive touch pools allow hands-on experiences with gentle marine life, while conservation-focused exhibits educate about ocean protection.
15. Stroll Through Romare Bearden Park
Named after Charlotte’s celebrated artist, Romare Bearden Park offers artistic inspiration and recreation in Uptown. Families cool off in interactive fountains during warmer months while enjoying stunning city skyline views. Gardens inspired by Bearden’s collages provide exploration spaces, while year-long community events, including morning yoga and evening concerts, create accessible cultural experiences for families seeking urban relaxation.
Community, Culture & Entertainment
Charlotte’s culture shines through its local events, sports, history, and shopping. Whether you’re here for the weekend or are a lifelong local, these vibrant spots are musts for your list. Plan your visit today and make the most of your time together.
16. Cheer for Local Teams at Bank of America Stadium or Truist Field
Who doesn’t love a sports outing? Experience Charlotte’s vibrant sports culture at Carolina Panthers NFL games or Charlotte Knights baseball at Truist Field. The Knights particularly excel at family entertainment with mascot Homer the Dragon and Sunday traditions where kids run the bases after games. Both Bank of America Stadium and Truist Field enues offer family ticket packages and child-friendly concessions, providing authentic glimpses into Charlotte’s passionate community spirit.
17. Shop, Snack, and Play at SouthPark
SouthPark Mall elevates family shopping with experiences beyond retail therapy. The American Girl store hosts special events where children dine with their dolls, while the LEGO Store’s building stations engage young creators. Symphony Park’s free summer concerts invite families to picnic while enjoying live music. SouthPark balances parents’ shopping needs with children’s entertainment requirements. Plus, with kid-friendly stores and open event spaces, SouthPark is a fantastic spot to host unforgettable birthday parties!
18. Visit the Billy Graham Library
The Billy Graham Library blends history and inspiration through multimedia exhibits chronicling the evangelist’s worldwide impact. Children enjoy the restored family homestead and complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides around the peaceful grounds. The Journey of Faith tour incorporates engaging presentations and fascinating artifacts, while the dairy bar serves up old-fashioned ice cream treats, creating a meaningful yet relaxed family experience.
Where Charlotte Adventure Meets Real-Life Skills
Charlotte shines as a family destination with diverse activities, balancing education, adventure, and entertainment. With indoor and outdoor attractions available year-round, Charlotte ensures there’s always something exciting to discover, regardless of weather or season.
For a uniquely engaging experience that builds both physical skills and character, consider Mission Grit‘s Xplor Program. Our obstacle courses provide confidence-building adventures in a structured environment led by professional instructors. This unique experience will boost your child’s confidence and expose them to unique challenges. Contact us to schedule a trial class and watch your child develop strength, courage, and determination while having the time of their life in Charlotte!
