45+ Things to Do In NoDa Charlotte NC | How to Explore NoDa

North Davidson Street, or NoDa for short, is one of the many neighborhoods in Charlotte, North Carolina. What makes NoDa unique is that its known as Charlotte’s eclectic, playful art and entertainment district. As someone who loves places that have a lot of character and who connects with the hippie culture, I knew NoDa was going to be a place I would love. I had a sneak peek when I visited with one of my best friends there in my early 20’s, but after my husband and I stayed there for a month I really got to explore the area. Here is a list of 40+ fun things to do in NoDa Charlotte NC.

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While there are so many fun things to check off your NoDa bucket list, there are a few things that stick out as the highlights of Charlotte, North Carolina’s art and entertainment district.

Evening Muse & the Neighborhood Theatre For Live Music

Being Charlotte’s entertainment and art district, NoDa has the live music venues to match! Evening Muse is a small venue that hosts regular house music performances and local acts each weekend.

The Neighborhood Theatre is a larger live music venue in NoDa that started out as a movie theatre in 1945, now turned venue. Seating varies from show to show. Make sure to get tickets ahead of time for both of these venues to make sure you don’t miss out, as tickets regularly sell out.

Brewery Hop at Fantastic NoDa Breweries

Charlotte has a huge brewery scene, and many of them call NoDa home. You’ll find breweries on every corner, offering award-winning beers and a welcoming atmosphere. A few of the must-see NoDa breweries are Free Range Brewing, Divine Barrel Brewing, NoDa Brewing Company, Wooden Robot, Birdsong Brewing Company and Heist Brewery. We highly recommend making Heist your lunch stop for some delicious food (I’m still thinking about it!).

Once you’ve seen these there are plenty of others to check out. You won’t have any shortage of craft beer to try. Explore my map of breweries in Charlotte, which you can save and come back to when you’re ready for a cold beer!

Explore the Mural & Art Scene in NoDa

Get out there and see the art! From murals, to street art and art galleries, there’s A LOT of art to see in NoDa.

Take An Art Walk

There’s art everywhere you go in NoDa, including lots of pretty murals and outdoor art scattered throughout North Davidson street. If you prefer something more structured versus wandering around on your own, visit the Art Walks CLT website where you’ll find four different self-guided walks where you’ll encounter all of the art NoDa has to offer.

Visit NoDa’s Art Galleries

From art galleries to independent studios, like the one that belongs to David French, NoDa is home to several great places where you can view and (sometimes) purchase art. Charlotte Art League is a combined art gallery and art studio, with regular installations and classes. At Summit Coffee you’ll find art by local artists, and as an added bonus, craft coffee.

Independent Picture House : See An Indie Film

The Independent Picture House is an inspiring non-profit community cinema, created by the Charlotte Film Society, where you can see indie films created outside of major studios. You can also catch events that support local artists here.

Idlewild Cocktail Bar : Premier Cocktail Bar In NoDa Charlotte NC

If you’re a cocktail person, you can’t miss Idlewild. This is the best cocktail bar both my husband and I have ever been to! Idlewild differentiates itself by having no menu and instead offering custom craft cocktails handmade by the bartenders based on your individual taste.

40+ More Things to Do In NoDa Charlotte NC

There’s enough things to do in NoDa for you to stay busy for a whole month! Here is a list that you can use as a NoDa bucket list. ✔️

Salud Cerveceria & Salud Beer Shop : Visit this Local Gem

Salud Cerveceria is a brewpub and eatery that is very well loved by the community and for good reason! Stop in to try a variety of high quality craft beers and wood-fired pizza in an inviting atmosphere.

On the way out, take some craft beers to go from the in-house beer shop.

Pura Vida Wordly Art and Curio, Craft & Conjure : Shop Local

These two NoDa boutiques will have you wanting to take everything home with you! Shop local at Pura Vida Wordly Art and Curio, Craft & Conjure for some unique finds you won’t be able to find anywhere else.

Amelie’s French Bakery : Try Delicious Pastries At This Local Favorite

Amelie’s is Charlotte’s favorite French Bakery, offering delicious pastries, fresh french macarons, soups, sandwiches and coffee. This is an absolute must-visit for anyone who loves sweets. Aside from the treats, Amelie’s is decorated in an eclectic way with things to look at everywhere you turn.

Amelie’s also makes a great place to work, especially during breakfast or lunch!

The Company Store NoDa : Drinks In The Garden

The Company Store NoDa is a NoDa staple, beer garden and wine bar. Here you’ll find beers on tap from local Charlotte breweries, craft beer cans from the Carolinas and even homemade sangria & juices. Even better, they have a beautiful garden where you can hangout and soak in the outdoors, sipping sangria on porch swings.

Reigning Donuts & Pepperbox Donuts : Try Gourmet Donuts

Reigning Donuts and Pepperbox Donuts are two boutique donut shops in NoDa Charlotte NC, that offers a wide variety of specialty flavors that come out warm and fresh every time, without being overly sweet.

Khali Yoga Charlotte : Experience A Transformative Yoga Class

In my opinion Khali Yoga Charlotte is in the top 5 best things to do in NoDa Charlotte NC, but I’m a little biased as someone who practices yoga regularly 😉. Of all the yoga studios I’ve been to, this one was one of the best and in my mind competed with a few I visited in Bali.

If you’re open to it (or even if you’re not!) stop in for a yoga class, sound healing or for one of their workshops at Khali Yoga Charlotte, for a transformative and healing experience.

Mac Tabby Cat Cafe : Play with 12 Cute Cats In An Artsy Space

This NoDa cafe, bar and lounge is for cat lovers. The Mac Tabby Cat Cafe is somewhere where you can sip on craft coffee or a local beer, and then hangout in an artsy and comfortable space where you can play with 12 adoptable cats. 🐱 If you fall in love with one of them, this could be a life-changing experience for you in NoDa!

Charlotte Murals : Take Pictures with the Murals of NoDa Charlotte NC

I know I already mentioned viewing the art in the Top 5 things to do in NoDa Charlotte list, but the murals deserve their own spot. Take a few photos in front of the Striped Confetti Wall outside of Summit Coffee, or the transformed Bloom mural by Osiris Rain at 3200 N. Davidson Street, for instagram-worthy memories that will last.

Camp North : Discover Charlotte’s Hub For Creativity

Although not technically in NoDa, Camp North describes itself as “76 Acres of Inspiration” and is so special that it has to be at the top of your list if you’re visiting NoDa. Industrial site turned creative hub, on any given day you’ll find a big a mix of activities, art, events, live entertainment and things to do here, along with tons of food, drink and retail vendors. There’s something for everyone in this growing creative center.

Popbar Charlotte : Try A Gourmet Popsicle

Gourmet popsicles? Yes please!! Both Instagram worthy and delicious, at Popbar you can choose between 50+ flavors dipped in toppings of your choosing.

Dog Bar : Grab Drinks With Your Dog

Visit Charlotte’s most dog-friendly bar, because only thing better than a cold beer is a cold beer with your four-legged best friend. 💕🐶

Haberdish : Have Brunch At A Stylish Southern Kitchen

Haberdish is a trendy southern kitchen and NoDa staple, offering delicious food for dinner and brunch. I highly recommend their brunch, which features unique (and beautiful!) brunch drinks alongside comfort food entrees including of course, fried chicken & waffles, in a warm space with lots of natural light. Great vibes all around.

Hot Glass Alley : Make Your Own Pint Glass or Pumpkin

For a truly unique activity that fits right in with NoDa’s artistic energy, head to Hot Glass Alley where you can join one of their Make Your Own classes which happen weekly. You’ll have the chance to make a glass pint glass, wine glass, paperweight or even a cute pumpkin to impress your family during Thanksgiving.

The Hobbyist : Try It All And Then Take Some Home

The Hobbyist has something for everyone, so you can bring the whole group here and keep them all happy. This combined bottle/beer shop and cafe offers fresh craft coffee beverages, craft cocktails, local beer, teas, wine and pastries. Plus, they have an amazing selection of local beer and wine you won’t find elsewhere, so you can bring some back to your hotel and drink local.

Little Sugar Creek Greenway : Go For A Bike Ride Or Leisurely Stroll

Little Sugar Creek Greenway is a popular trail in Charlotte spanning 19.5 miles, starting on N Brevard St., passing through Cordelia Park, Sixteenth Street Park and Alexander Park, going all the way to 3190 Gilroy Dr in Indian Land. It’s the perfect place to soak in the beautiful Charlotte greenery during a bike ride, work out or leisurely stroll.

Cabo Fish Taco : Eat Mouthwatering Tacos

Cabo Fish Taco’s flagship store is located in NoDa, offering original Baja Mexican cuisine in a relaxed and upbeat atmosphere. We went back here again and again for their delicious tacos!

Pure Glo Spa : Heal Your Skin Naturally In A Spa Setting

Pure Glo is NoDa’s holistic health spa and boutique, providing natural and advanced skincare regimens to get to the root cause and heal your skin, as fast as possible.

Jeni’s Ice Cream : Cool Down With Delicious Ice Cream

Jeni’s Ice Cream is an ice cream shop in NoDa that everyone loves. Come here to try innovative ice cream flavors made from fresh ingredients and lots of love. P.S. Kids adore this place!

Smelly Cat Cafe : Try Specialty Coffee at Charlotte’s Longest Running Coffeehouse

Smelly Cat Cafe is Charlotte’s longest running coffee house and they earned it. This coffee shop roasts their own specialty coffee and makes their own syrups. Try some gourmet coffee in a calm atmosphere and don’t forget to try some of their delicious food too.

NoDa 101 : Sing Karaoke

Karaoke brings people together and is the perfect weekend night activity, especially for groups. Swing by NoDa 101 to take a turn at the mic and see if you have what it takes or just for laughs.

Oh My Soul : Eat Gourmet Vegan At A Beautiful Outdoor Patio

Oh My Soul is NoDa’s first vegan restaurant, boasting a huge menu of delicious items alongside craft cocktails. They stand for kindness, compassion and love for all things on the planet.

Visit on a nice day to take advantage of their AMAZING outdoor patio and garden that includes a 100-year old oak tree. 🌳🩷

Happy Camper : Try A Cannabis-Infused Cocktail

Happy Camper is a new type of hangout that might expand your mind. This NoDa dispensary of THC and CBD products has two locations in NoDa Charlotte NC, one their original shop and now a hangout lounge that features cannabis-infused drinks along with their other products.

Try one of their cannabis-infused cocktails and then take some edibles or smokables with you to go!

Optimist Hall : Eat, Drink, Shop, Relax

This hip food hall is more of a food and beverage destination, offering 25 food stalls, boutique shops, restaurants, drink stops and good vibes (hence the name). You can eat, drink, shop and relax at Optimist Hall, either indoors or on the beautiful outdoor terrace and eating area.

P.S. I highly recommend the spaghetti melt from Papi Queso. 😍

Find Unique Vintage Clothing

NoDa has three fantastic vintage shops including OldNews Vintage, the Rat’s Nest and Milk Money Vintage. See what you can find to take home!

NoDa’s Greenification Committee : Participate In A Local Cleanup

NoDa’s Greenification Committee hosts monthly street cleanups, to support the sustainability of our environment and the beautification of Charlotte’s Art & Entertainment district. Do good, feel good!

Goodyear House : Dine Under A Canopy of Trees

Goodyear House is a local favorite that offers high-quality food in a beautiful setting, either in their well designed, casual and rustic indoor space or in their sprawling outdoor patio and garden under a canopy of trees. I highly recommend trying the crispy rice balls. Still thinking of them months later!

The Blind Pig Charlotte : Grab A Beer & Play Arcade Games

The Blind Pig is for kids at heart. Come here to play arcade games while listening to great music in a fun atmosphere, with cocktails and beer.

Benny Pennello’s Pizza Charlotte : The Biggest Pizza Slice You’ve Ever Had

Eat the biggest pizza slice you’ve ever had at Benny Pennello’s. Bonus: it’s very good.

Starlight On 22nd : Attend An Open Mic Comedy Night

Starlight on 22nd is NoDa’s hidden gem and neighborhood bar that offers regular events open to the public, including a regular comedy open mic night that locals rave about.

Jack Beagles : Try Gourmet Mac N Cheese Flavors

Jack Beagles is a local restaurant and bar with a relaxed atmosphere, offering casual and hand-crafted comfort food. My favorite thing about this place is that they had a bunch of different types of gourmet mac n cheese flavors I had never heard before. My favorite was the Jack Mac, which is their signature. Yummmm!!!

NoDa Massage : Treat Yourself to A Massage Tailored to Your Body

Unwind and support your wellbeing at NoDa Massage. Offerings include custom massages made for what your individual body needs, using a combination of techniques like deep tissue, swedish, myofascial and more, leading to a more relaxed nervous system and better overall health.

Local Loaf : Have A Hearty & Delicious Breakfast

Stop by Local Loaf for a mouthwatering breakfast. We personally loved their breakfast sandwiches, and you can either eat at a table inside or on their cute outdoor patio, or take your food to go. This place gets packed, so make sure to plan accordingly and don’t show up starving on the weekend!

Seoul Food Meat Company : Food & Fun For The Whole Family

Seoul Food Meat Company is a touch outside of NoDa but it’s so unique I had to include it! This place can be thought of as a family-friendly hangout and food stop. They offer southern barbecue with a Korean twist at a huge and inviting indoor/outdoor space. They have K-pop videos playing on big screens outdoors, a children’s play area complete with a splash pad during the summer and mini fire-pits on colder days (adorable!!!), karaoke rooms and plenty of games.

My husband and I loved the uniqueness of the games indoors. They even had tables where you could play soccer underneath.

Crown Station Coffeehouse & Pub : Live Music & Drinks (All Kinds!)

This is a one stop shop and local hangout you don’t want to miss. At Crown Station Coffeehouse they have regular llive music shows, along with a great weekend vibe and any drink you could ask for including fair trade coffee and teas, a full bar with draft beer and cocktails, and even wine slushies.

The Exchange : Try A Mimosa Flight

Mimosa flights aren’t common but you can find one at The Exchange in NoDa Charlotte NC. After your champagne flight you can try local provisions, purchase specialty grocery items and munch on some delicious food.

Cordelia Park : Swim Beside A Perfect Charlotte Skyline View

Cordelia Park is home to a large public pool with multiple slides, and is also the best place to see Charlotte’s stunning skyline in NoDa. This is a must-see spot for photographers!

Industrious Coworking Space : Do Some Networking & Get Inspired

Industrious is a Charlotte coworking space for digital nomads and remote workers. Pop in to get some work in and perhaps do some networking, especially if you’re a freelancer, remote worker or entrepreneur. Get the ideas flowing and meet like-minded people!

Super Abari Game Bar : Play Pinball & Retro Arcade Games

Although a little bit outside of NoDa, I had to include this place because it’s so much fun! At Super Abari Game Bar you can go back in time and play 30+ retro video games, including lots of pinball. They even have lounge areas where you can play classic Nintendo games.

Drip IV : Rehydrate & Rejuvenate

Great for but not limited to hangovers, at Drip IV you can experience customized IV Hydration along with other treatments to help you feel your best in NoDa.

510 Expert Tattoo & Piercings : Get A Tattoo In NoDa Charlotte NC

Vacations are the best time to get a tattoo and in NoDa you’ll fin the 510 Expert Tattoo & Piercings shop to help you out.

Have A Picnic At Cordelia Park, with Help From Rhino Market & Deli

Rhino Market & Deli offers mouthwatering sandwiches under half a mile away from Cordelia Park. Take your lunch over to the park for a picnic, enjoying the Charlotte skyline from NoDa.

Deejai Noodle Bar : Try Mouthwatering Thai Street Food

Deejai Noodle Bar completely surprised me. This eatery offers a variety of traditional thai street food dishes. My favorite is the Kau Gui, which is a noodle dish with veggies that is surprisingly light and perfect for lunch.

Take The Light Rail : Explore the Rest of Charlotte NC

After you’re done with your NoDa bucket list your adventure isn’t over. Take the light rail from the 36th Street Station to all of the other popular Charlotte neighborhoods.