VIBRANT, YOUTHFUL, TRENDY
3 words that perfectly describe what some would call Charlotte's "heartbeat", South End,
a lively neighborhood with historic roots.
South End quick facts:
9,200 people live in South End and 17,180 people work in the neighborhood, according to a 2021 report from Charlotte Center City Partners.
There are 225 shops and restaurants packed into South End, and of them, 103 are locally owned.
The median home price in South End is $537,500 and the average is $565,000.
Grab a scooter and hit the Rail Trail.
The 3.5-mile paved urban trail runs along the Blue Line light rail track into Uptown and is filled with joggers, dog walkers, and cyclists. The “magic carpet” murals by Jessie Unterhalter and Katey Truhn are prime photo ops.
Split the fajita parilla mixta at Superica.
It’s marinated and grilled steak and chicken and is served with charro beans, Mexican butter, guacamole, cheese, sour cream, pico de gallo and homemade flour tortillas.
Pro tip: If there’s a wait, put your name on the online waitlist and stop at Elsewhere for drinks beforehand.
Location/hours: 101 West Worthington Ave., Ste. 100. Open Monday through Thursday from 5-10pm, Friday from 5-11pm, Saturday for brunch from 10am to 3pm and for dinner from 5-11pm, and Sunday for brunch from 10am to 3pm and for dinner from 5-10pm.
Snap a photo in front of Evelyn Henson’s famous Confetti Hearts wall.
If you haven’t taken a photo in front of this Insta-famous mural, do you really live in Charlotte? Find it in Nebel’s alley behind Jeni’s if you’re coming from Camden.
Cool off with a scoop of ice cream from Jeni’s Ice Creams.
There’s usually a line at this place. But with flavors like salted peanut butter with chocolate flecks and brambleberry crisp, it makes sense why.
Also, check out Two Scoops Creamery down the street.
Location/hours: 1920 Camden Rd. Open Monday through Wednesday from 11am to 11pm.
Order a sandwich and hang out at Common Market.
The quirky market/bodega is great if you need a grab-n-go breakfast or lunch. I’m a fan of their Mother Clucker Sandwich — it’s pulled chicken salad on a house-baked croissant topped with lettuce, tomato, white American cheese and bacon.
Pro tip: If you go upstairs, you’ll see board games that you can play.
Location/hours: 235 West Tremont Ave. Open 24 hours Sunday and Monday, Tuesday through Thursday from 8am to 10pm, Friday and Saturday from 8am to 11pm.
Scale the walls at Inner Peaks.
The indoor climbing facility has tracks for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced. Unless you already have a membership, start with a day pass for $20, harnesses and shoes are an additional $5 each.
Pro tip: Members can bring a first-time climber for free on Fridays.
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