The largest city in North Carolina was named after King George III’s wife, giving it the name Queen City, but the state capital is two hours away in Raleigh. It’s most well-known for being the home of NASCAR and the Charlotte Speedway.
But the true reason why Charlotte is so important is because Wells Fargo, Bank of America, and Truist Financial are all headquartered here, making it the second largest financial hub in the country after New York City. Despite its glitzy appearance, the city is still struggling with issues of urban violence and homelessness. Entrances of shopping malls and office buildings are adorned with signs prohibiting weapons and toilet use. Security guards keep vagrants out and their mostly-white patrons feeling safe. While groups of black friends sing and dance in open parking lots, white couples with two and a half children stroll the arcade for a spot of brunch.
There are a bunch of good art museums downtown and plenty of black history to learn from at the Mint Museum, and Betchler Museum of Modern Art. There’s no need to pay for parking if you’re willing to get up early for free street parking on the weekend. Brevard Court and the Latta Arcade is the only block left of the original Charlotte from the 1850s save for the settlers’ historic graveyard. It’s a nice spot to stretch your legs and get something to eat if you’re waiting for the museums to open at noon.
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