July 2025

7 ing’s Wednesday Run Club draws runners of all levels to complete a 1, 3, or 5-mile route before regrouping for a pint of craft beer. The vibe is friendly, inclusive, and unpretentious. Similar gatherings happen at breweries across South End, Plaza Midwood, and Wesley Heights, combining fitness, socializing, and local business sup - port into one midweek ritual. July mornings are ideal for exploring Charlotte’s many greenways and nature preserves before the afternoon heat becomes oppressive. The Little Sugar Creek Gre- enway offers shaded trails winding past urban sculptures and small waterfalls, while McDowell Nature Preserve provides lakefront paths where great blue herons fish at dawn. Many residents find these early hours a mental reset before work or a peaceful alternative to crowded gyms. Art lovers can indulge their senses with the South End Gallery Crawl, held on the first Friday of each month. Local studios and galleries open their doors from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., welcoming visitors to meet artists, view new exhibitions, and purchase original pieces directly from creators. The event blends seamlessly with South End’s food scene, encouraging people to grab dinner or drinks at one of the area’s bustling restaurants or rooftop bars after browsing. Finally, no July staycation is complete without enjoying Charlotte’s culinary gems. From farm-to-table brunch spots like Haberdish and The Asbury to global street food at Optimist Hall, the city’s food scene caters to every craving. Many restaurants offer patio dining with misting fans or shaded pergolas, allowing diners to en- joy warm summer evenings without discomfort. Choosing a staycation in Charlotte this July doesn’t mean sacrificing adventure or relaxation. It simply means ap - preciating what’s within reach: live music under open skies, early morning trails lined with birdsong, cold pints after a sweaty run, and meals shared with friends as the city hums around you.