Nicknamed the Queen City, Charlotte has been attracting tourists in increasing numbers in recent years and is rapidly becoming one of the most visitor-friendly destinations in the Carolinas. The city is home to plenty of cultural attractions and many world-class museums and restaurants.

Though the city itself sprawls across a relatively wide area for its population, the vast majority of the city's attractions are concentrated in its central district. The Uptown district, which is comprised of four distinct wards, is home to most of the city's museums, restaurants, nightclubs, parks and theaters.

The North Davidson Street or NoDa district is off the beaten path, but a must-see for visitors who want a glimpse into the city's growing eclectic and bohemian underbelly. Similarly, the South End is emerging as an alternative for the picture-perfect Uptown district, rivaling it for entertainment attractions and nightlife venues.

Here are some additional suggestions for activities you may want to include in your visit:

• See a Race: Attend a NASCAR race during the auto-racing season, which runs from February through November.
• Go to a game: Charlotte is home to the NBA's Bobcats and the NFL's Panthers, and the NHL's Hurricanes play out of nearby Raleigh.
• Myers Park: Charlotte's Myers Park district is home to Charlotte's "old money" neighborhoods and numerous generous green spaces if you're seeking a respite from the urban sprawl.
• Levine Museum of the New South: With interactive exhibits and guided walk-through tours throughout the day, the Levine Museum offers visitors a comprehensive and engaging introduction to the cultural history of the American South.
• Hit the fairway: The Carolinas are known for their excellent golf courses, and the region's mild spring and fall weather create an extended golf season.

Because the city is so spread out, it is advisable to seek a vacation rental in the city's centrally located Uptown district. Whether you're staying for a weekend or an extended trip, a furnished condo or apartment vacation rental offer a more comfortable alternative to staying in a hotel and can give you a taste of the region's famous Southern hospitality.

While the weather remains relatively comfortable throughout the year, Charlotte summers can be hot and humid, and many people find spring and fall to be the most pleasant times to visit. Most of the city's best-known annual events, including the St. Patrick's Day Parade, the Taste of Charlotte festival and the Labor Day parade, take place in the spring or fall, with September being widely praised as the city's finest month.