Living in Uptown
Welcome to Uptown, Charlotte’s downtown. The featured neighborhood of the month Uptown, also known as Charlotte Center City, Uptown is the heart of one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, where there is always something to do. Whether you are catching a professional sports game (NFL, NBA, MLS or NASCAR), viewing an art exhibition at the Mint Museum or taking your children to Discovery Place, there are numerous opportunities for exploring. In addition, from Fortune 500 companies to small startups, the business and career opportunities are unlike that of any other city in the South. From beautifully restored historic homes to contemporary lofts, making your home in Uptown is a special experience with limitless possibilities.
History
Charlotte was founded in 1768 and named for Queen Charlotte of England. European settlers set up the town around the crossroads of two Native American trading paths, which are now Trade and Tryon Streets. Despite a short-lived gold rush – the first in the nation – in 1799, the city remained largely agricultural until after the Civil War. As the railroads rolled in and cotton crop flourished, Charlotte became known as one of the biggest cotton processing centers in the entire world. That business died down during the early 1900s, but by the 1970s and 1980s, the city was well on its way to becoming the largest finance hub in the country behind New York City.
The name “Uptown” became popular in the 1980s when the city’s leaders began promoting what was known as Charlotte’s downtown area. They wanted a unique term for marketing purposes. However, few people realize that the Uptown moniker actually dates back to the days when settlers had to go to the trading post at Trade and Tryon to shop and barter for goods. They would often say, “I am going up to town,” which eventually became “Uptown.”
Uptown is divided into four different wards, each with its own unique character and charm. The First Ward, nicknamed the “Garden District,” is a popular entertainment spot and home to attractions like the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center and the Spectrum Center. The Second Ward is more business-oriented with government buildings and offices. The Third Ward is home to Bank of America stadium, as well as a bustling restaurant scene and a bit of the college life, and the Fourth Ward is largely residential and has undergone something of a facelift over the last few decades.
Dining in Uptown
There are more than 170 restaurants representing cuisines from all over the world located in Uptown, as well as numerous bars and places to enjoy a late-night out on the town. With a location in Brazil and four in the United States, including one in Uptown, you might say Chima Steakhouse is not just one of the best Brazilian steakhouses in Charlotte but one of the best in the entire world. Enjoy a breathtaking view of the city when you dine upstairs. Enjoy traditional Southern cuisine at the award-winning Mimosa Grill, one of Uptown residents’ and visitors’ favorite places to dine. At Sea Level NC you’ll find seafood and a fresh oysterbar, friendly service and a beautiful setting.
Shopping in Uptown
Many of Charlotte’s top attractions are located in Uptown, which is why many visitors come from out of state to eat, shop, watch a game, see a show or tour a museum. For shopping, the Metropolitan is a great place to start. Located just south of Interstate 277 on the edge of Uptown, it is home to stores like Best Buy, Marshalls, Trader Joe’s, Staples and a number of restaurants. There are also several stores in the surrounding area, including Target, Mattress Firm and Vitamin Shoppe. For a different type of shopping experience, stop by the 7th Street Public Market. The market features fresh produce and meat from local farmers, as well as delicious food like pizza and chocolate. There is also a wine shop, sushi, coffee and much more. Overstreet Mall is a cluster of clothing shops, banks, newsstands, salons, restaurants, and other stores and services that connect many of Uptown’s office complexes. It is a popular spot for people who work in the buildings along the mall to grab a bite to eat or pick up a few necessities during the week.
Uptown Home Prices
More Information about Uptown
Uptown is truly the heartbeat of Charlotte, NC, whether you enjoy shopping, dining, sports, parks, nightlife, museums, concerts or something more. If you would like more information about Uptown, contact your preferred agent today or call Catharine Pappas, VP of Relocation at Dickens Mitchener, at 704.661.2402 to be connected with an agent.