Aside from this is where I met my husband (Reason #1 – of course), there are several things I love about the great city of Charlotte. I moved here 4 years ago this month so I'm still a newbie but the city is full of transplants so it's very welcoming to new people (Reason #2). The city has so many things to offer.
Charlotte Skyline – Photo by Kevin McCarthy
It is wonderful to have the change in seasons! As a neighbor recently said, just when you become tired of the season it changes. It is also within close proximity to the mountains and the beach making them attractive getaway locations.
The skyline. We loved the skyline so much that we wanted it to be the backdrop of our reception.
I love everything about the historic Southend, our neighborhood. Laurel Market has great deli sandwiches, Phat Burrito has the best veggie burrito, Mac's Speed Shop has great BBQ and entertainment, Price's Chicken Coop has the best tasting (worst for you) fried chicken and Pewter Rose has to die for banana foster french toast. 
The silos (the three painted pillars) represent an emerging innovative and artistic energy that revives the historic Southend.
I love this old church. We used to pass it every morning on the way to work. 
I love our weekend morning ritual of coffee and bagels at Caribou Coffee and Brueggers Bagels.
A few of the city's other hidden gems…
One of our favorite family friendly, local restaurants is Dish, located in the heart of the historic Plaza Midwood. It offers southern cuisine with a twist.
Another one of our favorites is King's Kitchen. Not only does it offer delicious southern cuisine but it's a not for profit restaurant that buys fresh local ingredients from the community and gives back to the community by helping feed those in need. I can not say enough about how much I love this place and all it stands for!
Photo courtesy King's Kitchen Facebook page
I love that we are surrounded by parks and recreation centers! Our favorite park for outdoor family recreation is Freedom Park! It has a scenic duck pond, a playground, soccer field, tennis and basketball courts, baseball diamonds, sand volleyball and miles of trails to walk, jog or bike on. We enjoy the park so much we took our engagement photos there and our fall family photos last year. 
And of course I love the charm of our beloved 1947 home.
Those are just a few of the many reasons I love Charlotte. What favorite spots would you recommend?
Linking to:
Except Price’s has horrible, greasy chicken.
you forgot the white water rafting!
I would to visit! Your house is wonderful! Thanks for the tour!
Debbie
Well well, looks like we are neighbors. We have been in the area for about 4 years as well. LOVE the dish. Have you tried Pinky’s yet? The penguin which is across from dish is under new ownership, Pinkys is now ran by the penguin people, it is awesome!~ I see you are new to blogging as well. I host a newbie party every Monday and would love to have you. Thanks, hope to see you soon.
Thanks for the tip Debbie! I’ve added Pinky’s to my list of things to try! I plan to visit you link party soon! I love all the tips your site provides new bloggers!
Love your pictures! Looks like fun to me! Thanks for sharing!
I have never ever been to Charlotte, but you make me want to hop on a plane! I’ve read and heard such nice things and this seals the deal for me! Thank you so much for linking up today!
xo
Kate
Kate, Thanks for the idea for this post and for hosting a link party. It was fun and I appreciate you visiting my site!!
Angela
Sorry I am late responding. I love it!! I had no idea all of this existed in Charlotte. Very colorful and meaningful. I love the idea of the non for profit restaurant and their message. Happy you have such a nice environment for Jacob and Lily…..and I love your home…..Sue
Great review of your town! Looks like you have a life full of love!