3RD & FERNWOOD

Substrate is a cozy wine haven in Optimist Park, serving up natural wines and vermouths on tap, with inviting indoor-outdoor seating perfect for gatherings.

Sleek lodging with refined rooms & Southern dining, plus a 24/7 gym & an on-site Light Rail stop. Occupying a glass skyscraper adjacent to the Charlotte Convention Center, this polished hotel with a LYNX Light Rail stop is a 9-minute walk from the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Upscale, earth-toned rooms come with Wi-Fi (fee), flat-screen TVs and iPod docks, plus rainfall showerheads, and tea and coffeemaking facilities. Upgraded rooms offer skyline views, while suites add separate living areas with pull-out sofas, plus additional TVs and bathrooms. Wi-Fi is free in public areas. Dining options include a Southern restaurant with a terrace, a sleek bar, and a lobby cafe. There's a 24-hour gym with a lap pool. Meeting space is available.

In a cozy, hip setting, this Plaza Midwood gem whips up globally inspired small plates and creative cocktails, perfect for casual hangouts or date nights.

El Malo in Plaza Midwood is your go-to for hearty, fresh street-style tacos and burritos, all served in a chill, Tijuana-inspired vibe.

Women's store featuring a hip, contemporary assortment of clothing, jewelry, bags & gifts.

Lavish rooms in a refined hotel with a restaurant & a spa, plus an outdoor & an indoor pool. Set 14 miles south of Charlotte's downtown, this upscale hotel is 17 miles from Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Elegant rooms have flat-screen TVs, dual closets, Wi-Fi access (surcharge) and marble bathtubs. Some offer private balconies. Suites add separate living areas; some feature full kitchens. Lodge accommodations add whirlpool tubs. A cottage with multiple bedrooms is also available. Room service is offered. Amenities include a spa, a salon, 2 pools (1 indoor), a fitness center and a high-end American restaurant.

Down-home kitchen serving up old-school comfort eats such as meatloaf & chicken 'n' dumplings.

Snooze Eatery buzzes with retro charm, serving up creative brunches and cocktails that keep both the foodies and families raving.

Chic locale atop the Kimpton Tryon Park serving craft cocktails, local beers & elevated bar bites.

Bustling taproom & beer garden offering in-house sandwiches & international food-truck fare.