Why You Should Visit the Whitewater Center
Less than 30 minutes from uptown Charlotte is the US National Whitewater Center. Since 2001 this 1300 acres of protected land has been operating as an outdoor center offering over 30 different recreational activities from ziplining to hiking. If you’ve never been, here are all the reasons that you should visit the Whitewater Center today.
Outdoor Activities
If you are an outdoor enthusiast, you have just hit the jackpot! Below are the activities offered throughout the year. There is something for everyone!
- Whitewater Rafting- experience the world’s largest man-made whitewater river offering class II-IV whitewater. Don’t worry… you have a guide!
- Kayaking– kayaking on the whitewater rapids or flatwater in the Catawba River and Long Creek.
- SUP– stand up paddle board in the same flatwater.
- Zipline- fly over the rapids and through the forest.
- Trails– over 50 miles of trails for hiking, running, or biking. No bike? No worries… you can rent one.
- Rope Courses– climbing through the forest on rope bridges, cargo nets, and suspended platforms.
- Jumps- take a leap and freefall from 100 feet high!
- Rock Climbing- one of the largest facilities on the east coast offering 35-45 top rope routes.
- Yoga- over 280 practices offered.
- Ice-skating– in the winter the whitewater channel converts into a unique ice skating ring.
not Into Exercising?
One of our favorite things to do is take our beach chairs and set up camp on the green space next to the whitewater course. You can bring games like Bulzibucket (if you don’t know what that is click below… you need it) and of course dogs of all sizes are welcome. Just remember they do not allow coolers.
In the summer months, Thursday through Saturday, “River Jam” brings you live music on the outside stage. There are plenty of places to grab a bite and drinks whether you want full service or just a grab-and-go. There is a huge selection of craft beers!
When you're hungry (and thirsty)
- River’s Edge-full service restaurant with an inside and a patio overlooking the whitewater river.
- The Trail Center- grab a quick drink and refuel.
- The Market– Grab a quick sandwich, salad, and craft beer.
- Pump House Biergarten- made to order options like hamburgers or brats; also offers 60 craft beers on tap.
- Outfitters– rotating craft beers or cold brew coffee, also has snacks .
the Festivals
The Whitewater Center is utilized for several large scale festivals throughout the year which includes live music, fireworks, races, competitions, and more!
- Memorial Day Celebration- May 28-29
- Fourth of July- July 3-4
- Labor Day Celebration- September 3-4
- Dog Days of Winter – February 13
And my favorites …
Green River Revival
Happened on March 12, 2022. Do not miss it next year!
“Kick off spring festivities with Green River Revival. Watch as the Whitewater Center’s resident leprechaun transforms the river green for St Patrick’s Day. Start the day with the Color Me Green 5K Trail Run before rafting down the river and listening to live music.”
Tuck Fest
Happened April 29- May 1, 2022. This is a multi day festival with all kinds of outdoor activities including competitions, exhibitions, demos, and live music. This year we went on Friday and I quickly became a huge fan of the band “Trampled by Turtles”. Check them out by clicking below! There are also plenty of food trucks to supplement the Whitewater restaurants and retail vendors set up in tents offering everything from SUP boards to jewelry.
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