Aside from being known as NASCAR's unofficial hometown and having near-idyllic weather, not a lot is said about North Carolina's largest city.
But Charlotte, home to Bank of America, is actually the second-largest banking center in the U.S., after New York City, and is a hub for many other banks and energy firms.
And the city has a lot more to offer than chain restaurants and shiny skyscrapers. Here are some great attractions to check out next time you find yourself on a business trip to "Queen City."
For a hearty southern breakfast, try the Terrace Cafe. With locations in both Ballantyne Village and Southpark, it should be nearby no matter where you stay. And if your morning is packed, no worries — they serve breakfast (including red velvet waffles) all day long.
4625 Piedmont Row Dr, Charlotte, NC. & 14815 Ballantyne Village Way, Charlotte, NC. terracecafecharlotte.com
Have a break between meetings? Drop by Ballantyne Village, a boutique shopping center in south Charlotte. It includes an art house theater, dozens of restaurants, and a fitness center, in addition to high-end shopping.
14825 Ballantyne Village Way, Charlotte, NC. ballantynevillage.com
Or enjoy the city's gorgeous weather with a stroll around 98-acre Freedom Park, which is home to 12 tennis courts, a band shell, and a 7-acre lake.
1900 East Boulevard, Charlotte, NC. charmeck.org
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