Visitors will quickly discover why Charlotte was once hailed as the Best Place to Live in America. Upon setting foot in this picturesque city, visitors will be drawn by the Southern charm of the place, as well as the welcoming warmth of its residents. But if you think Southern charm is all there is to

Charlotte, you're in for a wonderful surprise.

Your trip to Charlotte will not be complete without visiting the U.S. National Whitewater Center, the world's foremost environmental education and outdoor recreation center. The center showcases a uniquely customized, multi-channel whitewater river that allows kayaking, canoeing and rafting. The center also features a climbing center, running and mountain biking trails and a challenge course. World-class athletes and enthusiasts who just want to have fun share the immense center, encompassing more than 300 acres of woodlands.

For more fun and thrills, Carowinds is the place to go to. The theme park features a 20-acre water park, over 50 state-of-the-art rides, attractions and shows - all spread throughout 112 acres of excitement. The park boasts of 12 roller coasters, a 12-acre paradise for children and grownups alike, and Camp Wilderness Resort - where the whole family can stay for the night (or two), so you can be close to all the adventure. Kids of all ages won't have a dull moment while in Carowinds.

A more relaxing (but still educational) way to spend the day with the whole family is offered by the Billy Graham Library. This facility is family-friendly, and shows visitors how the famous evangelist lived, and how he practiced his faith. A café in the premises ensures that the whole family doesn't have to go far for refreshments.

Charlotte is known as the most accessible and biggest city between Atlanta and Washington, D.C., and is a haven for shopping enthusiasts. Residents and visitors don't have to go all the way to Manhattan to see the latest in fashion and retail brands, as some of the biggest names in the retail industry can be seen in Charlotte. This truly is retail therapy at its finest, combined with Southern hospitality.

For foodies, Charlotte offers a variety of culinary experiences to choose from. Tonight you may crave for comforting Southern fried chicken or macaroni and cheese; tomorrow you may want to try exotic Mediterranean fare or classic French cooking - you will get what your heart (and your stomach) desires in the restaurants and cafes that dot the city, all ready to serve hungry tourists and locals alike.

No need to worry about where to stay in Charlotte - one can choose from a water park resort, world-class hotel chains, quaint bed-and-breakfasts and comfortable inns, all ready to provide high-quality service to the weary traveler.

Charlotte is one of the best places to live in America; it's now time for you to discover why it also is one of the best places to spend your vacation.