Charlotte

Charlotte Members

Membership

Picture of the Charlotte skyline with CLT written across it.

blue

Axios Charlotte Partners

Axios Charlotte

Standard

Charlotte Alerts

Alert

Axios Charlotte gets you smarter, faster on the most consequential news and developments unfolding in your backyard.

Axios Charlotte Thought Bubble

Thought Bubble

Axios Charlotte Deep Dive

Deep Dive

National

Trump says he's pausing plan to attack Iran

World

President Trump said Monday that he&#x27;d planned to strike <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Iran" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" data-vars-content-id="368f78d8-b238-477e-9956-ca5926c4fe58" data-vars-headline="Trump says he&#x27;s pausing plan to attack Iran" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" target="_self">Iran</a> &quot;tomorrow&quot; but was holding off to give negotiations another chance. He claimed he made the decision at the request of several Arab leaders.Why it matters: The White House saw an <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="updated peace proposa" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/18/iran-peace-deal-offer-nuclear-unacceptable" data-vars-content-id="368f78d8-b238-477e-9956-ca5926c4fe58" data-vars-headline="Trump says he&#x27;s pausing plan to attack Iran" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/18/iran-peace-deal-offer-nuclear-unacceptable" target="_self">updated peace proposa</a>l Iran sent on Sunday as insufficient, leading to a growing expectation —including inside the White House — that <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump was about to strike" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/17/trump-iran-warning-harder-strikes" data-vars-content-id="368f78d8-b238-477e-9956-ca5926c4fe58" data-vars-headline="Trump says he&#x27;s pausing plan to attack Iran" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/17/trump-iran-warning-harder-strikes" target="_self">Trump was about to strike</a>.

Altman, OpenAI beat Musk in landmark AI trial

The billionaire entrepreneur suffered a staggering setback.

Technology

A federal jury unanimously ruled Monday that Elon Musk waited too long to bring <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="his lawsuit" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/14/musk-closing-arguments-openai-altman" data-vars-content-id="36ccab2b-08fd-4203-8ba2-6fd8be83e037" data-vars-headline="Altman, OpenAI beat Musk in landmark AI trial" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/14/musk-closing-arguments-openai-altman" target="_self">his lawsuit</a> against OpenAI and its top executives — a staggering defeat for the Tesla chief in his showdown with Sam Altman. Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Musk" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/business/elon-musk" data-vars-content-id="36ccab2b-08fd-4203-8ba2-6fd8be83e037" data-vars-headline="Altman, OpenAI beat Musk in landmark AI trial" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/business/elon-musk" target="_self">Musk</a> had sought up to $134 billion in damages and Altman&#x27;s ouster from OpenAI, arguing the company abandoned its founding nonprofit mission in pursuit of profit. But after the judge accepted the jury&#x27;s finding, Musk appears unlikely to get either.

Trump creates $1.8B "anti-weaponization" fund after dropping IRS suit

Trump creates $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization" fund

The fund creates an unprecedented, taxpayer-backed mechanism to compensate those claiming the Biden administration wrongfully targeted them.

Politics & Policy

President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="1a9279f4-5f0a-4bd8-92cd-319298d0c54c" data-vars-headline="Trump creates $1.8B &quot;anti-weaponization&quot; fund after dropping IRS suit" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump</a> settled his $10 billion lawsuit <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="against the IRS" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/30/trump-tax-returns-irs-treasury-department" data-vars-content-id="1a9279f4-5f0a-4bd8-92cd-319298d0c54c" data-vars-headline="Trump creates $1.8B &quot;anti-weaponization&quot; fund after dropping IRS suit" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/30/trump-tax-returns-irs-treasury-department" target="_self">against the IRS</a> on Monday in exchange for a $1.776 billion fund to compensate those who claim they were targets of government &quot;weaponization.&quot;Why it matters: The fund creates an unprecedented, taxpayer-backed mechanism to compensate people who claim they were wrongfully targeted, potentially including Jan. 6 defendants.

Scoop: Tillis pops up against GOP's new reconciliation bill

Scoop: Tillis opposes GOP's new reconciliation bill

A Tillis spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) has told his colleagues in unequivocal terms that he will not vote for the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="budget reconciliation bill" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/23/dhs-funding-house-senate-budget-talks-reconciliation" data-vars-content-id="5633598f-0e02-49ed-b298-0579e6ffdbf7" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Tillis pops up against GOP&#x27;s new reconciliation bill" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/23/dhs-funding-house-senate-budget-talks-reconciliation" target="_self">budget reconciliation bill</a> if the Senate considers it this week, according to two people familiar with the matter. Why it matters: Tillis&#x27; firm opposition to the bill in its current form, which he blasted to his GOP colleagues in an email this morning, threatens its passage in the Senate this week.

Scoop: How LIV Golf plans to stay alive

The league kicks off fundraising this week, after losing Saudi backing.

Business

LIV Golf is better known for its financial banking than for its product, but now is asking investors for a chance to flip the script.Driving the news: Axios has learned that the league, which <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="recently lost" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/30/pif-liv-golf-bryson-dechambeau-pga-tour" data-vars-content-id="2d49a706-98eb-459f-82a0-6422b02ec483" data-vars-headline="Scoop: How LIV Golf plans to stay alive" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/30/pif-liv-golf-bryson-dechambeau-pga-tour" target="_self">recently lost</a> the support of Saudi Arabia&#x27;s Public Investment Fund, will seek to raise up to $250 million from new investors.Catch up quick: LIV was launched in 2022 by Saudi PIF as a less stodgy rival to the PGA Tour, with which it eventually would try but fail to merge.<ul><li>For Saudi PIF, a new pro golf league was either an effort at economic diversification or at sports-washing its reputation. Either way, it currently owns almost all of LIV and around 75% of each team.</li></ul>Behind the scenes: LIV plans to share the fundraising plan with its players, including stars Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau, early this week.<ul><li>It then goes to market, with Ducera Partners managing the process. The plan itself was reviewed by LIV&#x27;s two new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="board members" data-vars-click-url="https://www.livgolf.com/news/liv-golf-announces-strategic-board-appointments-and-expanded-strategy" data-vars-content-id="2d49a706-98eb-459f-82a0-6422b02ec483" data-vars-headline="Scoop: How LIV Golf plans to stay alive" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.livgolf.com/news/liv-golf-announces-strategic-board-appointments-and-expanded-strategy" target="_blank">board members</a> and restructuring firm Alix Partners.</li><li>Prospective investors will be told that the full $250 million could get LIV to profitability within around 20 months. It also could raise significantly less — down to around $150 million — and then bank on rising team values and a new media rights deal.</li><li>LIV is still operating with remnant Saudi cash, but needs to close its new investment by the beginning of October at the latest. If unsuccessful, it could seek some sort of bridge financing.</li></ul>Zoom in: No word on specific suitors, but expect outreach to private equity, family offices, and individual billionaires.The bottom line: The basic pitch is that while LIV was bankrolled by PIF — to the reported tune of $5 billion — the Saudi involvement also turned off some potential sponsors, golfers, and audiences.<ul><li>Going forward it would succeed or fail on its own merits. If it can get investors to the green.</li></ul>

What even is a data center?

These massive facilities power streaming, cloud storage and AI — but neighbors have concerns.

News

Charlotte <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="isn&#x27;t alone" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/17/ai-data-centers-best-worst" data-vars-content-id="1ae3fcfa-c8f0-452b-8a15-040c3bcbb51e" data-vars-headline="What even is a data center?" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/17/ai-data-centers-best-worst" target="_self">isn&#x27;t alone</a>. Data centers — those big, secretive, windowless warehouses packed with IT infrastructure and almost no humans — are popping up quickly throughout the country.Why it matters: Whenever you join a Zoom meeting, save photos to the cloud or stream Netflix, you&#x27;re <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="depending" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2024/10/13/data-centers-us-pushback" data-vars-content-id="1ae3fcfa-c8f0-452b-8a15-040c3bcbb51e" data-vars-headline="What even is a data center?" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2024/10/13/data-centers-us-pushback" target="_self">depending</a> on a data center.

Weekender: 29 things to do in Charlotte May 15–17

Events this weekend include Camden Commons' outdoor market, an Italian food and wine festival and more.

Things to Do

It&#x27;s time to enjoy <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="this" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2023/03/09/spring-guide-charlotte-fun-things-to-do-2024" data-vars-content-id="0fcd8960-b2e4-4302-80a6-e896eb01fff5" data-vars-headline="Weekender: 29 things to do in Charlotte May 15–17" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2023/03/09/spring-guide-charlotte-fun-things-to-do-2024" target="_self">this</a> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="spring" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2023/03/09/spring-guide-charlotte-fun-things-to-do-2024" data-vars-content-id="0fcd8960-b2e4-4302-80a6-e896eb01fff5" data-vars-headline="Weekender: 29 things to do in Charlotte May 15–17" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2023/03/09/spring-guide-charlotte-fun-things-to-do-2024" target="_self">spring</a> weather with some outdoor events from festivals to yoga in the park.

A massive luxury gym and wellness center is opening in LoSo

Carbon Performance combines high-end equipment, saunas, cold plunges, HYROX classes and co-working under one roof.

Health

Carbon Performance is a 45,000-square-foot <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="luxury fitness and recovery center" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2024/06/11/cold-plunge-cryotherapy-charlotte" data-vars-content-id="5cdf032a-2425-46e9-b92d-2fe5f3d9057a" data-vars-headline="A massive luxury gym and wellness center is opening in LoSo" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2024/06/11/cold-plunge-cryotherapy-charlotte" target="_self">luxury fitness and recovery center</a> opening in Lower South End later this summer.Why it matters: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tennessee-born fitness company&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://carbonperformance.com/about-us/" data-vars-content-id="5cdf032a-2425-46e9-b92d-2fe5f3d9057a" data-vars-headline="A massive luxury gym and wellness center is opening in LoSo" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://carbonperformance.com/about-us/" target="_blank">Tennessee-born fitness company&#x27;s</a> expansion to Charlotte reflects the city&#x27;s growing appetite for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="high-end wellness spaces " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/01/05/five-wellness-trends-charlotte-2026" data-vars-content-id="5cdf032a-2425-46e9-b92d-2fe5f3d9057a" data-vars-headline="A massive luxury gym and wellness center is opening in LoSo" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/01/05/five-wellness-trends-charlotte-2026" target="_self">high-end wellness spaces </a>that combine strength training, recovery and lifestyle amenities under one roof.

Charlotte FC's highest-paid player is delivering

Pep Biel leads Charlotte FC in pay and production.

Sports

Charlotte FC has a new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="top-paid player" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/10/29/charlotte-fc-highest-paid-players-2025" data-vars-content-id="b5118c79-c3cb-4fe7-9fbb-e752e3b82ccd" data-vars-headline="Charlotte FC&#x27;s highest-paid player is delivering" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/10/29/charlotte-fc-highest-paid-players-2025" target="_self">top-paid player</a>, according to the Major League Soccer Players Association&#x27;s latest <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="salary guide" data-vars-click-url="https://mlsplayers.org/resources/salary-guide" data-vars-content-id="b5118c79-c3cb-4fe7-9fbb-e752e3b82ccd" data-vars-headline="Charlotte FC&#x27;s highest-paid player is delivering" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://mlsplayers.org/resources/salary-guide" target="_blank">salary guide</a>.Why it matters: Midfielder Pep Biel is making a club-record $3.01 million in guaranteed compensation and he has the stats to back up Charlotte FC&#x27;s investment.

Charlotte City Council to finally debate data centers freeze

Charlotte is "wild west" for data centers, with few rules.

Charlotte City Council could move Monday toward a temporary pause on new data centers amid <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="growing resident concern" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/04/29/charlotte-considers-data-center-moratorium-amid-growth" data-vars-content-id="847d2a6e-9301-4a72-98e5-358dd104c611" data-vars-headline="Charlotte City Council to finally debate data centers freeze" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/04/29/charlotte-considers-data-center-moratorium-amid-growth" target="_self">growing resident concern</a>s over noise, water use and electricity demand.Why it matters: Some Charlotte leaders are antsy to take action on data centers — <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="which require as much power as a small city" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2024/12/20/big-tech-capex-ai" data-vars-content-id="847d2a6e-9301-4a72-98e5-358dd104c611" data-vars-headline="Charlotte City Council to finally debate data centers freeze" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2024/12/20/big-tech-capex-ai" target="_self">which require as much power as a small city</a> — before more pop up without their approval or community input.

Hornets' $180M practice facility to open in spring 2027

The Hornets' new facility signals Charlotte's sports surge as the team pushes toward relevance.

<figure><img alt="Confetti going off in front of construction on the Hornets new practice facility." height="450" id="ab21be48-5727-41c3-8bf7-3d9a375c1027" src="https://images.axios.com/RL6y8VxswZ8VUyYMzEYiySDuDIs=/2026/05/04/1777916537904.gif" width="800"/><figcaption>Video: Ashley Mahoney/Axios</figcaption></figure>The Charlotte Hornets&#x27; new roughly $180 million <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="practice facility" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/03/25/hornets-practice-facility-novant-health-performance-center" data-vars-content-id="65ebbe99-4c7d-4b7a-aa00-7977baffb868" data-vars-headline="Hornets&#x27; $180M practice facility to open in spring 2027" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/03/25/hornets-practice-facility-novant-health-performance-center" target="_self">practice facility</a> will open next spring. Why it matters: Charlotte is in the midst of a sports facility renaissance, from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="stadiums" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/02/23/charlotte-bank-of-america-stadium-800-million-renovation-uptown-panthers-charlotte-fc-2045-deal" data-vars-content-id="65ebbe99-4c7d-4b7a-aa00-7977baffb868" data-vars-headline="Hornets&#x27; $180M practice facility to open in spring 2027" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/02/23/charlotte-bank-of-america-stadium-800-million-renovation-uptown-panthers-charlotte-fc-2045-deal" target="_self">stadiums</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="arenas" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/10/17/charlotte-spectrum-center-reopens-renovation-hornets-concert-tickets" data-vars-content-id="65ebbe99-4c7d-4b7a-aa00-7977baffb868" data-vars-headline="Hornets&#x27; $180M practice facility to open in spring 2027" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/10/17/charlotte-spectrum-center-reopens-renovation-hornets-concert-tickets" target="_self">arenas</a> to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="practice facilities" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/04/16/charlotte-carolina-panthers-atrium-health-training-facility-uptown-stadium-district" data-vars-content-id="65ebbe99-4c7d-4b7a-aa00-7977baffb868" data-vars-headline="Hornets&#x27; $180M practice facility to open in spring 2027" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/04/16/charlotte-carolina-panthers-atrium-health-training-facility-uptown-stadium-district" target="_self">practice facilities</a>. For the first time in years, the product on the court and field is beginning to match that investment.

Hot homes: 5 houses for sale ranging from $399K to $1.2M

New listings with standout gathering spaces, from a Sheffield Park home with a backyard pool to an Oakhurst property featuring a marble-heavy kitchen built for hosting.

Real Estate

This week&#x27;s hot homes are all about standout gathering spaces, from a Sheffield Park home with a backyard pool to an Oakhurst property with a marble-heavy kitchen built for hosting.

Charlotte's rental market is evolving — and lifestyle is leading

The average age of first-time homebuyers hit a new high. Local lifestyle-driven communities are evolving in response.

Partners

Charlotte home prices continue to climb, stretching the path to homeownership and causing more people to rent for longer.Why it&#x27;s important: Renting isn&#x27;t just a stopgap anymore — it&#x27;s a long-term decision as home buying gets pushed later in life.<ul><li>Key number: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="WCNC reports" data-vars-click-url="https://www.wcnc.com/article/money/markets/real-estate/charlotte-housing-prices-grow/275-081f4548-cf93-4a22-a6be-5c694a858de2" data-vars-content-id="22fcbe60-040e-4ee0-8b89-f5754b81446f" data-vars-headline="Charlotte&#x27;s rental market is evolving — and lifestyle is leading" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.wcnc.com/article/money/markets/real-estate/charlotte-housing-prices-grow/275-081f4548-cf93-4a22-a6be-5c694a858de2" target="_blank">WCNC reports</a> the average age of a first-time homebuyer has hit a record high of 40.</li></ul>This is reshaping what renters are prioritizing, with more emphasis on lifestyle, flexibility and a community that enhances the day-to-day.

Spend a day in Kannapolis, North Carolina: Everything there is to see, eat, drink and do

The former textile town is remaking itself around baseball, walkability and a revived main street.

Travel

Drive about 30 minutes northeast from Charlotte, or hop on the train for roughly 20 minutes, and you&#x27;ll land in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="downtown Kannapolis" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2017/08/28/sleepy-struggling-downtown-kannapolis-set-major-overhaul-101443" data-vars-content-id="f9ff471c-5040-46eb-a74a-c85dbb94a106" data-vars-headline="Spend a day in Kannapolis, North Carolina: Everything there is to see, eat, drink and do" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2017/08/28/sleepy-struggling-downtown-kannapolis-set-major-overhaul-101443" target="_self">downtown Kannapolis</a>, a former textile town that&#x27;s remaking itself around baseball, walkability and a revived main street.Why it matters: Kannapolis&#x27; comeback didn&#x27;t happen by chance. After the textile industry collapsed and downtown emptied out, the city bought up much of it in a bold move to reshape the area.

What you can expect from a driverless Waymo ride

Waymo's driverless cars are expected to hit Charlotte streets soon.

I rode in a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="car with no driver" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/02/27/robots-driverless-cars-drones-waymo" data-vars-content-id="ea22c824-e572-42af-a727-2eb55db48d2e" data-vars-headline="What you can expect from a driverless Waymo ride" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/02/27/robots-driverless-cars-drones-waymo" target="_self">car with no driver</a> in Austin twice. And by the second trip, it already felt normal.Why it matters: Waymo is already <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="street-mapping" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/02/24/waymo-driverless-cars-spotted-uptown-charlotte" data-vars-content-id="ea22c824-e572-42af-a727-2eb55db48d2e" data-vars-headline="What you can expect from a driverless Waymo ride" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/02/24/waymo-driverless-cars-spotted-uptown-charlotte" target="_self">street-mapping</a> the city with human drivers. Once testing is complete, the company&#x27;s driverless fleet will roll out <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="in phases." data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2026/02/24/waymo-san-antonio-driverless-cars" data-vars-content-id="ea22c824-e572-42af-a727-2eb55db48d2e" data-vars-headline="What you can expect from a driverless Waymo ride" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2026/02/24/waymo-san-antonio-driverless-cars" target="_self">in phases.</a>

Why landing an MLB team is an "uphill battle" for North Carolina

Experts say North Carolina is a strong contender, but Nashville's push may be harder to beat.

Major League Baseball has its sights set on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="expansion" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/08/22/raleigh-mlb-expansion-charlotte-study" data-vars-content-id="ac2194a1-7498-49d7-a418-73bb10fdcaae" data-vars-headline="Why landing an MLB team is an &quot;uphill battle&quot; for North Carolina" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/08/22/raleigh-mlb-expansion-charlotte-study" target="_self">expansion</a>, with potential new teams in the Eastern and Western parts of the country. Why it matters: North Carolina&#x27;s bid is strong, but competing markets may have clearer momentum, infrastructure and branding advantages.

NoDa's Heist Brewery to reopen this spring

The North Davidson Street brewery returns after a lengthy closure with expanded seating, longtime menu favorites and brunch.

Food and Drink

Heist Brewery in NoDa will reopen soon, bringing back plenty of fan favorites — including <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="brunch" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2023/04/14/brunch-charlotte-nc-132274" data-vars-content-id="9d845dc5-4c54-4df5-81de-279e8acfcb12" data-vars-headline="NoDa&#x27;s Heist Brewery to reopen this spring" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2023/04/14/brunch-charlotte-nc-132274" target="_self">brunch</a>. Why it matters: The brewery&#x27;s original North Davidson Street location has been closed for nearly two years after a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="kitchen fire" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2024/07/17/fire-at-a-brewery-and-other-speed-reads" data-vars-content-id="9d845dc5-4c54-4df5-81de-279e8acfcb12" data-vars-headline="NoDa&#x27;s Heist Brewery to reopen this spring" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2024/07/17/fire-at-a-brewery-and-other-speed-reads" target="_self">kitchen fire</a> forced major repairs and renovations.

Media veterans Ted Williams and Chace Black launch paid media agency

South Mint agency aims to fill a gap in Charlotte marketing industry.

Charlotte Agenda <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="founder" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/02/08/andy-smith-print-shop-charlotte-magazine" data-vars-content-id="f4126869-3970-4ae2-8d8d-b9d714aecf0c" data-vars-headline="Media veterans Ted Williams and Chace Black launch paid media agency" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/02/08/andy-smith-print-shop-charlotte-magazine" target="_self">founder</a> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Ted Williams" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2024/09/17/1-fun-thing-to-go-ted-is-back-in-your-inbox" data-vars-content-id="f4126869-3970-4ae2-8d8d-b9d714aecf0c" data-vars-headline="Media veterans Ted Williams and Chace Black launch paid media agency" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2024/09/17/1-fun-thing-to-go-ted-is-back-in-your-inbox" target="_self">Ted Williams</a> and marketing veteran Chace Black are launching a new local agency called <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="South Mint." data-vars-click-url="https://southmint.co/" data-vars-content-id="f4126869-3970-4ae2-8d8d-b9d714aecf0c" data-vars-headline="Media veterans Ted Williams and Chace Black launch paid media agency" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://southmint.co/" target="_blank">South Mint.</a>Why it matters: South Mint aims to fill a gap in Charlotte&#x27;s marketing sphere by hyper-focusing on digital media, from TikTok and Google ads to streaming TV and podcasts.

New Italian restaurant serving fresh pasta opens in Uptown in May

Italo, run by the team behind Aria, will open in the former Cicchetti space.

Italo, a new Italian restaurant, will open in Uptown on Tuesday, May 19.Why it matters: The restaurant, the latest from Aria Tuscan Grill owners Pierre Bader and Briana Cohen, occupies the former space of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Cicchetti" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2019/03/04/cicchetti-italian-restaurant-and-bar-in-uptown-charlotte-159549" data-vars-content-id="7a0ec402-b8ab-40f8-bd63-93d45879c855" data-vars-headline="New Italian restaurant serving fresh pasta opens in Uptown in May" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2019/03/04/cicchetti-italian-restaurant-and-bar-in-uptown-charlotte-159549" target="_self">Cicchetti</a>, which closed earlier this month.

Scoop: NYC-based French Bakery Maman opens soon in Plaza Midwood

The French-inspired bakery and cafe opens Wednesday, May 20 at 8am.

French-inspired cafe and bakery Maman opens Wednesday, May 20, in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Plaza Midwood." data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/03/25/prosecco-bar-bev-now-open-plaza-midwood" data-vars-content-id="12612668-063c-4fab-814c-0c291b3e997c" data-vars-headline="Scoop: NYC-based French Bakery Maman opens soon in Plaza Midwood" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/03/25/prosecco-bar-bev-now-open-plaza-midwood" target="_self">Plaza Midwood.</a>Why it matters: Maman is the latest national chain to join <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Commonwealth" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/07/31/commonwealth-plaza-midwood-popup-bagels-maman" data-vars-content-id="12612668-063c-4fab-814c-0c291b3e997c" data-vars-headline="Scoop: NYC-based French Bakery Maman opens soon in Plaza Midwood" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/07/31/commonwealth-plaza-midwood-popup-bagels-maman" target="_self">Commonwealth</a>, the mixed-use development reshaping part of Plaza Midwood into a hub for buzzy, viral brands, like <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="PopUp Bagels" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/10/17/popup-bagels-north-carolina-ballantyne-charlotte" data-vars-content-id="12612668-063c-4fab-814c-0c291b3e997c" data-vars-headline="Scoop: NYC-based French Bakery Maman opens soon in Plaza Midwood" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/10/17/popup-bagels-north-carolina-ballantyne-charlotte" target="_self">PopUp Bagels</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="South Block" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/01/09/south-block-acai-smoothie-ballantyne" data-vars-content-id="12612668-063c-4fab-814c-0c291b3e997c" data-vars-headline="Scoop: NYC-based French Bakery Maman opens soon in Plaza Midwood" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/01/09/south-block-acai-smoothie-ballantyne" target="_self">South Block</a>.

Park Road Shopping Center adds Charlotte Running Co.

The longtime Dilworth location is moving into a larger Park Road Shopping Center space with coffee and recovery options.

Charlotte Running Co. will relocate its longtime Dilworth location to Park Road Shopping Center this fall in the former Bruegger&#x27;s Bagels and Caribou Coffee space.Why it matters: CRC&#x27;s new spot will feature the traditional aspects of a running store, plus recovery options and coffee.

New Spark by Hilton opens near Charlotte's airport

A former Hampton Inn near CLT was fully renovated into a new 121-room Hilton property.

A former Hampton Inn has been transformed into a new Hilton Hotel called Spark by Hilton near <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Charlotte Douglas International Airport" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2022/05/24/charlotte-clt-douglas-airport-food-skip-lines-guide-297974" data-vars-content-id="89ce919d-ed0c-43cb-8182-6f93028907b9" data-vars-headline="New Spark by Hilton opens near Charlotte&#x27;s airport" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2022/05/24/charlotte-clt-douglas-airport-food-skip-lines-guide-297974" target="_self">Charlotte Douglas International Airport</a>.Why it matters: The hotel was fully gutted and completed in April 2026, giving Charlotte another hotel option.

University renovates former Uptown hotel into dorms

The West Trade building will become permanent student housing.

Johnson &amp; Wales University is embarking on a $42 million renovation of its former hotel-turned-residence hall in Charlotte&#x27;s Third Ward.Why it matters: It&#x27;s another prominent Uptown building conversion in the works, joining projects like <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Brooklyn &amp; Church" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2024/05/29/brooklyn-church-uptown-office-conversion-housing-construction-redevelopment" data-vars-content-id="157aacde-1c79-4c31-8a3c-41276bbbf394" data-vars-headline="University renovates former Uptown hotel into dorms" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2024/05/29/brooklyn-church-uptown-office-conversion-housing-construction-redevelopment" target="_self">Brooklyn &amp; Church</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Johnston Building" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/10/24/office-market-jobs-vacancies-conversions" data-vars-content-id="157aacde-1c79-4c31-8a3c-41276bbbf394" data-vars-headline="University renovates former Uptown hotel into dorms" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/10/24/office-market-jobs-vacancies-conversions" target="_self">The Johnston Building</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the former Two Wells Fargo Center" data-vars-click-url="https://x.com/alexsands_/status/2047685999149363622?s=20" data-vars-content-id="157aacde-1c79-4c31-8a3c-41276bbbf394" data-vars-headline="University renovates former Uptown hotel into dorms" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://x.com/alexsands_/status/2047685999149363622?s=20" target="_blank">the former Two Wells Fargo Center</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="400 South Tryon" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/04/03/uptown-charlotte-400-south-tryon-conversion" data-vars-content-id="157aacde-1c79-4c31-8a3c-41276bbbf394" data-vars-headline="University renovates former Uptown hotel into dorms" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/04/03/uptown-charlotte-400-south-tryon-conversion" target="_self">400 South Tryon</a>.

Pro women's basketball returns to Charlotte

The new team hopes to revive Charlotte's pro women's basketball energy.

Charlotte&#x27;s new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="professional women&#x27;s basketball team" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/10/09/charlotte-crown-womens-basketball-upshot-league-team" data-vars-content-id="034f6b43-3bcc-42ab-9738-413a31e5af66" data-vars-headline="Pro women&#x27;s basketball returns to Charlotte" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/10/09/charlotte-crown-womens-basketball-upshot-league-team" target="_self">professional women&#x27;s basketball team</a> tips off this month. Why it matters: The Charlotte Crown is the latest pro women&#x27;s sports team to call Charlotte home, and it&#x27;s part of a wave of new opportunities for women to compete professionally.

Charlotte votes to rescind I-77 support. Now what?

The 6-5 vote directs Charlotte's CRTPO rep to challenge the project.

In a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="stunning" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/05/10/new-i-77-renderings-test-charlotte-opposition" data-vars-content-id="ff58375e-98ab-4670-b8d9-8371d53f1da5" data-vars-headline="Charlotte votes to rescind I-77 support. Now what?" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/05/10/new-i-77-renderings-test-charlotte-opposition" target="_self">stunning</a> late-night vote Monday, Charlotte City Council rescinded support for the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="I-77 South toll lanes" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/05/06/ncdot-west-end-reconnecting-communities-i77-toll-lanes" data-vars-content-id="ff58375e-98ab-4670-b8d9-8371d53f1da5" data-vars-headline="Charlotte votes to rescind I-77 support. Now what?" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/05/06/ncdot-west-end-reconnecting-communities-i77-toll-lanes" target="_self">I-77 South toll lanes</a> project in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="its current form." data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/02/05/ncdot-elevated-i-77-express-lanes" data-vars-content-id="ff58375e-98ab-4670-b8d9-8371d53f1da5" data-vars-headline="Charlotte votes to rescind I-77 support. Now what?" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/02/05/ncdot-elevated-i-77-express-lanes" target="_self">its current form.</a>Why it matters: The 6-5 decision could significantly delay the highly <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="scrutinized" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/04/13/council-member-graham-on-i-77-designs-tear-it-up" data-vars-content-id="ff58375e-98ab-4670-b8d9-8371d53f1da5" data-vars-headline="Charlotte votes to rescind I-77 support. Now what?" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/04/13/council-member-graham-on-i-77-designs-tear-it-up" target="_self">scrutinized</a> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="state" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/03/30/i77-south-toll-lanes-new-designs-charlotte" data-vars-content-id="ff58375e-98ab-4670-b8d9-8371d53f1da5" data-vars-headline="Charlotte votes to rescind I-77 support. Now what?" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/03/30/i77-south-toll-lanes-new-designs-charlotte" target="_self">state</a> project&#x27;s path forward — or even kill it.

Charlotte City Council will vote on 150-day data center moratorium

The vote is coming. But the AI boom isn't waiting

Charlotte <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="City Council" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/05/08/city-council-data-center-moratorium-construction" data-vars-content-id="b80cd8cc-0db3-4955-9bd1-4b71ec4ae076" data-vars-headline="Charlotte City Council will vote on 150-day data center moratorium" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/05/08/city-council-data-center-moratorium-construction" target="_self">City Council</a> is moving toward a 150-day moratorium on new data centers, potentially giving the city until October to develop regulations before more <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="windowless warehouses" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/05/11/charlotte-data-center-boom-electric-bills-water-use-noise-concerns" data-vars-content-id="b80cd8cc-0db3-4955-9bd1-4b71ec4ae076" data-vars-headline="Charlotte City Council will vote on 150-day data center moratorium" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/05/11/charlotte-data-center-boom-electric-bills-water-use-noise-concerns" target="_self">windowless warehouses</a> pop up.Why it matters: Despite rising neighborhood opposition, data centers can currently be built &quot;by right&quot; in eight Charlotte zoning districts, including next to homes and in the heart of Uptown, without city approval.

Sneak peek: South End's Market on Morehead opens soon

Market on Morehead also has skyline views and a spacious dog-friendly patio.

South End&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="next buzzy" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/03/31/carson-station-market-morehead-south-end-restaurant-uptown-dogs-patio" data-vars-content-id="8a21e4fa-d529-48f6-a731-9760a30970ff" data-vars-headline="Sneak peek: South End&#x27;s Market on Morehead opens soon" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/03/31/carson-station-market-morehead-south-end-restaurant-uptown-dogs-patio" target="_self">next buzzy</a> restaurant and bar opens soon with a mega TV visible from the Rail Trail.Why it matters: Market on Morehead&#x27;s 25-foot outdoor screen, skyline views and spacious dog-friendly patio are anticipated to draw crowds to the restaurant, right next to Carson Station and just blocks from Uptown.

Scoop: Chili Willi's opens in Lake Norman

Rob Duckworth revives the longtime West Virginia restaurant in Cornelius with original recipes.

Chili Willi&#x27;s opens Friday in the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="former Waterman space" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/03/27/scoop-chili-willi-s-to-replace-the-waterman-in-lkn" data-vars-content-id="9f34d283-3a51-4651-88ac-78b8317cf2e3" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Chili Willi&#x27;s opens in Lake Norman" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/03/27/scoop-chili-willi-s-to-replace-the-waterman-in-lkn" target="_self">former Waterman space</a> in Lake Norman.Why it matters: The restaurant is a revival of a West Virginia favorite, which <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="operated" data-vars-click-url="https://www.herald-dispatch.com/special/lost_huntington/lost-huntington-chili-willis/article_0753f68f-e540-59d7-89f4-8b679c203cff.html" data-vars-content-id="9f34d283-3a51-4651-88ac-78b8317cf2e3" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Chili Willi&#x27;s opens in Lake Norman" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.herald-dispatch.com/special/lost_huntington/lost-huntington-chili-willis/article_0753f68f-e540-59d7-89f4-8b679c203cff.html" target="_blank">operated</a> for nearly three decades before closing in 2011. Its new iteration has become a passion project for local restaurateur <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Rob Duckworth" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2018/09/04/rob-duckworth-owner-of-duckworths-136406" data-vars-content-id="9f34d283-3a51-4651-88ac-78b8317cf2e3" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Chili Willi&#x27;s opens in Lake Norman" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2018/09/04/rob-duckworth-owner-of-duckworths-136406" target="_self">Rob Duckworth</a> (of Duckworth&#x27;s and Link &amp; Pin), who took his wife there on their first date and remembers making early-career business deals there.

New day-to-night venue opening soon in former Slingshot space

The day-to-night concept will bring DJs, dancing, cocktails and games to the massive Bland Street venue.

South End Hideaway <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="opens" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/03/20/charlotte-new-business-openings-2026" data-vars-content-id="dbc4a784-9814-4e1b-810f-f731dd926fa8" data-vars-headline="New day-to-night venue opening soon in former Slingshot space" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/03/20/charlotte-new-business-openings-2026" target="_self">opens</a> Thursday, May 14, in the former Slingshot space on West Bland Street.Why it matters: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new day-to-night concept" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/southendhideaway/" data-vars-content-id="dbc4a784-9814-4e1b-810f-f731dd926fa8" data-vars-headline="New day-to-night venue opening soon in former Slingshot space" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/southendhideaway/" target="_blank">new day-to-night concept</a> revives one of South End&#x27;s most recognizable entertainment venues, just weeks after <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Slingshot closed" data-vars-click-url="https://www.wbtv.com/2026/03/31/its-been-an-honor-popular-south-end-charlotte-nightlife-spot-announces-permanent-closure/" data-vars-content-id="dbc4a784-9814-4e1b-810f-f731dd926fa8" data-vars-headline="New day-to-night venue opening soon in former Slingshot space" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.wbtv.com/2026/03/31/its-been-an-honor-popular-south-end-charlotte-nightlife-spot-announces-permanent-closure/" target="_blank">Slingshot closed</a> and months after neighboring Resident Culture South End <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="shuttered last summer" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/08/05/resident-culture-brewing-closes-south-end-taproom" data-vars-content-id="dbc4a784-9814-4e1b-810f-f731dd926fa8" data-vars-headline="New day-to-night venue opening soon in former Slingshot space" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/08/05/resident-culture-brewing-closes-south-end-taproom" target="_self">shuttered last summer</a>.

Inside the 2026 Truist Championship experience in Charlotte

Your guide to the schedule, details, experiences and new offerings at the tournament.

<figure><img alt="Truist Championship sign." height="448" id="2c2cc76c-a949-47f1-b80e-8d57e2e37797" src="https://images.axios.com/P20rQDb4ofELUzp7DiDACG_m1ck=/2026/05/06/1778089739292.gif" width="800"/><figcaption>The buildout for this year&#x27;s tournament took roughly 84 days. There are 15 video boards and 136 structures. Video: Ashley Mahoney/Axios</figcaption></figure>The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Truist Championship" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2024/08/06/golf-pga-truist-championship-replaces-wells-fargo-championship-charlotte" data-vars-content-id="1caf8cf4-f140-4e28-866d-d8ebe802c5a7" data-vars-headline="Inside the 2026 Truist Championship experience in Charlotte" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2024/08/06/golf-pga-truist-championship-replaces-wells-fargo-championship-charlotte" target="_self">Truist Championship</a> tees off this spring at Quail Hollow Club. Why it matters: It&#x27;s the dawn of a new era for Charlotte&#x27;s annual PGA Tour event, with a new title sponsor for one of the city&#x27;s most popular springtime events.

Charlotte is getting a non-alcoholic bar, with pop-ups planned for the summer

Founder Dre Thomas is launching Heartbutter with a series of pop-ups where you can taste the drinks and vote on the menu.

Charlotte&#x27;s getting a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="non-alcoholic" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2024/01/09/10-spots-in-charlotte-that-serve-delicious-mocktails-and-other-alcohol-free-drinks-236460" data-vars-content-id="ca7fd347-eb4c-4f00-b7c1-f36dcfcf3376" data-vars-headline="Charlotte is getting a non-alcoholic bar, with pop-ups planned for the summer" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2024/01/09/10-spots-in-charlotte-that-serve-delicious-mocktails-and-other-alcohol-free-drinks-236460" target="_self">non-alcoholic</a> bar, and you can help build the menu. Why it matters: Younger Americans are <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="drinking less" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2022/10/19/axios-finish-line-americans-are-drinking-less" data-vars-content-id="ca7fd347-eb4c-4f00-b7c1-f36dcfcf3376" data-vars-headline="Charlotte is getting a non-alcoholic bar, with pop-ups planned for the summer" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2022/10/19/axios-finish-line-americans-are-drinking-less" target="_self">drinking less</a>, but Charlotte still lacks late-night social spaces where alcohol isn&#x27;t the focus. A Charlotte entrepreneur, Dre Thomas, noticed that gap and decided to fill it herself.

18 most anticipated new restaurants and bars in Charlotte

Get ready for creative spots serving everything from tapas to Indian cuisine.

We&#x27;re tracking 18 highly anticipated restaurants and bars opening in Charlotte.

Make Memorial Day plans with rides, slides and savings

Build the perfect Memorial Day weekend at Carowinds with two parks in one.

Spring is giving way to summer — and around Charlotte, Memorial Day weekend is the kickoff to hotter weather, longer days and cooling off the fun way.What you need to know: Carowinds is leaning into the season with Memorial Day weekend operations from May 22-25 and the official season opening of the Carolina Harbor water park on May 23.<ul><li>Plus, the park&#x27;s Memorial Day Sale is live, offering up to 50% off tickets, passes and more through May 25.</li></ul>

Charlotte's new time travel escape room changes based on your choices

Doors of Divergence blends actors, puzzles and branching storylines inside Belmont's Sugar Mill development.

Doors of Divergence is a new immersive, time-travel-themed <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="escape room" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/05/29/know-before-you-go-new-adventure-escape-room-keepers-of-balance-lower-south-end" data-vars-content-id="973b2075-7d7a-47c4-bd76-5468e7f41097" data-vars-headline="Charlotte&#x27;s new time travel escape room changes based on your choices" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/05/29/know-before-you-go-new-adventure-escape-room-keepers-of-balance-lower-south-end" target="_self">escape room</a> in Charlotte&#x27;s Belmont neighborhood.Why it matters: Charlotte&#x27;s appetite for experiential entertainment keeps growing, from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="virtual reality experiences" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/05/05/step-inside-an-egyptian-pyramid-at-blume-studios" data-vars-content-id="973b2075-7d7a-47c4-bd76-5468e7f41097" data-vars-headline="Charlotte&#x27;s new time travel escape room changes based on your choices" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/05/05/step-inside-an-egyptian-pyramid-at-blume-studios" target="_self">virtual reality experiences</a> to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="interactive game show concepts" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2024/10/29/tv-game-show-battle-rooms-ballantyne" data-vars-content-id="973b2075-7d7a-47c4-bd76-5468e7f41097" data-vars-headline="Charlotte&#x27;s new time travel escape room changes based on your choices" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2024/10/29/tv-game-show-battle-rooms-ballantyne" target="_self">interactive game show concepts</a>. <ul><li><a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Doors of Divergence" data-vars-click-url="https://doorsofdivergence.com" data-vars-content-id="973b2075-7d7a-47c4-bd76-5468e7f41097" data-vars-headline="Charlotte&#x27;s new time travel escape room changes based on your choices" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://doorsofdivergence.com" target="_blank">Doors of Divergence</a> adds a more theatrical spin — it&#x27;s a live-actor escape room where players&#x27; decisions shape the story.</li></ul>

12 ways to enjoy the outdoors in Ballantyne

Here are 12 things to do outdoors in Ballantyne.

Ballantyne has tons of new residents, businesses, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="developments" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/05/14/ballantyne-development-bowl-northwood-crosland-construction" data-vars-content-id="0c854148-61d1-480d-bf5d-9f0b287b00e0" data-vars-headline="12 ways to enjoy the outdoors in Ballantyne" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/05/14/ballantyne-development-bowl-northwood-crosland-construction" target="_self">developments</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="things to do" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/02/19/ballantyne-events-guide-2026" data-vars-content-id="0c854148-61d1-480d-bf5d-9f0b287b00e0" data-vars-headline="12 ways to enjoy the outdoors in Ballantyne" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/02/19/ballantyne-events-guide-2026" target="_self">things to do</a>. Why it matters: Locals and visitors alike have plenty of ways to experience the neighborhood&#x27;s green spaces and pop-up events.Here are 12 things to do outdoors in Ballantyne.

Your itinerary for exploring Charlotte's history during America 250

Discover the people, places and events that shaped Charlotte with this guide to the city's historical sites.

Charlotteans spend a lot of time talking about the city&#x27;s rapid growth, development and innovation, while its rich and influential history often gets overlooked.Why it&#x27;s important: Charlotte&#x27;s past has deep historical significance to the region and the country — from its role in the American Revolution to the Civil Rights movement.

Charlotte's Carolina Bloom Music Festival announces artist lineup

The new outdoor festival will feature Quarters (Quarters of Change), Illiterate Light, Ax and the Hatchetmen, Foxtide and more Aug. 22-23 in the Iron District.

Quarters and Ax and the Hatchetmen are among the headliners expected to perform at the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Carolina Bloom Music Festival" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/04/28/carolina-bloom-charlotte-lineup-indie-rock-alternative-august-iron-district" data-vars-content-id="752355ba-7cea-42c6-af16-a5b7d0e02708" data-vars-headline="Charlotte&#x27;s Carolina Bloom Music Festival announces artist lineup" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/04/28/carolina-bloom-charlotte-lineup-indie-rock-alternative-august-iron-district" target="_self">Carolina Bloom Music Festival</a>.Catch up quick: The new rock, indie and alternative music festival in the Iron District just announced its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="artist lineup " data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/p/DYNEzMNDuq_/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" data-vars-content-id="752355ba-7cea-42c6-af16-a5b7d0e02708" data-vars-headline="Charlotte&#x27;s Carolina Bloom Music Festival announces artist lineup" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DYNEzMNDuq_/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" target="_blank">artist lineup </a>for Aug. 22-23.

Welcome to Axios
Charlotte

NoDa's Heist Brewery to reopen this spring

Media veterans Ted Williams and Chace Black launch paid media agency

New Italian restaurant serving fresh pasta opens in Uptown in May

Scoop: NYC-based French Bakery Maman opens soon in Plaza Midwood

Charlotte reporter picks

News 🗞

Food and Drink 🍽

Things to Do 🗓

Business 🏦

Real Estate 🏠

Travel

Sports 🏅

Axios' 5 big things

Welcome to Axios Charlotte

NoDa's Heist Brewery to reopen this spring

Media veterans Ted Williams and Chace Black launch paid media agency

New Italian restaurant serving fresh pasta opens in Uptown in May

Scoop: NYC-based French Bakery Maman opens soon in Plaza Midwood

Charlotte reporter picks

News 🗞

Food and Drink 🍽

Things to Do 🗓

Business 🏦

Real Estate 🏠

Travel

Sports 🏅

Axios' 5 big things

Welcome to Axios
Charlotte