Exploring Charlotte Airport: Things To Do And See

Charlotte Douglas International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the country, serving as the second-largest hub for American Airlines. The airport offers a range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options for travellers with layovers of varying durations. From local breweries and restaurants to art installations and nearby attractions, there is something for everyone at Charlotte Airport.

Relax in the iconic rocking chairs

Charlotte Douglas International Airport is known for its iconic rocking chairs, which give the airport a twist of Southern hospitality. The rocking chairs overlook the Atrium, where you can also enjoy live music from a pianist.

If you're looking to relax in the rocking chairs, head to the Main Atrium. Here, you'll find signature white rocking chairs, as well as a variety of shops and restaurants. You can grab a bite to eat at 1897 Market, an expansive full-service restaurant and shop featuring locally sourced products and a globally inspired menu. For a casual meal, try Brookwood Farms BBQ for Carolina barbecue or Salsarita’s, a fast-casual Mexican grill. If you just want a drink, you can get a local beer at First Flight Bar or a wine flight at Beaudevin.

Once you've got your food or drink, head back to the Main Atrium and find a rocking chair. Take a seat, and admire the "First in Flight" mobile art installation above Hissho Sushi and the First in Flight bar.

If you're looking for more privacy or additional relaxation, you can book a massage at XpresSpa, get a shoeshine at Executive Shoeshine, or take a nap at Minute Suites. The Main Atrium also has an Interfaith Chapel for reflection and a USO Lounge for military personnel, retirees, and their families.

Eat at Brookwood Farms BBQ

If you're looking for a bite to eat at Charlotte Airport, Brookwood Farms BBQ is a great choice. It's located in the Main Concourse of the airport, making it a convenient option for travellers.

Brookwood Farms BBQ is a fast-food barbecue joint, serving up classic Southern-style pit-cooked barbecue. They offer a range of meats, including pulled pork, brisket, chicken, and ribs, with a variety of sauces to choose from. Their menu also features sides like mac and cheese, fried okra, hush puppies, and baked beans.

While reviews for Brookwood Farms BBQ are mixed, with some criticising the food and service, others have praised the brisket, mac and cheese, and beef tacos. It's a good option if you're looking for a quick, casual meal with a taste of North Carolina's famous barbecue.

The restaurant is open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, so you can satisfy your barbecue craving any time of day. So, if you're passing through Charlotte Airport and want a filling, flavourful meal, be sure to check out Brookwood Farms BBQ.

Visit the Billy Graham Library

If you're looking for things to do near Charlotte Airport, the Billy Graham Library is a great option. It's located just five minutes from the airport and is a must-see attraction in Charlotte, celebrating one of the city's most famous natives. The library is free to visit and is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday. It's recommended that you reserve at least 1.5 hours to explore the grounds and take the Journey of Faith tour, which takes you through Billy Graham's life using multimedia exhibits, films, and memorabilia.

The library sits on 20 acres of land and includes the Graham family home, which has been restored using 80% of its original materials, as well as a Christian bookstore called Ruth's Attic. You can also explore Graham's personal book collection of nearly 4,000 titles and enjoy a meal at the Dairy Bar. The Memorial Prayer Garden is another highlight, where Billy Graham and his wife, Ruth Bell Graham, are buried.

The Billy Graham Library is a peaceful and moving experience, even for those who may not be familiar with Billy Graham and his work. It's a wonderful way to learn about and celebrate the life of this religious icon, just a short distance from Charlotte Airport.

Explore the Carolinas Aviation Museum

If you're looking for something to do near Charlotte Airport, the Carolinas Aviation Museum is a great option. The museum is located on the grounds of Charlotte Douglas International Airport and is one of the few aviation museums located at a major airline hub. With a collection of over 50 static aircraft and historic items related to aviation in North and South Carolina, it's a fascinating place to explore. Here's everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.

History and Collections

The Carolinas Aviation Museum was founded in 1992 by Floyd and Lois Peithman Wilson. It was originally located in the airport's original 1932 hangar, built by the Works Progress Administration. In 2010, the museum moved to a new facility at Charlotte-Douglas International Airport, providing a climate-controlled space for the aircraft and allowing for new displays. In 2019, the museum closed to the public and relocated once again, this time to a larger facility with a new main gallery and welcome centre adjacent to the original hangar. The museum reopened in 2024 with a new name—the Sullenberger Aviation Museum.

The museum's collections include a variety of aircraft, engines, cockpits, and aviation memorabilia. One of the most notable exhibits is the Airbus A320 used on US Airways Flight 1549, also known as the "Miracle on the Hudson." This plane successfully ditched in the Hudson River in 2009, and the museum acquired the entire airframe, which is on display along with the uniforms of Captain Sully Sullenberger and First Officer Jeff Skiles. Other aircraft on display include the Wright brothers' 1903 Wright Flyer (a reproduction), a Cessna 150L, a McDonnell Douglas F-4S Phantom II, and a Boeing N2S Kaydet, among others.

Visitor Information and Tips

When planning your visit to the Sullenberger Aviation Museum, keep in mind that it is recommended to reserve at least 1.5 hours to explore the grounds and exhibits. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, and the address is 4108 Minuteman Way, Charlotte, NC 28208. The admission fee is reasonable, with discounts for seniors, students, military personnel, and veterans.

Reviews from visitors praise the museum for its interesting exhibits and reasonable admission fees. However, some have noted that the building can be warm inside during the summer months, so it is recommended to check ahead and be prepared.

So, if you find yourself with a few hours to spare at Charlotte Airport, why not explore the fascinating world of aviation at the Sullenberger Aviation Museum? With its diverse collection of aircraft and aviation history, it's a great way to gain a new appreciation for the wonders of flight.

Shop at the Charlotte Regional Farmers Market

If you're looking for something to do near Charlotte Airport, why not visit the Charlotte Regional Farmers Market? Located at 1801 Yorkmont Road, it's just 2.8 miles from the airport and is the perfect place to shop for fresh, locally sourced produce, plants, arts and crafts, and more.

The market is open from Wednesday to Sunday, 8 am to 5 pm, and offers a wide range of goods from multiple local sellers. You can find everything from fresh produce, bakery items, and floral arrangements to wine, specialty spices, and body care products. The vendors are friendly and knowledgeable, and the prices are reasonable.

If you're visiting on the weekend, it's recommended to arrive early or later in the day to avoid the crowds. Don't forget to bring your reusable grocery bags!

The market is easily accessible by car from the airport. Simply take Exit 6B from I-77 and turn south onto S. Tryon Street. Then, turn right onto Yorkmont Road and continue for about 1.2 miles. The market will be on your left.

Well-behaved, leashed pets are welcome in the outdoor market areas, but they are not allowed inside the market buildings. Free on-site parking is available, making it convenient to stock up on all your favourite goodies.

So, if you're looking for a unique shopping experience with a variety of local products, the Charlotte Regional Farmers Market is the perfect destination during your time at Charlotte Airport.

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