Get off campus and switch up your weekend, here’s your guide to fun, free to cheap things to do in Charlotte, all easy to reach on the light rail. Whether you’re in the mood for cute photo ops, good food, or just something different with your friends, there’s a little bit of everything waiting for you in Charlotte!
Charlotte SHOUT! Festival 🎉
When: Friday, April 3 to Sunday, April 19 | Typically 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. (hours vary by event)
Where: Uptown Charlotte
Cost: Free (some experiences may vary)
Experience Charlotte SHOUT!, a city-wide festival taking over Uptown with art, music, food, and all the fun vibes. Think interactive art, live performances, pop-ups, and so many cute photo ops everywhere you turn. Grab your friends, hop on the light rail, and make a day (or night) out of exploring, this is one you don’t wanna miss.
Directions: From UNC Charlotte Main Station, take the Blue Line southbound and get off at CTC Station. Walk 0.18 miles to Uptown Charlotte.
New Spot Alert: Naked Farmer 🥗
When: Open Daily
Friday | 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., 5 to 10 p.m.
Saturday | 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., 5 to 10 p.m.
Sunday | 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., 5 to 10 p.m.
Where: Naked Farmer
Cost: Varies
The farm-to-table restaurant, Naked Farmer just opened in South End. Their focus is “chef-made seasonal plates built around fresh vegetables, responsibly sourced proteins, and ingredients from regional farms.”. Grab your friends, try something new, and make it your next go-to when you’re out in the city!
Directions: From UNC Charlotte Main Station, take the Blue Line southbound and get off at New Bern Station. Walk 0.25 miles to 2725 South Blvd Suite A, Charlotte, NC.
Visit The Market at 7th Street!
When: Open Daily
Friday | 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Good Friday, Hours might differ)
Saturday | 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Sunday | 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Easter, Hours might differ)
Where: Market at 7th Street
Cost: Varies
If you don’t know what you’re in the mood for, Market at 7th Street has you covered. You can grab authentic Italian food, treat yourself to ice cream, and even check out permanent jewelry all in one place. It’s the perfect stop to walk around, try new things, and switch it up with your friends.
Directions: From UNC Charlotte Main Station, take the Blue Line southbound and get off at 7th St. Station. Walk 0.05 miles to 224 E 7th St, Charlotte, NC.
How to Ride
Students at UNC Charlotte have the CATS All-Access Pass included in their student fees, which means they can ride city light rail, streetcar and buses fare free. Download the CATS Pass App and login with your NinerNet@charlotte.edu email address to get started.