Getting Active in Uptown Charlotte
UptownCharlotteParks.com is the best resource for all things related to outdoor adventure in Charlotte, NC. Pack a picnic, grab your dog and some friends, or take a quick ride on one of the bikes from Charlotte Joy Rides to discover the quirky, quaint and expansive green spaces that call Uptown home.
Romare Bearden Park
Located in the heart of Uptown, this beautiful public park honors the legacy of local African American artist and civil rights activist Romare Bearden. The park features public art, lush gardens and dining tables and open green fields for outdoor recreation. It's also an excellent place to catch a baseball game at BB&T Ballpark or see the Charlotte Knights perform at Spectrum Center arena.
First Ward Park
The newest park in Uptown is an urban oasis living just west of the city's most notable museums and BB&T Ballpark. It's home to a waterfall and cascading fountain, seating areas, engraved granite with Charlotte's American Revolution history and clean landscaping that makes it a peaceful corner park for passersby. The fountain at this corner park is designed to resemble Old Misti, a volcano near Arequipa, Peru, the sister city of Charlotte.
Romare Bearden Memorial Garden
A calming, scenic and serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of Uptown Charlotte, this hidden gem is an outdoor museum featuring numerous public art installations, gardens and walkways that pay tribute to Romare Bearden's life and work. The garden is also a popular location for a variety of events and weddings.
Freedom Park
Among the many recreational activities available at this sprawling, tree-lined central Charlotte park are walking and running paths, lakes, sports facilities, public art and a zoo. The park is also the home of several concerts and events throughout the year, from family fun days to festivals highlighting local cuisines and cultures.
Rail Trail
Easily get in a run, a bike ride or an urban hike with this horseshoe-shaped network of trails and land connectors that extend from South End to Midtown and into Uptown. You can stroll along asphalt, gravel and boardwalk trails and view a wide variety of natural scenery, including public art at Ray's Splash Planet and the repurposed railroad near Summit Ave.
City Liberty Park
With its lake and wide grasslands, this central city park is a popular spot for tourists and locals to relax and enjoy the weather. Tourists come to take in the scenic views of the skyline, while locals often bring their dogs and children to play in the park's large playground.
Whether you're looking for an invigorating workout or just to burn some calories, a number of Uptown Charlotte parks offer group exercise classes for all ages and ability levels. Many of these classes are free and taught by trained instructors, so you can reach your fitness goals without breaking the bank.