Top 10 bars and CLubs in North Carolina

Transcription

jacreative
Top 10 bars and CLubs in North Carolina
Asheville, Raleigh, Charlotte, 7 Days
Table of contents:
Guide Description 2
My List 3
Asheville Snapshot 6
Raleigh Snapshot 12
Charlotte Snapshot 18
1
Guide Description
2
My List
contact:
tel: +1 704 333 9799
http://snugrock.com/
location:
1228 Gordon Street
Charlotte NC 28205
contact:
tel: +1 704 372 2633
http://www.wine-up.com/
location:
3306 N. Davidson Street
Charlotte NC 28205
hours:
Tu to Sa from 06:30 AM to
02:00 AM
contact:
tel: +1 704 399 4946
http://www.coyote-joes.com/
location:
4621 Wilkinson Boulevard
Charlotte NC 28208
contact:
tel: +1 704 525 8525
http://www.mensclub.com/
location:
444 Tyvola Road
Charlotte NC 28217
1 Snug Harbor
DESCRIPTION: This venue couldn't be more aptly named,
because besides being a snug, warm and intimate place, it
is also a great place to halt at after a hard day at work. And
to go with the maritime theme, this place also features some
really cool pirate motifs on the walls. Besides this, the Snug
Harbor also boasts of excellent live music performances, a
fully-equipped bar, as well as a nice outdoor patio that offers
you a space to chill out at, in case you need to get away from
the loud music and the smoke on the inside. Call for event
timings and additional information.   © wcities.com
citysearch
2 Wine Up
DESCRIPTION: Wine Up is a wine bar and so much more. In
addition to a top-notch selection of vino, patrons can enjoy a
delightful food menu and a full bar. Sip a signature martini while
listening to great music and shooting some pool. Live jazz is
the name of the game every Friday and Saturday, and on first
and third Mondays, DJs spin R&B and hip-hop. Pool tables are
$9 per hour. See website for events calendar and membership
information. © wcities.com
wcities
3 Coyote Joe's
DESCRIPTION: This popular, members-only concert venue
hosts bands like Out of the Blue in addition to its in-house
rockers who perform on the stage. Several country music
concerts also take place here. Free dance classes are offered
on ladies nights when women patrons can enter free of charge.
Carry your identity along—you can enter only if you are 18 or
above, while drinks are offered only to those over 21 years of
age. © wcities.com
citysearch
4 Men's Club (The)
DESCRIPTION: Let your imagination run wild as hot chicks shed every bit of clothing and lure you
with their luscious beauty. Sadly all you can do at this popular strip joint is imagine—try messing
with the babes and you are in trouble. Husky guards will kick you out of the place and make sure
you never return. So visit The Men's Club only if you have your senses tightly under control. There
is a steak and seafood menu on offer, but who cares! © wcities.com
3
My List - continued...
contact:
5 Asheville Pizza and Brewing
tel: +1 828 254 1281
Company
fax: +1 828 236 3140
http://www.ashevillepizza.com
DESCRIPTION: Where can you get a microbrew, order up
/
a veggie burger with soy cheese, catch CSI on the biggest
location:
675 Merrimon Avenue
Asheville NC 28804
hours:
Daily 11a-mid
contact:
tel: +1 828 252 5445
fax: +1 828 258 9092
http://www.jackofthewood.co
m
location:
95 Patton Avenue
Asheville NC 28801
television this side of the Mason-Dixon line and then see a
movie all under one roof? At Asheville Pizza, that's where! Fear
not, sports fans, that huge TV screen also broadcasts sporting
events. The menu features typical bar food like "Crazy Hot"
Wings and nachos, but it has a surprising number of vegetarian
offerings as well. Hummus, spinach burgers, veggie lasagna
and black beans with rice head up the list. If you are a movie
buff, get a load of the in-house reels. Visit the website for more
details on movie schedules and ticket rates. © wcities.com
Photo courtesy ofAsheville Pizza and
Brewing Company
6 Jack of the Wood
DESCRIPTION: Just a short walk from Pack Square, this is an intimate neighborhood pub with a
Celtic spin. English style ales are brewed on site and live music featuring Irish tunes or mountain
music gets toes tapping Wednesday through Sunday. Bread, cheese & chutney makes a great
light lunch or supper and Beef & Guinness Stew or Scilly Island Fish Cakes will stick to your ribs.
Wash down a plate of fish and chips with a pint of stout and you'll swear things are looking just a
tad greener around town. © wcities.com
hours:
M-F 4p-2a, Sa 12:30p-2a, Su
3p
contact:
tel: +1 828 257 4512
fax: +1 828 251 5652
http://www.dwtheatre.com/
location:
2 South Pack Square
Asheville NC 28801
contact:
tel: +1 919 821 0777
http://www.berkeleycafe.net/
location:
217 West Martin Street
Raleigh NC 27601
hours:
Mo from 11:00 AM to 03:00
PM,Tu to Fr from 11:00 AM
to 03:00 PM,Tu to Fr from
7 Diana Wortham Theater
DESCRIPTION: If you want the intimate, close up, more personal experience of seeing a live show,
then the Diana Wortham Theater is just what you are looking for. With only 500 seats, this theater,
which sits in the heart of downtown Asheville, gives you a BIG theater experience. Shows ranging
from Shakespeare to piano series to lively theatrical dance performances are presented on this
stage. Do not miss an opportunity to attend a performance at this theater while you're in town.
Ticket prices and show times vary according to performance. © wcities.com
8 Berkeley Cafe
DESCRIPTION: Located in the city of Raleigh is a small but
lively cafe, The Berkeley Cafe. Although small, the ambiance
definitely makes up for what the place lacks in space. Check
out some of the popular bands, such as Better Off Dead,
The Wiyos, Cougar Magnum, The Gougers and many more
strumming tunes and entertaining the crowds. The food and
drinks available here are pretty good as well, tuck into a Buffalo
Chicken Sandwich or a Berkeley Burger while you enjoy the
music. © wcities.com
Berkeley Cafe
4
My List - continued...
07:00 PM to 02:00 AM,Sa
from 07:00 PM to 02:00 AM
contact:
tel: +1 919 226 2012
http://www.carolinacinemas.c
om/raleigh/
location:
4840 Grove Barton Road
Raleigh NC 27613
contact:
tel: +1 919 515 5146
http://www.ncsu.edu/cinema/
location:
2810 Cates Avenue
Raleigh NC 27695
9 Raleigh Grande 16
DESCRIPTION: Raleigh Grande 16 is a 16-screen cinema with screens featuring the latest in
sound and digital technology. Coupled with comfortable stadium seating, refreshments and a
lounge area, this cinema is a fun place to watch a movie. Sit back, relax and rest-assured that
you won't be blocked by the person in front of you. Call for ticket prices and showing times. ©
wcities.com
10 The Campus Cinema
DESCRIPTION: The Campus Cinema is located in the Witherspoon Student Center on North
Carolina State University's main campus and hosts an eclectic mix of movies in order to educate
and promote cultural diversity to the campus community. But these films aren't only for students,
anybody is welcome to attend for only USD1 more than the student price. The scheduled films
include big Hollywood productions as well as foreign and independent films. A new movie is offered
every week, check the website for the latest movie lineup. © wcities.com
5
Asheville Snapshot
Local Info
Asheville goes by many names. It's been
called the"Paris of the South," the"New Age
Mecca" and even"America's New Freak
Capital." It's also known as the"Happiest
City" in America and included in the AARP
list of the"Best Places to Reinvent Your
Life." Its many monikers give a glimpse
of what's in store in this little city nestled
between the Blue Ridge Mountains and
the Great Smoky Mountains in the western
part of North Carolina. The architecture,
art galleries, museums, music and outdoor
recreation opportunities offer engagement
for the artsy, jazzy and sporty visitor.
Sights
The first stop on your itinerary should be
the Biltmore Estate, considered the largest
home in the country, with 250 rooms, 43
bathrooms and 65 fireplaces. It also has
expansive and well-manicured gardens as
well as a winery, stables and hiking trails.
The Grove Arcade is another architectural
landmark worth seeing, as are the Drhumor
Building, Flat Iron Building and the Vance
Monument. The Basilica of St. Lawrence
is on the National Register of Historic
Places and is a nice place to spend a
couple hours. The Central United Methodist
Church is beautiful in its own right. You
can go on a LaZoom Comedy Tour for
a more engaging way to see the city or,
alternatively, on a self-guided walking tour
of the 27 stations of the Urban Trail. Hiking
enthusiasts can go to Chimney Rock Park,
where a hike around the cliffs takes you to
a picturesque waterfall. Other good venues
for a hike are the trails of the Blue Ridge
Parkway, Botanical Gardens at Asheville
and the North Carolina Arboretum.
Dining
In the Downtown area, many of the
restaurants are clustered along North
Lexington Avenue and Biltmore
Avenue. Merrimon Avenue in the North
neighborhood also has a variety of dining
establishments. In the West, the eateries
can be found along Haywood Road. Grove
Arcade has a number of restaurants as
well.
Shopping
While there is no shopping district per se
in Asheville, Merrimon Avenue is known
as the Strip, with its numerous shopping
malls. The Grove Arcade has a lot of craft
stores, while Lexington Avenue has many
hip shops that sell vintage clothing, records
and other unique stuff. If you have a sweet
tooth, you can chocolates and truffles at
the Chocolate Fetish. For ceramics and
jewelry, head to the New Morning Gallery at
Biltmore Village.
© NileGuide
History
The Asheville area was first home to the
Cherokee Indians. The descendants of
this tribe of friendly, hard working Indian
people still live here today, co-existing with
the pioneer descendants that settled here
in the 1700s and today's constant flow of
newcomers.
Miners and botanists became the area's
first explorers. Those seeking a new home
and those wanting the health benefits of the
higher altitude and mild temperatures soon
followed them. Most of these settlers lived
peacefully with the Cherokee Indians.
In 1794, John Burton, a pioneer town
planner and real estate broker, founded
the small crossroads town in a valley,
surrounded by mountains. Asheville was
known as Morristown during its early years,
then Buncombe Courthouse. In 1797 it was
incorporated and officially named Asheville
in honor of North Carolina Governor
Samuel Ashe of New Hanover County.
Where Battery Park Hotel stands today,
was the site of Battle Square. At that time it
stood more than 100 feet above its present
height and was called"River Hill." Named
after Revolutionary War hero, Colonel
Edward Buncombe, it became Buncombe
County in 1792.
At Pack Place in Pack Square you
can observe miniature replications of
Asheville from the 1700s through the
early 1900s. Looking at these miniatures
of the downtown Asheville of long ago,
really gives a keen sense of how much it
has changed, how much has stayed the
same—and how much it all has grown.
The Vance Monument now stands on
the site of county's first courthouse in the
heart of downtown Asheville. As retailing
boomed, social centers grew around this
first courthouse.
The Roaring Twenties
Known as Asheville's Golden Era, the
1920s were truly a time of plenty. Asheville
Author Thomas Wolfe described early 20th
century Asheville as an “Oz of wonder
and a purgatory of materialism.” Douglas
Ellington's Art deco City Hall, Edwin
Wiley's Arcade and L.B. Jackson's Gothic
skyscraper are lasting monuments to this
Golden Age. These buildings and their
unique beauty have spurned the city on to
this day to renovate the downtown area to
recapture the past as well as modernize.
Beyond the Crash
The economic crash in 1930 left Asheville
deeply in debt and city officials had to
structure a repayment plan that would
take 40 years to pay off. Though not as
extravagant as the Golden era of the 20s,
the 30s were known more for its social
aspects. The famous Rhododendron Ball
and all its glamor were at its peak at this
time. Asheville was a bustle of shopping,
baseball, golfing and farming.
The Post World War II Era brought growth
once again. Subdivisions started to pop
up, more industry moved to the area and
Asheville prospered. The economic growth
continued and today Asheville is a thriving,
popular city. Its history and mountain values
mingle with the present day fast paced city
life.
Many “top places to live” lists include
Asheville; the city rarely, if ever, falls out
of the top 20. Downtown Asheville has
recently enjoyed much renovation, with
6
Asheville Snapshot continued
much more still underway. Its rapid rate of
growth means more and more traffic on
the main highways and the expressway
gets busier every day. Most mountains in
the area are spotted with homes. Many of
the outlying areas have been bought up
and new subdivisions seem to spring up
monthly.
Architecture
Asheville's downtown area never
experienced the economic boom of
the 60s and 70s, which is a good thing
architecturally speaking. At least 170
historic buildings were preserved. These
buildings make up the bustling central
business district and give the area a
retro flair. With over 160 shops and 40
restaurants in this Art Deco style area
there is plenty to explore and do. Meander
the downtown streets and enjoy the city's
historic flavor—one is almost guaranteed
to find something to suit one's interests.
For instance, the coffee shop Bean Streets,
has big comfy couches and big windows for
people-watching, not to mention delicious
coffee, sandwiches and treats. The Kress
Building, which has been beautifully
renovated, houses the work of many local
artisans and craftsmen. Stroll through the
booths packed with a variety of wares for
purchase. Pubs like Jack of the Wood offer
up home-brewed beverages. The many
antique shops that are scattered throughout
downtown are waiting for visitors to treat
themselves to that special “find.”
The Wall Street/Haywood area will treat
you to jewelry, crafts and award winning
restaurants. Lexington Avenue is perfect
for the antique lover or book lover. The
Pack Square area is packed with art and
culture: four museums: the Asheville Art
Museum, The Health Adventure, YMI
Cultural Center and the Colburn Gem and
Mineral Museum; several art galleries; and
the Diana Wortham Theater.
A city full of history, culture, heritage and
life is waiting for you in Asheville, North
Carolina. Come discover the outdoor
beauty, the southern hospitality and all the
entertainment, good food, recreation and
fun you could want.
©
Hotel Insights
If the beauty of the mountains was not
enough to make you simply sleep under
the stars, do not worry—there are lots of
different places to stay in the Asheville
area. If you like it fancy, we have that. Want
a more rustic, laid back approach? Oh yes,
we have that too. Quaint, luxurious, comfy
and kid-friendly are just a few adjectives
to describe accommodations available to
folks coming to this city that sits in a valley
surrounded by majestic mountains.
Downtown Asheville
If you want to be able walk to fine
restaurants for dinner, shop or take part of
Asheville's ever-growing nightlife, perhaps
staying right smack downtown is perfect.
The Haywood Park Hotel, and its historic
grandeur will place you in the heart of
Asheville. The Renaissance Asheville
Hotel, a more modern 12-story hotel near
downtown also caters to those looking to be
in the city for their visit. Want an awesome
view of the city? Stay at The Hill House
Bed and Breakfast Inn located just a few
minutes from downtown. Sit back and enjoy
the view with other guests from the large
rocking chair porch.
West Asheville
Just over the Smokey Park Bridge lies West
Asheville. Minutes from downtown, this
area offers many places to hang your hat as
well. The Holiday Inn Great Smokies Sun
Spree Resort offers up plenty of outdoor
recreation with an 18-hole golf course, four
clay tennis courts, and let us not forget the
two nice-sized pools. If you are looking for a
more charming, away-from-it-all type place,
venture no further than The Richmond Hill
Inn. Perched on the hill above the west
side of the French Broad River, this Inn
caters to those that demand the very best.
Private baths and air conditioning, an award
winning restaurant and gardens to stroll
beckon you to this grand 1889 Victorian.
North of Asheville
Small town appeal is what Weaverville
has to offer its guests. Like a village
of the past, this quaint town is big on
hospitality. Weaverville is only 10 minutes
from Asheville, so visitors are still close to
area attractions. The Dry Ridge Inn offers
several packages, including the “Romantic
Getaway” package and the Golf package.
The Inn on Main Street, a large Victorian
built in 1900 is a lovely place to stay, picnic
lunches can be made for guests by request.
The Secret Garden Bed& Breakfast, an
elegant 1904 home, sitting on right Main
Street is an oasis hidden from the bustle
of the busy thoroughfare outside its walls.
Guests can enjoy hors d'oeurves on the
sundeck and veranda, while bird watching.
East of Asheville
Another small community with BIG appeal
is the Town of Black Mountain. Staying
in this area gives the antique and craft
lover an area full of treasure to explore.
Enjoy your visit even more by staying at
The Red Rocker Inn, famous for its huge,
down-home southern-style meals. These
home-cooked dinners will fill that growling
stomach after a day of sightseeing. If you
really want to get away from it all, escape
to The BodhiTree Guest House. Handmade
quilts will cover you with comfy warmth and
fresh mountain air will cover your senses.
South Asheville
The Inn on Biltmore Estate is a brand-new
hotel, just opened in March of this year.
This$31 million 213-room inn offers a library
and plenty of spectacular views for its
guests to enjoy. This new accommodation
provides folks with many of activities
from which to choose, including biking,
horseback riding, hiking, swimming in the
outdoor pool, lounging in the hot tub and
working out in the fitness room. The rooms
are decorated with English and French
manor house flair, but have many modern
amenities such as WebTV and data ports.
The area around the Biltmore House also
gives visitors a variety of hotel choices
like The Quality Inn at Biltmore and The
Baymont.
Cabins and Camping
7
Do you want to take a more rustic approach
to where you stay? How about a log cabin?
The The Log Cabin Motor Court might
be your cup of tea. Built in 1930, it could
well be the longest continually run place
of its kind in all of Western North Carolina.
Scenic sites along the French Broad River
in which to pitch your tent are available
in Hot Springs. There are also primitive
campsites, full hook ups for RVs and cabins
here as well.
More wonderful campsites are available in
the Pisgah National Forest. This 500,000acre forest offers up rockslides, swimming
holes, fishing and picnic areas. Pitch
your tent, and have fun. Cherokee Indian
Reservation is a 56, 000 acre reservation
with camping and RV accommodations.
With over 31 bed and breakfasts, more than
20 hotels, several inns, and many, many
camp and cabin facilities, Asheville hollers
loudly to those looking for peace and quiet,
natural beauty and mountain town fun
and recreation. Whether you need all the
luxuries a fine hotel can offer, or a place to
sleep under the stars, this city welcomes
you with open arms.
©
Restaurants Insights
Asheville has become such a melting pot
for people of all ethnic backgrounds. With
all these different cultures, as well as,
the mountain folk of long ago—the food
available is quite eclectic. Never dull, and
always something new to find, Asheville
gives visitors a chance to savor good food
that is diverse and delicious.
Al fresco Dining
Seasonal weather allows for a lot of dining
al fresco. Bistro 1896, The Noodle Shop
and La Caterina are also located downtown
and offer outside seating.
Hannah Flanagan's Irish Pub& Restaurant
located south on Biltmore Avenue features
live music throughout the week in the spring
and summer on their outdoor stage. Enjoy
your delicious Irish style meal on the large
porch with seating area while listening
to the music. Want to eat somewhere
unique? How about the Double Decker
Coffee Company? Enjoy gourmet coffee
and pastry from this “real” double decker
bus establishment. Across the street, Blue
Moon Bakery& Cafe has outdoor tables to
savor something from their menu of coffees,
pastries and sandwiches.
Magnolia's Raw Bar& Grille has a very
unique covered patio. It has the openness
of a regular patio, yet it is covered enough
to shield diners from heat and rain.
Several other area restaurants and
eateries offer outside dining for its patrons.
Whichever place you choose, Asheville,
with its mild year round temperatures,
certainly has the weather in which to enjoy
your meal inside or out.
Upscale Dining
Looking for elegant, upscale places to
dine? Perhaps Page 23 will fit the bill.
Located inside the Haywood Park Hotel
on the lower level, this is truly a fine dining
experience of continental cuisine. Deerpark
Restaurant at Biltmore Estate is also a
very nice restaurant to dine at with its
open-air feel. Sunset Terrace at Grove
Park Inn wraps you in the beauty of the
mountains and all the elegance for which
the Grove Park Inn Resort and Spa is
famous. Gabrielle's at Richmond Hill Inn is
an award-winning restaurant that surrounds
its guests with Victorian elegance and
ambience. The uniquely-named Flying
Frog Cafe offers a truly unique, exquisite
dining experience. The menu features
Indian and other European specialties.
Another restaurant that features European
fare is The Windmill European Grill, one
of Asheville's favorite places to dine. The
Market Place has an ever-changing menu
—but it is always something delicious made
with the finest ingredients available. They
have a large selection of award winning
wines to accompany your meal.
Pubs/Brew Pubs
Looking for good food and a variety of
good brews? The Bier Garden has over
200 premier beers to choose from and
a delicious American/Continental menu.
Celtic influences are apparent at Jack of
the Wood. This downtown pub offers a
huge list of beer and spirits all handcrafted.
Wine is available too. Popular with the
college crowd, Asheville Pizza& Brewing
Co. serves up a delicious pizza and subs
with ice-cold beer. Barley's Taproom&
Pizzeria is another pizza staple here in
the city. Live music can be heard as well
covering all types of music genres. Looking
for something different? Try Perks At Night
for some wine, cheese or scrumptious
desserts. This is a great place to hit after
dinner or a movie.
Vegetarian
The Laughing Seed Cafe has long been
a favorite with area vegetarians and meat
lovers alike. Its menu features organic
ingredients and fresh produce. Cafe Max&
Rosie's is another vegetarian delight.
Excellent veggie burgers can be found
here, and they can be washed down with
something from the juice bar. Earth Fare is
no longer just a place to purchase health
foods or organic produce; it now has a
buffet bar for lunch or dinner that is certainly
stocked with an array of healthy choices.
Pizza and Such
For more casual dining, try the Mellow
Mushroom for out of this world oven fare.
Their pizza crust and calzones are made
with a secret recipe that includes fresh
spring water. Outside seating is available
on the patio in spring and summer. My
Father's Pizza is another place to enjoy
truly magnificent pizza. Always packed,
this pizzeria has a menu that includes a
vegetarian pizza with artichoke hearts and
asparagus as two of its yummy toppings.
There is also a patio for outside dining in
the warmer months.
Whatever the food or drink of your choice,
you will find something that pleases
here in Asheville. Approach your dining
experience like an adventure. You will not
be disappointed in any that you choose.
©
8
Nightlife Insights
It does not matter if you are the outdoors
type, the artsy type or somewhere in
between, Asheville has something for
everyone. With the beauty of the mountains
surrounding this city, it will not matter what
your plans for the day are, you will find
much to do, and a beautiful city to do it
in. Hospitality from the heart greets you
everywhere you go; expect adventure and
the discovery of things new and wonderful.
Grab your camera, your kayak, your hiking
boots, your shopping bag, your imagination
and your zest for life. This city is alive with
treasure and mountain fun.
Stuff for Kids
Take in an all-American past time by
catching an Asheville Tourists Minor
League Baseball Team baseball game.
These games are played at the historic
McCormick Field April through September.
Take the kids mining at Emerald Village.
They will love gem mining and taking the
underground historic tour. Ghost Town
in the Sky is sure to entertain the little
ones with rides, gunfights and even bank
robberies in an authentic, replicated old
west town. If it is sweltering outside, take
the kids inside! Inside the caves of Linville
Cavern that is! A constant 52 degrees
and filled with geological wonders, this will
provide intrigue for young and old alike. Be
sure to hold your little one tight when they
shut off all the lights on your underground
tour.
Water Fun
So many diverse water amusements await
visitors in this area. The relaxing natural
hot mineral springs in Hot Springs are a
must for those looking for a way to soak
their troubles away and feel rejuvenated.
Looking for something more rambunctious?
Try some white water rafting. There are
several outdoor fitters in the area to set
you up. The Nantahala Inn and The French
Broad Rafting Company are just two of the
many places that can get your rafting or
kayaking adventures underway. There are
many natural sliding rocks and waterfalls in
the area, as well.
Festivals
Bele Chere has got to be one of the biggest
draws to the Asheville area. Every July,
this festival brings in people from all over
the United States and beyond. Last year
alone, brought 365,000 visitors to this 3-day
event held in the heart of Asheville. Nine
downtown stages fill the days and nights
of the festival with several genres of music
making up over 100 acts. Once you take
part in this festival you will understand why
it is one of the largest, most successful
free outdoor events in the Southeast.
Goombay Festival is held in August and
is a multi-cultural event that covers the
Afro-Caribbean traditions of crafts, food,
music and dance. The Bluff Mountain
Music Festival is held north of Asheville in
Madison County, and is a great festival for
music lovers.
Nightlife
Looking for good live music, maybe a cool
drink and some scrumptious grub? You will
find that sort of fun in the many nightspots
in downtown Asheville. Be Here Now
located in the center of downtown hosts live
music acts covering jazz, rock, funk and
more. Play a game of pool and listen to the
live music offered at Stella Blue. Alternative
rock lovers and pop music are just two of
the types of music that can be heard here.
Like your music in the form of jazz? Pop
into Tressa's Downtown Jazz& Blues Club.
This is THE jazz club in Asheville. Maybe
you would like to kick your feet up and do
a little dancing? Cinjades in the downtown
area has a big dance floor and a full service
bar. A favorite dance club of the college
crowd is Scandals. A live Disk Jockey, a
café and 3 different bars make this a fun
and happening hang out. Club Hairspray is
another dance club with a live Disk Jockey,
2 bars and a café. It has an exotic feel and
serves exotic drinks. Sharkey's in West
Asheville has delicious bistro type food,
great beer and billiards. They also feature
karaoke and have foosball tables available.
An outdoor courtyard, coffeehouse with
unique flair with a variety of music is to be
had at Vincent's Ear, another local favorite.
Hiking, Horseback Riding, and Drives
You cannot come to the mountains here
in Asheville without touring the Blue
Ridge Parkway. A host of Mother Nature's
beauty and wild life await you. Take a
drive and breath in the fresh mountain
air to rejuvenate your soul. Do not forget
your camera for amazing mountain view
memories. The Appalachian Trail is a
great hiking experience. World famous and
tracking through several towns, this is a
hiking adventure for the true outdoor type. If
you love horses and beautiful scenery, then
check out Appalachian Riding Outfitters.
They have everything you need to saddle
up and take in the beauty of Nantahala
Forest.
It is hard to mention all this area holds
for those that come to visit. Truly an
outdoor wonder of lush mountain greenery
and outside splendor you will not forget
your visit for years to come. Come to the
mountains and enjoy all that you can. Like
many folks that have already visited, you
might decide to come back, and stay for
good!
©
Things to Do Insights
Everyone loves to check out a tour of
some kind when they are on vacation.
Whether it is historical, geological, aquatic,
nature or anything else, tours can offer a
wonderful look into slices of life or give one
a different perspective into other lives and
times. Asheville certainly has its share of
spectacular tours to amaze and wow the
whole family.
Biltmore Estate
Probably the most popular tour is the
Biltmore Estate. This grand castle-like
home on over 8,000 acres welcomes
850,000 guests each year. People come
back many times to take in all the beauty
and splendor of the house, gardens and
the winery. The gardens are home to 80 or
more varieties of roses and 50,000 tulips.
There are gift shops, Deerpark Restaurant,
Stable Cafe at Biltmore and the Bistro for
dining. The Inn on the Biltmore Estate is
brand new, and spectacular. Costing$31
9
million, they specialize in luxury, elegance
and the pampering of guests. There are
several tours that you can take at the estate
—the Butler's Tour, the Technologies Tour,
the Rooftop Tour and the Overview Tour—
all are highly recommended. The Annual
Festival of Flowers is a colossal abundance
of blossoms that should not be missed in
the spring. In addition, unguided tours of
The Farmer's Market or Biltmore Village
are nice ways to spend an afternoon. The
Farmer's Market is a bevy of local produce,
crafts and baked goods. The Biltmore
Village is a quaint area outside the Biltmore
Estate that is home to over 100 individual
shops of all types. More than 50% of these
businesses are handicapped accessible.
Linville Cavern
Linville Cavern offers a great look
into geological wonders of caves and
underground springs. Set your eyes on
some of the stalagmites and stalactites of
this cavern and you will be fascinated. Trout
that ventured in, but were unable to find
their way out are now blind from the lack of
sunlight, or light of any kind. Hold on tight to
someone's hand when they shut off all the
lights in the cavern while you are on tour;
you will experience pitch-black darkness
like you have never known surrounds you.
Thomas Wolfe Memorial
Looking for a taste of history? Thomas
Wolfe Memorial gives you insight into the
famous North Carolinian author's childhood
and life. Though the house, which was
Thomas Wolfe's boyhood home, was
damaged by arson in 1998, workers are
currently renovating it back to its original
state. The visitor's center is open. Another
author's home is open for tour as well—
Connemara, the home of Carl Sandburg.
Famous for his poetry and biographies, his
263-acre home is open for guided tours.
Come see this lovely old farmhouse and the
award-winning goats his wife raised on the
grounds. Smith-McDowell House Museum
is an old Victorian home built around 1840.
Considered the oldest brick residence of
Asheville, this home is worth a visit.
Park Place
Pack Place in the heart of Asheville is a
one-stop complex that house three great
museums worth checking out. The first,
The Asheville Art Museum holds various
changing exhibits throughout the year and
can be a nice way for the art enthusiast to
spend an afternoon. The Colburn Gem and
Mineral Museum gives you an inside look
at the mining of gems and the treasures
that can be found in the ground. Adults
and children alike will be able to take a
gander at gems and minerals from all over
the world. The Health Adventure is one
that kids will truly enjoy. Kids love coming
to this museum full of educational and fun
programs. Throughout the year, kids of all
ages can cure the doldrums, spark their
imaginations and invoke their sense of
curiosity. They will also enjoy the guided
hikes at the Cradle of Forestry. This fun
packed day in Mother Nature's back yard
is filled with scavenger hunts and nature
games. Located in the Pisgah National
Forest, the Cradle of Forestry is a beautiful,
fresh-air environment for kids to be kids.
The Western North Carolina Nature
Center
There are several other unguided tours
worth taking as well. The Western North
Carolina Nature Center is home to several
native creatures in their natural habitat.
Stroll through and observe the animals and
their homes. There is also a petting area
with goats and other friendly creatures.
Riverside Cemetery is the resting place for
Thomas Wolfe and O. Henry. The Southern
Highland Folk Art Center on the Blue Ridge
Parkway at Milepost 382 is a stop you will
want to make while cruising your unguided
tour of the parkway. This center has craft
demonstrations and craft exhibits, and also
features museum art/craft galleries.
You do not have to wander far in the city
or from the city of Asheville to enjoy a
wonderful tour. It does not matter what
your interests are, this town caters to many
with its diverse history and culture. Always
growing and evolving, yet holding tight to
its mountain roots, Asheville will long be a
place for visitors to build memories.
Haunted Asheville
Asheville Ghost Tours( +1 888 667 3600/
http://www.ashevilletrolleytours.com/
indexlarge.html)
Historic Trolley Tours
Asheville Historic Trolley Tours( +1 888 667
3600/http://www.ashevilletrolleytours.com/
indexlarge.html)
Tour Downtown
Asheville Tours( +1 800 713 7421/http://
www.ashevilletours.net/tours/tourType.cfm?
ttid2=2351)
Bus Tours
Greyhound and Trailways( +1 828 253
5353/http://www.exploreasheville.com/localinfo/getting-around/index.aspx)
©
Travel Tips
Getting There:
By Air: Asheville Regional Airport(+1 828
684 6768/ http://http://www.flyavl.com/
index.php) offers transportation to
destinations and connections throughout
America. Its terminal houses the following
airlines:
Continental(+1 800 525 0280/ http://
www.continental.com)
Delta(+1 800 221 1212/ http://
www.delta.com)
Northwest(+1 800 225 2525/ http://
www.nwa.com)
United(+1 800 241 6522/ http://
www.ual.com)
US Airways(+1 800 428 4322/ http://
www.usairways.com)
There are no onsite taxi or public
transportation services available at
the Asheville Regional Airport. For
information about van, limousine, and
sedan services contact Airport Ground
Transportation(+1 888 288 9915/ http://
www.ashevillelimousine.com)
Rental Car companies include:
10
Alamo(+1 800 327 9633/ http://
www.alamo.com)
Getting Around:
Avis(+1 800 831 2847/ http://www.avis.com)
Asheville is serviced by a local bus system,
which provides transportation to points
of interest in and around the city. For
information on routes, visit their website
athttp://www.asheville.nc.us/transit.htm
Budget(+1 800 527 0700/ http://
www.budget.com)
Hertz(+1 800 654 3131/ http://
www.hertz.com
By Train:
There are no train services offering
transportation to Ashville.
By Bus:
Asheville is serviced by Greyhound(+1
800 231 2222/ http://www.greyhound.com)
and Trailways bus lines that provide
transportation to destinations throughout
America.
Population: over 70,000 Average Winter
Temperature: 42 °F/ 6 °C Average
Summer Temperature: 74 °F/ 23 °C Most
Precipitation: 50 in/ 1270 mm Average
Snowfall: 14 in/ 356 mm Elevation: 2200 ft/
670 m Number of Parks: 54
For a fun alternative means of
transportation, you can also take one of
Asheville's Historic Trolley Tours(+1 888
667 3600). Tours feature local highlights
such as the Thomas Wolfe Memorial and
the downtown shopping district.
Quick Facts:
If traveling overseas, take the safety
precaution of registering your trip athttps://
www.travelregistration.state.gov and for
helpful, practical advice about traveling
technicalities and safety standards check
outhttp://travel.state.gov/.
©
Asheville is home to the world's largest
private home, the Biltmore Estate. A relic
of southern charm, this less than modest
domicile has over 250 rooms.
By Car:
Asheville can be easily accessed by I-26,
I-40 and I-240; and U.S. 19/23, 25, 25A, 70,
and 74.
Asheville by the Numbers:
Fun Facts
Electricity: 110 volts, 60Hz, standard two
pin plugs Time Zone: GMT-5 Country
Dialing Code: 1 Area Code: 828
Did You Know?
Some of America's favorite authors spent
some time in Asheville, including Thomas
Wolfe, O. Henry, and F. Scott Fitzgerald.
©
Asheville State: North Carolina Country:
United States
11
Raleigh Snapshot
Local Info
The area dubbed the ”Triangle” in the
1950s is outlined by the base cities of
Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill, which
comprise the points of a triangle when
viewed on a map. Today, the Triangle spills
over into an area far beyond the original
three points, and has evolved into a place
that is diverse, dynamic, and rich in cultural
and recreational opportunities.
Downtown Raleigh/Inside the Beltline
Raleigh, the largest city in the Triangle,
offers the most variety. The downtown
region, a colorful and historically significant
part of the city, has grown to become the
center for cultural activities. The BTI Center
for the Performing Arts is home to the
renowned North Carolina Symphony and
plays host to touring Broadway shows,
opera and ballet.
The History Museum and Natural Sciences
Museum are both free. Exploris, a
children's museum centered around global
awareness, is the first of its kind in the
world.
Major historic sites include the State
Capitol, Executive Mansion and Historic
Oakwood.
Stroll down the original cobblestone streets
of City Market, lined with enough unique
shops and galleries to fill an afternoon. The
American Indian Company sells beautiful
Native American Art and accessories.
Artspace and Raleigh Contemporary
Gallery are just two of the galleries that
illustrate this city's devotion to the creative
arts. Shop for antiques, clothing, gifts and
more at The Shops of Cameron Village,
a short drive away. If all that shopping
leaves you hungry, fear not. An impressive
array of restaurants, pubs and cafes await,
especially around Moore Square. Try Big
Ed's or Greenshields. As for the nightlife,
Raleigh is a sleepy little city no more.
Check out Southend Brewery, The Office or
one of a variety of other late-night meeting
places.
North Raleigh and Greater Raleigh
More modern, practical and utilitarian than
downtown, greater Raleigh has a lot to offer
as well. The State Fairgrounds Flea Market
holds treasures waiting for your discovery,
and Crabtree Valley Mall boasts more than
200 stores to choose from.
Sports fans and concert lovers flock to the
Raleigh Entertainment and Sports Arena,
home to Carolina Hurricanes Hockey and
N.C. State Basketball. While people here
are just starting to warm up to ice hockey,
college basketball is a big part of local
sports culture and the excitement reaches a
fever pitch during the finals.
Stock up on local produce at the State
Farmers Market or spend the day at Shelley
Lake Park. Raleigh is something different to
each person that visits.
Durham
Durham, the “City of Medicine,” is home
to almost a quarter million people and
offers an eclectic mix of white and bluecollar workers, scholars and artists and
ethnic populations. The prestigious Duke
University Medical Center, as well as most
of RTP, are all located within Durham's
borders, but it's not all about business.
There are plenty of ways to have fun here
too.
Shop at the historic Brightleaf Square, full
of locally-owned shops, restaurants and
galleries. James Kennedy Antiques, Ltd.
and Taverna Nikos Greek Restaurant are
just a sample of what this shopping district
has to offer. The Ninth Street Shopping
District and Northgate Mall will make even
die-hard shoppers cry “uncle.”
Looking for something to do? Carolina
Theatre, the Bull Durham Blues Festival,
the Durham Symphony Orchestra and
Durham Bulls baseball are just a few
choices. The Duke University Chapel
and Sarah P. Duke Gardens are sights to
behold, and the North Carolina Museum
of Life and Science will delight the child in
everyone.
There is a wide range of dining experiences
available, including the nationally known
Magnolia Grill and the fabulous Francesca's
Dessert Caffe.
Chapel Hill
A picturesque university town, Chapel
Hill is probably the most politically and
ecologically-minded city in the bunch. The
University of North Carolina Chapel Hill
and UNC Hospitals put it on the map and
the activities and attractions put it near the
hearts of residents and visitors alike.
For a real taste of what Chapel Hill has
to offer, start on Franklin Street. This is
a district full of the character that makes
this city unique, where coffeehouses line
the walks and shops offer up everything
from exotic jewelry to sporting goods.
Restaurant connoisseurs take note: there is
a restaurant that will satisfy every visitor to
Chapel Hill.
A visit to the Morehead Planetarium, the
Ackland Art Museum or one of the many
historic sites round out a trip to this fair
city. And lest we forget, Carolina Tar Heels
basketball games are a local phenomenon,
spawning a following like no other.
©
History
After the American Revolution, the former
English colony “Carolina” became the
state of North Carolina. The location of
the capital city was chosen, as so many
things are, by the wealthiest and most
prominent citizens of the state. It was in
a central location and it was hoped that
those in the thickly populated coastal region
would migrate west. Named after Sir Walter
Raleigh, one of the first English settlers
to arrive on America's shores, the city of
Raleigh was born in 1792.
The dignitaries of North Carolina's capital
city set a standard of excellence for
building the State House and Governor's
Residence, and residents followed suit.
This resulted in lovely Victorian homes and
charming shops and churches, many of
which are still enjoyed today.
12
Raleigh Snapshot continued
Fortunately for all, the city's founding
fathers held a real appreciation for the
beautiful hardwoods that were prolific in
the area. They decided from the beginning
that as many mighty oaks would stay in
place as possible, and they drew up a plan
accordingly. They dubbed Raleigh the “City
of Oaks” and amazingly, despite remarkable
growth, the original plan is still in force. In
1975, Raleigh was named the first “Green
Survival City” in the nation.
The State Capitol, a well-preserved
example of Greek-Revival style
architecture, is a National Historic
Landmark. The original State House burned
down in 1831, and the new Capitol was
finished in 1840. It is said that the ghost of
a confederate soldier roams the second
floor, making strange noises and causing
unexplained occurrences. A focal point of
the rotunda is a marble statue of George
Washington and 14 grand monuments are
on display on Union Square.
For more than 100 years, Raleigh remained
an unassuming, quiet southern city. But
by the late 1950s it became apparent to
local government and business people that
the sagging economy, based on tobacco,
textiles and furniture, needed a boost.
The Research Triangle Park(RTP) was cut
out of scrub pine forest and old farmland
just west of Raleigh. Dignitaries set out
to draw people to the area, hoping that
having Duke University, North Carolina
State University and The University of North
Carolina at Chapel Hill nearby would lure
big business. By the 1960s, a steady flow
began, and when IBM moved in, in 1969,
the dam broke.
Growth has been the watchword since;
Raleigh is one of the fastest growing cities
in the United States. The original one
square mile has expanded to more than
100. The population increased by 4.04
percent between 1980 and 1990, and more
than 30 percent between 1990 and 1999.
Long before the Europeans arrived on the
scene, the area now known as Durham was
filled with activity. Two Native American
tribes, the Eno and the Occoneechi, made
their home there. They made their mark
as well, setting down transportation paths,
patterning the use of natural resources
and establishing settlements. Their cultural
influence is still evident in local customs
and traditions found here today.
In the early 1700s, European explorers took
note of the beauty of the area, calling it “the
flower of the Carolinas.” By the mid-1700s,
settlers from every part of Great Britain had
made their way here, building gristmills
and working the land. In 1949, Dr. Bartlett
Durham provided land for a railroad station.
The city was later named for Dr. Durham.
Large plantations were built, and by 1860
Stagville Plantation was the heart of one of
the largest plantation holdings in the region.
During this period, African-Americans,
both slaves and free, came to the area
and became a major influence on southern
culture. Local cuisine, music and dance are
based on many creations that came to life
in the slave quarters of early Durham.
A cease-fire at the end of the Civil
War erupted in revelry, and the troops
celebrated with Brightleaf tobacco. The
taste caught fire, literally, and so the
tobacco industry was born. The Washington
Duke family became one of the wealthiest
in the states through the popularity of
the golden leaf. The Blackwell Tobacco
Company named its product “Bull” Durham
tobacco, and Bull Durham became the most
famous trademark in the world. Baseball's
“bull pens” are named for the trademark
that was painted behind the dugouts.
New businesses followed suit. The first mill
to produce denim and the largest hosiery
manufacturer in the world were built. Today,
Durham is known as the City of Medicine
and is home to Duke University Medical
Center and most of RTP.
In 1792, the hill where New Hope Chapel
sat was chosen as the site for the
University of North Carolina, the oldest
state university in America. As the buildings
went up, residents dubbed the town New
Hope Chapel Hill, shortened to Chapel Hill
not long after. The first students arrived in
1795 and the village began to grow. The
Old Well, once the only source water for
faculty and students, still stands on the
campus as a reminder of the University's
rich history.
The city of Chapel Hill is still a university
town, and UNC Hospitals are recognized
and respected throughout the world.
Franklin Street is the center of downtown
and runs parallel to the UNC campus.
The expected trendy college crowd can
be found here, but the charming cobbled
sidewalks and the variety of interesting
shops draw people from all walks of life.
The Triangle has expanded to include many
counties and suburbs, most notably the
towns of Apex, Cary and Wake Forest, and
the area continues to grow. What started
out as pine forest and farmland has evolved
into a hotbed of biological and technological
research and development. It is a cultural
and recreational playground as well.
©
Hotel Insights
Choosing to visit the Raleigh-Durham area
is easy, deciding where you'll stay is not.
Accommodations here range from the
luxurious suites of posh hotels and the
comfortable rooms at bed and breakfast
inns to the no-nonsense basics of budget
hotels.
Raleigh/Inside the Beltline
If a historic downtown locale is more to
your liking, the Velvet Cloak Inn is a good
choice. The understated elegance of the
Inn is enhanced by its convenient locale.
The spacious atrium at the Embassy Suites
Hotel Crabtree Valley is decorated with
colorful, tropical plants. Expect comfortable
rooms here with service to match. The
Courtyard Raleigh Crabtree Valley features
luxurious rooms that come with whirlpools
and fireplaces, perfect for those looking to
come back to their room at night and relax.
Their on-site restaurant offers an elegant
dining atmosphere and contemporary
cuisine.
Durham
Golf lovers with deep pockets will want to
make reservations at the Washington Duke
13
Inn& Golf Club. Fashioned after an English
country inn, it offers the best amenities in
regal surroundings accented by antiques
from the Duke family's private collection. Its
highly rated golf course and award-winning
restaurant make it a winner all around. The
Millennium Hotel Durham is a full-service
hotel catering to the business traveler.
Meeting and banquet rooms, conference
suites and an executive boardroom are all
available on the premises.
Chapel Hill
The Siena Hotel, an Italian boutique hotel,
and the first of its kind in the region, is
perhaps the most luxurious choice in the
Triangle. A favorite destination for lovers
looking for a romantic retreat, this hotel
is filled with plush Italian furniture and
antiques. One of the biggest draws here
is the complimentary full breakfast at Il
Palio Ristorante, the AAA four-diamond
rated restaurant located on the premises. A
historic hotel in the area is the Carolina Inn.
Opened in 1924, it is listed on the National
Register of Historic Places and offers the
chance to stay in a place reminiscent of
the Antebellum South. Located near the
Triangle is the Fearrington House Country
Inn. The elegant surroundings of this
English country inn are complemented
by the southern hospitality of the staff.
Surrounded by lush gardens, it is set a few
minutes from Chapel Hill in Fearrington
Village, a lovely place to shop and dine.
Research Triangle Park(RTP)
The Research Triangle Park brings
many visitors here with the express
purpose of attending to business, and the
concentration of hotels around RTP caters
to them. The Sheraton Imperial Hotel&
Convention Center offers easy access to
RTP, local universities and major medical
centers, with amenities aimed at business
people. The meeting space is large enough
to handle groups of all sizes, and there is
a business center on site. The Club Level
offers concierge service and a private
lounge. DoubleTree Guest Suites is a
resort-like hotel in Durham, convenient to
RTP. Business facilities and amenities are a
big attraction, as is the array of recreational
activities available. The popular Executive
Suites are big enough to handle meetings
of up to 10. After you close the deal, swim,
play tennis or hop on one of the bikes
available and explore a biking trail.
Wyndham Garden Hotel, located within
RTP, has an all-day airport shuttle, large
work areas in each room and plenty of
recreational activities to work off the
effects of a stressful day. This hotel puts a
special emphasis on female guests with its
“Women on Their Way” program.
©
Those unfamiliar with the dining scene
in the Raleigh-Durham area are in for a
treat. Looking for a fine dining experience
at a nationally recognized, award-winning
restaurant? No problem. Have a hankering
for some good old-fashioned home cooking
or want to try traditional southern soul food?
You got it. Longing for a taste of European,
Asian or Indian cuisine? You will find it all
here.
Raleigh/Inside the Beltline
If you've come here determined to sample
the local fare, start with breakfast at Big
Ed's in downtown Raleigh's City Market.
Yummy biscuits smothered in sausage
gravy or a breakfast platter of grits and
eggs will fuel you for an entire day of work
or play. Enjoy a new twist on old Chinese
at Five Star, where the dance floor fills up
at night. At Tír na nÓg, or"Land of Eternal
Youth," you'll find hearty Irish meat and
potato style dishes. The restaurant with
a funny name, Bojangles', specializes
in bringing Cajun-style comfort food to
Raleigh. The contemporary American
cuisine at Frazier's is both elegant and
eclectic.
Durham
The delicious barbecue and crisp
hushpuppies flavored with onion at
Bullock's Barbeque in Durham will bring
even die-hard nouvelle cuisine lovers back
looking for more. Nana's and Magnolia
Grill are great options for romantic dinners.
Five Star is a chic warehouse style eatery
that serves up superior Chinese fare in
an uptown setting. There are no greasy
egg rolls here; expect fresh-tasting, crisp
vegetables and tender meats in delicious
Oriental sauces accented with authentic
Far-East spices. Fairview is a cozy place
to enjoy your evening. With a rustic interior
and many savory options on the menu, it is
a mainstay in Durham. Taverna Nikos offers
flavors from the Mediterranean, with classic
dishes like Spanikopita and Lamb Kebabs.
Chapel Hill
Il Palio Ristorante, in Chapel Hill, is a
great choice for intimacy and romance;
its beautiful décor, magnificent Italian
dishes and superior wines sooth the soul.
Pasta, seafood and meats are given
the star treatment and the desserts are
worth waiting for. Carolina CrossRoads
Restaurant& Bar is a popular spots for
fine dining. Enjoy your meal with some
live music on the deck at Top of the Hill.
A popular late-night option is the Spotted
Dog, which has a variety of homemade
dishes available. Stock up on all the
Mexican you need at Cosmic Cantina,
where traditional fare like burritos and
quesadillas are served with cold glasses of
sangria.
©
Nightlife Insights
The Raleigh-Durham region has grown
exponentially over the years, due greatly to
the explosive success of Research Triangle
Park(RTP). Thousands of acres devoted
to biological and technological research
and development have spawned some
big breakthroughs and gained the respect
and admiration of cities the world over.
This has taken some serious wherewithal
and a lot of hard work, but if Triangle
residents work hard, they play harder, and
the entertainment industry has grown right
along with area business.
Sports
The Triangle is nothing if not sports-minded,
and there are choices to suit fans of any
stripe. The Entertainment and Sports
Arena(ESA) is the state-of-the-art home to
14
the NHL's Carolina Hurricanes, Carolina
Cobras Arena Football and N.C. State
Men's Basketball. N.C. State Wolfpack
football, played at Carter Finley Stadium, is
a favorite of local fans. Wolfpack fever hits
hard every fall and doesn't let up until the
end of the season.
Baseball fans can catch a Mudcats game
at Five County Stadium or see the Durham
Bulls play at the Durham Bulls Athletic
Park. Carolina Courage women's soccer,
UNC Chapel Hill's Tar Heel sports and
Duke University's Blue Devil football,
baseball and soccer keep sports fans busy
all year round. If none of these options
appeal, maybe a stock car race at Wake
County Speedway is the ticket.
Theater
Theatergoers will be pleased with the
fine options available. The beauty of the
Carolina Ballet, the drama of the National
Opera Company and the elaborate sets and
costumes of the Broadway South Theatre
Series are just a few of the options at the
Progress Energy Center for the Performing
Arts in Raleigh. Durham Performing
Arts Center showcases the raw talent of
amateurs as well as seasoned performers.
For tastes that run beyond the mainstream,
check the play list at Manbites Dog Theater
or Playmakers Repertory Company.
Comedy and Music
If you just want to laugh, Charlie
Goodnight's Restaurant and Comedy Club
dishes up the best in stand-up and Comedy
Sportz is improvisational comedy that
encourages audience involvement.
The South is commonly associated with
the strumming sounds of country and
bluegrass, but they're far from the only
choices in these parts. You're just as likely
to find a big-name rock band as a country
singer on the stages at the ESA and the
Alltel Pavilion at Walnut Creek.
The North Carolina Symphony performs
at Meymandi Concert Hall and a number
of other venues across the Triangle. The
Amphitheatre at Regency Park, completed
in 2001, is the site of Summerfest, a series
of outdoor concerts in June and July that
invites listeners to pull up a lawn chair or
blanket and enjoy the symphony under the
stars.
Museums and Galleries
Whether you're a history buff, science fan
or art lover, or you're just trying to find a
place to take the kids on a rainy day, there
is a museum for you in the Triangle. Learn
about local history at the North Carolina
Museum of History or the Chapel Hill
Museum. Investigate the world of science
at the North Carolina Museum of Life and
Science, the Museum of Life and Science
in Durham, or the Morehead Planetarium in
Chapel Hill.
Celebrate art at the North Carolina Museum
of Artor the Contemporary Art Museum in
Raleigh, the Ackland Art Museum at UNC
Chapel Hill or the Duke University Museum
of Art.
The younger set will especially enjoy
Exploris, an interactive museum that
aims to increase global awareness. If fate
finds you out of town, Discovery Place
in Charlotte is one of the top hands-on
science museums in the United States.
Festivals
There is always something happening in
the Capital City and surrounding areas.
Celebrations, festivals and outdoor
events begin with First Night Raleigh
and run straight through to the annual
holiday parades, celebrations and tree
lightings. The arrival of spring is cause for
celebration, and Artsplosure in downtown
Raleigh kicks it off.
©
Downtown and Greater Raleigh are filled
with great touring opportunities. From
Historic Downtown to the lively Chapel
Square, you will have much to see and do.
North Carolina Museum of History
Downtown, tour the Executive Mansion,
built in 1861, and get an inside look at how
the governor lives, then head to the nearby
State Capitol Building, considered one of
the best-preserved examples of Greek-
Revival style architecture in the country.
Dine at the Five Star Chinese restaurant.
The North Carolina Museum of History
and the North Carolina Museum of Natural
Sciences are also nearby.
Exploris
Those with children can opt to visit Exploris,
an interactive museum, or the nearby North
Carolina Museum of Art. History buffs
will want to head to Historic Oakwood,
known for its beautiful Victorian homes.
Catch a performance of the North Carolina
Symphony, then dine at Bojangles', which
serves classic comfort food.
Brightleaf Square
Brightleaf Square, in the Durham Historic
District, is a collection of renovated brick
buildings that house an interesting variety
of shops and restaurants, like Taverna
Nikos. Visit the lush Sarah P. Duke Gardens
and the Gothic Duke University Chapel.
The displays at the interactive Museum
of Life and Science make it popular with
visitors and locals alike.
Keenan Memorial Stadium
The Morehead Planetarium in Chapel Hill is
one of the largest in the country. There are
both old and new paintings on display at the
Ackland Art Museum, which is close to Top
of the Hill and Il Palio Ristorante. Tour the
beautiful Keenan Memorial Stadium, home
of the Carolina Tar Heels.
Lincoln Theatre
The Marble Kids Museum& Wachovia IMAX
Theatre is popular with families. Its displays
encourage education through hands-on
experience. Dine at George's Garage or
Tipton's Chophouse. Stop in for a show
at the Lincoln Theatre or the Meymandi
Concert Hall.
Those who prefer an organized tour may
want to give one of these professional
companies a call. Take a guided walking
tour of Historic Raleigh, a train tour or a
trolley tour. The city is also easy enough to
explore on your own by foot.
Walking Tours
Historic Tours of Raleigh( +1 919 829 4988)
15
Another tasty option is the Triangle Food
Tour which conducts walking tours of
downtown Raleigh every Thursday and
Saturday. Space is limited and reservations
are required.
Bus Tours
Coach America(+1 800 222 4793/ http://
www.coachamerica.com/)
USA Luxury Tours(+1 919 490 3166/ http://
www.usaluxurytours.com/)
Airport Map& Information:http://
www.airguideonline.com/airports/
airport_rdu.htm
Airport Services:http://
airport_rdu2.htm
From the Airport
Raleigh Showtime Trolley(+1 919 828 7228/
www.raleigh-nc.org/transit/trolley.htm) Night
time route between Glenwood Ave, City
Market and other downtown spots.
Southern Tours(+1 919 683 8791/ http://
www.southerncoach.com/)
Limo: A Krystal Limousine(+1 252
885 2526) Allstar Limousine&
Transportation Co.(+1 919 875 0004)
Apple Transport(+1 919 467 6770) Brad's
Airport Transportation(+1 919 493 5890)
Emerald Limousine(+1 919 477 4096)
White Horse Transportation(+1 919 782
5893) Charlene's Safe Ride, LLC(+1
919 309 7233/+1 800 835 8053/ http://
www.charlenesaferide.com)
Acorn Express(+1 919 782 3885/ http://
www.bytrain.org/passenger/groupinfo/
contact.html)
Boat Tours Tom& Jerry Charter Boats(+1
919 489 9688)
Trolley Tours
City of Raleigh Trolley Tours(+1 919 857
4364/http://www.raleigh-nc.org/)
©
Travel Tips
Getting There
Air
Raleigh-Durham International
Airport(RDU)+1 840 2123http://
www.rdu.com/
RDU is located nine miles from downtown
and is serviced by the following airlines:
AirTran(+1 800 247 8726/ http://
www.airtran.com) Air Canada(+1 800
776 3000/ http://www.aircanada.ca)
Continental(+1 800 525 0280/ http://
www.continental.com) Delta(+1 800 221
1212/ http://www.delta.com) Northwest(+1
800 225 2525/ http://www.nwa.com)
Southwest( +1 800 435 9792/http://
www.southwest.com) United(+1 800 241
6522/ http://www.ual.com) US Airways(+1
800 428 4322/ http://www.usairways.com)
Located on Rt. 70& Rt. 1. Near Rt. 40& Rt.
440
Getting Around
Shuttle: RDU Terminal Shuttle Buses run
between all terminals.
Train Tours
By Car
Airport Transportation:http://
airport_rdu3.htm
J&R Charter Service Inc(+1 919 477 2782/
http://www.worldpointe.com/)
Historic Tours of Raleigh(+1 919 829 4988)
Train: Amtrak(+1 800 872 7245/ http://
www.amtrak.com)
Taxi: RDU Airport Taxi Service(+1 919 840
7277/ http://www.rdu-taxi.com/) Operated
by Dulles Airport Taxi, Inc. They provide
service to and from RDU. Reservations are
available. Terminal A taxi dispatch booth
is located near the Terminal A extension
entrance. Terminal C dispatch booth is
located on the terminals lower level.
Train
Bus
Capital Area Transit(Raleigh Public
Transportation)(+1 919 828 SCAT(7228)/
http://www.raleigh-nc.org/transit)
Traffic Information
To find out city traffic information go tohttp://
www.traffic.com.
travelregistration.state.gov and for
outhttp://travel.state.gov/
©
Fun Facts
Corporate Taxi Co.(+1 919 876 3337/ +1
919 876 1227) USA Taxi Airport Express(+1
919 877 0515) Taxi RDU(+1 919 848 8488/
http://www.taxi-rdu.com)
Raleigh/Durham
Bus: Triangle Transit Authority(TTA)(+1 919
549 9999/ http://www.ridetta.org/) offers
public van transportation between Raleigh,
Durham, Chapel Hill, Cary and Research
Triangle Park and RDU. TTA service is
USD1.50 per one-way trip. Greyhound(+1
800 231 2222/ http://www.greyhound.com)
Raleigh/Durham by the Numbers:
Car Rental: Alamo(+1 800 327 9633/ http://
www.alamo.com) Avis(+1 800 831 2847/
http://www.avis.com) Budget(+1 800 527
0700/ http://www.budget.com) Dollar(+1
800 4000/ http://www.dollar.com) Hertz(+1
800 654 3131/ http://www.hertz.com)
National(+1 800 227 7368/ http://
www.nationalcar.com)
State: North Carolina
Country: United States
Population: 500,000
Elevation: 376 feet
Average Annual Precipitation: 41.8 inches
Average January Temperature: 40 degrees
F
Average July Temperature: 79 degrees F
Quick Facts:
Major Industries: Oil, Electronics,
Automobile manufacturing, Agriculture
mining, Processing and packaging, High
Tech, R& D
16
Ethnic Mix: 82.5% Caucasian, 15% African
American, 1.4% Asian, 1.1% Hispanic
Area Code: 919
Orientation:
Did You Know?
Electricity: 110 volts, 60Hz, standard two
pin plugs
Raleigh was named after Sir Walter
Raleigh. Word has it he spread his
cloak over a mud puddle to keep Queen
Elizabeth's feet dry, in addition to
discovering tobacco(or so the legend goes).
Raleigh, the capital, and Durham are in
east-central North Carolina. North Carolina
is on the Atlantic coast and is bordered by
Virginia, Tennessee and South Carolina.
©
Time Zone: GMT-5
Country Dialing Code: 1
17
Charlotte Snapshot
Local Info
The largest city in North Carolina, Charlotte
was famous as a major gold producer in
the 18th century. Today it's better known
for NASCAR and for the thriving industry
and commerce the city has developed.
Charlotte is a place where travel for
pleasure is often mixed with business-and it shows. The city in the last decade
has sprouted numerous skyscrapers and
huge shopping malls that keep its economy
humming.
Dining and Shopping
Charlotte has a beautiful night skyline
that serves as a backdrop for dining and
drinking at the EpiCentre, which claims
it's"where Charlotte nightlife begins."
Located in the uptown area, close to many
business headquarters, the complex
includes dozens of restaurants, shops and
clubs spread over half a million square feet.
The hub is accessible by the Lynx light rail
line and is an ideal place for a business
dinner, happy hour drinks or a night of
clubbing. Restaurant options here include
American, Mexican, Japanese Italian
and more. The EpiCentre also houses
an assortment of boutiques and shops
selling everything from designer fashions to
electronics.
Sports
Sports lovers find Charlotte a haven. There
are places to play and places to watch,
with many events happening here yearround. The PGA makes a regular stop in
Charlotte and there are numerous golf
courses spread over the area. There
are also the NFL Panthers and the NBA
Bobcats. There's a major NASCAR event at
Charlotte Motor Speedway and racing fans
will want to visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame
located downtown.
Sights
As in any ambitious city that aspires to
national prominence, the arts are well
represented in Charlotte, with regular
performances of ballet, Broadway shows
and the symphony orchestra. Uptown,
the Mint Museum has a well-regarded
collection of American art, crafts and
design, all housed in a building of dramatic
architecture. If you're an aviation buff, the
Carolinas Aviation Museum, adjacent to
the airport, is a must-see. It has displays
of historic planes, fighter jets, helicopters
and more. Photographers and aspiring
filmmakers will enjoy the Light Factory, one
of only four museums in the U.S. dedicated
to contemporary film and photography.
Kids will be riveted by the performances
at ImaginOn, where new educational
programs and exhibits open weekly.
Also popular with young travelers is the
Discovery Place science museum. There
are hands-on exhibits, a massive aquarium
and a tropical rainforest. The crowd favorite
here is the hair-raising static-electricity
demonstration. Also make sure to check
out the IMAX Dome Theatre, which shows
those amazingly immersive movies on its
three-story screen.
If the kids get restless, take them to
Carowinds, an amusement park that dubs
itself"the thrill capital of the Southeast."
Located near the south state line, it has
13 roller coasters, various other thrill rides,
children's rides, a water park, family shows,
restaurants, and numerous concession
stands for corn dogs and cotton candy.
© NileGuide
History
The Crossroads
Charlotte was born in the mid-Eighteenth
century, at the crossroads of two great
Native American trade routes. Scots-Irish,
German, English, and French Huguenot
settlers followed the Great Wagon Road
into the Carolina foothills, where the
Catawba Indians made their home. The
settlers set up shop at the aforementioned
intersection of trade routes, recognizing
the potential of the fertile land and central
location.
To further that potential, upon the
settlement's incorporation in 1768, settlers
christened their home Charlotte Town,
after Charlotte Sophia of MecklenburgStrelitz, wife of King George III. As their
community grew in size and importance,
the settlers were itching for a county of their
own. So as to expedite the fulfillment of
their wishes, they dubbed the prospective
county Mecklenburg. Before long, it
became apparent that Mecklenburg County
needed a county seat, and Charlotte
was so designated in 1774, thanks to the
timely construction of a modest log cabin
courthouse. Revolution
Despite those early efforts to honor and
respect the monarchy, the citizens of
Charlotte soon yearned for independence.
It is said that in May 1775, they drafted the
Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence,
pronouncing the sovereignty of their city
and county. While no concrete record of this
mysterious"Meck-Dec" exists, the people
of Charlotte recall the story proudly, and
the date of its signing is commemorated
on the North Carolina state flag. When the
American Revolution began in earnest,
Charlotte proved to be a key location. Both
American and British forces set up camps
in the vicinity, and many a bloody battle
was fought nearby. The people of Charlotte
fought alongside Catawba Indians, both
parties working together to defeat the Brits.
Their wily efforts worked: British General
Cornwallis famously called Charlotte"a
damned hornet's nest of rebellion."
Gold!
After independence, Charlotte became
the site of one of the first confirmed gold
finds in U.S. history. The year was 1799,
and a young boy returned from a fishing
trip with a curious 17-pound chunk of rock.
It was used as a doorstop forthree years
before a jeweler happened upon the chunk
and declared it solid gold! Throughout
the next century, gold was the talk of
Charlotte. Fortune seekers from all over
the world poured into the city, and the
federal government saw fit to construct a
new branch of the U.S. Mint here. While
the Charlotte Gold Rush was severely
overshadowed by the more famous gold
discoveries out West, this episode forever
remains an integral part of the city's rich
history.
Early Political Maneuvering
18
Charlotte Snapshot continued
Boom
With the gold rush and the Civil War
having lured people and resources into
the area, Charlotte expanded greatly in
the years that followed. In the latter half
of the Nineteenth Century, the city grew
into an important ginning and distribution
center for the region's cotton industry,
thereby becoming an integral hub for the
nation's burgeoning railroad system as
well. Charlotte was soon an ideal place
for textile manufacturing, and by the turn
of the century, over half of all U.S. textile
production occurred in and around the city.
After the First World War, the growth of
interstate highways like I-85 and I-77 added
to Charlotte's transformation into an allaround distribution powerhouse. To keep
up with the economic boom, a branch of the
Federal Reserve Bank was instated.
Charlotte Today
In recent decades, Charlotte's distribution
networks and control over high finance
have done nothing but grow. While the
city has become an international banking
capital(home to Fortune 500 companies
like Bank of America and Wachovia), the
people of Charlotte have not forgotten
their rich and tumultuous history. Locals
cherish General Cornwallis' characterization
of their city, and continue to celebrate
Charlotte's revolutionary reputation.
Contemporary reminders of this section of
the city's storied past include major transit
corridors like Independence Boulevard and
Freedom Drive, commercial hubs such
as the Independence Center, community
gathering places like Freedom Park and
Independence Park, and, of course, the
NBA's long-time Charlotte Hornets. The
old mint no longer functions as such, but
in its place, the Mint Museum of Craft
and Design and the Mint Museum of Art
stand as prominent tributes to Charlotte's
fabled gold rush and its subsequent
establishment as a city of serious financial
weight. Charlotte's people have not lost
their Revolutionary War-era fighting spirit
either. When the Hornets were hijacked
to New Orleans in 2002, Charlotte wasted
no time securing a new NBA team to call
its own. The Charlotte Bobcats entered
the league in 2004, and continue to thrill
audiences at Charlotte Bobcats Arena. For
NASCAR fans, Charlotte is something of
a Mecca as well. It is home to the world
famous Lowe's Motor Speedway and
around 75% of the American motor sports
industry's employees are headquartered in
and around downtown Charlotte.
©
Hotel Insights
Charlotte is a city rich in history. The city's
lodging and hospitality offerings give both
the business and leisure traveler countless
options ranging from the most humble to
the ultra swank. Whether it is four- and fivestar hotels, luxe-plush resorts or simple and
basic B&B's, Charlotte has them all.
Plaza-Midwood
Over the years, this neighborhood has
developed into a close-knit community that
thrives with bohemian culture and business.
Many of the stores are homey restaurants
or alternative art and music shops that
flourish because of the area's diversity. The
nearby VanLandingham Estate includes a
bed and breakfast at the historic Harwood
Home which sits on five acres of welltended grounds.
Uptown
Despite the name, this neighborhood is
located in the center of Charlotte's business
sector and has the majority of the city's
skyscrapers. There is also a large selection
of hotels and inns featuring 19th century
Queen Anne architecture. Decadent interior
design and lavish service set the Dunhill
Hotel, the Omni Charlotte Hotel, and
Charlotte Marriott City Center apart from
the bustle of surrounding business. The
Blake Hotel is ideal for conferences as it
is centrally located to many of the largest
attractions.
Dilworth
A popular choice among young
professionals, this former “streetcar suburb”
of Charlotte has maintained its popularity
because of its traditional atmosphere and
architechture. Just minutes outside of the
center, the Morehead Inn is known for its
unique Southern hospitality and service,
and is a favorite for private parties.
Ballantyne
This area has experienced a great deal of
growth in the past few years and is a mix
of residential and high-end commerical
development. Featuring a spa, exercise
facilities, and Golf Club at Ballantyne
Resort, the Ballantyne Resort Hotel offers
a full range of activities for the business
or leisure traveler. The Staybridge Suites
Charlotte-Ballantyne provides business
travelers all the comforts of home in a
convenient location.
Elizabeth
Formerly the home of Elizabeth College,
this neighborhood has preserved many of
the impressive houses and buildings that
once made it renowned as an exclusive
residential area. One such example is Chez
Arlaine Bed& Breakfast, a converted home
built in 1910 with four private rooms in a
verdant garden setting.
South End
The historic trolley system of Charlotte has
its roots in South End. Currently this system
is under construction to build a new lightrail called Lynx. Ascot Inn is an ideal choice
for a romantic getaway for two, and has the
added bonus of being close to shops and
restaurants in the Uptown area.
NoDa
NoDa is the primary arts district for
Charlotte, where many galleries and
performance arts venues have appeared
in place of former textile manufacturing
plants. Concentrated on North Davidson
Street between 35th and 36th Streets,
there is little in the way of accomodations in
the area. It may be best to visit during the
day and evening and head back to a hotel
in nearby Uptown for the night. Days Inn
Charlotte Central would be a solid choice.
South Park
This is the place to go for upscale shopping
and luxury services. The Charlotte Marriott
SouthPark maintains a one-to-one ratio
of employees to guests, making it one
of the best places for a relaxing retreat.
The Hampton Inn& Suites Charlotte/South
Park offers the all the amenities of a fullservice hotel, including take-away breakfast
19
baggies for the traveler on the go. Just a
few minutes away is Ms. Elsie's Caribbean
Bed& Breakfast, which retains tropical
tradition and soul in the middle of city
bustle.
University
Deriving its name from its proximity to the
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
and University Research Park, this area
is also close to Concord Mills, one of the
largest tourist attractions in North Carolina.
Comfort Inn UNCC is a great match for
both vacation and commercial travelers
and provides amenities for longer stays.
The Hilton Charlotte University Place sits
on lakefront property and offers extensive
meeting space and several ballrooms.
Myers Park
Considered one of the most desirable
residential areas of the city, Myers Park
is filled with some of the city's oldest
houses, enormous oak trees, and classic
architecture. Listed on the National Register
of Historic Places, Duke Mansion is an
excellent embodiment of this style and
offers personal service in a luxurious
setting.
©
Galleries, unique boutiques, and cafes
abound, providing passersby with colorful
streets to accompany their stroll. Local art
lovers frequent The Evening Muse for the
creative atmosphere that stems from live
music, artwork and stiff cups of Joe. With
eateries named the Mellow Mushroom and
the Smelly Cat Coffee House, there is no
wonder why the sidewalks are full of people
on a sunny day. If you have already had a
busy day, a number of inexpensive lunch
spots like Boudreaux's Louisiana Kitchen
and Cabo Fish Taco will give you a chance
to rest your feet. Myers Park
It is worth a drive through this neighborhood
just to admire the beautiful homes that line
the curved streets. Park your car and enjoy
a walk below the aged oak trees, and for
a casual but classy Sunday brunch stop at
Providence Café to indulge in everything
from sandwiches to prime rib. If you decide
to see a show at one of the local theaters,
have dinner at Volare, a homey Italian
restaurant that uses grade-A products.
Most of Myers Park's nightspots double as
restaurants. For a nice British breakfast
and evening Guinness try Big Ben, while
Jackalope Jacks serves up sweet cocktails
like the Bikini and Chocolate Martinis.
Plaza Midwood
You will find everything that a city center
should have in this longtime on-thego district. Catering to any and all food
lovers' taste buds, eat comfort food at Zink
American Kitchen, have Spanish appetizers
and a glass of up-scale wine at Arpa, or
indulge in food from around the world at
Blue. For the after-dinner treat swing by
Cans Bar and Canteen, but don't expect
to order a draft beer as they specialize in
canned brews. For a little late-night 80s
dancing and a spandex adventure continue
on to the Breakfast Club. As if the options
don't already span across the board, relish
the new-age ambiance at Liquid Lounge.
While people thought this eastside
neighborhood would mature into Myers
Park's sister district, it never developed
in the same way. Instead, it acts as
a bohemian alter ego catering to the
international tongue. For the unique
atmosphere that only a home/art store
turned restaurant can create, try LuLu
or Creation. For both veggies and
carnivores, Dish serves up inexpensive
southern comfort food in a funky, localinfluenced atmosphere. In such a transition
neighborhood, you will have little trouble
finding a creative bar or lounge to enjoy
after-dinner drinks. For a sweet treat try
the Fire and Ice lounge, while the Thomas
Street Tavern is always brimming with
locals who stop in for a beer.
Noda
SouthPark
Be swept into vibrant cafés and a bustling
nightlife when visiting this fringe district.
Taking its name from the SouthPark Mall,
this upscale area boasts history and class.
Uptown
Since it is home to the historic trolley, take a
ride on an age-old artifact before indulging
in a fine dining experience. For a romantic
dinner for two eat at La Bibliothéque and be
treated to delicious French/American food
in an alluring setting. Zebra, also serving up
French cuisine, is popular for its delicious,
contemporary dishes and a wine list that
extends several hundred bottles. With a
rustic décor and African wall adornment,
make sure to book a table early and avoid
the long wait. For Seafood dishes with a
high-society crowd, there are an abundance
of choices. Upstream offers an alwayschanging menu, while The Palm is known
for its oversized lobster dishes. You can
find both wine bars and movie theaters, but
this district is generally known for its A-list
shops and dainty dining.
University City
Home to the University of North Carolina,
this area is dominated by cheap eats and
neighborhood hangouts. The Old Hickory
House is a longtime favorite, filling empty
stomachs with BBQ ribs, and making sure
that everyone is enjoying a Western, fingerlicking good time. Catering to the large
population and diverse taste buds and
ideologies, enjoy new-age Asian cuisine
at Udipi Pure Vegetarian Cuisine, curry
at Bombay Cuisine and the hot sauce
that will surely light your mouth afire at
Monterrey Restaurante Mexicano. A
university district would not be the same
without the businesses that allow young
adults to let some steam off. Check out JB'z
Beach Club for billiards, blues and cheep
beer, or swing by The Wine Vault to share a
bottle of wine with someone special.
Dilworth
Developed in 1890, this was Charlotte's first
streetcar suburb. Now, unique architecture
and a thriving, youthful neighborhood
make Dilworth the perfect place to stroll
through shops and choose from dozens
of international eateries. For a daytime
break eat at Thai Taste, one of the oldest
Thai places around. If you want something
lighter, grab a quick treat to keep your
momentum going at Dilworth Coffeehouse.
With an atmosphere that resembles that of
20
the beat generation, and an unforgettable
aroma, it's the perfect side stop. Another
hip and delicious eatery is a converted
house called 300 East. Expect a diverse
clientele, menu and plenty of liquor to
keep conversations running long. For
other eclectic international menus dine
at Nikko, Bonterra, and Sole Spanish
Grill. With almost as many nightspots as
restaurants you will have an easy time
finding somewhere to let loose. For Beer,
BBQ and Bikes, stop at Mac's Speed Shop
and be taken in by the motorbike relics that
cover the walls. The Tremont Music Hall
boasts live entertainment.
Elizabeth
In addition to the grits, cornbread, and
chitlins that are staples in southern cuisine,
Elizabeth is host to some of the finest
restaurants in Charlotte. Deriving its name
from the local university, Elizabeth College,
which has since been incorporated into the
local Roanoke College, this area has long
been a choice of residence for the local
elite. However, these days you don't have
to break the bank just to fill your stomach.
Southern fare is still alive and well at the
The Cajun Queen, where barbeque shrimp,
oysters, and the famous Dixie beer can all
be enjoyed with live jazz seven nights a
week. If you decide to expand your borders,
Cuisine Malaya, a short distance from
Independence Park, serves up spicy and
flavorful curries, sushi, and other dishes
from across the Asian continent. Like many
of the restaurants in the area, La-tea-da's
teahouse is located in a historic home, and
offers traditional catering and event hosting.
Also capturing the classical limelight is
Carpe Diem, where exquisitely presented,
time-honored local cuisine is served in a
romantic setting. For the younger crowd,
the ever-popular Loft 1523 offers many
creative libations as well as a high-energy
social scene with live music five nights a
week.
Ballantyne
Springing from the creative minds of
Charlotte city planners, the Ballantyne area
accommodates the acclaimed Ballantyne
Resort and Golf Course as well as the
accompanying Ballantyne Village. As a
result, most of the dining options Ballantyne
has to offer are in these two areas. Villa
Antonio located within the village, seeks to
transport you back to Northern Italy with an
authentic Italian menu, a traveling guitarist
and candlelit tables offering the perfect
ambiance. For those watching their weight,
but still want to be satisfied, Doc Green's
Gourmet Salads offers pleasant healthconscious options. Starving after a round
of golf? Relax your feet with a glass of wine
within the lodge at the Ballantyne Resort,
where acclaimed dining choices include
the Gallery Restaurant, renowned for its
exquisite presentation and service. Back
Yard Burger, open for breakfast, lunch,
and dinner indulges those with a distinctly
American palate.
South End
South End is a historic part of town that has
grown out of the ignominy of its industrial
past, into a stylish, bustling new identity.
That means that there are plenty of new
restaurants and bars to try out, running the
gamut from cheap and dingy to pricey and
highbrow. Most of the food can be found
along a stretch of South Boulevard that
starts with Carabbas Italian Grill, which is
part of an upscale Sicilian-American chain.
Down the road is Pewter Rose Bistro,
offering expensive fusion cuisine and a
huge wine list. At night the Pewter Rose
morphs into Tutto Monde, a slick nightclub
that continues to serve the Bistro's dishes.
For somewhat cheaper fare, go a block
further to Pike's Old Fashioned Soda Shop
where you can get a BLT and, obviously,
a tall soda. Pike's is neighbors with the
Tyber Creek Pub, an Irish bar perfect
for a late night drink. Walk a few more
blocks to the only slightly tamer Tea ReX
Teahouse, where you can munch muffins
while listening to live music. The Villa
Antonio Restaurant brings fine Italian
cuisine and an atmosphere that ensures
a long stay. You won't find as much off of
South Boulevard. Quaint but hip Camden
Road runs parallel for part of its length,
and features the beautifully cheap Price's
Chicken Coop, where you can fill up for a
fiver but won't find a place to sit. Also on
Camden is Queen's Beans Coffee, offering
fair-trade coffee and a seating area where
you can prop your feet up and rejuvenate.
©
Nightlife Insights
Charlotte is a regional center for museums,
art, music, theater, sports, and other
cultural and entertainment activities. The
city's diverse population is able to support
a variety of entertainments, some of which
are the envy of the entire country.
Sports
Since the team's inception in 1993, the
NFL's Carolina Panthers have called
Charlotte home. The Panthers wow
crowds on many a Sunday on the field
at Charlotte's Bank of America Stadium.
For basketball fans, the NBA Charlotte
Bobcats and the WNBA Charlotte Sting
keep audiences on their feet year round
at Charlotte Bobcats Arena. Charlotte, of
course, is one of the prime destinations for
NASCAR fans. Racing enthusiasts can go
hog wild at the world famous Lowe's Motor
Speedway.
Music
The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra has
entertained the people of Charlotte for
decades, performing a lengthy series of
classics(from Tchaikovsky to Wagner) every
year at historic Ovens Auditorium, and the
architectural marvel Belk Theatre(where
even the cheapest of seats are never
more than 135 feet from the stage). Opera
Carolina, based in Charlotte, performs
four epic productions at Belk Theatre
each year(from"Porgy and Bess" to"La
Boheme"), as well as an annual holiday
production of"Amahl and the Night Visitors,"
and an extensive series of Education&
Outreach productions all over both North
and South Carolina.
Giving Belk Theatre a run for its money,
Tremont Music Hall likes to say that
here,"you're never more than50 feet from
the stage." At such close range, audiences
are continually bowled over by their favorite
national touring rock bands(like X, MXPX,
and KMFDM). The Visulite Theatre, hosts
21
rock bands as well(such as the Reverend
Horton Heat and Birdmonster), this time
in a retired movie house setting. The
Milestone Club provides Charlotte with easy
access to the underground music scene,
playing host to punk and metal bands from
all over the world, not the least of which are
the Melvins and Green Milk for the Planet
Orange. For folk aficionados, The Evening
Muse just might be a home away from
home. Up-and-coming singer-songwriters
like Gary Jules and Dan Bern take the
stage at this intimate venue, where the
walls are adorned with the works of local
artists.
Comedy
The Comedy Zone brings Charlotte
the most sought-after national touring
comedians, from Dave Chappelle to Jerry
Seinfeld. The Charlotte Comedy Theater,
on the other hand, is a local improve troupe
dedicated to making their community laugh.
Art
In the refurbished remains of the historic
Charlotte Mint lies the Mint Museum of Art,
home to a number of exciting collections,
from ancient American art, to Spanish
Colonial, European, and contemporary.
For a more bohemian experience, one can
venture into Charlotte's"NoDa" arts district,
where galleries and art studios like Hart
Witzen Gallery and the ArtHouse line the
boulevards. On the first and third Fridays
of each month, art lovers are invited to visit
such establishments on NoDa's famous
Gallery Crawl.
Museums
The Afro-American Cultural Center works
to preserve African American art, culture,
and history, and present it to audiences
for educational purposes as well as
sheer enjoyment. Housed partly in the
original 1936 hangar of Charlotte's original
municipal airport, the Carolinas Aviation
Museum is an aviation nut's dream.
Their collection includes everything from
a replica of the Wright Brothers' 1902
Wright Glider to the Grumman F-14D
Super Tomcat, made famous by the
filmTop Gun. Also on display are a startling
array of jets, helicopters, ordnance and
missiles, rockets, and even spacecraft.
The Levine Museum of the New South bills
itself as an"interactive history museum,"
and, as such, uses a wide variety of
multimedia exhibits to tell the story of the
South since the end of the Civil War. The
museum tells this story from many different
perspectives, with an eye toward creating
greater understanding and painting a more
complete picture than traditional history
books have attempted.
©
Bohemian for a Day
NoDa is Charlotte's bohemian arts district,
centered on the intersection of North
Davidson& 36th. It's a convenient area;
almost everything can be reached by
walking a few blocks away from 36th on
North Davidson, heading toward or away
from Uptown. The entertainment in Noda
is lively, the cuisine is stimulating, and the
galleries are without peer.
If shopping is your thing, you will be glad to
hear that the district is home to a number
of legendary storefronts. Book lovers
beware: RealEyes Bookstore, with its comfy
ambience and community-oriented vibe,
just may ruin you for any other bookseller.
Fabric Art allows customers to have custom
artwork or photography printed digitally
on fabric. Customize everything from a
silk scarf to a cotton t-shirt or even sofa
upholstery. Relive the 60s at Sunshine
Daydreams, a unique boutique specializing
in locally-produced and often hand-made
hippie-era products.
The main attractions in NoDa are the
galleries. Twice monthly, the public
is invited to visit NoDa's finest on the
popular Gallery Crawl, when galleries and
storefronts open up until late for an informal
arts festival. Whether on the Crawl or not,
the following are can't-miss stops. Green
Rice Designs& Studio features art in a wide
variety of media, from oil paint to computer
generated. BEET Contemporary Crafts
and Functional Art showcasesfunctional
art such as pottery, paper, toys, and even
musical instruments. Blue Pony Studio and
Press does not stop at displaying fine art
for its customers; it also functions as a fully
equipped printmaking studio. At SunStar
Studio, in addition to enjoying the visual
and performance artwork on offer, you may
also attend any of a number of workshops
focusing on thehealing arts.
When hunger strikes, keep in mind
that the cuisine here in NoDa is just as
artful as the art. For brunch, stop in at
Boudreaux's Louisiana Kitchen for a
taste of New Orleans, complete with
Cajun Bloody Mary's. For a caffeine fix,
follow the locals into Smelly Cat Coffee
House, a cozy neighborhood joint offering
a comforting selection of coffees, teas,
smoothies, pastries, and bagels. Addie's
Jamaican Cuisine offers a tantalizingly
authentic menu including oven-fresh jerk
chicken, curry goat, and oxtail. Come
happy hour, belly up to the bar at NoDa's
quirkiest watering hole, the Dog Bar. Here,
neighborhood canines are allowed to come
in and relax alongside their cocktail-sipping
human counterparts. Pizza lovers will
marvel at the possibilities on the menu
at Mellow Mushroom, a beloved regional
chain that specializes in pies with names
like"Magical Mystery Tour" and"Kosmic
Karma."
Craving some entertainment? Moving
Poets Theater of Dance is a dance troupe
as innovative as they come, enhancing
their routines with complex multi-media
presentations. They take the stage regularly
at the Hart Witzen Gallery's performance
space. At Wine Up, treat yourself to a glass
of wine and some live jazz(and feel free
to shoot some pool afterwards). For more
music, head on over to The Neighborhood
Theatre where popular national touring
acts like the North Mississippi Allstars and
Aimee Mann take the stage regularly.
A Tale of Two Historic Neighborhoods
At Charlotte's inception, the Fourth Ward
was the center of culture, taste, and high
society. Though the neighborhood has
had its ups and downs throughout the
intervening centuries, today's Fourth
Ward is a treasure trove of historically
22
and architecturally significant homes,
businesses and public amenities. Feast
your eyes on prime examples of Victorian,
colonial revival, Italianate, and even"Stick
Style" architecture, some of which date
back as far as the 1880s.
For those wishing to go even further back
in time, wander through the Old Settlers
Cemetery, Charlotte's first. Graves here
date back to 1776. At Alexander Michael's
Restaurant, one can continue the history
lesson while chowing down on some
tasty pub grub. Known to locals as"Al
Mike's," this inviting bar and grill is situated
on the site of a grocery store opened
in 1891. After lunch, venture into the
Charlotte Mecklenburg Fire Museum and
Education Center. Situated within a former
firehouse(erected in 1924), the museum
features a turn-of-the-century horse-drawn
pumper, a 1940s-era switchboard, a Mack
Fire Engine, a number of memorials, and
a well-stocked gift shop. If the kids are not
utterly delighted with all of that, hustle them
into Discovery Place, a fully interactive,
cutting-edge science museum(and home
to The Charlotte Observer IMAX Dome
Theatre). After a sobering dose of science,
it might be time for a jaunt into the art world.
The Fourth Ward's McColl Center for Visual
Art is part gallery, part studio space, all
located inside a strikingly renovated 1920sera church. Enjoy seasonal exhibitions as
well as"Open Studio Saturdays," where
local artists invite the public to watch
them at work. After your hectic schedule
of culture and history, drop into the aptly
named Therapy Café for one of their
infamous tiramisu martinis.
Having thoroughly relished the experience
that is Charlotte's Historic Fourth Ward, hop
the Charlotte Trolley to Charlotte's Historic
South End. See the sights, take it all in,
then decide which historic district you like
best. The South End grew up during one
of Charlotte's early periods of expansion.
In the 1850s, railroads and streetcars
allowed people and businesses to relocate
further from the crowded city center. A
great number of them ended up a few miles
south, and a new community was born.
Before you do anything else, learn the
history of the trolley you rode in on, at the
Charlotte Trolley Inc. museum and gift
shop. Speaking of shopping, shoppers
will also delight in the South End's wide
array of boutiques. Eileen sells women's
fashions, accessories, gifts and art, all with
a personal touch. Many items are locally
produced and hand made, and despite
its upscale look, Eileen strives to price
nothing above$100. Black Sheep caters
to a decidedly different clientèle. Billed as
an"urban boutique," the place specializes
in clothing, art, and skateboards. If you're
feeling outdoorsy, find your way down
to Latta Park, at the east end of Park
Avenue. This leafy neighborhood park
was one of the original attractions here
in the South End, luring families from all
around the region. Today, its 31 acres are
no less attractive. Devote a few hours to
its picnic area, playground, spray ground,
athletic fields and courts, recreation
center, and many trails. After so much
activity it will surely be, yet again, time
to eat. The Pewter Rose Bistro traffics
in"internationally American" cuisine, which
features fresh local ingredients presented
with a somewhat worldly flair. In search of
a meal a little more down home? Price's
Chicken Coop supplies locals with all the
fried chicken they can eat, complete with
family-style portions of slaw, potato salad,
and hush puppies. For dessert, consider
that Pike's Old Fashioned Soda Shop
claims to serve"the best milkshakes this
side of the Mississippi." Stop in and see if
they're right. If milkshakes are not your cup
of tea, grab a cup of tea and some biscotti
at Tea ReX, a beloved premium teahouse
housed in a historic former cotton mill.
©
Travel Tips
Getting There
By Air: Charlotte Douglas International
Airport(CLT)(+1 704 359 4910/ http://
www.charmeck.org/Departments/Airport/
Home.htm) is the area hub, offering flights
to North and South America, along with
some major airports in Europe.
The following are the major airlines flying
out of CLT:
Air Canada(+1 888 247 2262/ http://
www.aircanada.ca/)
AirTran Airways(+1 800 247 8726/http://
airtran.com/)
American Airlines, American Eagle and
American Connection(+1 800 433 7300/
http://www.aa.com/)
Continental Airlines and Continental
Express(+1 800 525 0280/ http://
www.continental.com/)
Delta Air Lines and Delta Connection(+1
800 221 1212/ http://www.delta.com/)
JetBlue Airways(+1 800 538 2583/ http://
www.jetblue.com/)
Lufthansa(+1 800 399 5838/ http://
www.lufthansa.com)
Northwest Airlines and Northwest Jetlink(+1
800 225 2525/ http://www.nwa.com/)
United Airlines and United Express(+1 800
241 6522/ http://www.ual.com)
US Airways and US Airways Express(+1
800 428 4322/ http://www.usairways.com)
Individual and group transportation to and
from the airport is available on call, or
by going to the Visitor Information board
located in Baggage Claim. Taxis and
shuttles will also usually be waiting outside
the lower Baggage Claim area. Following
are listings of some available options for
taxis, shuttles and limousines if you need to
call ahead.
Shuttle companies: Airport Shuttle, LLC(+1
704 894 0796)
Queens Airport Shuttle(+1 704 752 9858)
Walker Transportation(+1 704 618 3499)
Taxi companies:
American Taxi Cab(+1 704 375 1010)
Royal Cab Company(+1 704 373 9988)
Yellow Cab Company(+1 704 332 6161)
Limousine service: A1 Limousine(+1 704
393 3031)
23
Executive Car Service(+1 704 525 2191)
Signature Limousine(+1 704 202 9685)
A city bus runs from about 6a to 8p from the
upper ticketing level of the terminal, going
into Uptown Charlotte. As a final option,
many hotels and motels offer courtesy
transportation from the airport.
Rental car companies include:
System(CATS)(+1 866 779 2287/ http://
www.charmeck.nc.us/Departments/cats/
home.asp), though most routes don't run
very late. A trip planner is included on the
website.
Traffic Information:
To find out city traffic information go tohttp://
www.traffic.com
Enterprise(+1 800 325 8007/ http://
www.pickenterprise.com)
travelregistration.state.gov and for
outhttp://travel.state.gov/.
©
Hertz(+1 800 654 3131/ http://
www.hertz.com)
Fun Facts
Alamo(+1 800 327 9633/ http://
www.alamo.com)
Avis(+1 800 831 2847/ http://www.avis.com)
Other public and private transportation
includes:
Train:
There are Amtrak stations(+1 800 872
7245/ http://www.amtrak.com/) near
Charlotte's center and in nearby Gastonia.
By Bus:
Greyhound(+1 800 231 2222/ http://
www.greyhound.com) has regular service
routes to and from the city.
By Car:
I-77 runs north and south through the city,
and I-85 goes east and west with I-485
looping around the city. US-29 and US-74
also go into Charlotte. Getting Around
The Charlotte area is well provided
for by the Charlotte Area Transit
Charlotte
State: North Carolina
Country: United States
Charlotte By The Numbers:
Population: 594,359(city); 801,137(metro
area)
Average January low temperature: 32
degrees F/ 0 degrees C
Average July high temperature: 90 degrees
F/ 32 degrees C
Annual rainfall: 43.52 in.(1.1 meters)
Country dialing code: 1
Area codes: 704, 980
Area: 280.5 sq mi/ 629 sq km
Hotel rooms: 30,000
Coordinates: 35°14′N 80°50′W
Quick Facts:
Major industries: Banking; motor sports
Electricity: 110 volts AC, 50Hz; round twopin plugs are standard.
Ethnic mix: 58% White; 32% Black; 7%
Latino; 3.4% Asian
Time zone: UTC-5(UTC-4 during Daylight
Savings)
Did You Know?
Charlotte is the biggest city between
Washington, DC and Dallas, TX. The
city is home to more than 700 places of
worship, prompting the nickname “the City
of Churches”. Fortune 500 companies
headquartered in Charlotte include Bank
of America, Goodrich Corporation, Lowe's,
and Wachovia. The American Foundation
for the Blind dubbed Charlotte the “Most
Livable Community for the Visually
Impaired".
Orientation:
Charlotte sits amongst the foothills of
the Appalachian Mountains, in a region
known as the Carolina Piedmont. Atlanta,
GA lies about 227 miles/365 kilometers
WSW, Knoxville, TN is about 183 miles/295
kilometers WNW, Richmond, VA 247
miles/397 kilometers NE, and it is 318
miles/512 kilometers east to Myrtle Beach,
SC, on the Atlantic coast.
©
Elevation: 795 ft/ 242 meters
24

Top 10 bars and CLubs in North Carolina

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