Why Locals Love Living in Charlotte
Published By Palmer Rauschenbach, General Manager-Charlotte Oct 10, 2024
They call the city of Charlotte, North Carolina, the Queen. And for good reason.
This southern belle is the crown jewel of charming ambiance, breathtaking natural beauty, a thriving sports scene, and an eclectic mix of venues that draw people here. Whether your stay in Charlotte is a few weeks or a long-term assignment, National’s local experts have the intel and resources to get you settled and enjoying all that Charlotte has to offer.
But Really, Why She is the Queen?
Nicknamed the Queen City, Charlotte was named after Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, who became Queen of Great Britain just a few years before Charlotte was incorporated. A second nickname is derived from an event in the Revolutionary War, when Commander General Cornwallis occupied Charlotte but was forced into retreat by hostile residents, prodding him to write that Charlotte was "a hornet's nest of rebellion," leading to the name The Hornet's Nest.
All that may be so, but here are a few reasons why we believe Charlotte deserves her crown and why we love living here.
North Carolina Mountains and Beaches.
Are you one of those split personalities like us who loves a quiet trail in the mountains as much as a lazy day lounging on the beach? Living in Charlotte, you are just a short road trip from both happy places. Whitewater rivers, waterfalls, and hundreds of miles of trails are just about two hours from your new Charlotte home in the Pisgah National Forest in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Head east for about three hours, and you’ll arrive at some of the most beautiful East Coast beaches in the US.
South Carolina’s temperate weather is a hiker’s paradise, and there is no need to drive far to find amazing hidden gems of trails. The Twelve Mile Creek Trail is our personal favorite. This moderate wooded trail travels 3.5 miles along the creek, and a 170-foot suspension bridge spans the creek as well as North and South Carolina.
A Foodie's Paradise.
From food trucks to fine dining, famous North Carolina barbecue to fresh East Coast seafood, there’s no shortage of restaurant choices in Charlotte. For a local’s suggestion, try two of our faves: We can’t get enough of the American cuisine at 113 Main, and even non-vegans will keep returning to vegan restaurant Bean for the buffalo cauliflower bites with homemade ranch dressing.
If you are looking for a great spot to enjoy your favorite beverage of choice, North Carolina’s largest city has you covered. We love the farm-to-glass cocktails and mocktails alongside a decadent dessert at Crave Dessert Bar. And don’t be surprised to find some of your National friends at the Sycamore Brewing, which serves up great live music and events alongside its local brews. The Waxhaw Tap House and the Whitewater Center also top our list of must-experience spots for enjoying live music, great food, and craft beers.
Sports for Every Fan.
Want to catch your first NASCAR race in person? Check. Be courtside for a Charlotte Hornets basketball game? You can do it here. Experience the tradition of football tailgating? Charlotte is home to the Carolina Panthers and their huge fan base loves a good tailgate. Head to Uptown Charlotte on game day to find them. Tip: on your way, stop by Bojangles for their Bo-Box, a North Carolina staple!
And So Much More.
Charlotte charms with unique architecture, a robust arts community, vibrant shopping, and history. Check out the Arlington Building with its infamous pink windows, stroll the NoDa Art District, get some retail therapy at Concord Mill, or plan a visit to historic Rosedale. No matter your interests, you’ll find something to enjoy during your stay in Charlotte.
Learn More about Charlotte.
National’s on-the-ground corporate housing experts are your trusted source for all things Charlotte. From travel and housing solutions to settling-in services and locals’ tips for where to eat, play, and shop, we have you covered.
Learn more about Charlotte and why we love it here.
