Looking for the perfect North Carolina weekend getaway that blends peaceful countryside charm with fun city life? This Charlotte weekend itinerary takes you from the quiet beauty of Valley Bear Farms to the colorful streets, murals, and creative spaces of Charlotte, NC.
For a more visual experience on Valley Bear Farms cabins, check out the photo album from this trip.
Over three days, you’ll experience the best of both worlds: relaxing rural escapes, inspiring art, and incredible food. Whether you’re planning a couples’ retreat, a solo adventure, or a girls’ trip, my guide will help you make the most of your time in and around Charlotte.
Days 1–2: Relax and Recharge at Valley Bear Farms
Vibe: Peaceful, rustic, and restorative.
If you’re looking to start your weekend with calm and quiet, Valley Bear Farms is the perfect place to unwind. Lodged in North Carolina’s countryside, this cozy retreat has rolling hills, nature trails, and starry nights that feel a world away from the city.
Making this a girls’ trip was the best decision I could’ve made. This area may look small, but it’s vast and surrounded by nature. Having someone else to spend that time with made it even better.
It’s absolutely fantastic if you’re looking to get away or go solo, because you’ll definitely be solo after the summer season. But if you want the Real hiking and camping experience, choose the more traditional rooms and bring a friend.
What to Do
- Enjoy a slow morning with coffee on the porch.
- Explore local trails and take in the views.
- Sip local wine or cider as the sun sets.
After two days of pure relaxation, it’s time to trade quiet fields for city color.
Day 3: A Colorful and Exciting Day in Charlotte
Vibe: Urban art, creative energy, and nonstop photo ops.
Charlotte’s is packed with public art, local eats, and culture. Here’s how to make the most of your day.
Morning: Explore South End’s Art Walk
Start your Charlotte adventure in South End, where creativity spills into every corner.
Must-Do Stops
- Confetti Hearts Wall (100 W. Summit Ave): One of Charlotte’s most Instagram-famous murals.
- The Rail Trail: Follow the walking path to spot the “Magic Carpets” murals painted on the pavement and hop on the giant swings for a fun photo moment.
Lunch (1:00 PM): Atherton Mill
After your art walk, head to Atherton Mill, a restored textile mill turned into a trendy spot with food, restaurants with cute drinks, and shopping hubs.
What to Do
- Grab a latte at Not Just Coffee, one of Charlotte’s most aesthetic cafés.
- Explore the food stalls and boutique, the industrial-chic vibe makes for perfect content.
Afternoon (3:00 PM): Camp North End
Next, drive to Camp North End, a 76-acre creative playground built from a former industrial site. You will see very colorful murals on the wall and artistic vibes all over, as well as small businesses to support.
Must-Do
- Try a handcrafted gelato pop from the Black-owned Popbar. bright, delicious, and perfect for photos.
- Wander the Boileryard area to find murals, sculptures, and installations that make this place a visual treasure hunt.
Midday (5:00 PM): Romare Bearden Park
Right across the street, Romare Bearden Park offers a mix of art, green space, and the best skyline view in the city.
Must-Do
- Capture the skyline from the park’s central lawn.
- Find the art panels inspired by Romare Bearden’s collage work.
If you’re planning your next North Carolina weekend getaway, this Charlotte itinerary has the ideal mix of rest, creativity, and culture. From the peaceful mornings at Valley Bear Farms to the colorful murals and lively food halls of Charlotte, every stop adds something special to your experience.
Use this itinerary as your guide to plan a weekend filled with beauty, flavor, and inspiration.
Travel Resources
Resources to Use While You Plan
These are core guides and tools you can use for almost any trip, from picking a destination to mapping your route and making more time to travel.
All Itineraries & Trips
A central hub of long-weekend guides, Detty December routes, solo trips, and country itineraries you can copy and tweak.
Open itineraries hub →Solo Travel Starter Guide
A full solo travel hub with safety tips, destination ideas, and resources if you’re planning to travel on your own.
Open solo travel guide →Group Travel & Hosted Trips
Explore hosted group trips and trusted partner trips if you’d rather join a group instead of planning alone.
See travel options →COI Travel Network
A central page for solo, group, agency, and travel update links, so you can plug into my wider travel ecosystem.
Explore the network →How to Take More Time Off
A practical guide on stacking weekends, holidays, and smart PTO so you can travel more without quitting your job.
Read time-off tips →Trip Consultation Call
Need help with route, timing, or where to stay? Book a call and we can walk through your trip plan together.
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