Winter IS Fun in Charlotte, NC

It's true, southern winters are kind of boring. They are rarely marked by magical white fluffy flakes of pretty snowfalls, in fact, we often have little to go by to actually mark the winter season. It's a little colder and there are fewer leaves on the trees, but beyond that winter is a season we don't see much of, traditionally anyway.

But that doesn't mean winter is any less fun in Charlotte, in fact, we are close enough to the North Carolina mountains that we can make some epic family day trips to enjoy legitimate winter weather, if we so choose. Or, we can pop outdoors to enjoy a cool weather hike practically in our backyard. Or maybe even better still, we grab some friends and family and meet up for a meal or some indoor fun.

With that said, here are 5 Winter Fun Things to Do in Charlotte, NC.

Snow tubing at Black Bear Snow Tubing in Hendersonville, NCPhoto byKidding Around Media

For all these winter ideas and lots more, visit the Kidding Around Charlotte Winter Guide.

1. Go Snow Tubing

If you want to see snow, there are places within about a 2-hour drive that will make that happen. Snow tubing is a super way to spend some family time together and enjoy a little winter weather. Check out these 8 places to snow tube near Charlotte, NC.

If skiing is more your thing, here are all the ski slopes in North Carolina and beyond.

2. Go for a Winter Hike

The air is cooler, which is great for hiking. You can enjoy the outdoors without dripping sweat. Plus, with fewer leaves on the trees, you'll see views you haven't seen before!

Try a hike at Anne Spring Close Greenway for something nearby. Or, if you're looking for a real winter mountain feel, head to Upstate, SC for a winter hike day trip. Table Rock is gorgeous this time of year. Here's a list of some of our favorite winter hikes near Greenville.

3. Enjoy a Meal Together (Inside or Outdoors!)

With outdoor heaters, dining outside can happen even in the winter. Check out Gibson Mill for indoor and outdoor dining spaces. the food court-style food hall has lots of options so everyone will find something delicious, and there are even some fun things to do. You'll find a small arcade for the kids upstairs, and a complete board gaming cafe downstairs.

All that makes Gibson Mill a great place to spend a winter afternoon with the family.

4. Go to the Park

Parks and playgrounds remain a great place to visit even in Charlotte's winter months. We recommend driving to Kannapolis, NC, and heading to Village Park to enjoy some crisp winter air. Take a ride on the vintage carousel, or grab a ticket for the train. After that, spend some time playing at the large playgrounds before you head into town for a coffee. Sounds like a great family afternoon to us!

5. Go Ice Skating

You'll find this timeless winter classic offered through mid-February at Charlotte's Whitewater Center. A day pass for skating is $25 and that includes rental skates.

6. Play indoors! Charlotte has so many indoor things to do! Here's our guide with over 50 Indoor Activities in Charlotte, NC.