After returning home from college for the summer, it seemed that Charlotte had become this new mecca for breweries, wine bars, and clubs. While I was excited to learn about all of the trendy nightlife, I realized that I couldn’t really partake since although Charlotte has matured fast, I have not — and am still underage. That being said, here are some things to do that don’t require an ID.
Go to a Charlotte Knights game
Knights games are an easy way to spend a summer night. Tickets are affordable and games are on different days of the week, so you can pick the one that works best for you.
Listen to music at Romare Bearden Park
Bring a lawn chair and get a taste of the eclectic music that Charlotte has to offer. Wednesday nights from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., the Romare Bearden Music Series is great place to refuel at the end of your hump day.
Try an escape room
Whether it’s Codescape, Blackout, Escape Hour, Exit Strategy, Escape Kings, or any of the other escape rooms that have popped up around Charlotte, grab some friends to test both your mind and your patience with a brain teasing experience.
Shop around at IKEA
For those of you still in college or in new homes of your own, IKEA is an exciting place to pass the day away. Go eat some Swedish meatballs, fantasize about your dream kitchen, or choose some snazzy pillows.
Ride at Grayson Skate Park
Embrace your inner “scene kid” and stop by Grayson Skate Park. Private and group skateboarding lessons are offered to all ages. Spend the day on board or bike, trying your best to not fall on your face.
Take a Charlotte Segway Tour
They see you rollin, they hatin’. Ride through Charlotte in style and experience the city like a tourist. Offered seven days a week, choose from a variety of tours to learn about the parts of Charlotte that interest you.
Drive through Lazy 5 Ranch
Ostriches, emus, and giraffes — oh my! Tour the animal kingdom from inside your own car or on one of Lazy 5’s wagon rides. Buy animal food, travel through the open zoo, and laugh as these unabashed animals nibble (or slobber) all over your hands.
Attend a Charlotte Independence game
Get your soccer fix at Ramblewood Stadium and see the Charlotte Independence battle under the lights.
Hang out at Abari Game Bar
The Abari Game Bar is the social way to play video games. Put down your Xbox controller and go hang at Abari with some friends. Open to all ages Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.
Sweat it out at Stax Boot Camp
It’s free, you keep hearing about it, and you definitely want to try it. Monday and Wednesday at 6:30 p.m.
Relax at UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens and McMillan Greenhouse
Take a breezy stroll through the gardens at UNC Charlotte. Bring a book or an ice tea and enjoy the flora.
