U.S. National Whitewater Center
The U.S. National Whitewater Center is a massive outdoor recreation facility for rafting, kayaking, canoeing, rock climbing, mountain biking and hiking. Adjacent to the facility is the Catawba River, another area for watersports. The interior facility features many trails and waterways, for which guests can rent equipment or bring their own.
Reed Gold Mine
Reed Gold Mine is the site of the first documented commercial gold find in the United States. In 1799 Conrad Reed found a 17-pound yellow rock here, and today it attracts visitors to the lure of ore still hidden in the mine. The Reed Mine is open to the public and also has a museum […]
President James K. Polk State Historic Site
The James K. Polk House is the former president’s only surviving home besides the White House. The house is a Federal-style brick home that was built by the 11th president’s father. The site is open to the public and displays original items from President Polk’s lifetime, including highlights of his tenure like the settlement of […]
Matthews Reid House
The Reid House is considered unique because it was one of the few Victorian-style homes built near Charlotte with its gingerbread cupola, Chinese Chippendale porch railing and rounded turret. The house can be rented for special events, but it also makes a great cultural place to visit on any given day because it is locally-regarded […]
Jeff Gordon Racing School
If the contemporary south is known for one thing above all, it’s NASCAR. Experience the high-speed thrill at the Jeff Gordon Racing School at Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord. The traditional oval track at Charlotte is a favorite on the NASCAR circuit and hosts the annual All-Star race. The school lets students drive real race […]
Historic Rosedale Plantation
Built in 1815 by Archibald Frew, Rosedale Plantation features a distinct chrome yellow trim and original, preserved French wallpaper on several interior walls. Neighbors originally referred to the plantation as Frew’s Folly due to the color scheme. Rosedale is an example of the Federal period of architecture in the south, and the gardens around the […]
Duke Mansion
Travelers to the south have long laid their heads at the Duke Mansion, whether they need state-of-the-art meeting rooms or a cozy bed and breakfast. The mansion is a rare find as it is on the National Register of Historic Places, yet is still operating as a hotel. The estate was made famous by James […]
