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Traveling to Charlotte for the ACC Championship Game? Here’s What You Need to Know

Vashti Hurt

Saturday’s ACC Championship matchup between Clemson and Miami is one of the hottest tickets in sports.  This weekend tens of thousands of college football fans will travel to Charlotte to attend the game or just experience the environment.  Large scale sporting events like these aren’t the easiest thing to navigate, but Carolina Blitz has you covered.  Check out our need to know list that give you info on everything from parking tips to hot spots.

Things to Do:

The Queen City has plenty of things to offer.  Here are 5 things to check out while you’re in town.

  1. Fan Fest:For the first time since Charlotte has been hosting the ACC Championship, Fan Fest will be located in the heart of Uptown on Tryon Street from Stonewall to 4th Street.  Events include live performances by Early Ray and Life of the Party, and the always funny mascot dance-off.  Fan Fest opens at 2pm on Saturday and closes at 7pm
  2. The EpiCenter:The EpiCenter, on the corner of Trade and College Street, is the perfect spot to hang out before or after the game.  With a ton of restaurants and clubs, and home to ACC Fan Central, it’s sure to be jumping all weekend.
  3. Slate:Not going to the game, but what a cool spot to watch it?  Check out Slate.  With plenty of televisions, multiple bars and a DJ, you’ll be able to watch the game, get your buzz on and dance during commercial breaks.  They also serve food, but it’s not their strong suit, so if atmosphere is more important than vittles this is your place.
  4. Plaza Midwood:Looking for a cool boutique, dive bar or art gallery, check out the Plaza Midwood.  Located about 10-15 minutes outside of Center City, Plaza Midwood is one of Charlotte’s most diverse and eclectic neighborhoods.  Check out Whiskey Warehouse for good wings and a rooftop bar featuring $4 Jack Daniels drinks or Midwood Smokehouse for good barbecue.
  5. Discovery PlaceGot the kids?  Discovery Place is a great stop to make while you’re in town.  This museum, geared to “inspire curious thinkers to discover the wonders of science, technology and nature,” is perfect for a family outing.  With tons of hands on exhibits, parents and kids will enjoy themselves.

College GameDay:

For the first time Charlotte will host ESPN’s popular ‘College Gameday” show at Romare Bearden Park, located at 300 South College Street in Uptown Charlotte, across from BB&T Ballpark.  Fans may arrive at 4am to begin lining up for access to the Pit which opens at approximately 6:30am.  No bags, backpacks or purses will be permitted. The show will air live from 9am to noon.

Parking:

There will be plenty of parking lots within walking distance of the stadium offering parking from $25 – $50 dollars.  I suggest you get there early, because the lots closest to the action will fill up quickly.  If you don’t mind walking about 20 mins, there’s a parking lot off South Blvd behind Stache House Hookah Lounge where you can park for free.  There are also lots off Mint St where you can park for $10 – $15 that provide a free shuttle to the stadium.  Park and Ride lots along the Lynx line are also free. You can park and take the train right to the EpiCenter.

Spirits:

Last but not least, because I always have trouble finding the liquor store when I go out of town, there are two ABC Stores located in the Uptown Area.  The one nearest to the stadium is at 1426 S. Tryon Street.  Although it’s a hump (longer distance), you can walk to it from the stadium.  If you have a car and don’t mind driving about 7 mins, the next closest liquor store to Center City is located at 125 Cherry Street.  Please keep in mind these stores close at 9pm and are not open on Sunday.  Happy Tailgating!