Charlotte is a city that loves to show off its Southern charm, thriving arts scene, sports history, and architectural gems. Unlike many cities, Charlotte offers a surprisingly diverse set of ways to experience its streets, neighborhoods, and history. Whether you want a quick overview or an in-depth cultural dive, there’s something for all. We especially like the Charlotte: Historical City Tour on Eco-Friendly Cart, because it combines fun, sustainability, and a rich storytelling approach—plus you get to zip through Uptown in a quiet electric vehicle, learning about the city’s past, present, and future.
For travelers who prefer exploring on foot, the UPTOWN FUNK: 1 Hour Guided City Walking Tour in Charlotte offers an engaging way to see key sights with a knowledgeable guide, all in just an hour. Food lovers can check out the Charlotte Comedy City Tour, which combines humor with sightseeing, delivering a memorable, adult-only experience. And for those who want a personalized touch, the Private Picnic Experience in the Queen City offers a relaxing, intimate outing. Keep reading to see which tour best suits your style.
1. Charlotte: Historical City Tour on Eco-Friendly Cart
At number 1, this 1.5-hour electric cart tour offers a fun way to see Charlotte’s key sights without the noise and pollution of a traditional bus. Your guide takes you through Uptown’s four wards, stopping at museums, parks, churches, and sports stadiums to tell the story of the city’s evolution. It’s especially appealing if you want a relaxed, informative experience that also emphasizes environmental sustainability. With a 4.9-star rating from 235 reviews, travelers praise the tour’s engaging storytelling and the chance to learn about Charlotte’s past, present, and future in a small-group setting. Costing $40 per person, it balances affordability with quality, making it ideal for first-timers or those who like a lighthearted, educational approach.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you want an eco-friendly, engaging introduction to Charlotte’s landmarks, with plenty of local insights from a friendly guide.
2. UPTOWN FUNK: 1 Hour Guided City Walking Tour in Charlotte
For an active, close-up experience of Charlotte’s city center, the UPTOWN FUNK offers a lively, 1-hour guided stroll. Focused on the core of Charlotte, this tour covers Queen Charlotte, Romare Bearden Park, the Bank of America Stadium, and the Old Settlers Cemetery. The guide shares stories about the city’s culture, sports, food, and history, making it a great choice for those who like walking tours that are both informative and social. With a perfect 5.0 rating from 174 reviews and a very budget-friendly $15 cost, it’s ideal for first-time visitors or locals eager to uncover new details.
Guests note the easy pace and friendly guides. One reviewer said, “Great introduction to uptown Charlotte… easy walking, friendly, knowledgeable tour leader.”
Bottom Line: If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive, lively introduction to Charlotte’s heart, this tour hits the spot.
3. Charlotte Comedy City Tour
Want to combine sightseeing with laughs? The Charlotte Comedy City Tour is a adults-only, 1.5-hour bus ride full of humor, colorful commentary, and a local comedian leading the way. This tour ventures through neighborhoods like South-End and NoDa, exploring historic sites while you sip your BYO beer or wine. It’s perfect for those looking for a relaxed, fun evening with a unique twist. Priced at $45 per person and rated 4.5 from 582 reviews, it’s highly popular among visitors who appreciate a mix of comedy and city insight. Note: It’s intended for adults and involves some mature jokes, so it’s best for those 16 and over.
Guests love the interactive, funny style—one reviewer said, “Shane had us laughing, singing, and smiling the whole time.”
Bottom Line: Great for an evening of entertainment that also offers a fresh perspective on Charlotte’s vibrant neighborhoods.
4. Charlotte’s Premier Historical City Bus Tour
At number 4, this 1 hour 25-minute guided bus tour takes you past the NASCAR Hall of Fame, the Charlotte Hornets, the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, and historic neighborhoods. For $39, you get a small-group experience with plenty of personal attention, ideal for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a broad, well-rounded overview. The guide shares insights about Charlotte’s transition from small farms to a financial hub, with highlights like the Mint Museum and the legendary NASCAR Hall of Fame. With a 5-star rating from 116 reviews, travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and the ease of seeing major landmarks comfortably.
A reviewer noted, “Very interesting! Learned a lot about Charlotte’s history and culture,” making it perfect for those wanting a quick, scenic, and educational snapshot of the city.
Bottom Line: Best suited for visitors seeking a concise, well-informed overview with a comfortable ride.
5. Charlotte: Historical City Tour by Shuttle Bus
This 1.5-hour shuttle bus tour is a practical way for travelers to see Charlotte’s key landmarks, including the NASCAR Hall of Fame, the Bank of America Stadium, and historic Fourth Ward. With a very affordable price of $40 and a 4.8-star rating from 59 reviews, it’s especially popular with first-time visitors who want a guided overview. The tour offers panoramic views of Uptown and insights into the city’s history, culture, and sports scene, all while riding in air-conditioned comfort.
Guests appreciate the friendly guide and seamless experience. One review states, “Thad was awesome, highly recommend.”
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want a relaxed, comprehensive introduction to Charlotte with minimal walking.
6. Charlotte’s Ultimate Southern Charm Historical City Bus Tour
This roughly 1 hour 25-minute tour is a top-rated experience, with 25 reviews praising its deep dive into Charlotte’s history, from Elvis performances to the Fourth Ward. For $39, you’ll visit famous spots like the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Romare Bearden Park, and the Bank of America Stadium, while learning about the city’s evolution from gold mining to arts and sports. The guide shares stories that paint a picture of Southern hospitality and quirky tales. Many reviewers mention the friendly, informative guides and the stop-at-each-site for photos.
One guest said, “This is the #1 historical tour—deeply informative and full of stories.”
Bottom Line: Ideal for history buffs and travelers wanting a comprehensive narrative of Charlotte’s past.
7. Private Picnic Experience in the Queen City
For a more intimate moment, opt for the Private Picnic Experience. Set in First Ward Park, it offers a luxurious, relaxed picnic with food options like a charcuterie board, sparkling cider, and scenic views of Uptown. All setup, including basket, blanket, and tableware, is provided—perfect for celebrating a special occasion or just reconnecting. Costs are $249 per group, up to 2 people, making it more of a splurge but well worth the personalized service and ambiance.
Reviews highlight how well-executed this experience is, with one calling it “an amazing, well-thought-out” way to spend quality time.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small groups seeking a private, memorable, laid-back experience.
8. Charlotte Historic: Queen Bee City Tour
At number 8, this 1 hour 25-minute guided city tour on an electric shuttle offers a comfortable way to see the Bank of America Stadium, Fourth Ward, and the NASCAR Hall of Fame. It’s popular for its personal storytelling and flexible itinerary, including stops at historic districts and iconic landmarks. Many reviewers praise the friendly, knowledgeable guide and the opportunity to take photos along the way. Priced at $50 with a 4.5-star rating from 31 reviews, it provides a well-rounded snapshot of Charlotte’s key attractions.
A reviewer noted, “Loved the personal stories and seeing the city from a local’s perspective.”
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers wanting a relaxed yet insightful tour with plenty of photo stops and stories.
9. Queen’s City Black Legacy Walking Tour
This 2-hour walking tour focuses on Charlotte’s African American history and culture. It explores the historic Black neighborhood and highlights contributions that often go unrecognized. For $25, it’s an affordable way to dig deeper into the city’s diverse roots and learn about the critical role African Americans played in building Charlotte. The guide shares personal stories and historical insights, making it a meaningful experience.
Guests note the extremely knowledgeable guide and the fact that the tour deepens your understanding of the city’s social fabric. One said, “I learned a lot and gained appreciation for how African Americans contributed to Charlotte.”
Bottom Line: Ideal for history enthusiasts and those interested in social and cultural stories often overlooked in traditional tours.
10. Queen City Quest Scavenger Hunt
For a playful, interactive way to explore Charlotte, the Queen City Quest combines a scavenger hunt with real-time challenges and photo opportunities. Costing $29 per person, it’s perfect for families or groups who want to discover the city at their own pace while solving clues with the help of a live remote host. The app-driven experience makes it easy to participate, and reviews mention it’s a fun, engaging alternative to traditional tours.
One reviewer said, “A fun way to explore,” while another appreciated the team-building aspect.
Bottom Line: Best for active, curious travelers who enjoy puzzles and teamwork, offering a flexible, self-guided experience.
11. Charlotte’s Premier Historical City Walking Tour
This 1.5-hour walking tour immerses you in Charlotte’s story, from colonial beginnings to the modern skyline. Guides focus on architecture, pop culture, museums, and sports arenas, making it a lively, educational walk. With a modest price of $15 and a 5-star rating from 4 reviews, it’s great for those who want an up-close, personal experience.
Guests praise the guide’s storytelling and the stops at landmarks like the Mint Museum and Discovery Place. One reviewer said, “Learn about the people who shaped Charlotte’s growth and see the city’s evolving architecture.”
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a detailed, personal exploration of Charlotte’s history in a manageable walking pace.
12. Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) to Charlotte City – Round-Trip Private Transfer
For convenience upon arrival or departure, the private transfer service offers door-to-door transportation from Charlotte Douglas Airport. Priced at $139.86 per person, it includes flight tracking for delays, and the car is clean and comfortable. This service is ideal for travelers who value stress-free logistics, especially with luggage or tight schedules.
Passengers appreciate the friendly drivers and seamless service. It’s a practical, no-hassle option that ensures your first or last impression of Charlotte is positive.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who prioritize comfort and convenience over sightseeing.
13. Charlotte: Haunted City Guided Tour on Rydables
If ghost stories and spooky legends intrigue you, the Haunted City Tour on Rydables offers a 1.5-hour outdoor adventure on electric scooters. You’ll visit the Historic 4th Ward, Settlers Cemetery, and Spirit Square, hearing tales of Charlotte’s ghostly residents. It’s a small-group tour with a training session included, making it accessible even for beginners.
Reviews note the engaging stories and the fun of riding a scooter with a guide. “Discover Charlotte’s haunted side in a fun, relaxed way,” one person remarked.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who enjoy a spooky twist on sightseeing and want a different way to explore the city.
14. Charlotte’s Premier Historical City Tour on Eco-Friendly Cart
The Premier Historical City Tour on Eco-Friendly Cart is a 7-passenger small-group experience that hits many of Charlotte’s highlights like the NASCAR Hall of Fame, the Mint Museum, and Levine Museum of the New South. The tour emphasizes a personalized, open-air experience with a local guide sharing stories about the city’s evolution from rural land to a finance center. Rated highly with over 1,000 reviews and a 5.0 rating, it’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting a relaxed, insightful tour.
Bottom Line: Suited for small groups or families who want a flexible, comprehensive, and eco-friendly tour of Charlotte’s key sites.
$39.00 per person
15. Charlotte’s Ultimate Southern Charm Historical City Cart Tour
Deep dive into Charlotte’s Southern hospitality with this luxurious golf cart tour lasting about 1 hour 25 minutes. It covers major attractions like the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Romare Bearden Park, and the Bank of America Stadium, with stops for photos and storytelling. Many travelers find this tour “deeply informative,” praising guides for their personal stories and local knowledge. The tour is perfect for those who want a comfortable, in-depth look at the city’s history and culture.
Guests rave about the friendly atmosphere and detailed narratives. It makes an excellent choice for history enthusiasts or those celebrating a special occasion.
Bottom Line: Best for visitors wanting a personal, in-depth experience with a touch of Southern charm.
$39.00 per person
16. Charlotte City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Crazy Dash
Finally, for a budget-friendly, fun activity, the Charlotte Scavenger Hunt offers a 2-hour self-guided adventure. Costing just $10, it’s perfect for families or groups wanting a flexible, engaging way to discover Charlotte’s neighborhoods. Using an app, your team completes challenges, solves clues, and takes photos, all with remote host support if needed. Reviewers enjoy its interactive and relaxed style.
One said, “Loved seeing Charlotte in a fun way,” highlighting its appeal for casual explorers.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers on a budget or those who prefer a self-paced, interactive challenge over structured tours.
$10.00 per person
How to Choose the Best Charlotte City Tour for You
Choosing between these diverse options depends largely on your interests and travel style. If you want a sustainable, relaxed introduction, the Charlotte: Historical City Tour on Eco-Friendly Cart is a top pick. For those eager to walk and absorb Charlotte’s core, the Uptown Funk or Premier Historical City Walking Tour offer in-depth insights with manageable pace.
Budget travelers or groups seeking fun, social experiences might enjoy the Comedy City Tour, while history enthusiasts will appreciate tours like the Southern Charm or Queen Bee City Tour. For a personal, intimate experience, the Private Picnic offers a memorable way to relax.
Finally, if you prefer self-guided explorations or family-friendly activities, the Scavenger Hunt and City Scavenger Hunt Excursion provide fun, flexible options.
Final Thoughts
Charlotte’s variety of tours makes it easy to tailor your visit to your preferences—whether you’re into history, sports, art, comedy, or just exploring at your own pace. For first-time visitors, a guided bus or cart tour can be a great start, while locals might prefer a themed walk or a humorous night out. Keep in mind that booking early often secures the best times, especially for popular experiences like the Eco-Friendly Cart Tour.
No matter your choice, Charlotte’s hospitality and stories are ready to welcome you. Enjoy the journey!