Guestbook Charlotte July 2019

Charlotte

new home

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CONTENTS 8

FIRST LOOK

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ORGANIC BEAUTY

The must-see Charlotte sights and attractions that every traveler should explore.

A photo essay of the Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens.

PHOTOS BY KEVIN ADAMS

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CRAFTING COMMUNITY

With the most breweries in the South, Charlotte has crafted quite the community of craft beer makers and drinkers.

BY VIRGINIA BROWN

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PASSING THROUGH NODA

A stroll down North Davidson Street and its surrounding community brings an adventure around every corner— experience quirky shops, people and fascinating street art.

BY MADISON SULLIVAN

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Q & A WITH CHARLOTTE HORNETS FORWARD MARVIN WILLIAMS

The 15-year NBA veteran talks about Charlotte, college, Michael Jordan and more. INTERVIEWED BY TAYLOR CLAYTON AND ANDY CHENG

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ALL ABOUT TOWN

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PARTING SHOT

From Uptown and NoDa to Southpark and University City, the Queen City’s neighborhoods boast character and charm.

The Charlotte Symphony orchestra.

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ON THE COVER: CHARLOTTE SKYLINE, ©CANSTOCKPHOTO/ SEANPAVONEPHOTO

Light your fire.

Enjoy The Mint Museum’s Year of Light at these special exhibitions: MINT MUSEUM UPTOWN Immersed in Light: Studio Drift at the Mint September 21, 2019 – April 26, 2020 Coined in the South October 11, 2019 – February 16, 2020 MINT MUSEUM RANDOLPH Never Abandon Imagination: The Fantastical Art of Tony DiTerlizzi June 22, 2019 – November 3, 2019 Classic Black: The Basalt Sculpture of Wedgewood and his Contemporaries February 8, 2020 – August 30, 2020

Studio Drift. Fragile Future 3 (detail), 2018, installation at Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam. Photo: Gert Jan van Rooij

mintmuseum.org

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a “Wow! What

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ADVERTISING JAMES G. ELLIOTT CO., INC. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Pat O’Donnell

inspiring place ...”

GROUP PUBLISHER - SOUTHEAST REGION Mark Reid

407.650.2218, m.reid@jgeco.com PUBLISHER Renata Coker 706.726.2775, r.coker@jgeco.com

a Nor th C a ro li n —Ma ry fr om

MORRIS VISITOR PUBLICATIONS MVP I EXECUTIVE PRESIDENT Donna W. Kessler CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Dennis Kelly VICE PRESIDENT, OPERATIONS Angela E. Allen DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL OPERATIONS Jamie Turner DIRECTOR OF CIRCULATION Scott Ferguson CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER - CUSTOM PUBLICATIONS Haines Wilkerson

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“... I love the Billy Graham Library and am going to tell so many people I know about it!”

CHAIRMAN William S. Morris III PRESIDENT & CEO William S. Morris IV

Visit Charlotte and walk in the shoes of a farm boy who became pastor to presidents and shared God’s love with millions.

Discover what God can do through any life that is fully surrendered to Him as you explore state-of-theart exhibits and spend time reflecting in the Memorial Prayer Garden. Admission is free, and the experience is unforgettable. Come—just as you are.

“Come and see what God has done.”

Monday to Saturday, 9:30–5:00 BillyGrahamLibrary.org • 704-401-3200 A ministry of Billy Graham Evangelistic Association

©2019 BGEA

—Psalm 66:5, ESV

Where GuestBook® is produced by Morris Visitor Publications (MVP), a division of Morris Communications, Co., LLC. 725 Broad St., Augusta, GA 30901, morrismedianetwork.com. WhereTraveler® magazine and the where® logo are registered trademarks of Morris Visitor Publications. MVP publishes WhereTraveler® magazine, Where® QuickGuide, IN New York, and IN London magazines, and a host of other maps, guides, and directories for business and leisure travelers, and is the publisher for the Hospitality Industry Association. In Charlotte, Where GuestBook is pleased to be a member of the following associations.

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MORRIS VISITOR PUBLICATIONS MVP I EDITORIAL & DESIGN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Margaret Martin MANAGING EDITOR Jennifer McKee GROUP EDITOR Taylor Clayton CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Keller Vaz

Veronica Montesdeoca Vincent Hobbs ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR Kiara Bouyea CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Virginia Brown, Madison Sullivan CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER Kevin Adams ART DIRECTOR

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For the wonderer in everyone Discover the wonder of science, beauty of nature and excitement of technology at Discovery Place’s three museums. Filled with exciting exhibitions, explosive experiments and extraordinary live programs, a day at Discovery Place inspires curiosity in all ages.

We wonder. Do you?

Nichole Buchanan E-MAILS FOR ALL MVP EMPLOYEES, EXCEPT CONTRIBUTORS: FIRSTNAME.LASTNAME@MORRIS.COM

MVP CHARLOTTE, SALES OFFICE 214 W. Tremont Ave., Suite 302 Charlotte, NC 28203 Phone: 980.270.5103 www.wheretraveler.com Where GuestBook® publishes editions for the following U.S. cities and regions: Arizona, Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Colorado, Dallas, Florida Gold Coast (Fort Lauderdale & Palm Beach), Fort Worth, Island of Hawai‘i, Houston, Jacksonville/St. Augustine/Amelia Island, Kansas City, Kaua‘i, Los Angeles, Maui, Miami, Nashville, New Orleans, New York, Northern Arizona, O‘ahu, Orange County (CA), Orlando, Philadelphia, Reno/Lake Tahoe, San Antonio, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle/The Eastside/Tacoma, Southwest Florida (Naples), Tampa Bay, Tucson, Washington D.C. ©2019 by Morris Visitor Publications. All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, in whole or in part, without the express prior written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility to any party for the content of any advertisement in this publication, including any errors and omissions therein. By placing an order for an advertisement, the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher against any claims relating to the advertisement.

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The Queen City has a wealth of sights and attractions to choose from, each with its own authentic Charlotte experience. Here are a few of our favorites.

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COURTESY CHARLOTTESGOTALOT.COM/KYO H NAM

FIRST LOOK

NASCAR Hall of Fame

Peel across Uptown for a visit to this flashy venue that explores the history of NASCAR and honors some of the greatest professional stock car racers that have ever lived. Experiences can be high-tech (racing simulators), while exhibits focus on historic cars, current and historic racetracks, legendary drivers and authentic artifacts. 400 E. Martin Luther King Blvd., 704.654.4400, www.nascarhall.com WHERE GUEST B OOK

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Bank of America Stadium

The site of every Carolina Panthers’ home game—along with countless other sporting and live entertainment events—Bank of America Stadium is full of NFL fans covered in “Panther blue” on Sundays during the football season. The 75,525-seat stadium has also been known to host international soccer matches and college football games, including the Dr. Pepper ACC Football Championship Game, held in December. 800 S. Mint St., 704.358.7000, www.panthers.com/stadium

U.S. National Whitewater Center

The Whitewater Center is a 1,300-acre outdoor recreation facility featuring more than 30 adventure activities such as whitewater rafting, rock climbing, ziplining, SUPing and Deep Water Solo. The Center also hosts free festivals and a number of different events all year long, in addition to free clinics and yoga with 13 weekly practices, all of which are free to attend. 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway, 704.391.3900, www.usnwc.org 10

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THIS PAGE FROM TOP: ©F11PHOTO/SHUTTESRSTOCK.COM; COURTESY U.S. NATIONAL WHITEWATER CENTER. OPPOSTIE PAGE: COURTESY CAROLINA RAPTOR CENTER

FIRST LOOK

Carolina Raptor Center

PHOTO CREDIT GOTHAM BOOK 5.5/9PT

Spread you wings and venture out to Huntersville for one of the largest raptor medical facilities in the world at the Carolina Raptor Center. Home to more than 90 permanent resident birds including eagles, hawks, owls, falcons, vultures and corvids, this facility allows bird-lovers to get an upclose view of nature’s most majestic birds through exhibits, trails and raptor encounters, with the help of the center’s friendly staff. 6000 Sample Road, Huntersville, 704.875.6521, www.carolinaraptorcenter.org

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Sea Life

Located at the Concord Mills mall in Concord, Sea Life aquarium houses sea life from local waters and features 10 interactive zones to explore with roughly 5,000 different creatures such as sharks, rays and seahorses. A few of the aquarium’s focal points include an interactive touch pool where visitors can touch sea stars, urchins and other underwater critters, and the Shipwreck Exhibit, where guests enter a sunken ship full of mysterious creatures from the darkest depths of the ocean. 8111 Concord Mills Blvd, Concord, 855.450.0512, www.visitsealife.com/charlotte-concord 12

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THIS PAGE: COURTESY SEALIFE. OPPOSITE PAGE: ©JON BILOUS/SHUTTERSTOCK

FIRST LOOK

Romare Bearden Park

PHOTO CREDIT GOTHAM BOOK 5.5/9PT

This 5.4-acre city park is home to two gardens, the Childhood Muse Plaza, Paris Memory Lane Lounge Area and gorgeous city views. Located across the street from BB&T Ballpark—home of the Charlotte Knights—the park’s central location provides panoramic views of the city for a perfect Instagram opportunity, to go along with pictureworthy waterfalls and the “Spiral Odyssey” public art installation by Richard Hunt. 300 S. Church St., www.mecknc.gov/parkandrec/parks

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ORGANIC BEAUTY The natural allure of the Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEVIN ADAMS

TAKE A BREAK from the bustling city and step into a natural wonderland of vibrant colors and breathtaking floral life at Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens in Belmont. Nearly 30 years ago, lifelong nature lover and plant enthusiast Daniel J. Stowe reserved 380 acres of meadows, woodlands and lakefront property and transformed it into the home of exotic plants now 14

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seen today. The Visitor Pavilion welcomes guests inside a 100-year-old glass dome, then to the left upon entry, sits the Orchid Conservatory—the region’s only public conservatory dedicated to the display of tropical plants. Other highlights include multiple gardens featuring water spectacles, garden trails and a myriad of plant life spread out across the grounds.

Opposite page: A view of petunias can be seen growing along the Canal Garden. This page: A close-up of the purple coneflower with the yellow black-eyed Susans in the background.

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Opposite page: The “Columbine” glass sculpture is part of the “Grandiflora: Gamrath Glass at the Garden” exhibit. The sculptures are created

by Seattle-based artist Jason Gamrath.

This page from left: Stokes aster found in the Canal Garden; fountain in the Cottage Garden.

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This page from left: Moth orchids on display in the Orchid Conservatory; a purple blazing star found at the entrance of the Dry Piedmont Prairie.

Opposite page: Floss silk tree in the Orchid Conservatory.

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PHOTO CREDIT GOTHAM BOOK 5.5/9PT

Free Range Brewing provides a wide variety of local craft beers and a wide variety of local beer drinkers.

CRAFTING COMMUNITY In a thriving city with highly corporate roots, Charlotte’s craft breweries are transforming its culture.

PHOTO CREDIT GOTHAM BOOK 5.5/9PT

BY VIRGINIA BROWN

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This page: A wide selection of Birdsong Brewing Company brews.

Opposite page clockwise from top left: Birdsong Brewing Company; Heist Brewery beer; behind the scenes at Heist; co-owners of Birdsong Brewing Company Chris and Tara Goulet.

©BRITTANY LITTLE

Goulet, a transplant from Rhode Island, had begun to notice that cities comparable to Charlotte—places like Portland and Denver—already had dozens of breweries, and much smaller, nearby Asheville, even claimed at least 15. “Charlotte was ridiculously underserved,” he says.

Enter Conor Robinson. Tara’s breadmaking colleague had just begun dabbling in homebrewing. Around 2010, Chris, Tara and Conor started dreaming of a new adventure, and just a year later, Birdsong was born.

When Birdsong opened, other breweries existed— Charlotte’s original, Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, was serving up classic German-style brews, and NoDa Brewing Company had recently entered the scene—but the industry wasn’t exactly bubbling over. Not yet.

Along North Davidson Street today, it’s a different story. Heist Brewery, Free Range Brewing, Protagonist and Divine Barrel Brewing all have popped up along this historically industrial area, giving air to this stagnant part of the city filled with remnants from the past.

OPPENING SPREAD FROM LEFT: ©JAY SINCLAIR; ©S_PHOTO/SHUTTESRTOCK. THIS PAGE: ©BRITTANY LITTLE. OPPOSITE PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: ©BRITTANY LITTLE; ©GLORIA ZAVALETA (2);

A few minutes to 3 o’clock on a blazing Tuesday in May, a cluster of friends wait at the taproom door at Birdsong Brewing Company. It’s quiet this afternoon along a stretch of North Davidson Street that’s usually filled with racket from the emerging bones of a new apartment complex rising across the street.

Within the hour, the taproom also has welcomed one of its regulars, a solo blonde absorbed in her MacBook, her hand cupped around a pint glass as she thinks, and a few other guys hanging at the bar. The trio is already laughing over board games.

Birdsong Brewing Company was one of the early bloomers in Charlotte’s craft beer invasion. Like other brewery backstories, co-owner Chris Goulet had grown tired of the corporate grind and was in search of something a little more meaningful, something that would bring him more joy. His wife Tara was in on it, too.

At the time, she managed a bread franchise and was also ready for a change.

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popular food trucks—Cousins Maine Lobster (of “Shark Tank” fame) and Hiya—say hello to bulgogi and dumplings—among dozens of others, add another helpful alliance to Charlotte’s brewery business.

Independent American craft brewers contributed just over $76 billion to the U.S. economy in 2017, according to Brewers Association, and provided over a half a million jobs. In North Carolina, the 300 breweries and brewpubs rank the state seventh in the nation (and first in the

©KELSEY KLINE

Charlotte’s historic textile mills are a big part of the craft-brewery scene, with taprooms emerging in old warehouses all over the city—and beyond, to neighboring counties. “That’s because of the zoning,” says Goulet. “When we were getting started, it was really hard to find a location, because everything was zoned for residential or business.” The empty warehouses filled their need for a space big enough for production.

For the same reasons, many are also kitchenless, so

COURTESY ERIC GADDY/DIVINE BARREL BREWING

Oppostie page: A pretzle paired with craft beer at Protagonist.

This page: Divine Barrel Brewing.

South), according to the North Carolina Craft Brewers Guild. The Charlotte area alone now claims around 50 breweries—all opened in the last 10 years.

Due to the rapid growth, the term “craft” has gotten convoluted, Goulet says. “What it means is that people are using their own recipes or putting a new spin on a traditional beer, and introducing it in a face-to-face way.”

And when people come fact-to-face, they build community.

Active weekly running clubs, free yoga nights, live music featuring local and regional bands—many area breweries offer events that not only bring people together, but highlight other local businesses. NoDa Brewing—now located in a larger space off North Tryon Street—even pairs a beer with the Charlotte Symphony for its annual “Symphony On Tap” events.

Birdsong organizes creek clean-ups and works with local farmers on many of their brews. A limited release in winter, the Honey Pie Double IPA is infused with local Cloister Honey. They also recently installed 220 rooftop

solar panels so they can rely less on nonrenewable fossil fuels and reduce their carbon emissions—that move won them an award from a local sustainability nonprofit.

Like Birdsong, most area breweries just want to bring the community together over great beer. The concept is simple, says Goulet. “We want to make delicious beer in a space that’s as welcoming and laid-back as possible.

We’re not hype-oriented, putting glitter in the beer or anything.”

And he’s right. There’s no flashy pretense about the taproom at Birdsong, which now employs 32 and, Goulet estimates, serves about 3,000 to 4,000 guests a month. There’s now a thriving community inside these old walls.

But these days, it’s not steady business or even the creative beermaking that brings Goulet the most joy—it’s all about connecting with and uplifting people. “I love watching someone I work with do something really kickass,” Goulet says. “That’s what gets me smiling.”

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PASSING THROUGH NODA Grab a seat on one of the mosaic-tiled benches in the heart of the NoDa district and soak it all in.

PHOTO CREDIT GOTHAM BOOK 5.5/9PT

BY MADISON SULLIVAN

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28 W H E R E G U E ST BO OK PHOTO CREDIT GOTHAM BOOK 5.5/9PT

OPPENING SPREAD: COURTESY VISITNC.COM. OPPOSITE PAGE: COURTESY MAC TABBY. THIS PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: COURTESY VISIT NC; COURTESY BARTIQUE; COURTESY REIGNING DOUGHNUTS

You’ll notice North Davidson Street’s calling cards right away. Yes, everyone walking by—from professionals with briefcases swung over their shoulders to camera-toting tourists—has a smile on their face. But, beyond the people (and pets) that occupy the space, NoDa itself seems to bubble over with something vibrant at every turn.

“I feel like the energy of everyone walking up the stairs from out there is just always good and positive, everyone’s happy in NoDa anyway,” says Lori Konawalik, owner of Mac Tabby cafe, Charlotte’s first cat cafe—perfectly encompassing the feeling that seems to flow down North Davidson Street from one historic mill to another.

Delivery vans swing up to the curb, temporarily covering the lotus flowers painted onto the pavement where parallel parking lines would regulate drivers anywhere else.

Laughter bursts out from around the corner where a group of teenagers snap pictures in front of one of the countless murals peppering surfaces from dumpsters to storefronts.

Soul and instrumental music float from an unseen speaker just down the block. Appetizing scents waft from outdoor patios, stopping hungry passersby in their tracks.

And slowing down is definitely the key to enjoying your experience at local favorite Reigning Doughnuts.

In fact, those in a rush could miss the establishment altogether—thankfully, locals with a sweet tooth

lining up alert visitors to the walk-up window. Its green shutters open each morning to showcase the doughnuts and beverages available. Once you’ve been handed your treat (you can’t go wrong with Cinnamon Sugar), grab a seat at one of two shaded picnic tables to savor every last bite.

Those who held off ordering their cup of joe from Reigning Doughnuts—and those who are ready for their second cup of the day—can make their way around the corner toward another unique gem, Mac Tabby.

Step through the cat café’s threshold, a door tucked between Custom Jewelry Lab and Ruby’s Gift shop, and head up a narrow flight of stairs. Once you reach the top, you’ll enter a room filled with natural light, jazz music, locally sourced coffee, tea and beer, plus themed items and a slew of cat people ready to pass through the glass door off to the side. There, 12 adoption-ready cats snooze, romp and snuggle with visitors for 30 minutes to an hour at a time.

“People think of NoDa and they’re like, oh, it’s the cool, weird spot to be,” says Konawalik. “It’s artistic, and it’s the art and entertainment district of Charlotte. You expect weird things here—and I always felt like this is pretty weird!

Cats and coffee. Where else would this belong? I feel like it belongs here.”

On ground level, just steps away lies Pura Vida Worldly Art. Its brightly-painted interior is packed with wares

Opposite page: Kitty love at Mac Tabby.

This page clockwise from left: Shopping in NoDa; wall art at Bartique; Reigning Doughnuts.

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Ask a local, such as Konawalik or Pfeifer, where they’d send an out-of-towner to grab a bite to eat, and they’d point you to Haberdish.

They place everything in mason jars, from tea lights, sweet tea, silverware and even your receipt inside. The establishment as a whole sticks to its roots as well, from the plates that could have been plucked from Grandma’s china cabinet to the menu items themselves—pimento cheese, specialty pickles and fried chicken, to name a few— Haberdish doesn’t shy away from Southern classics.

Which explains why the restaurant often accrues a waiting line during dinner hours. No need to fret. While you dream of deviled eggs, pop into Haberdish’s neighbor Bartique to pass the time. The trendy, dimly lit space sports racks of colorful outfits and gallery art on one wall, stacks of glasses on the other, and a resident pooch named Pucci

FROM TOP: COURTESY HABERDISH; ©AMY GREY/SILVER PEBBLE PHOTOGRAPHY

sourced from more than 40 countries. Visitors can peruse children’s books from around the globe, in addition to woven mats, fair-trade cards, spiritual items, apparel and more. Toward the back of the store, additional rooms open up to reveal a shrine remembering and honoring the dead, as well as local art—a common denominator found in many NoDa establishments.

Local art is even more prominent outside Pura Vida, and not just on inanimate objects. You’ll find many a tattoo parlor, buzzing with customers. Fu’s Custom Tattoo, NoDa’s first tattoo studio, sits next door and welcomes walk-ins, perfect for those who find themselves struck with inspiration while in Charlotte’s creative hub.

Across the street, the lively Cabo Fish Taco bustles with customers. Stop by for a midday meal and indulge in phenomenal signature tacos and sides with a spicy kick while chatting over massive margaritas balanced on crystal-clear stems.

Once you’ve re-energized with a taco or two, immerse yourself in what NoDa is best known for: art. And not just any art, but a form you’re not likely to find in your hometown: glassblowing.

“I realized that Charlotte didn’t have any kind of glassblowing experience like this—the nearest place is in Asheville or in Star, it’s like two hours away,” explains Jacob Pfeifer, glass artist and owner of Hot Glass Alley. “And I was like, ‘this humongous city doesn’t have this?’”

And with that, Pfeifer set out to create a uniquely NoDa experience. While Hot Glass Alley is not located within walking distance of North Davidson Street, it is considered part of the NoDa neighborhood and worth the five-minute trip. Those who make the short trek can shop stunning gallery pieces. Drop by during a free, open demonstration night, or make an appointment to take part in a makeyour-own or date night class.

After newly minted glassblowers have sufficiently marveled at their work, they can head back to North Davidson Street to wrap up their day.

COURTESY VISITNC.COM

Opposite page from top: A variety of plate options at Haberdish; Cabo Fish Taco.

This page: Outside of Neighborhood Theatre.

sprawled out on the floor. Half bohemian boutique and half bar, it’s unlike any other establishment you’re likely to wander into during your trip, but not surprisingly it’s thriving in this neck of the woods.

“Charlotte is truly a melting pot, it really is,” says Estelle Ra Helfrich, co-owner of Bartique. “Every major city has that neighborhood that has a different identity than other parts of the city, and with all of these people moving here, they can relate to this neighborhood.”

As can those just passing through, and what better way to top off a visit to the arts and entertainment district than with, well, entertainment. Neighborhood Theatre fits the

bill, as the impossible-to-miss restored movie theater plays host to bands representing a wide array of genres, from Mexican ska to rap to gospel to indie rock. Within earshot, purple-hued The Evening Muse also features a myriad of live acts, in addition to open-mic nights.

From the moment the sugar dusting on your Reigning Doughnut melts over your tongue, until you step out from under the marquee at Neighborhood Theatre, you’ll feel pulled along by the current of energy that sets NoDa apart from the surrounding districts—and with so much to see and do, you have every reason to return and be swept away all over again.

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Q&A

BLEEDING CAROLINA BLUE

Charlotte Hornets forward Marvin Williams is entering his 15th season in the NBA—marking what will be his sixth season with the franchise and sixth straight year living here in the Queen City.

INTERVIEWED BY TAYLOR CLAYTON AND ANDY CHENG

I’m really close with some of the people that I went to school with, not only the people on my team, but regular students too. I’m really thankful for my opportunity to go to school there.”

You’ve talked about how important your dad’s influence has been in the past and how much you enjoy being a father. Any kid-friendly places or attractions

What do you love most about

you enjoy taking your

the city of Charlotte?

daughter to in Charlotte? How

“First and foremost, it’s the people. For me, going to school at Chapel Hill, there are so many Tar Heels around the city. The people are so hospitable and kind. Charlotte in general is just a good place to be.”

about places to take your dad?

You won a national championship with the Tar Heels; how would you describe your time in Chapel Hill?

“That was the best year of my life, for sure. It still is and I’m turning 33 soon. I had a blast.

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“She likes Carowinds. We go to Carowinds a lot. My dad also takes her to Carowinds a lot.

She loves Dave & Busters. She loves the parks too. There are a lot of parks in Charlotte. We used to go to Freedom Park quite a bit. We used to live closer to there, so we went there almost every day, now it’s probably once [every] couple of weeks. She loves the parks in Charlotte. [My dad and I] usually go to Hickory Tavern or Blackfinn. My favorite

restaurant to eat in Charlotte is called Yaki Asia Fresh.”

What’s Michael Jordan like as an owner? Any favorite moments of yours or stories about him during your time with the Hornets?

“I remember the first time I met him and I’ll never forget it. I was taking a visit to Chapel Hill and I walked by him. I couldn’t believe it. My dad and M.J. actually grew up near each other, so the first time I was playing in the NBA, he asked about how my dad was and I couldn’t believe it. Even to this day, he still asks about how my dad is doing.”

Do you have a particular hobby you enjoy?

“I love sports and I love to watch sports. Any time there is a sporting event, I’ll try to check it out.

I go to the Knights’ games when I can. I watch the Panthers play during their season. I wanted to go to a Checkers’ game but I missed it. I have seen them practice when they used to

practice here. When college football comes here, they will play at Bank of America Stadium sometimes and I’ll try to go to those games. Any time something comes to Charlotte, I definitely try to go check it out.”

Reflecting on your career so far in Charlotte, how would you describe your time here as a whole?

“I’ve been so blessed [to be here].

We’ve had some up years and some disappointing years. All in all, I’m so thankful to come here every single day to work, play and represent for this city. More than anything, I genuinely have a good time coming here every single day. We get to work with some of the best PR people I’ve ever had, the strength and conditioning staff, coaching staff and my teammates. It’s not just the guys on the court that I’m with, everyone here are genuinely good people. It’s cool to come to work here every day.”

COURTESY CHARLOTTE HORNETS

Williams is somewhat of a North Carolina basketball legend now, having won a NCAA National Championship with the University of North Carolina Tar Heels during his lone freshman year and along with being an NBA veteran, he’s also a Charlotte vet.

We reached out to him to talk about the family-friendly aspects of the city, his college days, Michael Jordan and more.

PHOTO CREDIT GOTHAM BOOK 5.5/9PT

Hornets forward Marvin Williams surveys the court while being guarded

by Brooklyn Nets guard Joe Harris.

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ALL ABOUT TOWN Discover the charm, history and variety of these distinctive neighborhoods.

DILWORTH Originally the brainchild of Edward Dilworth Latta in the 1890s, Dilworth was Charlotte’s first streetcar suburb. To attract residents and businesses to the area, Latta built a 90-acre park. The community was constructed as a grid that centered on East Boulevard, welcoming families to the turn-of-the-century, colonial-revival and Craftsman-style architecture. Today, a new generation has discovered the charm and neighborliness of Dilworth, with its tree-lined streets, front porches and family-friendly sidewalks. It continues to thrive as one of the city’s most historic and popular neighborhoods. Freedom Park is a year-round hub for outdoor activity and festivals. Shops and restaurants add to the area’s appeal, especially on East Boulevard, which has earned a reputation as being Charlotte’s boutique row.

ELIZABETH Where Uptown’s East Trade Street turns into Elizabeth Avenue is where you enter the charmingly hip neighborhood of Elizabeth. No, this place isn’t named after Queen Elizabeth II (as one might assume given that Charlotte is 34

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MYERS PARK Driving under a canopy of towering old willow oaks gives credence to the “Park” in Myers Park. You’ve entered Charlotte’s most prestigious ZIP code. The lush suburb includes a mix of spacious parks, stately colonial-revival and Tudor-revival homes, Queens University and exclusive shops. For newcomers, you’ll know you are in the right neighborhood not only because of its beauty, but also because every other street is named “Queens.”

NODA Following New York City’s penchant for catchy neighborhood acronyms (such as SoHo and Nolita), Charlotte presents this “North Davidson”-at-36th Street enclave as, simply, NoDa. This diverse ‘hood manages to cram a lot into a mere square mile, much of it art-related and all of it eclectic. Visitors can see the work of local artists in galleries, during monthly art walks and, often,

©JON BILOUS/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Neighborhood

named for a former royal). It actually takes its moniker from Elizabeth College, the small Lutheran women’s school that is situated within its bounds. The suburban-style burgh and leafy historic district is another that thrived in the early part of the 20th century, thanks to the streetcar. Independence Park is one of the neighborhood’s larger attractions.

FROM LEFT: ©LEM LYNCH PHOTOGRAPHY; COURTESY VISITNC.COM

in progress on a street corner. NoDa boasts a couple of craft breweries, as well as independently owned specialty boutiques and restaurants with food programs that span the globe. It is equal parts hippie and hip, ground zero for the creative crowd.

From left: Signpost located at The Green in Uptown; the SouthPark mall; drinks at NoDa Company Store.

SOUTHPARK The central feature of this neighborhood is the SouthPark Mall, the largest shopping mall in the entire state of North Carolina. With designer stores like Louis Vuitton, Tory Burch, Trina Turk, Burberry, David Yurman, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Frye and Peter Millar, one can surmise the type of resident SouthPark attracts.

Six miles from Uptown, SouthPark sits on the former site of a 3,000acre farm, and clearly today’s atmosphere sharply contrasts with any previous rural sentiment.

PLAZA MIDWOOD The Plaza and Central Avenue are the two main drags of this affluent, residential neighborhood that originated in the 1920s as a streetcar suburb. Plaza Midwood ran the gamut of socioeconomic standings during the 20th century, from moneyed socialites like the VanLandinghams (their enormous bungalow on The Plaza is now an inn that also hosts weddings) to a rather scruffy vibe in the 1980s and 1990s. Today, Plaza Midwood attracts a crowd that finance-focused The central feature Uptowners might label as “gritty,” at least those outof this neighborhood side the lawns of the Charlotte Country Club. There is the SouthPark are diners, ethnic eateries (sushi, tapas, Irish, North African), dive bars, gastropubs, music venues, casual Mall, the largest restaurants and barbecue joints—one of the most shopping mall in famous being the Midwood Smokehouse—as well the entire state of as shops focused on skateboarding, vintage gear, records and LGBTQ books.

North Carolina.

SOUTH END The remnants of a thriving, turnof-the-century textile industry give this Charlotte enclave a beer-fueled identity with upwards of a dozen local craft breweries and taprooms taking up residency in former mill buildings. But brewers aren’t the only people walking these streets just south of Uptown. In the same neighborhood where the region’s first railroad steamed into Charlotte in 1852, the recently expanded Blue Line light rail WHERE GUEST BOOK

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ALL ABOUT TOWN

UNIVERSITY CITY This ‘hood gets its name because it’s home to the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Having 20-somethings at its core makes this a destination for nightlife, casual dining and retail, and it sits just northeast of Uptown. In the 1960s, visionaries saw past the area’s farming fields and imagined a great learning center, complete with research facilities and places to live, work and play.

Today, that vision has become the reality. Charlotte’s greenway system also boasts one of the best trails in this area of the city, the Mallard Creek Greenway.

UPTOWN Charlotteans call their downtown neighborhood Uptown, perhaps because it’s located on a hill. Major corporation headquarters like Duke Energy, Bank of America and BB&T keep business travelers in this part of town (and you will notice the suits), while leisure travelers and residents can soak up culture at the Mint Museum, the 36

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From left: Exterior of the Firebird sculpture at the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art; the Lynx Blue Line light rail.

Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, NASCAR Hall of Fame, the Gantt Center, the Levine Museum of the New South and the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, to name just a few. Uptown is also the site of Bank of America Stadium, home of the NFL’s Carolina Panthers, and Spectrum Center, which hosts the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets along with live entertainment and concerts. At night, Uptown’s abundance of restaurants, bars and live music venues keeps things lively. The Epicentre in particular has a wide variety of dining, entertainment and a movie theater for some late night fun. This ‘hood is best experienced on foot.

WEST END A mile from Uptown, on the other side of the Fourth Ward, Johnson C. Smith University anchors this traditionally African-American, middle-class neighborhood. Just off the campus, the 5 Points intersection is fast becoming a commercial destination; development here, and across the West End, is ongoing, and the LYNX Gold Line streetcar attracts an influx of residents, especially millennials.

FROM LEFT: COURTESY VISITNC.COM; ©JDWFOTO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

transports more visitors to and from the South End than ever before.

Hundreds of designers—from the fashion industry to the web—have offices here. By the way, American novelist Carson McCullers wrote the opening chapters of her first book, “The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter,” while living in a boarding house on East Boulevard.

Behind Every Great Steak is a

SKILLED CRAFTSMAN

Boardwalk Billy’s Raw Bar & Ribs is locally owned and has been packing in the crowds since 1998 for great food, fresh margaritas, cold craft beer and free peanuts! (It’s ok ,throw the shells on the floor) Watch the big game, listen to live music or just hang out on the deck enjoying Charlotte’s best fresh seafood. Billy’s is famous for house smoked wings, dry rubbed baby back ribs and delicious pulled pork barbecue served with homemade sauces! Each location features great outdoor dining! The University Place location overlooks the lake and the Sardis Rd. location features a large outdoor patio and a corn hole game area.

On the water at University Place, 9005 JM Keynes Blvd Charlotte Located on the Blue Line light rail system

704-503 RIBS(7427) In the Galleria at Crown Point, 1636 Sardis Rd. North, Charlotte

704-814-RIBS(7427) Order On-Line at WWW.BOARDWALKBILLYS.COM

Charlotte | 227 W. Trade St. | 704.333.2602 mortons.com

NEAR I-77 & BILLY GRAHAM PARKWAY 116 EAST WOODLAWN RD., CHARLOTTE 704-525-5110

SUN-THURS 10:30AM - 10:30PM FRI 10:30AM - 11PM SAT 10:30AM - 2AM (KARAOKE NIGHT)

9709 EAST INDEPENDENCE BLVD., CHARLOTTE 704-814-9877 LIVE MARIACHI BAND PLAYING EVERY SUNDAY 6-9PM

FOSTER-SMITH CORNERS 730 SMITH CORNERS BOULEVARD, SUITE 1200 704-598-4068 LIVE MARIACHI BAND PLAYING EVERY SUNDAY 12-3PM OPEN TIL 2AM SATURDAY (KARAOKE NIGHT)

OPEN FOR LUNCH AND DINNER SUN-THURS 11AM-10PM • FRI-SAT 11AM-11PM ALL ABC PERMITS • MAJOR CREDIT CARDS • TAKE OUT ORDERS.

Reservations for groups of 40-60 required.

www.aztecarestaurantcharlotte.com

®

Go Gaston. Get Outside.

High Shoals

150

Cherryville

GASTON COUNTY, NC

Lucia

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4 7 3

Stanley

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Dallas

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Bessemer City 161

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Kings Mountain

Spencer Mountain

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Ranlo

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North Carolina South Carolina

GET OUSIDE

HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS

DISTILLED, BREWED & BLENDED

1 Tailrace Marina 2 Floating Goat Canoe & Kayak Rentals 3 Riverside Marina 4 Sun’s Up Scuba 5 Rankin Lake Park 6 Anchored Soul

1 2 3 4 5

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Belmont Abbey College 6 Dallas Downtown Historic District Gaston County Museum 7 Cherryville Downtown Historic District C. Grier Beam Truck Museum 8 Millican Pictorial History Museum Cherryville Historical Museum 9 Bessemer City Downtown Historic District Brevard Station 10 Kings Mountain Historical Museum

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Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden Crowders Mountain State Park The Schiele Museum of Natural History Christmas Town USA U.S. National Whitewater Center

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McAdenville 8 3 Belmont 6 Cramerton

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MUST SEE ATTRACTIONS

1

Lowell

Gastonia

29 74

Mount Holly

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6 Ole Dallas Brewery 7 Cavendish Brewery Rivermen Brewing Company 8 9 Muddy River Distillery 10 Growler USA

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ROOT FOR THE HOME TEAM District 8 Beer Company Grape & Barley The Summit Beer Shop The Social Vineyard Gaston Pour House

1 Gastonia Grizzlies 2 Belmont Abbey Athletics 3 Carolina Speedway

Check our website or social media @ go2gaston for all the latest happenings in Gaston County.

620 N. Main St., Belmont, NC | 704-825-4044 | #gogaston | gogaston.org

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

VISIT GASTONIA VISIT GASTONIA Looking for a getaway with something for everyone in your family or group?

Looking Get everyone for a together getaway and withhead something to Gastonia, for everyone just 20 minutes in your west family of or Charlotte. group?

Get everyone Whether you’re together a nature and lover, headshopping to Gastonia, addict, just history 20 minutes buff,west antique of Charlotte. admirer, Whether craft beeryou’re enthusiast, a nature museum lover,patron shopping – youaddict, get the history idea –buff, you’llantique find something admirer, craftwant you beer to enthusiast, do or seemuseum in Gastonia. patron If you – you likeget outdoor the idea activities, – you’llthere’s find something Crowders you want to Mountain State doPark or see andinRankin Gastonia.

LakeIfPark. you Prefer like outdoor a moreactivities, sheltered,there’s temperate Crowders enviMountain State ronment?

The Schiele Park and Museum Rankin Lake of Natural Park. Prefer History, a more an affiliate sheltered, of the temperate Smithsonian, environment?science features The Schiele and natural Museum history of Natural exhibits, History, a planetarium, an affiliate live ofanimals, the Smithsonian, historical features site recreations scienceand and programs natural history for allexhibits, ages. Downtown a planetarium, and live the animals, surrounding historical area site recreations boast a farmersand market, programs brewery for and all ages. threeDowntown large antique and malls the surrounding with more than area boast asquare 90,000 farmers feet market, of vintage brewery merchandise. and threeWhatever large antique you like, malls you’ll with find more it here. than 90,000 square feet of vintage merchandise. Whatever you like, you’ll find it here.

DANIEL STOWE BOTANICAL GARDEN Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is the Carolinas’ Garden for all seasons, providing guests a chance to reconnect with nature and to create lifelong memories with friends and family. Located within 380 acres on the banks of Lake Wylie, spectacular gardens, sparkling fountains, a children’s garden, a conservatory dedicated to the display of tropical plants and orchids, a visitor pavilion, a garden store and nature trails await the visitor. The Garden also hosts events year-round, including Holidays at the Garden. Music festivals, beer and wine tastings and special exhibitions are also part of the Garden’s annual calendar of events. It’s located about 20 minutes from downtown Charlotte in the city of Belmont.

6500 South New Hope Road, Belmont

For More Information

704.825.4490

For More Information

dsbg.com

704.825.4044 www.visitgaston.org 704.825.4044 www.visitgaston.org

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

CAROLINA RAPTOR CENTER The Raptor Trail at Carolina Raptor Center connects visitors to birds and the natural world by featuring over 30 species of birds, special events and encounters throughout the year. The Raptor Trail exhibits are designed to capture your imagination and to ignite your understanding of the science and natural history of raptors and the science of flight.

Humans have been fascinated by birds and flight for thousands of years from Artist Leonardo daVinci to the Wright Brothers to today’s Boeing engineers.

Whether you are looking at birds with an artist’s or scientist’s eye, the beauty and magnificence of CRC’s raptor denizens will spark wonder in visitors from across the globe.

6000 Sample Rd., Huntersville, NC 28078

704.875.6521

www.carolinaraptorcenter.org

HISTORIC ROSEDALE PLANTATION

BECHTLER MUSEUM OF MODERN ART

Built in 1815, Historic Rosedale Plantation is one of the finest Federal-style homes in North Carolina.

Famous for its decorative architectural features, it is the Carolinas’ Southern Piedmont treasure. Our 9 acres of green space feature the renovated Formal Garden, heirloom plants, Treasure Trees, and the beginning of new nature trails. Guided Home Tours offered 1:30 and 3:00pm Thurs.-Sun. Additional Home Tours Saturday at noon and Garden Tours at 12:30pm Wednesday offered May-Sept. Blacksmith in the Smithy 1st, 2nd and 3rd Saturdays. No reservations required. Group tours of 15+ booked with 2 weeks notice. Grounds Rentals available. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art is dedicated to the exhibition of mid-20th-century European and American modern art. Cosmopolitan in nature and intimate in scale, the Bechtler offers a collection that is inspiring and approchable with works by Giacometti, Warhol, Miró, Ernst and other modern art masters. Owing to its size and focus, the museum provided an in-depth visual art experience that can be explored in an afternoon but still reward repeated visits. A museum shop is located on the lobby level.

3427 N. Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC

www.bechtler.org

704.335.0325

www.historicrosedale.org

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WHERE GUESTBOOK

at Levine Center for the Arts 420 South Tryon Street, Charlotte

704.353.9209

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

HARVEY B. GANTT CENTER The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture is a multi-disciplinary arts institution located in the heart of Uptown Charlotte. The Gantt Center features fine art exhibitions from around the world and is home to the nationally celebrated John and Vivian Hewitt Collection of African-American Art. Generously donated by Bank of America, the collection includes works by Romare Bearden and other masters. Named for former Charlotte mayor Harvey Bernard Gantt, we offer an array of arts workshops, cultural programs and works by local artists in our museum store. Visit ganttcenter.org or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

CORKBUZZ Corkbuzz Restaurant & Wine Bar offers an extensive international wine list, including over 40 wines by the glass, 10 rotating wine flights and over 400 bottles available for retail purchase and dining-in.

Join us in our intimate dining room for dinner, or enjoy a glass of wine and some light bites in our outdoor cafe. Our menu features dishes inspired by the great wine regions of the world, and our sommeliers are experts at pairing wine for your food or recommending dishes for your wine.

From AlbariĂąo to Zinfandel, we have all your wine needs covered, and our passionate culinary and service teams will treat you like family and ensure your experience with us is a memorable one.

4905 Ashley Park La, Suite J

551 South Tryon Street at Levine Center

Charlotte, NC 28210

for the Arts

704.625.1328

704.547.3700 ganttcenter.org

ANNE NEILSON FINE ART Anne Neilson Fine Art is located in the Shops at Morrison in the SouthPark area of Charlotte. In our 5200 square foot gallery, we house a variety of traditional and contemporary artwork from over fifty national and international artists. With a catalog of artwork from emerging to established artists, Anne Neilson Fine Art is proud to contribute to Charlotte’s ever growing art community. We are dedicated to being a lighthouse in Charlotte and beyond. With an eye on bettering the world, a portion of all sales are given to non-profit organizations devoted to enriching the lives of those less fortunate. Anne Neilson is an artist who is dedicated to painting with a purpose. She opened the gallery in 2014 with a vision to give back through art.

www.corkbuzz.com 532 Governor Morrison Street, Suite 110 Charlotte, NC 28211

704.496.9181

anneneilsonfineart.com

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RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE

LEVINE MUSEUM

Step away from the hustle and bustle of the ever-growing Uptown area in the city of Charlotte and join us for a piece of serenity and melt-in-your-mouth sizzlin’ steaks! Uptown Ruth’s Chris, remodeled in late 2016, highlights blue hues and lighter colors enticing our guests to relax and enjoy what we are known for – steaks cooked to perfection on 1800 degree broilers. We pride ourselves as one of the rare Ruth’s Chris restaurants throughout the world that proudly offers an award-winning wine list, boasting the Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence. Mention this ad to receive a COMPLIMENTARY APPETIZER when you dine with us for lunch or dinner. Not applicable with our Sizzle Swizzle and Swirl menu. Make the most of your trip to the Queen City by adding the Ruth’s Chris experience to your agenda!

Levine Museum of the New South brings Charlotte’s culture and history to life through programming and exhibits. Visit Levine Museum and experience an intriguing and interactive journey through Charlotte circa 1865 with our awardwinning exhibit, Cotton Fields to Skyscrapers. We tell stories of the diverse people who have reinvented and shaped the region. Our exhibits tell the stories of postCivil War southern history, the profound changes sweeping through the city and stories of neighborhoods as they’ve evolved over time. Levine Museum of the New South works progressively and genuinely, connecting the past to the future to realize the promises of a New South.

222 S. Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28202

www.museumofthenewsouth.org

704.338.9444

www.ruthschris.com/restaurant-locations/charlotte-uptown/

44

WHERE GUESTBOOK

200 E. Seventh Street, Charlotte, NC 28202

704.333.1887

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THE ASBURY

TIN ROOF

BERNARDIN’S

The Asbury is a place guests connect for seasonal food grown locally. Spending time on his grandfather’s dairy farm as a child, Executive Chef Mike Long grew to relish the earth and its gifts.

“Southern food speaks to me with its ingredients,” he says. We’re going to be focusing on the beautiful ingredients and letting them sing. That’s what my food is about. I don’t want to put anything in the way of celebrating them.” Southern, modern twists find their way to your plate: pimento cheese gravy with biscuits at brunch; a basil cream with heirloom tomato salad; in fall, a pumpkin-spiked bisque transformed into a savory sauce for the catch of the day.

Chef Long conducts a symphony of textures and taste in our kitchen every day. Join us for a speedy lunch or linger over every note at dinner. Seven days a week, adjacent to The Dunhill Hotel.

The tasty food, fun, eclectic environment, community of regulars, and friendly crew have established Tin Roof as the place to be for musicians and nonmusicans alike. Over the years, our stages have hosted the famous, the should have been famous, and everyone in between!

Two Sides of Entertainment! Our original side features a stage for live music, tables, full bar, TV’s & more. Our Green Room section is complete with DJ booth, bar, arcade games, skeeball, pop a shot, ping pong, TVs & more. Both sides serve up delicious, southerninspired ‘Better Than Bar Food’ daily for lunch & dinner. On weekend nights, we have a full band playing on the live side while a DJ spins dance tunes in the Green Room...two sides of entertainment - one great night!

Bernardin’s Fine Dining is renowned for its impeccable service, elegant atmosphere and sophisticated, succulent Modern American Cuisine. Specializing in Seafood, Lamb, Steaks, Game Meats, Poultry and Pasta. Relax and enjoy soothing music, inviting accommodations, unbelievable entrees, specialty desserts and an extensive wine list. Serving the Triad of North Carolina since 1992, new to Uptown Charlotte. Hours: Lunch, Monday thru Friday, 11 AM to 2 PM; Dinner, Monday thru Saturday 5 PM to 11 PM 435 5. Tryon St., Charlotte, NC

704.332.3188

www.bernardinsfinedining.com

2nd level of the Epicentre in Uptown Charlotte 235 N. Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28202

704.342.1193

www.theasbury.com

210 E Trade Street

704.910.1330 www.tinroofcharlotte.com

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Round of Applause

THE CHARLOTTE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA OFFERS CLASSICAL, POPS, HOLIDAY AND OTHER SPECIAL PERFORMANCES AT THE BELK THEATER. IN ITS MISSION TO MAKE MUSIC ACCESSIBLE TO ALL, IT ALSO PRESENTS PROGRAMS AT NUMEROUS OTHER LOCATIONS ACROSS THE QUEEN CITY INCLUDING COMMUNITY PARKS, SCHOOLS, CHURCHES, SENIOR CARE CENTERS AND EVEN BREWERIES.

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©MICHAEL HARDING

PARTING SHOT

MORE THAN MUSIC. The AvidXchange Music Factory is Charlotte’s premier destination for entertainment and nightlife, boasting a curated selection of unique bars, restaurants, live music venues and a world class comedy club. Dine in an award winning restaurant, check out your favorite band or touring comedian and enjoy a nightcap all on the same site.

Going out in the Queen City has never been easier.

13 VENUES

(OH YES, SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE)

avidxchangemusicfactory.com 1000 NC MUSIC FACTORY BLVD. CHARLOTTE, NC 28206 6 BLOCKS FROM THE HEART OF UPTOWN

For the outdoor enthusiast

GASTON COUNTY, NC

in all of us, Gaston County offers peaceful trails for you to explore, some of them on the water. Let us help you unplug this weekend and connect you with our County’s numerous natural experiences. Stop by our Visitors Center, call or download our FREE Blueways Trail map at gogaston.org/map 620 N. Main St., Belmont, NC | 704-825-4044 | #gogaston | gogaston.org

GO GASTON. GET OUTSIDE.