We’re sharing photos of the city from some of our favorite QC Photographers in a series sponsored by Charlotte Center City Partners. Last month we checked out many local murals with Brooke Brown, and this month we’re touring with the talented Laura Wolff, who is a photographer for the Charlotte Knights and other sports media, and who captures always amazing skyline views to make us CLTPROUD.
Here are some of Laura’s favorite spots to catch a photo and see a sight Uptown and in South End.
Romare Bearden Park – Multi-level park that is a great spot to people watch, have a picnic, workout, or walk your dog. Flowers, sculptures, awesome color changing waterfall.
Take a walk down Tryon St – See the sculptures, statues, the occasional temporary art installation, and so many great food options!
- Start at the Green – a hidden gem nestled between city buildings with an open lawn for lounging or hidden hang out spots that are perfect for relaxing away from the crowd.
- Stop by the Firebird Statue (more affectionately referred to by some as the Disco Chicken) and take the most abstract mirror selfie.
- Make your way down to the Bronze Disc. A massive, other worldly looking piece of art that seemingly balances on end.
- Do a quick 180 and find yourself at Independence Square – the intersection of Trade and Tryon. As the city bustles around them, the four statues stand as strong as the history and future of Charlotte.
First Ward Park ~ From activities for the kids to an outdoor gym for the adults, First Ward Park has something for everyone! Unique fountain, lots of space to run around, interactive sculptures with a great view of the skyline.
7th Street Public Market is a great place in Uptown to settle in to get some work done, grab a bite to eat, and pick up some local merch.
Staying on the topic of mixed use space – Optimist Hall combines food, vendors, and workspace slightly off the beaten Uptown path.
Camp North End ~ The history of this place will draw you in. What was once a Ford Assembly plant turned Army depot turned missile manufacturing warehouse is now an expansive space where creatives gather and entrepreneurs grow. Come here to hang out with your friends or work on your start-up!
Rooftop Bars (ft. Fahrenheit) ~ If you’re looking for a picturesque spot to grab dinner and drinks with your friends, just stop looking, this is it. There are many options in the city to grab a bite and have some drinks with stunning views of the skyline – Fahrenheit, Nuvole, SkyBar, and Merchant & Trade just to name a few.
Central Ave Bridge ~ While it isn’t the best place to have a picnic it is definitely worth a quick visit for the view. The Central Avenue Bridge offers an unobstructed view of the skyline while the city buzzes under you. The best time to visit is at dusk when the sun is going down and the buildings start to light up.
Rail Trail – Take a walk, ride your bike, or roller skate your way through everything South End has to offer – breweries, restaurants, shops, the occasional piece of interesting art