Truist Field, home to the Charlotte Knights, a Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox.
Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority
Charlotte’s got the sports action you crave.
Charlotte is a city where sports energy never rests. Whether you’re in the stands or playing for fun, there’s something for every sports fan.
When you’re in Charlotte, it’s all about the game. The Queen City has long been known for its vibrant sports culture, home to professional sports teams that include the Carolina Panthers (NFL), the Charlotte Hornets (NBA), the Charlotte Checkers (AHL hockey), and Charlotte FC (MLS). The home field advantage is strong here, as the city comes to life at game time. Whether you’re part of the crowd cheering on the Panthers at Bank of America Stadium, enjoying the game at STATS Restaurant & Bar, or joining in the city’s recreational sports, Charlotte embraces the spirit of sports year-round. Here’s your handy guide to Charlotte’s pro teams, the top places to watch them, and the many ways to join in on the fun of this sports-loving city. Game on!
Carolina Panthers players emerge from the tunnel to the cheers of an exhilarating crowd at Bank of America Stadium.
In Charlotte, the pro sports scene never really takes a break. There’s always another game on the schedule, and that’s a source of local pride and entertainment. Each fall, the city rallies behind its most significant source of pride, the NFL’s Carolina Panthers. The team’s home games at Bank of America Stadium in the heart of Uptown create a palpable buzz of excitement.
The local restaurants, bars, and light rail pulse as more than 70,000 fans gather for Sunday traditions. Plan to arrive early and join the party as pre-game tailgating is a big part of the culture here, and there’s always enough pimento cheese to go around.
If you can get a ticket for the Atlanta Falcons game, go. The intense local rivalry always makes for one of the year's most exciting games. From the die-hard fans who haven’t missed a home game in decades to the stunning city skyline backdrop in the stadium, attending a home game is a quintessential Charlotte experience. AAA Members get Preferred AccessTM Tickets to Carolina Panthers games. Get your Members-only access to tickets here.
The best show in town is when the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets are at home, lighting up the Spectrum Center. The 19,000-seat arena is awash in teal and purple jerseys as the game starts with a booming energy. That energy never seems to lag as the Hornets’ fan engagement kicks into gear with dance cams, crowd giveaways (yes, there’s a t-shirt gun!), and mini performances.
The Spectrum Center features a host of local restaurants’ top eats, including the Prime Rib Sandwich from Dressler’s, the Poké Bowl from Fin & Fino, and Mom’s Cheesecake from Joan’s Bakery & Deli. The Spectrum Center is right in the middle of Uptown, and getting there is super easy. Plenty of parking decks are nearby, or you can just hop off the light rail at Brooklyn Village Station; it’s only about a 10–12 minute walk. AAA Members get exclusive access to save on Charlotte Hornets games.
Charlotte Checkers player hits the ice before a packed house at Bojangles’ Coliseum.
Bring the whole family to a Charlotte Checkers AHL Hockey game and you’ll revel in the fast-paced excitement. The home games are split between Bojangles Coliseum and Truist Field and offer one of the most affordable sports tickets in town. The games are family-friendly, with a dedicated local fan base, including a few who’ve been along for the ride since the team’s origins in 1956.
Charlotte FC vs. Chelsea FC players in action at Bank of America Stadium.
visitnc.com
The Charlotte FC Major League Soccer team continues to grow in popularity, with its home games at Bank of America Stadium. The Charlotte FC franchise has built a uniquely strong fan culture as the stadium erupts with chants, songs, and posters that fill the stadium with an intoxicating, joyous spirit. One of the most beloved sports stadiums in the city is Truist Field, home to the Charlotte Knights, a Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox. The stadium is a must-visit for its stunning skyline views and excellent food options from local vendors. Win or lose, Friday night home game guests (and everyone in the surrounding Uptown area) are treated to a post-game fireworks show.
Charlotte is the place to be if you’re a sports fan, but it’s also great if you’re looking to get into the game. The city brims with sports fun, with countless parks and recreation centers open to all ages and skill levels. Queen City is a hot spot for pickleball, with more than 220 courts. Pick up a game or hone your skill at one of Pickleball Charlotte’s four locations, or enjoy the social scene and artisanal food and drinks at Rally Pickleball in Lower South End.
TopGolf (located in University City and Steele Creek) is more than just a driving range; it’s a golfing entertainment destination. The year-round golfing hubs are three-floor mammoth structures with state-of-the-art hitting bays, a rooftop terrace with fire pits, and an extensive menu of food and drinks. Bowling alleys in South End like Queen Park Social offer retro vibes, while the charming Pins Mechanical Co. is home to the rare duckpin bowling in a hall filled with old-school pinball and classic arcade games. Steady your aim for some competitive but social fun axe throwing at BATL Axe Throwing (with three locations) or Bad Axe in Center City.
Guests savor custom cocktails and delicious small plates at Charlotte’s premier rooftop bar, Merchant and Trade.
True fans know that the comfiest seat is in front of a flat-screen TV, especially when dozens line the walls. The top sports bars of Queen City are watering holes to gather, cheer, and chow, regardless of whether your team is winning or not. STATS Restaurant & Bar in Uptown swells with buzzing energy on game days with superb bar food, drink specials, and enough space to accommodate big groups of rousing fans.
Courtyard Hooligans is a jovial place for soccer fans to catch the game, whether it’s the Charlotte FC game down the street or the next Real Madrid match. Enjoy the game with a more elevated scene at Merchant & Trade, the 19th-floor rooftop bar and restaurant with a clear view of Truist Field. For something more casual, head to Sycamore Brewing, Birdsong Brewing Co., and NoDa Brewing Co. for watch parties with top local pours.
