Charlotte Fine Living

Things to do: Exploring Charlotte

admin — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0000

Whether you live in Charlotte or are just visiting for the weekend there are tons of great things to see and do! Get your host to set the ADT Security Charlotte alarm and take you out on the town: don’t miss these local attractions.
Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens: If you’re into botany you’re going to love the gardens. There are miles of walking trails as well as hundreds of rare and endangered species to explore here. Make a day of it!
NASCAR Hall of Fame: Whether or not you’re into car racing you can really appreciate the artistry and history that went into this museum. Take the kids for some of the more interactive exhibits or roam the halls alone to gain reverence for a sport with a storied and tumultuous past.
White Water Center: If you’re into outdoor activities you can’t do any better than the National White Water Center. Used as a practice ground for the 1996 Atlanta Olympics the White Water Center is one of the area’s coolest places to check out. Raft, kayak and even mountain bike!

Autumn in Charlotte

www.charlottefineliving.com — Tue, 19 Oct 2010 14:06:11 +0000

If you’re looking for some fun things to do in Charlotte as the weather finally cools down and thoughts of Christmas whisper from around the corner, here are a few ideas to whet your appetite and get you out of the house and onto the streets for some fine Charlotte fun!October

Charlotte OktoberFest Beer Festival is an annual event featuring hundreds of craft-brewed beers, food and loads of live entertainment.
Carolina Renaissance Festival runs from October through early/mid-November on weekends and is a popular family event featuring a medieval amusement park, nine-stage theater, circus, arts and crafts fair and a jousting tournament.
Latin American Festival is held at the Mint Museum of Art and offers a great family day out with kid’s activities, music and authentic Latin American food.

November

Le Beaujolais Nouveau Wine Tasting Festival occurs mid-November and Charlotte is one of just 13 cities in the country given the honor of hosting an official uncorking and celebration of the annual Beaujolais Nouveau harvest.
Harvest Day is held mid-November and is an interesting celebration that examines how different cultures from around the world mark the end of the growing season.

December

Celtic Traditions Festival – mid-December, featuring traditional Irish and Scottish dancing, Celtic music and traditional jewelry and clothing.
Southern Christmas Show is held the end of November and is the event that gets everyone thinking Christmas with hundreds of exhibitors and events to mark the festive season.

What do you Crave?

www.charlottefineliving.com — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 17:31:54 +0000

On the corner of N. Graham and West 5^th street is one of Charlotte’s sweetest nightlife spots: Crave. A dessert bar and lounge, this delicious venue offers seven varieties of desserts, as well as 35 signature drinks. If you were born with a sweet tooth, Crave has the menu you’re looking for.One of the bar’s most popular treats is Le Crme. Unlike the traditional vanilla crme brulee, this dessert comes with a passion fruit cream and a portion of mango sorbet. Another Crave favorite is the Chocolate Neufville: a lava cake with espresso flavoring. However, if you have a preference for baked goods, there’s still a number of treats to choose from; such as Coconut Dream cupcakes, Double-Decker Strawberry Shortcake, and the Banana’s Foster.To compliment your decadent dessert, Crave offers a list of signature drinks. The menu is themed to a relationship, starting with Flirtations and Lust, and moving into Euphoria, Intimacy, and the Morning After. The Flirtations list offers a mix of bubbly drinks, such as a Mimosas and Bellinis. Meanwhile selections like the Caffeine Rush (Crme de Cacao and Kahlua with coffee) are found in the appropriately named morning after list.Crave opens at 5pm everyday but Monday and hosts a variety of events. Previously, the lounge has thrown Sunday Recess parties as well as a weekly Date Night.

Clear’s got Charlotte Covered

www.charlottefineliving.com — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 14:02:58 +0000

Clear 4G wireless has turned Charlotte into a giant wireless hotspot. This means that wherever you go in the city, you’ll have access to fast reliable internet.How does it work? CLEAR uses WiMAX technology, a new wireless broadband that provides fixed and fully mobile internet access. Now you can stop worrying if your favorite coffee shop has Wi-Fi and forget about paying for internet at Charlotte Douglas International Airport. CLEAR takes care of all your internet needs and does so 4 times faster than your old 3G network. The main difference: 3G was designed for phones; 4G was designed for internet. Whether on a cell phone or a lap top, in your living room at home or at a bus stop across the country, CLEAR wireless internet keeps you connected to high speed internet.What does CLEAR 4G coverage mean for Charlotte residents? It means you no longer have limitations on your internet experience. Check out the wide variety of packages CLEAR offers and take a simple quiz that registers your preferences to select the CLEAR package that’s right for your needs. CLEAR offers a variety of modems, mobile devices, and accessories that are easy to install and feature the latest WiMax technology. The best part about these wireless gadgets is they’re pretty cheap considering all they have to offer. Bring your laptop for the carpool line; stream a movie from the park, or video chat with your mom across the country. CLEAR lets Charlotte residents bring the internet with them wherever they go.

The Best of Downtown Living

www.charlottefineliving.com — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 17:47:36 +0000

The growing downtown area has young professionals flocking to this vibrant center of the city. Despite the recent economic downturn, Charlotte remains one of the nation’s banking headquarters, home to well-known corporations such as Bank of America and Wachovia. Downtown Charlotte is a great place to find a job, and if you want to avoid the commute into the city, there are many beautiful apartment and condo complexes in the heart of downtown. The many parks, bars, and fine dining in Charlotte make it perfect for meeting new friends and going out with old ones.Court 6 is a new condominium complex located at the corner of East Sixth and North Davidson Street. The beautiful skyline view along with a courtyard located in the middle of the building are just a few of the amenities of this location.230 South Tryon is a brand new condo complex, built in 2008, right in the heart of downtown. Each unit in the 13-story high rise has its own balcony so you can enjoy the weather and the beautiful city around you from the comfort of your own home. A pool, fitness center, billiards room and internet caf, make this an unbeatable downtown home.If you want to stay near downtown but in an area that is slightly more secluded, consider Fifth and Poplar. This gated community really is its own little village, complete with a pool, putting green and recreation area for residents to enjoy. There is even a Starbucks and a supermarket. Once you move in here, you may never want to leave. But when you do decide to go exploring around your new home, you will find yourself in walking distance of restaurants, parks, and libraries.

Charlotte’s EpiCentreHellooo, Nightlife

www.charlottefineliving.com — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 15:24:31 +0000

As the name suggests, the EpiCentre is literally a focal point for activity in Charlotte. Covering half a million square feet, it is home to countless restaurants, shops, and bars. We’ve compiled some highlights to help you get acquainted.RestaurantsWhether you’re looking for a quick business lunch, a fun dinner with friends, or a romantic evening for two, the EpiCentre has the right restaurant for you. We recommend trying the casual American cuisine at BlackFinn, the Asian delicacies at Enso, the dramatic views and culinary genius at Mez, and the loving atmosphere at Wild Wings.ShoppingFashion, accessories, technology, the shops at EpiCentre have it all. Find something hot to wear to the bars at Revolution designer boutique, find the latest trends at Belle Ville’s European Boutique, or pick up any necessary trinkets at CVS. While you’re at it, stop by the Fudgery to try some handmade fudge, fresh squeezed lemonade, or hand dipped apples.EntertainmentWelcome to the party. The EpiCentre is full of exclusive night clubs, neighborhood pubs, and bustling bars. Start the night at Whiskey River where you can watch live music performances, sip on nightly drink specials, and ride the mechanical bull (yes, mechanical bull). After the show, head over to Aloft Hotel and w xyz barCharlotte’s new hot-spot for mixing and mingling. On Thursdays, make sure you hit up StrikeCity for “Strike and the City” where you can bowl, sip martinis, and have a great time.

Experience CharlotteFor Free

admin — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 18:32:44 +0000

These days, everyone is trying to be more money conscious. That shouldn’t stop you from going out and having a good time. Here are some great ways to spend the daywithout spending your money.

Reed Gold Mine: Jackpot! This historical site showcases America’s very first documented gold find in the United States. The best partmany of the underground tunnels have been restored for free guided tours. There are multiple nature trails and picnic areas open to the public, or you can sift for gold yourself for just 2.
Reedy Creek Nature Center and Preserve: If you’re sick of the bustle of the city, this is the place for you. This expansive park, located in Mecklenburg County, is the perfect place for fishing, hiking, sightseeing, or simply relaxing. Bring the kids for a picnic and take the dog for a walk in the parks family friendly environment.
North Carolina Transportation Museum: Imagine what our world would be like without fast and easy transportation. This spunky museum showcases just how important transportation has been to our country in the past. The museum, which used to be part of the Southern Railway, features an authentic train depot, antique automobiles, a Roundhouse with 25 locomotives, and dozens of rail cars.
James K. Polk Memorial Site: James Polk was the 11^th president of the United States, and his parents lived right here in Charlotte, North Carolina. Watch videos on Polk’s contributions and tour the land once owned by his familyall authentic, all for free.
UNCC Botanical Gardens: The Universities beautiful gardens are opened seven days a week during daylight hours for your viewing pleasure. Experience all the diversity, beauty, and education the gardens have to offer.

Calling All Sports Fans: The Best Sports Bars in Charlotte

www.charlottefineliving.com — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 22:33:58 +0000

Looking for a great place to watch the NBA playoffs? Or just want a fun bar with great drink specials? We’ve put together a list of the best sports bars in Charlotte. Some are known for their food. Others are known for their big screens and satellite television access to nearly every sporting event of the year. See if any of the spots on our list make your top picks in Charlotte.Tavern on Park: If you’re looking for a great place to watch your favorite team and want outstanding service, Tavern on Park is for you. The Park Road bar and restaurant has DIRECTV, so they’ll be broadcasting nearly every major sporting event of the year. Plus, the owner and staff are super accommodating. If the big game is on a Sunday, be sure to ask about their mimosa special – 16 for all-you-can-drink.Stool Pigeons: This uptown bar is one of the best in the city, but it requires some planning on the day of a big game. Tables fill up fast so think about getting there early to reserve a table for your friends. Stool Pigeons also has a super affordable menu and great daily drink specials, making it the perfect place to spend game day.Buffalo Wild Wings: This is a great place to watch a game and kick off your Friday or Saturday night. Located in the heart of Epicenter, Buffalo Wild Wings broadcasts the biggest games of the year and is always packed with a fun crowd.Fox & Hound: This uptown bar offers great drink specials and is known for its wide selection of tasty bar food. And nearly every seat has a view of one of their many big screen TV’s so it’s an ideal place to watch sports. They also have pool tables and 2 draft beer on Tuesdays, if you’re looking for a fun weeknight out.Your living room: Okay- this isn’t exactly a bar, but we understand that you might not want to leave your house. Sometimes sitting 5-feet away from your 42-inch plasma is the best way to watch a game. Fortunately, DIRECTV delivers the same sports coverage to your house that they do to your favorite bars. So you can drink beer, eat pizza and wear your favorite team jersey without anyone judging you.

Need a Caffeine Fix? Check Out Our Pick for the Best Coffee Shops in Charlotte.

www.charlottefineliving.com — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 22:31:09 +0000

If there’s one area where Charlotte is thriving, it’s great coffee shops. Coffee-lovers can join the locals at the ultra-cozy Smelly Cat Coffee House in NoDa or bring their own high-speed Internet to the bustling Starbucks in the heart of Dilworth. Whether you want a coffee shop that offers the strongest beans in the city or just a cool atmosphere, there are great options across the city for everyone.For the flavor-obsessed: You can find the city’s most delicious flavored coffee at Dilworth Coffee – hands down. And our personal favorite is the Roasted Caramel Vanilla. With 11 locations throughout the Charlotte area, Dilworth Coffee delivers the feel of a neighborhood coffee shop, with the variety of beverages you’d expect at a national chain. They change their flavors every day and offer free refills on their smallest coffees after 5 p.m.Couple coffee-drinkers: Caribou Coffee on East Blvd. offers the perfect setting for a daytime date or late-night cup of coffee. The popular coffee shop boasts tons of outdoor seating and is within walking distance to some great restaurants. The Atlanta-based chain also offers some surprisingly strong blends at affordable prices.Bookworms and studiers: The Starbucks on the corner of Scott Avenue and East Blvd. is your best bet. Not only is this place enormous, it also has dozens of comfy chairs and large tables. But be wary on the weekends when large groups get together to chat. It can be a little distracting. Starbucks charges for wireless internet, but thanks to CLEAR – a new high-speed internet provider in Charlotte you can get online without paying Starbucks. The CLEAR USB plugs into your laptop so you can get high-speed Internet across the city and at any of the coffee shops on our list.For everyone: The top pick in the city goes to Smelly Cat Coffee House in NoDa. Whether you show up for the great environment (music and artwork from local artists) or for the delicious desserts and espresso, this funky coffee shop has something for everyone.

Where, Oh Where, Do the Charlotte ‘Self-Employeds’ Work?

www.charlottefineliving.com — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 22:27:29 +0000

I saw an ad on TV the other day about “The New Workplace”. If you haven’t seen it, the commercial promotes the resurging popularity of shared office space amongst the self-employed.It goes something like this: Guy in a tie, late 30s, walks through a keyman-style building extolling the virtues of sharing a coffee pot and receptionist with a half-dozen strangers. He exchanges smiles and nods with the other “self-employeds” as he spins through the modern chic office/set.”You work for yourself, but you have people to bounce ideas off of,” he says. “You have clerical support, a copier and coffee, too!” But best of all: you don’t work with or for these people. You’re a self-employed, independent, freewheeling, up-by-your-bootstraps kind of honcho!It looked and sounded kind of cool. As someone who works in an industry ripe for start-ups and freelancers, I found this little community of symbiotic self-starters rather appealing. And with a recession still raging out there, you have to think this cadre of workers will continue to grow as corporate America struggles to rebuild its workforce.But I’m not sold on The New Workplace. Call me sloppy but the idea of working in PJs will never lose its luster. You wake, you walk to couch, you turn on computer, you work. And with the emergence of high-speed, portable wireless Internet services, you can take it on the road to the park, the coffee shop, the barbershop, poolside, beachside, barside you name it. Or, you can hang at the house TV on, security system armed and your business booming from the comfort of your living room.Don’t get me wrong, the shared workspace concept works for a lot of people. A self-employed friend of mine recently leased space in a New Workplace-kind of building in Mooresville, and it suits her. The Charlotte area has quite a few of them, in fact. Financial services professionals seem particularly attracted to them because of the mind-share opportunities between the vast specialists in their field. And with the added benefit of creating a professional front on a low-frills operation, The New Workplace is practically a necessity for that segment.But writers across the Queen City continue to hold onto their worn bedroom slippers, fraying bathrobes and the ability to complete five loads of laundry in a single workday. It may not be “The New Workplace”, but it sure is a recognizable one. And I’m a proud supporter.