Kids swimming in plastic balls

Local Activities

Charlotte, North Carolina is a vibrant city that offers an exceptional environment for raising kids. With its family-friendly neighborhoods, excellent schools, and a wide range of educational and entertainment opportunities, it is no wonder that Charlotte is a popular choice for families. When it comes to education, Charlotte boasts a highly regarded public school system, with numerous top-rated schools and a variety of specialized programs to cater to different needs and interests. Additionally, the city is home to several prestigious private schools, providing families with even more options. The presence of several renowned colleges and universities in the area also ensures that older children have access to quality higher education opportunities. Beyond schools, Charlotte provides a plethora of educational resources and activities for children of all ages. Discovery Place Science, an interactive museum, captivates young minds with hands-on exhibits, while the Charlotte Nature Museum offers opportunities for outdoor exploration and learning. The ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center is a state-of-the-art library and theater complex that offers a wide range of educational programs, workshops, and performances for children. In terms of entertainment, Charlotte does not disappoint. The city is home to Carowinds, a world-class amusement park that offers thrilling rides and a water park for the whole family to enjoy. The NASCAR Hall of Fame is a must-visit for racing enthusiasts, providing an immersive experience into the history and excitement of the sport. Families can also explore the expansive green spaces and parks throughout the city, such as Freedom Park and Reedy Creek Park, which offer opportunities for picnicking, hiking, and outdoor recreation. Overall, Charlotte, NC is a city that provides an ideal environment for families, offering excellent educational opportunities and a wide array of entertaining and enriching activities for children of all ages.

Activities in Charlotte

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a group of women dancing

The Charlotte School of Ballet is a premier dance studio in Charlotte, North Carolina that was founded in 1968 by Gay Porter. This studio provides a renowned pre-professional training program for aspiring dancers that prepares them for prestigious ballet companies such as New York City Ballet, American Ballet Theatre and San Francisco Ballet. In addition, many students from the school have received scholarships to study with esteemed dance teachers like David Howard, Luigi, and have been accepted into summer programs throughout the United States. The Charlotte School of Ballet has also been successful in training dancers for contemporary companies such as Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Alvin Ailey, Alonzo King's Lines Contemporary Ballet Company, to name a few. Moreover, many of its students have gone on to have successful careers on Broadway and television. The Charlotte School of Ballet's training program builds strong dancers with technical proficiency and versatility to facilitate any form of dance. In addition to teaching ballet, the school also encourages students to learn modern, jazz, tap and hip hop to keep up with the demands of a professional dancer.

a boy playing a piano

At OnStage School of Performing Arts, we understand the importance of instilling a lifelong love of music in our students. We teach our students not just musical knowledge, but also important life skills such as self-confidence, teamwork, patience, and perseverance. Our staff is committed to providing a positive, engaging experience that will foster creativity and create memories to last a lifetime. With their help, our students will gain the skills and confidence to use their musical training in whatever way they choose.

a girl playing a violin

The Suzuki method is a great way to get your child started on the violin. It is a method that enables children to start learning at age 3, with the help of their parents. Parents take notes in the lesson and also work with the student at home to build good practice habits from a young age. At its heart, Suzuki's philosophy is that every child can learn. This gives parents and their children a lot of confidence in their learning process, knowing that their child is capable of learning music. With the help and guidance of the Suzuki method, parents can be sure that their child will have a fun and magical learning experience.

a group of children sitting on the floor

At the New School for Music Study, we offer a wide range of opportunities for students of all ages and levels. We provide instruction from our experienced faculty, and a variety of performance opportunities, such as student recitals and master classes. In addition, our internationally recognized teacher education and professional development programs provide teachers with the skills and knowledge to support their students’ progress. The Frances Clark Center for Keyboard Pedagogy is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. As part of our mission, we strive to promote the advancement of piano teaching, learning, and performing through a range of high quality resources and programs. These include Piano Magazine, the National Conference on Keyboard Pedagogy, the New School for Music Study, Piano Education Press, and Online Teacher Education Programs. We are committed to providing our students with the best possible learning experience and helping teachers to reach their professional goals.

a boy holding a football ball

At Soccer Shots Charlotte, Jeremy, Matt, and Dustin strive to provide a program that not only teaches soccer and physical fitness, but also helps lay a foundation of success in all areas of a child’s life. Soccer Shots Charlotte is driven by the mission to positively impact children’s lives. Matt Uher has been the Executive Director of Soccer Shots Charlotte since 2008. He has worked hard to build an incredible team of passionate and dedicated coaches, all of whom are committed to making a difference in the community. Matt and his team are focused on providing children with an enriching soccer experience that goes beyond the game, helping them develop physical and emotional skills that will serve them throughout their lives.

a person playing a piano with a young girl sitting on the side

Are you looking for quality music lessons for your child in the Charlotte area? Look no further! We offer private music lessons and small group instruction for a range of instruments including piano, voice, violin, guitar, and drums. Our team of highly trained musicians and educators are committed to helping your child develop their musical skills and reach their highest potential. We serve students from Charlotte, Matthews, Gastonia, Concord, Lake Norman, and most of the surrounding metro areas in Charlotte. We understand how important it is for your child to have quality instruction and a positive learning experience. That is why our staff is composed of highly trained musicians and educators who are passionate about your child's success and eager to help them reach their musical goals. At our music school, we are proud to offer the best quality music lessons in the Charlotte area. We believe that learning music should be a fun and rewarding experience, and we strive to provide a supportive environment for your child to grow and develop their musical skills.

a group of children sitting at desks in a classroom

Are you looking for a fun and creative way to spend an evening with friends? Paint Craze is the perfect solution! Gather your friends and enjoy a night of painting, drinking, and mingling. Whether you’re looking to have a good time or tap into your creative side, Paint Craze is the perfect way to do just that. At Paint Craze, you can let your creative juices flow while sipping on your favorite beverage. You’ll have access to a variety of supplies and experienced artists to help guide you through the process. Afterward, you can mingle with your friends and admire your work. Paint Craze offers an enjoyable and memorable way to spend an evening with friends. So gather your gang and get ready to have some fun! Let your creative side shine while you paint, drink, and mingle the night away.

a person with face paint

Volunteers are the backbone of the YMCA of Greater Charlotte, part of a nationwide network of YMCAs that make up the largest charitable community organization in the United States. Through its volunteer-led programs, the YMCA of Greater Charlotte is committed to enhancing lives and strengthening community health. The YMCA of Greater Charlotte is a shining example of a volunteer-driven organization. It is part of a much larger network of YMCAs that is the largest charitable community organization in the United States. The volunteers of the YMCA of Greater Charlotte are dedicated to improving the lives of people in their community and promoting a healthier overall lifestyle. The YMCA of Greater Charlotte's commitment to community health and wellness is evident in its volunteer-led programs. These programs are designed to create positive change and help foster a sense of belonging. By continuing to rely on volunteers, the YMCA of Greater Charlotte is able to make a meaningful impact on the lives of people in their community.

a group of kids holding bottles

At Challenge Island, kids won't find themselves stuck in front of a screen like other after-school activities. Instead, they are encouraged to work in teams to use their imagination, think critically, and problem-solve while having fun. Each Challenge Island experience includes a treasure-chest full of low-tech supplies that kids can use to come up with creative solutions to various tasks. STEAM Teams, or Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math, are the focus of every Challenge Island experience. Kids can work together to tackle age-appropriate challenges, while learning the fundamentals of STEAM. This unique approach to after-school learning has been recognized by parents and educators alike. At Challenge Island, your child will have the opportunity to explore new skills and interests in a fun and engaging way. They will get to use their imagination, work in teams, and problem-solve in order to come up with creative solutions to various tasks. Each Challenge Island experience is designed to teach the fundamentals of STEAM in an exciting and interactive way.

people working in a workshop

At Braitman Studio Art School, our workshops provide serious art instruction to adults and teens in the greater Charlotte area. This particular workshop is designed as an introduction to oil painting and will teach all the skills needed to create a painting. Each participant will make two separate pieces, one landscape and one still-life painting of a single pair. I will guide them through this process, exploring new skills with hands-on experience and helping them to gain more confidence and skill in the painting process. With these new skills and their own creative process, they will be able to create beautiful works of art.

a girl smiling in front of a fish tank

Camp Trusted Parents makes a summer camp experience available to all children, teens, and young adults aged 7-22, with and without special needs. Our staff is specially trained to make the camp accessible and friendly. We have carefully crafted menus, activities, and facilities to meet the varying needs of campers diagnosed with intellectual and developmental disabilities who use wheelchairs, walkers, or crutches. We take into consideration parent input, school IEPs, and camper assessments to ensure that the campers have the right level of challenge and group setting to encourage social interaction and foster development. With Camp Trusted Parents, campers can make friendships that last throughout the year.

a group of children sitting at a table with food and drinks

We offer a unique process-oriented art experience that helps children develop their own natural artistic abilities. Our instructors lead students through the creative process while providing instruction on the use of art supplies, tools, and methods. At Noah’s Art, we empower children to believe in their own capabilities and express themselves through artistic exploration. We aim to provide a nurturing environment where children can explore their own creative potential and grow in self-confidence. Our instructors are dedicated to helping children learn the basics of art and craftsmanship while having fun in the process. We also make sure to provide instruction on the use of art materials, tools, and techniques.

a kid standing in a room with people in the back

At our studio, we are proud to offer Kindermusik, the world's leading provider of music and movement programs for young children! Kindermusik is a 7 year continuum of Whole Child Development classes, for ages 0-7, delivering a high quality, research based, curriculum via music and movement activities. Our classes provide an engaging and fun way for your child to learn, grow, and develop. Trusted. Proven. Educational. And of course, fun! Enroll your child in Kindermusik and give them the opportunity to explore their world through music and movement! Our classes are designed to help build your child's self-esteem, emotional intelligence, physical development, and cognitive skills. Kindermusik is an invaluable learning resource that will help your child grow and develop in a positive, healthy, and creative environment.

a group of people posing for a photo

Music Quarters, located in Charlotte, North Carolina, is the perfect place for aspiring musicians to take their music abilities to the next level. We have experienced instructors who specialize in a variety of instruments, from piano, singing, and drum lessons, to more. Our instructors’ help students, both young and old, reach their full potential. At Music Quarters, we are passionate about helping everyone discover their musical talents and abilities. We offer private music lessons to students of all ages, from 5+ to adults, and all skill levels. Our knowledgeable instructors have been teaching music since 2008, so you can rest assured you’re in good hands. Whether you’re just starting out, or you’ve been playing an instrument for years, our instructors will be able to help you reach your goals. Music Quarters provides the perfect atmosphere for learning music. We have private music lessons in our studios with a variety of instruments to choose from. Our instructors will provide the support and guidance necessary for you or your child to grow as musicians. We are committed to helping our students reach their highest potential. Come join us and take your music skills to the next level!

a group of people looking at a microscope

At Discovery Place Science, we believe learning should be a fun and meaningful experience. That's why our Summer Camps offer a unique and engaging way for children to learn and explore. Our exciting themes, hands-on activities and field trips make for a summer of exploration and discovery. From building rollercoasters to exploring the depths of the ocean, Discovery Place Science's Summer Camps provide a great way for kids to learn and have fun. Our camps are designed to challenge and engage children of all ages, encouraging creativity and helping them to develop problem-solving skills. At Discovery Place Science, we want kids to explore, experiment and discover the wonders of science. Our Summer Camps are the perfect way for your child to learn and have an unforgettable experience. Enroll now and get ready for an amazing summer of fun and learning!

a couple of women looking at a laptop

The Wake Forest Summer Immersion Program gives high school students the tools to realize their ambitions. With a range of real-world experiences, stimulating academics, and a supportive environment, students have the chance to uncover which career path they would like to pursue. The program offers a variety of on-campus activities that fit into any summer schedule. Even if you’re not considering attending Wake Forest, this program is a great opportunity to get a feel for college life. Wake Forest is the ideal place to explore potential majors and make a plan for your future.

a few people sitting at a table

At Central Piedmont, we’re committed to helping our students develop the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in the world today. We believe that every student should have the opportunity to unlock their potential and discover their own unique purpose. We strive to give our students the tools and resources to help them reach their goals and redefine their idea of what a college experience should be. Through our innovative approach to education, we strive to empower our students and help them reach their highest potential. Our diverse faculty and staff provide students with an affordable, hands-on education that will help them gain the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the real world. By providing our students with the tools to succeed, we hope to make a lasting impact on their lives and on the community. We are proud to be creating a new generation of thinkers and innovators who will shape the future of our community and beyond.

a group of children sitting at a table with a woman and a man

At Small Hands Big Art, we believe that art is more than just a nice picture. It's a process that encourages kids to experiment, problem-solve, and take risks in a safe and supportive environment. Our Pottery and Art classes, camps, parties & workshops help to foster creative expression and build self-confidence in children of all ages. We are proud to provide a unique learning experience for your little artists in our South Charlotte and Fort Mill studios. Our award-winning children's art programs are rooted in fine art principles and fused with contemporary trends, allowing each child to express themselves in a creative and individual way. From toddlers to teens, and adults too, Small Hands Big Art is the perfect place to nurture your child's creative spirit.

a girl in a dress with a cake on a table

Treat yourself and your friends or family to an unforgettable night of creativity and fun with a Paint Party at Wine & Design in Charlotte! Our studio offers a range of public and private paint-and-sip parties, suitable for all ages and skill levels. With a little bit of paint, a little bit of wine, and a lot of laughter, you'll create memories that will last a lifetime. Perfect for a girls night out, a birthday party, a date night, or a work event - Wine & Design has you covered. Unlock your inner artist at Wine & Design's paint studio in Charlotte. Bring a few friends or the whole family and experience an evening of artistic fun. Enjoy a selection of affordable private or public paint-and-sip parties, suitable for all ages and skill levels. With a bit of paint and a splash of wine, you'll create memories that will last a lifetime. Our paint-and-sip parties are great for girls nights out, birthday parties, date nights, or work events - whatever the occasion, Wine & Design will make it special.

a group of children eating

Visit Dish It Out Pottery Studio at Stonecrest Shopping Center in Charlotte, North Carolina and make your own unique creations! Whether you're alone or part of a group of 8 or fewer, no bookings are necessary. Our team is on hand to guide you through the process and show you different painting techniques. Leave your clay pieces with us once you're finished and we'll glaze and fire them in our kilns. Your pottery will be ready for pick up in about a week, and we'll give you a call when it's ready. Don't forget that we are also the perfect place for hosting birthday celebrations for children and adults alike!

a group of children eating at a table

At Arts Delivered, we understand that life can be busy. That is why we offer an exciting visual arts studio experience that can come to you or you can come to us! With winter arts class, adults ceramics/pottery, girls scout ceramics class, pre-K glaze class and Saturday family clay class, we have something for everyone. Let us bring the art studio to you and enjoy the convenience of creating art without ever leaving your home.

a group of people sitting around a table

At the Mint Museum, leadership, integrity, inclusiveness, knowledge, stewardship, and innovation are all core values that shape the museum's mission to collect, exhibit, conserve, research, publish, interpret, and share art and design from around the world. By fostering an understanding and respect for diverse peoples and cultures, the Mint Museum seeks to inspire and transform the lives of visitors and create a more empathetic world. Through these commitments, the Mint Museum hopes to create meaningful, lifelong relationships with art and design.

a person and a child painting

At Art-Kiddo, we are dedicated to helping children discover the world of art through Spanish immersion and bilingual instruction. Our sessions provide a creative and meaningful environment for children to learn and explore. We believe that art is an essential part of a child's development, and our sessions are tailored to enhance social/emotional skills, sensory regulation, motor skills, behavior, and play/leisure skills. Our program is designed to create meaningful experiences and nature/social connections for children. We use a variety of activities to engage children, including Spanish language instruction, art projects, music, and creative play. These activities are designed to help children develop their language and communication skills, as well as foster their creativity. By providing children with the necessary tools to explore art through second-language immersion, we strive to create an environment that is inviting and supportive to each and every child.

a baby on a playground

while their younger siblings play. At Club Gymboree, we offer fun and safe playtime for kids ages 6 months to 5 years. Our Playfloor is the perfect place for kids to explore, build, and use their imaginations! But don’t worry moms and dads, if you have an older sibling who still wants to join in on the fun, we have a designated area where they can sit and relax while they watch their younger brother or sister play. At Club Gymboree, we understand that safety is the top priority for all parents and that’s why we only allow kids ages 6 months to 5 years on the Playfloor. We provide a comfortable and safe area for older kids to read, do homework, or just relax while their siblings play. So come on in, let your kids explore and let us make sure everyone is having fun in a safe environment!

a group of children playing instruments

At Arts+, we have a bold vision for the Charlotte region. We believe that arts education can revolutionize our communities and give students of all ages, skill levels, and socioeconomic backgrounds the chance to unlock their potential. Through our wide range of programs, including private lessons, summer camps, and community outreach programs, we are committed to making outstanding arts education accessible to everyone. We are passionate about unlocking the power of arts education and its potential to transform the Charlotte region. Our mission is to provide the highest quality of arts education to students from any background. We strive to do this through our comprehensive programming, which includes private lessons, summer camps, and community outreach programs. We believe that with the right resources, everyone can unleash their creativity and find success through the arts.

a person and a child cooking

Children of all ages benefit from the hands-on experience of Lil' Chef's cooking classes. With fun, energetic adults creating an entertaining atmosphere, our classes are designed to teach children the importance of healthy eating, kitchen safety, and all the basics of cooking. Our classes provide the perfect opportunity for children to learn about the joys of cooking with family and friends. At Lil' Chef, we offer a wide range of exciting activities to keep kids engaged and having fun. Our Birthday Parties, Weekly Classes, Camps, Adult Classes, Corporate Events, Kids Night Out Events, and Etiquette Classes are all designed to get children actively involved in the kitchen. With our help, your child will be inspired to love the art of cooking and creating delicious meals.

a couple of young girls playing with toys in a room

Kids ages 2-18 can explore their creative side at the Ballantyne Arts Center! The Ballantyne Preschool Academy helps young children discover the world around them through art, music, and creative play. Children of all ages can find something that sparks their interest at the Ballantyne Arts Center. From a comprehensive preschool program to professional dance, theatre, and visual art classes, the center provides an array of engaging activities for kids. With classes tailored for each age group, the Ballantyne Arts Center is the perfect place to nurture your child’s creative development. The Ballantyne Arts Center is committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment for kids to explore their talents and passions. Whether they’re developing their motor skills in the preschool program, perfecting their theatre skills, or creating a masterpiece in the visual arts classes, the Ballantyne Arts Center has something for every child!

a couple of girls holding up artwork

The prestigious Mint Museum Uptown is home to an array of artworks and collections from around the world. From American to contemporary and European art, the Mint Museum provides visitors with a diverse selection of works that span many eras and cultures. This impressive museum is dedicated to preserving the integrity of these collections, and its core values of leadership, integrity, inclusiveness, knowledge, stewardship, and innovation serve as a foundation for understanding and respecting the diversity of cultures. The Mint Museum strives to create meaningful connections between visitors and art. By ensuring access to its collections and engaging communities, the museum hopes to inspire and transform lives through the power of art and creativity. With its commitment to creating a more empathetic world, the Mint Museum is a must-see destination for anyone looking to explore the incredible works of art and design from around the globe.

a child painting on a wall

At Noah’s Art, we strive to give children an enriching and process-oriented art experience. Our instructors guide children through the creative process, teaching them how to use a variety of art supplies and tools. With our support, children develop their own creative talents and improve their confidence. Noah’s Art has a mission to empower children to express their creativity without fear of failure. We want to help children recognize and value their differences, while also helping them to discover new things about themselves. By providing a safe and supportive environment, children are able to explore the boundaries of their creativity and find success. At Noah’s Art, we are dedicated to helping children grow in self-confidence and understanding. Through our unique art experience, we hope to give children the opportunity to express themselves in new and exciting ways. By fostering a community of acceptance and appreciation, we ensure that each child is able to reach their full potential.

a man and woman dancing

The Arthur Murray Dance Studio in Charlotte, North Carolina has been helping people to dance for 66 years! Since opening in 1956, the Oldest and Most Prestigious ballroom and social dance studio in the metro Charlotte region has earned a reputation for teaching anyone the “Arthur Murray Way” quickly and easily. Our professional instructors provide top notch personal and group instruction in all types of ballroom dancing, as well as great customer support. Thanks to the hard work of Mr. Murray, millions of men and women have learned to dance in our studios and enjoyed the experience. With the Arthur Murray Dance Studio, learning to dance is fast, fun, and easy.

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