FindYourStay
🎒Backpackers

Where to Stay in Charlotte

Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips

⚠️ Caution💰 Budget: USD 75/day🚇 Good Transit☀️ Best: Apr, Oct, Nov

Our pick for backpackers

Stay in Plaza Midwood

Offers more affordable accommodation options like hostels and a wide range of budget-friendly eateries and bars.

Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers

Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Charlotte

1

Uptown

Luxury

The vibrant heart of Charlotte, buzzing with business, culture, and entertainment.

first-timersbusiness travelersnightlifefoodies
  • +Central location with easy access to attractions
  • +Abundant dining and nightlife options
  • +Good public transport links
  • -Can feel deserted on weekends outside of event times
  • -Less residential feel
🏨 The Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte🏨 Hyatt Centric Charlotte Uptown🏨 The Ivey's Hotel
2

South End

Mid-range

A trendy and rapidly developing district known for its breweries, boutiques, and vibrant arts scene.

couplesfoodiesnightlifedigital nomads
  • +Excellent craft brewery and restaurant selection
  • +Lively atmosphere, especially on weekends
  • +Walkable to many attractions and shops
  • -Can be noisy due to nightlife and construction
  • -Parking can be challenging
🏨 Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel🏨 AC Hotel by Marriott Charlotte South End🏨 The Waterman
3

Plaza Midwood

Mid-range

An eclectic and bohemian neighborhood brimming with independent shops, diverse eateries, and a strong sense of community.

culturefoodiesnightlifesolo travelers
  • +Unique local businesses and vibrant street art
  • +Diverse and affordable food options
  • +Walkable and has a strong neighborhood feel
  • -Can feel a bit gritty in parts
  • -Limited hotel options directly within the neighborhood
🏨 Midtown Lodge🏨 The Charlotte Hostel🏨 Airbnb options
4

NoDa (North Davidson)

Mid-range

Charlotte's arts district, alive with galleries, live music venues, and a bohemian spirit.

culturenightlifefoodiessolo travelers
  • +Thriving arts and music scene
  • +Unique shops and restaurants
  • +Energetic and creative atmosphere
  • -Can be crowded and loud, especially on weekends
  • -Parking is often difficult
🏨 Hyatt House Charlotte/Noda🏨 The Gloriette🏨 Airbnb apartments

Daily Budget (Budget)

USD 75/day

Aloft Charlotte Uptown at The Excelsior hotel, standard roomUSD 120
Breakfast at Original Pancake House, lunch from a food truck in Romare Bearden Park, dinner at Bang Bang BurgersUSD 45
Day pass on the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) busUSD 6
Explore Romare Bearden Park, visit the Mint Museum, walk around Discovery Place ScienceUSD 29
See all budget tiers

Hidden Gems in Charlotte

Lesser-known spots the locals love

🍜

Midwood Smokehouse

This is a beloved local spot for authentic Texas-style barbecue, known for its mouthwatering brisket and creative sides that locals rave about.

foodPlaza Midwood
🍜

Optimist Hall

FREE

This revitalized textile mill is now a vibrant food hall featuring a curated selection of Charlotte's best chefs and restaurants, offering a diverse culinary adventure.

foodOptimist Park
⚠️

2 areas to be cautious about

Read our full safety guide for Charlotte

More Charlotte Guides

Full Charlotte guideAreas to avoid👩 Solo Female Travellers💑 Couples👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families💻 Digital Nomads✨ Luxury Travellers🎉 Nightlife Seekers