Coming up, Blake and the rest of the NASCAR XFINITY drivers will be back in Charlotte for the annual Race for the Cure events. This is an exciting time in and of itself, but if you happen to be on a long vacation, or have a little bit of time between the weekend’s activities, you should definitely check out these hot spots in the area!
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Wing Haven Gardens
Charlotte, North Carolina
This race, which is in honor of breast cancer warriors, might be an emotional one. If you find the time during race weekend, Wing Haven Gardens is a great place to take a step back and reflect. The beautiful Southern gardens of Wing Haven are one of the most tranquil places in the area. Stroll along the brick paths and enjoy the fall breeze as you tour the gardens. Trust us, this is a must-see Charlotte destination.
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7th Street Public Market
Charlotte, North Carolina
Live like a local at 7th Street Public Market, where you’ll find locally sourced produce, top notch cuisine, and so much more. Located in Center City, this urban market will give you a small taste of the big-hearted Southern culture of Charlotte. Past visitors call this “a great place to meet friends” and an “amazing, fun place to hang out.” Don’t believe us? See for yourself and check it out while you’re in town!
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Discovery Place
Charlotte, North Carolina
For the curious young minds in your travel group, Discover Place is a no brainer. The hands-on displays featuring all aspects of science, technology, engineering, and math will delight all who visit. You can even kick back, relax, and catch an IMAX flick while you’re there. We guarantee, the little ones will be begging you not to go at the end of your visit to Discovery Place.
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Carolinas Aviation
Charlotte, North Carolina
Built during the Great Depression, the vast history behind the hangar that originally housed of the Carolinas Aviation Museum is just the tip of the iceberg. The museum has expanded exponentially, and is now centrally located in a new, 40,000 square foot hangar that is jam packed with planes and aviation memorabilia spanning decades of American history. You’ll find commercial, civil, and military planes, as well as helicopters. Don’t pass up the chance to see history firsthand.
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The Speed Park
Concord Mills, North Carolina
As a fan of NASCAR XFINITY, have you ever caught yourself daydreaming about what it would feel like to be behind the wheel of a race car? Well, at The Speed Park, you’ll have your chance to race to the finish on go-carts (which, let’s face it, is the next best thing). Feel the wind in your hair as you whip around the track, or take a break and play some mini golf while you’re there. This place is packed with fun things to do, so you’re going to want to carve some time out of your day to soak it all up.
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Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s Whiskey Ranch
Charlotte, North Carolina
Famous NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt Jr. opened this entertainment venue in Charlotte, and it’s quickly become the spot to hang out on race weekend. With live music, tasty food, and carefully crafted cocktails, you’re sure to have a night to remember at Whiskey Ranch. And you never know, you might see a few NASCAR drivers while you’re there for race weekend.
Come cheer on Blake in the Drive for the Cure 300 presented by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of NC race at Charlotte Motor Speedway, and don’t forget to check out these awesome local businesses while you’re in the area!
What are your favorite places to visit around Road America? Let us know in the comments below! We’d love to hear from you!
P.S. If you’ve got a little extra time to kill during your Charlotte vacation, check out these hot spots too!
