CHARLOTTE, NC

Dubbed "The Queen City", after Queen Charlotte, the wife of King George III, Charlotte is an undeniably historic American city. Today, it is one of the top 20 fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the United States, and home to an endless array of interesting attractions, popular restaurants, and raging late-night hotspots.

Uptown

Known for its fine dining and great nightlife, skyscrapers line the streets and provide a "big city" feel to this charming Southern metropolis.

If you're visiting Charlotte during football or basketball season, be sure to grab tickets for a Panthers game at Bank of America Stadium or a Bobcats game at Charlotte Bobcats Arena. Before you walk though the stadium gates, have pre-game drinks at the Fox & Hound or Ri Ra Irish Pub, a couple of the locals' favorite bars.

It is easy to dine well in Uptown, with upscale choices like Aquavina, Mimosa Grill, and Monticello. If you're looking for something light on the wallet but heavy on the stomach, Mert's... more