05 Apr 6 Things to do in Charlotte this Spring
I thought it would be fun for me to think of some things I would like to do this Spring, here in Charlotte. I wrote this list thinking that there may be something similar in your hometown. I just love being outside, and dining al fresco when the weather is nicer and the sun is out.
As far as solitary things, I want to start reading more. Many bloggers post some great book ideas and I would like to lose myself in a good book sometime. Our development pool opens at the end of May, and it’s always nice to be able to lay and read! Any suggestions for a good summer read, let me know!
Bark in the Ballpark-
Did you say Dogs? 🙂
I remember going to the Pirate games in Pittsburgh, sitting in the stands, having some food and enjoying the game. Now, “back in my day”.. hot dogs were a dollar, and coke was 25 cents.. Kidding, kidding. However, it was a pretty inexpensive day out when I was growing up. Now, the addition of dogs at the game, make it even more fun ! Just a fun way to enjoy a baseball game and have your pets with you.
“Knights’ furry fans will receive the royal treatment all game long, beginning with a pet-themed giveaway at the front gates. A Doggie Vendor Showcase will be set up for viewing on the concourse throughout the game. Dogs will also have the opportunity to participate in several in-game promotions and activities including a pregame doggie parade and a costume contest.”
This is a bit of a twist on a traditional baseball game in Charlotte, called Bark in the Ballpark.
Taste of Charlotte
“Taste of Charlotte is a 3 day festival featuring over 100 samples from area restaurants along with Live Music and Entertainment, I love that there are cooking demonstrations, restaurants that we want to try, and a day out. I used to hate scallops as when I first tried them, they were chewy! ( not supposed to be!) A student from Johnson and Wales gave a cooking demo on scallops in white wine and I was converted! Love scallops now, if they are cooked right! Melt in your mouth deliciousness!
I love that we can sample different dishes from restaurants in the area and see if we want to go there another time. Uptown Charlotte is growing and there are many good places! I’ll be writing later about the place I take my hubby for his 5-0 bday this month, called Eddie V’s Seafood. Yum.
Jazz Festival in May
Last year we saw Wynton Marsalis perform as part of the Lincoln Center Jazz show. It was amazing! This year, he performs Ellington Through the Ages. I would love to see this act, as Duke Ellington is a favorite classic. The Charlotte Jazz Festival has Lunch Hour Jazz, Jazz at the Pavillion, and the festival is from April 29-May4th. I just love walking around town listening to different artists perform.
Vineyard time
Ive shared some of the Vineyards we have visited, here on the blog. We live North of Charlotte, and hour from the Yadkin Valley region, which houses many Vineyards. When we first moved here 16 years ago, there were about 75 vineyards, where now there is over 100! Our favorites that are about an hour away are Raylen Vineyards and West Bend Vineyards. All are dog-friendly, have a good wine selection, and often have events and music. A great way to spend a day!
There is a misconception about NC wines being only sweet wines, and this is not the case. There are sweet wines like Moscato and Scuppernogs, but more often we enjoy Chardonnay, Cabernet, Cabernet Franc, Viognier and more.
We recently visited the closest vineyard to us, about 30 minutes away, Daveste Vineyards. We enjoyed the wooden bridge, pond, and friendly atmosphere and will be back.
Read my post about Morgan Vineyards here and Silver Fork Vineyard here.
Visit the Gardens-
Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens. My hubby and I have been there around Christmas time where it is a Winter Wonderland. I would love to go this Spring and visit the Gardens and see the Butterfly Bungalow.
Just gets you in the mood for the change in seasons!
Camping
I’m talking the real deal here. No “Glamping”. Just good old fashioned tent camping, where you enjoy the outdoors, hiking and cooking that morning meal on a picnic table. I just love the peacefulness of the woods. There are plenty of mountains to explore near Charlotte, so one of our favorites is King’s Mountain, about a 3-=45 minute drive to this outdoor spot. Crowder’s Mountain, another favorite spot, is a great place for a day hike. ( We do, though call it “Crowded Mountain”), as it is a busy place.
Let’s hear about what you are looking forward to doing in your hometown this Spring. Let me know in the comments!
Have a wonderful weekend!
Jess xx
Manishambaliya
Posted at 08:08h, 23 JuneAmazing! I know nothing about traveling all over the country, what a wonderful looking place to explore.
Lisa
Posted at 12:51h, 05 AprilI live only 3 miles from Crowders Mountain and have not visited it in years. Like you said “crowded mountain”.
I grew up (mom and dad are still there) A mile up the road from the Stowe’s botanical gardens. Such a lovely place.
Jess Jannenga
Posted at 10:54h, 05 AprilYes, I am looking forward to the Jazz festival! We take the pups into Uptown, have lunch, drinks, watch and listen to the musicians. 🙂 xx
Anika
Posted at 07:33h, 05 AprilAwesome tips, the vineyard looks amazing!
Anika | anikamay.co.uk
Jess Jannenga
Posted at 10:53h, 05 AprilThank you! Yes, it is a very pretty area. I just love exploring the vineyards around here! xx
Kellyann Rohr
Posted at 07:04h, 05 AprilI’d love to visit Charlotte! A Jazz festival sounds like fun. I enjoy sipping a glass of wine and listening to fabulous music – the perfect way to spend a spring day!
xo,
Kellyann