North Carolina is famous for its auto racing and you don't have to venture far from Charlotte to be spoiled by a myriad of racing-related attractions including NASCAR racing at nearby Concord, professional instruction by Richard Petty at Harrisburg, classic car museums and a fascinating hall of fame.For history buffs, nature lovers and those feeling lucky, a visit to the Schiele Museum of Natural History or Reed Goldmine State Historic Park, both within easy reach of Charlotte city center, will be right up your alley.
Backing Up Classic Auto Museum
Address: 4545 Concord Parkway South, Highway 29, Harrisburg, North Carolina (NC), 28075, USA
Tel: +1 704 788 9500
A unique museum that is home to a range of classic cars, Backing Up Classic Auto Museum will keep any car enthusiast happy with its collection that includes a single-door BMW and numerous other unusual makes.
Open: Monday to Friday - 09:00 to 17:30, Saturday - 09:00 to 17:00, Sunday - 10:00 to 17:00
Admission: charge
North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of FameAddress: 119 Knob Hill Road, Lakeside Park, Mooresville, North Carolina (NC), 28117, USA
Tel: +1 704 663 5331
Located to the north of Charlotte, this comprehensive museum is home to loads of interesting memorabilia along with displays revealing little-known facts about auto racing. One of the best of its kind in the country, visitors are treated to a display of over 35 classic and new race cars.
Open: Monday to Saturday - 09:00 to 17:00, Sunday - 12:30 to 16:30
Admission: charge, discounts available for seniors and children, children under six free
Reed Goldmine State Historic Park
Address: 9621 Reed Mine Road, Locust, North Carolina (NC), USA
Tel: +1 704 721 4653
To the east of Charlotte is the location of the country's first documented gold rush, when in 1799 Conrad Reed discovered a 17-pound golden nugget. Visitors are able to go on tours of the mine as well as participate in gold panning and exploring the various surrounding hiking trails.
Open: Tuesday to Saturday - 09:00 to 17:00, seasonal variations apply
Admission: free
Richard Petty Driving Experience
Address: 6022 Victory Lane, Harrisburg, North Carolina (NC), 28075, USA
Tel: +1 704 455 9443
An ideal attraction for speed fiends, here you can indulge yourself in professional race car driving while receiving tips and pointers from one of the most respected drivers in the business. The race course is complete with professional pit crews.
Open: seasonal variations
Admission: charge
Schiele Museum of Natural History and Planetarium
Address: 1500 East Garrison Boulevard, Gastonia, North Carolina (NC), 28054, USA
Tel: +1 704 866 6908
Just a 30-minute drive from downtown Charlotte is this interesting museum showcasing the natural history of North Carolina along with rare artifacts that trace the heritage of local North American Indians. The planetarium is an impressive centerpiece souring over 50-feet / 15 meters high, while nearby hiking trails let you get away from it all.
Open: Monday to Saturday - 09:00 to 17:00, Sunday - 13:00 to 17:00
Admission: charge, discounts available for seniors, students and children
