16. Crowders Mountain State Park
City: Charlotte, NC
Category: Parks & Recreation
Telephone: (704) 853-5375
Description: For those who love the adventures of hiking, bird-watching, and rock climbing, this accessible getaway in Gaston County includes more than 5,000 acres. The park’s two peaks (Kings Pinnacle at 1,705 feet and Crowders Mountain at 1,624 feet) are joined with 15 miles of trails, picnic areas, and a 9-acre lake. On a clear day, Crowders’ peak provides awesome views of Charlotte’s skyline. Boat rentals available. Free.
17. Kings Mountain National Military Park
City: Charlotte, NC
Category: Parks & Recreation
Telephone: (864) 936-7921
Description: The Revolutionary War battle on Oct. 7, 1780, at this site was called the “turn of the tide of success” in the war by Thomas Jefferson. Kings Mountain National Military Park covers 3,945 acres, including a popular 1.5-mile Battle Trail that begins at the visitor center and circles around to points of interest and up to the ridgetop. Special events are held around October 7 each year to commemorate the battle. Free.
18. Ymca Of Greater Charlotte Metropolitan Office
City: Charlotte, NC
Category: Parks & Recreation
Telephone: (704) 716-6200
Address: 500 East Morehead St.
Description: The YMCA operates a variety of popular programs in Charlotte, including after-school care, summer camp, and a summer resident camp. Seventeen locations throughout the area offer different classes and programs, including aerobics, aquatics, babysitting, baseball, basketball, canoeing, corporate wellness, dance classes from ballet to jazz, gymnastics, fitness instruction, martial arts with an emphasis on self-defense, sailing, swimming, tennis, waterskiing, yoga, and many more. Call for more information on a specific location’s facilities and programs.
19. Ywca
City: Charlotte, NC
Category: Parks & Recreation
Telephone: (704) 525-5770
Address: 3420 Park Rd.
Description: A separate entity from the YMCA chain, the YWCA has one central Charlotte location with a full-service fitness center and exercise classes, an indoor pool, tennis courts, a gym, after-school programs, and summer camps. The YWCA’s workout facilities were overhauled in 2001—you’ll find it less crowded but equally equipped compared to most of the popular YMCA branches.