Kid-Friendly Weekend Fun: Things to Do in Charlotte with Kids

Weekends are precious, especially when you’re juggling family life among all your other responsibilities (and we know your schedule is already PACKED, to say the least). Whether you’re new to Charlotte or just looking for a fresh way to keep your kiddos entertained, well… you’re in luck—our city is full of fun, kid-friendly options that make family time feel extra, extra special. So much so that we’ve decided to round up a list of our favorite things to do in Charlotte with kids. 

Get ready for a treat because we’ll be talking about places that are engaging, inclusive, and easy to love for all ages. Whether you’ve got toddlers, school-age kiddos, or both, this guide will help you make the most of your weekends together.

Why Charlotte Is a Hidden Gem for Families

Charlotte offers the perfect blend of urban energy and community warmth. From sprawling parks and interactive museums to animal encounters and cozy cafés, believe me when I tell you that there’s no shortage of weekend adventures in our beautiful, beaming town. And with each season bringing its own unique activities (hello, strawberry picking in the spring and fall festivals galore!!!), you’ll literally never run out of ways to create lasting memories with your family.

1. Discovery Place Science

Located right in Uptown, Discovery Place Science is a hands-on wonderland that’s not just for kids—it’s even a great spot for adults to be, especially with their children. It’s a sensory wonderland! Kids can touch, build, splash, climb, and explore their curiosity through themed exhibits that change throughout the year. It’s educational and fun—oh, and it’s also perfect for those rainy or super-hot Carolina days (if you’ve been a Charlotte resident for a while now or grew up here, you definitely know how it gets). Parent tip: Get your fam there early to beat the crowds, and if you loved the experience and plan to visit more than twice a year, consider a membership—it pays for itself quickly!

2. ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center

More than just a library, ImaginOn combines storytime magic with interactive theater, creative art spaces, and STEM activities—all for free! The center is designed to spark creativity in kids of all ages, from preschool to teens, and it’s always evolving with new programming.

Bonus: There’s a light rail stop right across the street, making it a fun little train ride adventure to get there.

3. Freedom Park

Maybe you’re not an indoor fun type of family, and that’s super okay! That’s why we’ve added this gem to the list. If your idea of weekend fun includes sunshine, playgrounds, and picnic blankets, Freedom Park is calling your name. This 98-acre green space has walking trails, multiple play areas, a duck pond, and room to run wild. Pack snacks or grab lunch from nearby Dilworth spots.

Bonus: The park hosts family-friendly events year-round, including concerts and movies in the park. Take your kids, bring your family, and just enjoy the vibes!

4. SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium

SEA LIFE Charlotte indoor aquarium (just north of Charlotte at Concord Mills) is great for those weekend “field trip” vibes. With ocean tunnels, interactive tanks, and shark feedings, it’s engaging without being overwhelming. It’s especially perfect for younger kids who may not last long at larger attractions. They’ll be entertained no matter where you walk. And yes, strollers are welcome, so bring baby along, too!

5. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden

City life is great and all, but sometimes, we just want an escape—am I right? If you’re one of those parents who want to get out of the city for a bit, Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden in Belmont is peaceful and surprisingly fun for kids. They’ll love the fountains, the butterfly house (seasonal), and open spaces to explore. It’s a gentle way to spend a quiet morning together—and perfect for low-key sensory time.

6. The Schiele Museum of Natural History

Located in Gastonia, about 30 mins from Charlotte, The Schiele Museum is well worth the short drive. With a planetarium, live animals, and indoor/outdoor exhibits on dinosaurs, Native American cultures, and wildlife, it truly does offer something for every interest.

Pro tip: Their “Farm Days” and seasonal festivals are huge hits with families, so try and plan to attend these if and when you can—your kids will LOVE it!

7. Local Farmers Markets

Charlotte’s farmers markets are more than just places to grab fresh produce—they’re vibrant hubs where families can shop local, listen to live music, and try out tasty snacks. If these kinds of markets are more your vibe, check out:

• Charlotte Regional Farmers Market (Open Saturdays throughout the year)
  
• South End Market at Atherton Mill (They’ve got some great food truck options!)
  
• Uptown Farmers Market (This one gets bonus points for stroller accessibility)

8. Indoor Things to Do in Charlotte with Kids: Play Cafés & Activity Zones

On those days when you need a change of scenery (but still not too much effort, of course), check out these cozy indoor spots where kids can play while you relax:

• My Gym Charlotte – Enjoy structured play, classes, and free time
• Urban Air Adventure Park – This park is absolutely great for big energy days
• Playland Monroe – This is a clean, family-friendly indoor playground and café designed for kids ages 1 through 10. It features a large soft play structure, a separate toddler area, and a cozy café for parents to relax. 
• Playland Pineville – With 2-hour play sessions, party options, and a focus on safety, it’s a fun, family-friendly destination just south of Charlotte!

9. Local Libraries & Storytimes

Your local branch of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library is a goldmine of family-friendly activities—storytime, craft kits, and even yoga or movement classes for littles.

Bonus: It’s all free, and you can get reading recs while you’re there!

10. Family Hikes & Nature Trails

Outdoor things to do in Charlotte with kids are a great way to connect as a family, especially when screen time needs a break! For fresh air and bonding time, we recommend that you hit up one of Charlotte’s many family-friendly nature spots:

• Reedy Creek Nature Center – Trails, pond views, and a nature museum
• McDowell Nature Preserve – Great for camping-curious families who are crazy about the outdoors
• Latta Nature Preserve – Home to the Raptor Center and horseback riding
• Anne Springs Close Greenway – an extensive protected natural area in Fort Mill, South Carolina consisting of approximately 2,100 acres of lakes, forests, and pastures that include trails for hiking, biking, kayaking, and horseback riding.

A Note on Planning for Real Life

Every family has its own rhythm, and what sounds fun for one weekend might feel like “too much” the next. That’s totally okay. Remember: it’s not about doing everything—it’s about creating small, meaningful experiences together. So, here’s what you can do: pick one activity, keep it low-pressure, and enjoy whatever unfolds! Life’s unpredictable, and so are kids… so the best you can do is make the most out of whatever the day throws your way!

Queen City Doulas Is Here for Every Stage of the Journey

Whether you’re expecting your first baby or chasing your third through a splash pad, parenting is full of evolving needs. Our team at Queen City Doulas is here to support you through pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond.

Do you need help figuring out what weekends will look like after baby arrives? Get in touch with us; we’d love to talk about postpartum support that gives you more time to breathe, bond, and actually enjoy these fleeting moments.

Book your complimentary discovery call today—we’d love to support your family!