24 Hours in Charlotte: Make the Most of Your Business Trip in the Queen City

Beyond the stunning skyline, laid-back artsy vibe, and upscale Southern charm and style, Charlotte is quickly becoming one of the hottest and most exciting food cities in the South. Affectionately known as the Queen City, Charlotte is home to the Carolina Panthers, the NASCAR Hall of Fame, and the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Whether you’re in town for a long layover or making the most of a business trip, here’s how to make the best of 24 hours in Charlotte.

Recharge during Power Hour

After a smooth landing, drop your bags off with your hotel concierge and stroll down to the Ritz Carlton Spa for Power Hour. Relax and clear your head as you enjoy an intensely invigorating and clarifying morning treatment. This 50 minute, exfoliation and massage uses a blend of awakening salts and oils that will leave you energized and ready to tackle the day.

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Talk Shop in Thai

When it’s time to refuel, gather your associates for a working lunch at Basil Thai. Enjoy the refined atmosphere of this authentic upscale Thai bistro. Sip a cup of authentic Tom Kha Gai before noshing on a crispy Basil Duck, deep-fried and topped with the magical house Basil Sauce.

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Check into the City View at The Ivey’s

Retreat to the ultimate boutique experience at Charlotte’s best luxury hotel, right in the heart of Charlotte’s City Center. Once a grand department store, The Ivey’s 42 remodeled rooms dazzle amidst the timeless architecture, detailed molding and trim that meets exposed brick and velvety Parisian accents. Centrally located, The Ivey’s offers gorgeous street views and a short walking distance to the Charlotte Convention Center, Spectrum Centre, Bank of America Stadium, and the popular EpiCentre with its many restaurants and shops.

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Sip Cocktails in Sophia’s Lounge

Follow the sparkling custom chandelier downstairs to Sophia’s. Order an award winning artisanal cocktail in this playfully opulent space named for Queen Sophia Charlotte and decorated with a vibrant European flair. Sit back as master Mixologist & Sommelier Patricia Smith concocts beauts like This Day in Sage, made with limoncello, peach preserves and Evan Williams bourbon.

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Taste Heaven at 5Church

Take a right, around the corner to Church Street and settle in for a religious experience! Bravo’s Top Chef Alumni, owner and Executive Chef Jamie Lynch delivers upscale-casual with an inventive New American menu that highlights 5Church’s delicious local ingredients. Whether you’re celebrating a successful presentation, dining with clients or enjoying a night out with new friends, the dimly-lit, whimsical space provides the perfect ambiance. Start with a yellowfin tuna tartare and butter-poached Maine lobster for apps before filling up on braised lamb shank with smoked collard greens and Southern stone ground grits.

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Enjoy a Skyline Nightcap at Fahrenheit

It’s time for a nightcap. End the evening with views of the city’s stunning panoramic skyline from the 21st floor of Charlotte’s scenic rooftop bar, Fahrenheit. Grab a table on the terrace and order the OMB Copper Amber Ale from the Olde Mecklenburg Brewery. Or try the Mango Madness, a fruity twist on the Moscow Mule.

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Revisit the Classics in the Library

Rise and shine as early as you can; you only have a few hours left in this beautiful city. Make your way to the Library inside The Ivey’s for your first coffee of the morning. Guests can order their brew however they prefer: black, latte, cappuccino, espresso, etc. and snag some toasted bagels with lox and a plate of fresh fruit.

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Eat Cake at Amelie’s French Bakery

Before rushing off to the airport, fill your carry on with fresh pastries and Petit Gateau from a local coffee haunt. Although known for their salted caramel brownies and array of French macaron flavors, Amelie’s knocks it out of the cafe with their signature soup—the spinach asparagus leek—and fig, bacon and brie tartines. The atmosphere is blissfully ornate in French-inspired bohemian a perfectly whimsical and artful start to your day.

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