Key Info
Details
- Recreation, Sports, Swimming/Pools Type
- 2 hours to Half Day Time to Spend
Scorecard
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Value4.0
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Facilities4.0
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Atmosphere5.0
Read about how we rank Things to Do.
Take your pick between 24 different land and water activities at the U.S. National Whitewater Center, a 500 acre facility northwest of downtown Charlotte. At the world's largest man-made whitewater river, you'll have your choice of a variety of activities, including kayaking (both flatwater and whitewater), stand-up paddle boarding, and, of course, whitewater rafting. If you'd prefer to stay dry, the center can accommmodate you there, too: land activities include mountain biking, rock climbing and zip-lining, with plenty of running trails and obstacle courses for those with a competitive edge. Past travelers say the center is a great place to take your family for the day — though visitors admit tickets can get pricey.
If you'd like to try your hand at whitewater, flatwater and land activities at the center, buy an AllSport Pass. Anyone 10 and older pays $54; admission for children 9 years old or younger costs $44. You also have the option to buy a CoolSport package that includes flatwater and land activities (for $44 and $39 for adults and kids, respectively) or the QuickSport package, which allows you purchase one experience at a time ($20 for a land activity; $25 for a flatwater activity). Along with admission fees, you should also budget for the cost of food. The center does not allow outside food anywhere on the premises, meaning you'll need to refuel at one of the three eateries available on site, the River's Edge Bar & Grill, The Market or the Pump House Biergarten, which features 20 craft beers. Find the U.S. National Whitewater Center about 12 miles northwest of downtown Charlotte. Parking is $5 per day. The main gate and trails are open daily — weather permitting — from dawn until dusk. Certain activities have different operating hours; check the center's website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times and news about special events, like concerts and competition trials.
Hotels Nearby
- Thing to Do
- Hotel
Country Inn & Suites- Charlotte Airport ...
- 4.3 Miles Away
- 2.5-star Hotel Class
Courtyard by Marriott Charlotte Airport ...
- 4.3 Miles Away
- 3.0-star Hotel Class
Wingate by Wyndham Charlotte Airport I-85/I-485 ...
- 4.3 Miles Away
- 2.5-star Hotel Class
