After a two week international break, the Philadelphia Union return to MLS action as the head south to Charlotte, North Carolina and Bank of America Stadium to take on Eastern Conference opponent Charlotte FC.
While the Union have never won in Charlotte in four matches all time, they have mustered two draws there. They will hope to change that trend and also look to pick up their first league victory of 2026 on Saturday.
If you are heading to the match this weekend, make sure to check out travel article for our list of recommendations while you are in town.
Places to visit:
Carowinds
Located in the south Charlotte area, Carowinds has been delivering fun for people of all ages for 45 years. Grab a friend and scream out loud on one of their 14 world-class rollercoasters or take in a live show! Share a delicious funnel cake, and give away the last bite and check out their water park, Carolina Harbor. This is a bucket list theme park so make sure to make a stop if you are in Charlotte.
Website: https://www.carowinds.com/
Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens
With its stunning fountain, flowers, and landscape, Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden provides visitors with an inspiring, unforgettable garden experience that instills a love of nature and its beauty. If you are someone who loves botanicals, this is the place for you to check out before the game.
Website: https://dsbg.org/
NASCAR Hall of Fame
NASCAR Hall of Fame is an interactive entertainment attraction honoring the history and heritage of NASCAR. The high-tech venue, designed to educate and entertain race fans and non-fans. This facility includes artifacts, hands-on exhibits, a 278-person state-of-the-art theater, Hall of Honor, Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant, NASCAR Hall of Fame Gear Shop, NASCAR Productions-operated broadcast studio and an attached parking garage on Brevard Street. A must see for race car fans.
Website: https://www.nascarhall.com/
SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium
SEA LIFE is the world’s largest family of aquariums and includes SEA LIFE Aquariums in North America including SEA LIFE Arizona, Carlsbad, Charlotte-Concord, Dallas/Fort Worth, Kansas City, Mall of America, Michigan, New Jersey, Orlando and San Antonio. From its origins in 1979 in Oban, Scotland, SEA LIFE now provides immersive marine experiences in nearly 50 locations in 17 countries around the world. They aim to share their passion for the creatures of the oceans and to make their guests fall in love with them.
Website: https://www.visitsealife.com/charlotte-concord/
Reedy Creek Nature Center and Preserve
If you want to get a little peace and relaxation from the city, make sure to check out Reedy Creek Nature Center and Preserve. From one of our friends in North Carolina, this place came highly recommended and as they said, “While Charlotte is fun, we love this place as well to get away from it all.”
Website:https://parkandrec.mecknc.gov/Places-to Visit/Nature/reedy-creek-nature-center
Places to Drink and Dine:
Charlotte’s food and drink scene blends Southern tradition with modern creativity, making it one of the fastest rising culinary destinations in the Southeast. Rooted in Carolina barbecue culture the city also embraces global influences and contemporary techniques. Below are a few places to check out while in town.
Lenny Boy Brewing Co.
Lenny Boy started off producing non-alcoholic kombucha with one 7 bbl fermenting tank in mid-2011. Fast forward to now, they are brewing some of the best beers in the Carolinas and have a wide range beers for every craft beer lovers palate. While it can be hard to find, once you do it will be worth the trip.
Website: https://www.discoverlennyboy.com/
Petty Thieves
As one person commented, “Feels like Harry Potter, meets CS Lewis’ library, meets hunting lodge.” The vibe is so unique and the beer is great. With a wide rotating tap, several Gold Medals in the craft beer world, this place has been referenced as the next Treehouse or Hillstead Farm. Worth the trip!
Website: https://pettythievesbrewing.com/
Midwood Smokehouse
At Midwood Smokehouse, it’s not just about the food; it’s an experience. From the moment you step in, you’re greeted by the mouth-watering aroma of smoked meats, an ambiance that blends rustic charm with modern comfort, and a warm, welcoming staff ready to treat you like family.
Website: https://midwoodsmokehouse.com/about/
ACE No.3
Some say this is the best burger place in Charlotte? Do you agree?
Website: https://www.aceno3.com/
Big View Diner
Whether you’re craving the classics, or ready to discover a new crave-worthy favorite, Big View Diner is the place you want to be. They offer big and innovative meals all day, every day, for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Website: https://www.bigviewrestaurant.com/
Pins Mechanical
Bowling, Food, and Booze. It’s a match made in heaven!
Website: https://www.pinsbar.com/locations/charlotte
So that is all for our travel review for Charlotte—where did we hit and where did we miss? Please comment so we can add your suggestions for future travel articles. If you want additional resources, contact me at Kyle@madhatteradv.com and let me plan your next trips.
Safe travels and we hope you enjoy your time in Charlotte!
Main article photo courtesy of the Philadelphia Union
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