Charlotte At a Glance...

Located perfectly between the Smoky Mountains and the pristine Atlantic Ocean, this kind of location can't be beat. Charlotte, North Carolina, represents an incredibly diverse city offering an energetic urban area as well as numerous sensational neighborhoods. Home to Bank of America and Wachovia, Charlotte is the second largest financial center in the country and has tons of resources devoted to accommodating the best way of life.

Charlotte was ranked by U. S. News & World Report as one of the most affordable housing markets in the country. Whether you prefer a high-rise condominium in the heart of downtown, a fixer-upper in the historic district, or a new home in the country, Charlotte has something for everyone.

Charlotte is blessed with a wonderful climate throughout the year. We enjoy four distinct seasons starting with a beautiful spring full of blossoming trees and shrubs, and ending with mild and friendly winters with average snowfall of less than six inches. Summer temperatures average 89 degrees for a high and 70 degrees for the low, and annual precipitation is 43.1 inches. If you want to get away from the summer heat or enjoy the snowfall on the slopes, you can be in the mountains in less than two hours, or at the coast for a refreshing retreat on the beach in just over three hours.

Whether you plan to spend your spare time enjoying the finer arts, as a spectator at a major league sporting event, or actively engaged in a round of golf, Charlotte has plenty for everyone. Charlotte has invested wisely in its cultural scene in recent years. The Blumenthal Performing Arts Center is home to the Charlotte Symphony and Off-Broadway theater. Charlotte sporting events include the NFL Panthers, NBA Bobcats and NASCAR. For a more artistic flair, join local gallery crawls to exquisite international exhibits. Your choices are vast and abundant!

If music is your passion, you'll be pleased to know that Charlotte hosts national touring acts as well as regional musicians on a weekly basis. The Bobcats Arena, Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, and a local favorite, The Double Door, are just a few of the concert venues for every type of music... everything from Jazz and Blues to Hip Hop. Charlotte boasts a diverse and enjoyable nightlife, from martini and wine bars to comedy and dance clubs. Checking out the Entertainment section of the Charlotte Observer will help you plan both your weekend as well as your after-business-hours entertainment.