Spend a day in Charlotte’s SouthPark Neighborhood

By: Asha Ellison

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Known for its tree-lined streets, fine dining, luxury shopping, and prestigious real estate, Charlotte’s SouthPark neighborhood is among the city’s most upscale neighborhoods–yet there is still something for everyone. Consider customizing your trip and making your own magic with the following recommendations for the ultimate day out in SouthPark.

Morning: Fuel up and get focused

Start your morning at Renaissance Patisserie where you’ll easily feel like you’ve traded the Charlotte suburbs for a morning in Paris. Grab a seat on the patio, order a pastry that both looks and tastes like a work of art, and kickstart the day with a proper intermezzo or café au lait!

From there, check your vibe and choose your next excursion:

Longing for peace and quiet?: Book an hour at the Woodhouse Spa. If you’re looking for approachable relaxation, skip the costly packages and opt for their popular, targeted services such as the 30-minute Infrared Sauna with Salt Therapy ($45) to relieve tension, or tuck into a 15-minute Salt Room Session ($40) to clear your mind.
In the mood to shop ‘til you drop?: Phillips Place has you covered with stores like Alice + Olivia and Ralph Lauren, or cruise the expansive corridors of SouthPark Mall for goodies from Aritzia, Belk, Zara, Neiman Marcus, Burberry, Gucci and more. Whether you are investing in a high-end designer piece or indulging in a bit of retail therapy, it is the premier shopping stretch in the Queen City.

Afternoon: Find flavor and family synergy

Chango Food Group Mal Pan Chicken Taquitos Photo by Camille Maede, courtesy of NiceDay

For lunch, make your way to Mal Pan. This isn’t your average taco joint; it’s a modern, chef-driven approach to Mexican street food. Order the crisp pork belly tacos or a loaded bowl, and don’t skip the fresh guacamole.

Once you’re fueled up, the afternoon is all about engagement:

For the littles: If you have the kids in tow, walk right over to the West Plaza Play Area at SouthPark Mall. The little ones can burn off energy on the modern, turf-covered climbing hills and slides while you pull up a chair at Suffolk Punch Brewing, located directly adjacent to the playground. You can sip a crisp, locally-brewed lager with a perfect, unobstructed line of sight to the play area.
For curious minds: Find indoor learning at SouthPark Regional Library where you’ll discover engaging children’s programs such as interactive storytimes and creative literacy workshops that make learning feel like a game. A stop at Dan Nance’s Historical Arts Studio allows visitors to look at the area’s history captured on canvas.
For those who want to get outside: Soak up the North Carolina sun with an hour at Park Road Park. Take a much-needed stroll around the 11-acre lake and watch the ducks, or walk the shaded trails. It is a green escape in the middle of a bustling community.

Evening: Sip slowly with a moving melody

At the turn of dusk, the arts come alive for all to enjoy. If you love live performances, time your visit with the Charlotte Symphony’s Summer Pops series at Symphony Park, where you can listen to music on the lawn under the stars. Yearning for something a bit more intimate and sultry? Snag tickets to Middle C Jazz in nearby Uptown for a world-class showcase of soul and swing.

Wrap up the day with masterfully crafted cocktails and delicious pre-dinner bites at The Loft at Duckworth. The midcentury modern lounge vibe sets the perfect tone for the evening. When you’re ready for the main course, move on to 800° Lounge where you can sink into a plush seat, order a round of wood-fired specialties, and pair them with a seasonal cocktail to toast a day beautifully spent.