When spring plans call for Vitamin D with a side of free entertainment and activities, look no further than these local parks. Whether your idea of relaxation is hiking the trail, packing a picnic and people watching or something in between – you can find it here. 

These parks are located close to some of CLT’s favorite neighborhoods. If you can’t bring yourself to leave, contact a Savvy + Co. Real Estate agent who can help show you the way home. 

Freedom Park
Address: 1908 East Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203
Located less than four miles from Uptown Charlotte, making an afterwork stop at the 98-acre park is a great way to relieve stress and take in the outdoors. With a huge lake, two large playgrounds, walking trails, tennis courts and more – you can easily spend all day here.
Pro Tip: Freedom Park is picture perfect with a myriad of cool backdrops including a pavilion, stone bridge, rolling hills, streams and much more.

McDowell Nature Center and Preserve
Address: 15222 York Rd, Charlotte, NC 28278
Take a break at the McDowell Nature Center and Preserve along the shores of Lake Wylie. Visitors can explore the 1,000 scenic acres by foot or kayak or cast out a line. The indoor nature center is perfect for rainy days and there is extensive adult and children’s programming throughout the year.
Pro Tip: Go camping beyond the backyard! Choose from 33 drive-up sites, 10 primitive sites and 13 RV sites.

UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens
Address: 9090 Craver Rd, Charlotte, NC 28262 ·
Learn about local flora and fauna with a trip to the beautiful botanical gardens. The 10-acres of outdoor gardens offer lots of room to roam and a large diversity of plants – all in one stunning location.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Polly Rogers Sensory Garden which stimulates all the senses through plantings and interactive elements. It is designed for all, regardless of ability. 

Jetton Park

Jetton Park
Address: 19000 Jetton Rd, Cornelius, NC 28031​
Nestled along the shores of Lake Norman, Jetton Park spans 105 acres, offering a serene escape with picturesque lake views. Visitors can enjoy 1.5 miles of walking and rollerblade trails, 1.3 miles of bike trails, and eight lighted tennis courts. The park also features picnic sites, a formal garden, a sunning beach (note: swimming is not permitted), a playground, restrooms, and a concession area. For special occasions, the Waterfront Hall provides a scenic venue overlooking the lake.
Pro Tip: Jetton Park is a popular spot for sunset photography. Bring your camera to capture the stunning views over Lake Norman.

Latta Nature Preserve
Address: 6345 Sample Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078​
As Mecklenburg County’s largest nature preserve, Latta spans over 1,460 acres along Mountain Island Lake. The preserve boasts more than 16 miles of trails suitable for hiking and horseback riding, offering diverse terrains and scenic lake views. Visitors can explore the Quest Nature Center, featuring interactive exhibits, live native animals, and a 6,000-gallon freshwater aquarium. The preserve also offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking. Don’t miss the Carolina Raptor Center, home to over 30 species of birds of prey. ​
Pro Tip: For a tranquil experience, visit the Buzzard Rock Trail, which leads to a scenic overlook of Mountain Island Lake – perfect for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike

Photo: https://mcadamsco.com/projects/pearl-street-park

Pearl Park
Address: 1200 Baxter St, Charlotte, NC 28204-3059
The 11-acres of green space in Midtown Charlotte includes historical markers and stories about the Brooklyn neighborhood – an area that once served as a cultural hub for the African-American community. The park includes a playground, athletic fields, pickleball court and short walking path, perfect for mid-day lunch breaks.
Pro-Tip: There’s free parking in a deck across the street so you can stay and play with ease. 

Fourth Ward Park
Address: 301 N Poplar St Central Park Region, Charlotte
This historic park packs a lot into three acres with fountains, a variety of plants and flowering trees and ceramic birdhouses all surrounded by some of the Queen City’s oldest homes. Primary entrances are located at 6th and Poplar streets and 7th and Pine.
Pro Tip: Take the free, self guided tour of Fourth Ward Historic District – the neighborhood surrounding the park. 

Get outside and enjoy wide, open spaces this spring!