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Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, United States of America - Things to Do in Bechtler Museum of Modern Art

Things to Do in Bechtler Museum of Modern Art

Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, United States of America - Complete Travel Guide

Charlotte, North Carolina's largest city, is a dynamic metropolis that seamlessly blends Southern charm with modern sophistication. Known as the Queen City, Charlotte has evolved from a small trading post into a major financial hub, ranking as the second-largest banking center in the United States. The city's impressive skyline reflects its economic prowess, while its neighborhoods retain the warmth and hospitality that define the American South. The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art stands as a cultural gem in Charlotte's vibrant Uptown district, showcasing an exceptional collection of mid-20th century modern art. Beyond its world-class museums, Charlotte offers visitors a rich tapestry of experiences, from exploring historic neighborhoods like NoDa and South End to enjoying the city's thriving craft beer scene and award-winning restaurants. The city serves as a gateway to both mountain adventures in the nearby Blue Ridge and beach getaways along the Carolina coast.

Top Things to Do in Bechtler Museum of Modern Art

Explore the NASCAR Hall of Fame

Immerse yourself in the history and excitement of America's most popular motorsport at this interactive museum. The facility features authentic race cars, simulators, and exhibits that bring the sport's legends to life. Visitors can experience the thrill of racing through high-tech simulators and learn about the sport's evolution from moonshine running to modern NASCAR.

Booking Tip: Tickets cost around $25 for adults with discounts for seniors and children. Visit on weekdays for smaller crowds, and allow 3-4 hours for the full experience. Look for combination tickets that include nearby attractions.

Stroll Through the Historic NoDa Arts District

Discover Charlotte's bohemian side in the North Davidson Arts District, known for its colorful murals, independent galleries, and eclectic shops. This former textile mill area has been transformed into a creative hub featuring local artists' studios, vintage boutiques, and trendy eateries. The neighborhood comes alive during the monthly gallery crawl and weekend festivals.

Booking Tip: Free to explore on your own, but consider joining a guided walking tour for $15-20 to learn about the area's history and street art. Best visited on Friday evenings or weekends when galleries are open and the nightlife is buzzing.

Experience the U.S. National Whitewater Center

Adventure seekers will find their paradise at this outdoor recreation facility offering whitewater rafting, zip-lining, rock climbing, and mountain biking. The center features the world's largest man-made whitewater river and hosts concerts and festivals throughout the year. It's perfect for both adrenaline junkies and families looking for outdoor fun.

Booking Tip: Day passes start at $59 and include access to multiple activities. Book online for discounts and arrive early for shorter wait times. Consider multi-day passes if staying longer, and check the weather as some activities may be weather-dependent.

Tour Local Breweries in South End

Charlotte's South End neighborhood has become a craft beer destination with numerous breweries within walking distance of each other. Sample locally-crafted IPAs, stouts, and seasonal brews while learning about the brewing process from passionate local brewers. Many breweries also offer food trucks and live music, creating a perfect social atmosphere.

Booking Tip: Most brewery tours are free, but tastings range from $10-20. Consider booking a guided brewery tour for $40-60 that includes transportation and tastings at multiple locations. Weekends can be crowded, so visit weekday afternoons for a more relaxed experience.

Visit the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden

Escape to this 380-acre botanical paradise featuring stunning themed gardens, walking trails, and seasonal displays. The garden showcases native Carolinian plants alongside exotic species in beautifully designed landscapes. The conservatory houses tropical plants year-round, while outdoor gardens offer different experiences each season.

Booking Tip: Admission is $15 for adults with discounts for seniors and children. Spring and fall offer the most spectacular displays, but the conservatory makes it worthwhile year-round. Allow 2-3 hours and wear comfortable walking shoes for the trails.

Getting There

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is one of the busiest airports in the United States and serves as a major hub for American Airlines, offering direct flights to over 160 destinations worldwide. The airport is conveniently located just 7 miles from Uptown Charlotte, with various transportation options including rental cars, taxis, ride-sharing services, and the CATS Sprinter bus service. For those driving, Charlotte sits at the intersection of major highways I-77 and I-85, making it easily accessible from cities throughout the Southeast. Amtrak also provides train service to Charlotte's station, though options are limited compared to air travel.

Getting Around

Charlotte's public transportation system, CATS (Charlotte Area Transit System), operates buses and the LYNX Blue Line light rail that connects key areas including the airport, Uptown, and South End. The city center is quite walkable, especially the Uptown area where many attractions are concentrated. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available and convenient for reaching destinations not served by public transit. For exploring beyond the city center, renting a car provides the most flexibility, though downtown parking can be expensive with rates ranging from $5-25 per day depending on location.

Where to Stay

Uptown Charlotte
South End
Dilworth
Myers Park
NoDa Arts District
Ballantyne

Food & Dining

Charlotte's culinary scene reflects both its Southern roots and cosmopolitan character, offering everything from traditional barbecue and fried chicken to innovative farm-to-table restaurants and international cuisine. The city has gained recognition for its chef-driven establishments, with several restaurants earning James Beard nominations and national acclaim. Food halls like 7th Street Public Market and Optimist Hall provide opportunities to sample multiple local vendors in one location. Don't miss trying local specialties like Lexington-style barbecue, pimento cheese, and the city's famous hot chicken, while exploring diverse neighborhoods that offer authentic Mexican, Vietnamese, Ethiopian, and other international cuisines.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Charlotte

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

STK Steakhouse

4.7 /5
(7628 reviews) 4
bar night_club

Haberdish

4.5 /5
(2994 reviews) 2

300 East

4.5 /5
(1884 reviews) 2
bar

Rooster's Wood-fired Kitchen Uptown

4.5 /5
(1749 reviews) 2
bar

BrickTop's

4.6 /5
(1620 reviews) 3

Burtons Grill & Bar

4.6 /5
(1494 reviews) 2
bar

When to Visit

Charlotte enjoys a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons, making spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) the most pleasant times to visit. During these seasons, temperatures are comfortable for outdoor activities, ranging from the 60s to 80s Fahrenheit, and the city's gardens and parks are at their most beautiful. Summer can be hot and humid with temperatures in the 90s, but it's also when many outdoor festivals and concerts take place. Winter is mild compared to northern cities, with occasional snow, making it a good time for indoor attractions and lower hotel rates, though some outdoor activities may be limited.

Insider Tips

Take advantage of the free Charlotte CITY LYNX Gold Line streetcar that connects several Uptown attractions and is perfect for getting oriented to the city center
Many of Charlotte's best murals and street art can be found in unexpected places - download a street art map or join a guided tour to discover hidden gems throughout the city
Visit during the first Friday of each month for NoDa's Gallery Crawl, when most galleries stay open late and offer free wine and snacks to visitors exploring the arts district

Explore Activities in Bechtler Museum of Modern Art