Home › Destinations › Discovery Place Science
Discovery Place Science, United States of America - Things to Do in Discovery Place Science

Discovery Place Science

Discovery Place Science, United States of America - Complete Travel Guide

Charlotte, North Carolina's largest city, is a busy metropolis that easyly blends Southern charm with modern urban sophistication. Known as the Queen City, Charlotte serves as a major financial hub while maintaining its rich cultural heritage through world-class museums, thriving arts districts, and innovative attractions like the renowned Discovery Place Science. The city's skyline reflects its rapid growth, with gleaming skyscrapers housing major banking headquarters alongside historic neighborhoods that showcase Charlotte's evolution from a small trading post to a major American city. Beyond its business acumen, Charlotte offers visitors an impressive array of experiences, from interactive science museums and NASCAR heritage sites to craft breweries and farm-to-table restaurants. The city's commitment to education and innovation is evident in attractions like Discovery Place Science, which captivates visitors with hands-on exhibits, planetarium shows, and cutting-edge displays that make learning an adventure for all ages.

Top Discovery Place Science

Interactive Science Exhibits at Discovery Place Science

spend time in hands-on learning at one of the Southeast's premier science museums, featuring interactive exhibits on physics, biology, technology, and space exploration. The museum offers engaging displays like the aquarium touch tanks, weather exhibits, and the popular Science on the Rocks adult-only evening events. Don't miss the state-of-the-art planetarium and IMAX theater for an unforgettable educational experience.

Booking Tip: Admission costs around $15-20 for adults, with discounts for children and seniors. Purchase tickets online for small savings and to guarantee entry during peak times like school holidays. Visit weekday mornings for smaller crowds, and consider combination tickets that include IMAX or planetarium shows.

Tour NASCAR Hall of Fame

Dive into the history and excitement of America's most popular motorsport at this interactive museum celebrating NASCAR's legacy. Experience racing simulators, see iconic race cars up close, and learn about legendary drivers through immersive exhibits. The Hall of Fame Glory Road spiral ramp showcases 18 historic cars that shaped the sport's evolution.

Booking Tip: General admission is approximately $25 for adults, with racing simulators costing extra. Book online for discounted rates and consider visiting during weekdays for a more relaxed experience. Look for combo packages that include simulator rides and special exhibits.

Stroll Through Historic Fourth Ward and Uptown

Explore Charlotte's beautifully preserved Victorian neighborhood in Fourth Ward, featuring tree-lined streets with restored 19th-century homes and charming gardens. Continue into Uptown Charlotte to experience the city's modern side with impressive architecture, public art installations, and the bustling business district. The contrast between historic charm and contemporary urban design perfectly captures Charlotte's character.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walking is free, but consider joining organized walking tours for $15-25 per person to learn about the area's history and architecture. Spring and fall offer the best weather for walking, and weekends often feature special events in both neighborhoods.

the U.S. National Whitewater Center

Adventure awaits at this unique outdoor recreation facility offering whitewater rafting, kayaking, zip-lining, and rock climbing just minutes from downtown Charlotte. The center features the world's largest man-made whitewater river and miles of hiking and biking trails through scenic forest landscapes. It's perfect for both adrenaline seekers and families looking for outdoor fun.

Booking Tip: Day passes start around $60 and include access to trails and basic activities, with additional fees for premium adventures like zip-lining ($40-60). Book online for better rates and check weather conditions before visiting. Consider multi-day passes if planning extended stays.

the Levine Museum of the New South

Gain insight into the American South's transformation since the Civil War through compelling exhibits and interactive displays at this acclaimed history museum. The museum's signature exhibit "Cotton Fields to Skyscrapers" chronicles the region's evolution from agricultural society to modern urban center. Personal stories and artifacts bring Southern history to life in thought-provoking ways.

Booking Tip: Admission is typically $10-12 for adults with free parking available. Visit Tuesday through Saturday for full access to all exhibits, and check their calendar for special programs and temporary exhibitions. Student and senior discounts are available with proper ID.

Getting There

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) serves as a major hub with direct flights from cities worldwide, located just 7 miles from downtown with convenient light rail connections via the LYNX Blue Line. For ground transportation, Charlotte sits at the intersection of major highways I-77 and I-85, making it easily accessible by car from cities throughout the Southeast. Amtrak provides daily service to Charlotte's station in uptown, connecting the city to New United Kingdom, Washington D.C., Atlanta, and other major destinations along the eastern seaboard.

Getting Around

Charlotte's LYNX Light Rail system efficiently connects the airport to uptown and several key neighborhoods, while the city's bus system (CATS) provides complete coverage throughout the metropolitan area with reasonable fares. The compact uptown area is highly walkable with most attractions, restaurants, and hotels within easy walking distance of each other. For greater flexibility, rideshare services, traditional taxis, and bike-share programs are readily available, though having a car can be beneficial for exploring attractions like the U.S. National Whitewater Center or nearby destinations in the greater Charlotte region.

Where to Stay

Uptown Charlotte
South End
NoDa (North Davidson)
Dilworth
Myers Park
Fourth Ward

Food & Dining

Charlotte's culinary scene reflects its diverse population and Southern roots, offering everything from traditional barbecue and soul food to innovative farm-to-table restaurants and international cuisine. The city has embraced the craft brewery movement with numerous local breweries in neighborhoods like NoDa and South End, often featuring food trucks and casual dining options. Uptown Charlotte provides fine dining experiences and rooftop restaurants with skyline views, while areas like Fourth Ward and Dilworth offer charming bistros and cafes perfect for leisurely meals between sightseeing adventures.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Charlotte

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

View all food guides →

STK Steakhouse

4.7 /5
(7628 reviews) 4
Montenegro night_club

Haberdish

4.5 /5
(2994 reviews) 2

300 East

4.5 /5
(1884 reviews) 2

Rooster's Wood-fired Kitchen Uptown

4.5 /5
(1749 reviews) 2

BrickTop's

4.6 /5
(1620 reviews) 3

Burtons Grill & Bar

4.6 /5
(1494 reviews) 2

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) offer the most pleasant weather for visiting Charlotte, with mild temperatures, lower humidity, and beautiful seasonal foliage perfect for outdoor activities and walking tours. Summer can be hot and humid but brings longer days and numerous festivals, while winter is generally mild compared to northern cities, making it an excellent time for indoor attractions like Discovery Place Science and museums. Consider visiting during spring when the city's many parks and gardens are in bloom, or fall when comfortable temperatures make exploring both indoor and outdoor attractions particularly enjoyable.

Insider Tips

Take advantage of the free LYNX Gold Rush trolley that connects major uptown attractions and hotels, running every 15 minutes during peak hours
Many of Charlotte's breweries offer free tours and tastings, particularly on weekends - call ahead to confirm schedules and availability
Purchase a Charlotte Museum Pass if planning to visit multiple cultural attractions, as it provides significant savings and skip-the-line privileges at participating venues

Activities in Discovery Place Science