Located just west of central North Carolina is the popular city of Charlotte. This modern metropolis is a national banking center with a booming population and a never-ending list of available attractions and activities of all types.
For retirees looking to relocate south, but not too far south, Charlotte offers a moderate climate in a major city and all of the amenities that come with it.
Charlotte History
The area around Charlotte was originally home to the Catawba Native Americans. But after smallpox wiped out most of the tribe, the region was settled by Europeans like Thomas Spratt and Thomas Polk in the mid-1700s. The small town that developed was incorporated as “Charlotte Town” in 1768.
The city of Charlotte saw major periods of growth following the American Revolution, and then again immediately following the Civil War. The same type of growth then happened again after World War I.
But none of that could compare to the growth that Charlotte has seen in its more recent history. After multiple major banks established roots in Charlotte during the 1970s and 1980s, the city has become one of the largest banking headquarters in the entire country.
Charlotte Lifestyle
Being one of the largest cities in the country, there is a never-ending list of things to do in and around Charlotte. In fact, TripAdvisor lists hundreds of “Things To Do” here, so there is definitely going to be something for everyone.
In the city, many of the most popular activities revolve around sports teams like the Carolina Panthers, and the Charlotte Hornets. The city is also home to two annual NASCAR races, the NASCAR Hall of Fame, and the Hendrix Motorsports Complex and Museum.
For those who are looking to get out and embrace nature, there are plenty of parks to choose from within the city, as well as beautiful spots like Lake Norman located just outside the city. Charlotte is also surrounded by excellent whitewater rafting destinations.
Charlotte Culture
Where many of our retirement spotlights highlight cultural attractions that are similar to those you would find in big cities, Charlotte is actually a big city, so they have more than a few cultural options to experience.
Two local museums that are unique to Charlotte are the Sullenberger Aviation Museum and the Mint Museum Uptown. If you have ever wanted to sit in the cockpit of a Boeing 727, the Carolinas Aviation Museum is a must-visit. And the Mint Museum boasts four floors of unique art history to browse.
For concerts and shows, Charlotte has the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, the North Carolina Music Factory, and The Fillmore, as well as much larger stadiums and many smaller venues for more intimate shows.
Charlotte Shopping
From the heart of downtown to the outskirts of the city, you will find more shopping than you can handle just about everywhere you turn in Charlotte. One of the most popular destinations for retail therapy is the South Park Mall Charlotte, which contains more than 150 high-end retail stores.
If you are passionate about antique shopping, you will surely want to check out The Sleepy Poet Antiques Mall just southwest of the city. You can also find the Charlotte Premium Outlets over on this side of the city.
For those who are passionate about shopping for food, the 7th Street Public Market in Uptown Charlotte is a must-visit.
Charlotte Dining
In a city as big as Charlotte, you are never going to have to go very far to locate an excellent restaurant. If you are looking for something a bit classier, but not over the top, The Cellar at Duckworth’s is the place. Their classic, rustic atmosphere and menu of delicious small plates make this a popular choice for getting together with friends and sharing some fabulous food.
The Fig Tree Restaurant takes just about every detail to the next level with their truly first-class dining experience. When you are ready to celebrate a special event like a birthday or anniversary in Charlotte, the French and Italian specialties here are definitely going to impress.
And of course, you’ll find hundreds of other options on sites like Yelp.
Charlotte Area 55+ Communities
Since Charlotte is such a popular destination for retirement that can offer a little bit of everything, it makes sense that there are plenty of community choices here.
One of our favorites is located just a few miles from Charlotte and renowned Lake Norman, Trilogy® Lake Norman combines thoughtfully designed floor plans with quality construction, energy-saving innovations, and architectural inspiration in all of our homes. This exclusive community features a 5-star lifestyle and a stunning Resort Club designed to exceed your expectations.
With so many ways to relax, be pampered, or get active, owners here are able to enjoy a Club offering world-class resort amenities and service. Inspiring architecture defines the Club, which features a state-of-the-art fitness center, terrific dining, special interest clubs, enriching classes, exciting travel opportunities, tennis, and much, much more.
Sound like a place you might be interested in? You can request more information right here:
Final Thoughts
As a fast-growing city that offers just about everything you could ever want, it’s easy to see why many of today’s retirees are flocking to Charlotte. Are you ready to be one of them?