9 summer experiences for every budget — from food recs to travel destinations - Axios Charlotte

2022-07-02 00:42:58 By : Mr. Steve Wang

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Whether you’re looking to have some summer fun on a budget or go all out, here are a few activities to try.

Hikes: Crowders Mountain is a popular hiking destination that’s not too far from Charlotte.

Après hike:  Veronét Vineyards  is a 12-minute drive from Crowders, so go for a post-hike drink and snack.

Related guide:  Top 16 places to hike near Charlotte, plus a guide to their best trails

About the quarry:  It’s a  natural spring-fed body of water that was discovered in the 1960s when mining for granite stone. Now, it’s become a popular local destination to spend hot days.

Details: The Blue Ridge Mountains are home to several very cool glamping set-ups including geodesic domes, a tree house with a suspended bridge and an elevated glamping pod.

Related guide: 8 glamping getaways in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Glamping in Asheville. Photo courtesy of Samantha Alexander

We’ve rounded up 46 Charlotte restaurants that have menu items for around $10, including: 

Treat yourself with a meal at one of Charlotte’s high-end steakhouses, contemporary rooftop spots, fast casual joints or international restaurants. Some ideas:

Full guide: 9 best new restaurants in Charlotte, right now

Luckily for North Carolinians, we’re conveniently home to locations for mountains, beaches and everything in between at every price point. Here are a few flightless travel destinations to check out within driving distance of the Charlotte area. 

Details: As a Durhammite, Alexis is a little biased, but trust her when she says there are plenty of experiences between culture, good food and history that make this the ideal budget-friendly weekend getaway.

Cool stay: The Unscripted Hotel is located right in the heart of downtown that places you within walking distance of the Durham Bulls Stadium and the Durham Performing Arts Center . This hotel also features a rooftop pool with sweet views of the city.

Cost: Average price during the week this summer is $115/night. Weekend rates start at $135.

Related guide: Durham getaway: 33 things to do in the Bull City

Details: The summer isn’t complete without a beach trip. Wilmington is a relaxing destination whether you’re planning to treat yourself to a weekend alone, or a bask in the ocean breeze with a partner. You can enjoy a little historic sightseeing or simply relax on the beach after enjoying the latest fresh catch at local restaurants. 

Cool stay: Opt for a boutique bed and breakfast like Dreamers Welcome . The interior design of this renovated Victorian home is top-tier if you’re looking to create content or Instagramable selfies.

Cost: Weekly special rates start at $179. Most of the weekend dates are already booked but an average rate is about $300 a night.

Related Guide: Coastal getaway: 48 things to do in Wilmington, 3.5 hours from Charlotte

Dreamers Welcome. Photos: Axios archives

Just outside Asheville in mid-October. Axios archives

Details: Planting yourself near our state’s largest mansion, The Biltmore Estate , and some of the most beautiful Blueridge Mountains will push you to splurge on yourself.

Cool stay nearby: Live your best luxury life at The Inn on Biltmore Estate or head north of the city to Omni Grove Park Inn that’s known for 10 presidential stays. 

Cost: Weekend rates start at $600 a night for The Inn on Biltmore Estate and $374 at the Omni Grove Park Inn. 

Related guide: Asheville getaway: 35 things to do in N.C.’s coolest mountain city

Inn at The Biltmore. Axios archives

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