It exudes historic charm with its turn-of-the-century bungalow homes, quaint shops and restaurants, and storied past. Anyone who visits is captivated by its beauty, walk-ability, and unique location in a growing city. Welcome to Elizabeth.
Elizabeth is one of Charlotte's most unique and sought-after neighborhoods, and residents cannot get enough. Located just south of Uptown — so close you can actually walk there — the neighborhood exudes character, from its businesses and homes to its residents and reputation. The tree-lined streets are some of the most walkable in the entire city, which makes it easy to go grab a cup of coffee or check out one of the trendy, locally-owned shops.
The proximity to Uptown also makes it easy to get to work. Some of the city's top employers, such as Novant Health, Atrium Health, Wells Fargo, and Bank of America, are just minutes away, which means more time hanging out with friends and family and less time in a car or bus. This also means access to some of Charlotte's most popular entertainment venues, museums, and sports arenas. Elizabeth itself is home to hospitals, parks, and two colleges. The community truly offers something for everyone.
History
The Elizabeth neighborhood dates back to 1907. It was named for Elizabeth College, as the campus once sat within the neighborhood's boundaries. Originally a streetcar suburb, Elizabeth was noteworthy because it was home to Charlotte's first official park, which still sits in the neighborhood today, as well as the first theater.
Of course, the city of Charlotte's history runs much deeper. It was founded in 1768 and named for Queen Charlotte of England. Charlotte has served as a thriving farming community, the site of the nation's first gold rush, a major player in the Civil War, and a thriving textile producer. Today, it is one of the leading financial centers in the world.
Quick Facts
Local Attractions
When it comes to attractions, Elizabeth may have the rest of the city’s neighborhood beat. A historic park, theater, and stadium are all located within the community, as are a number of independently owned and operated restaurants and shops. Of course, Uptown is just minutes away, which means access to professional sports, museums, concerts, plays, and much more. You could do something different every day of the week and never run out of things to do in and around Elizabeth.
Dining
- Viva Chicken – Viva Chicken is one of the most popular places to dine in Elizabeth. The Peruvian restaurant offers friendly service, a casual atmosphere, and a unique menu that is to die for. The quinoa-stuffed avocados are a patron favorite, as is, of course, the chicken.
- Bang Bang Burgers – The minute you walk into the door at Bang Bang Burgers, you will feel like you are among friends, but service is not the only thing that keeps people coming back for more. The restaurant makes its burgers from Black Angus beef, cuts and fries its own chips and sweet potato fries and uses daily-baked fresh bread. Do not forget to try the Bangburger sauce.
- The Fig Tree Restaurant – The Fig Tree Restaurant is the perfect upscale spot to take a date whom you really want to impress. Located in the heart of Elizabeth in a cozy historic home, the more than a decade-old eatery serves French and Italian-inspired food paired with its award-winning wine list.
- Lupie's Café – Any native Carolinian will tell you that every neighborhood needs its own Southern restaurant, and for Elizabeth, Lupie's Café is a local favorite. Enjoy large portions of your favorite comfort foods like mac and cheese, pulled pork, burgers, wings, and nachos.
- Sabor Latin Street Grill – If you prefer a meal that tastes like it was made in Mexico or Latin America, try Sabor Latin Street Grill’s authentic menu. Open daily for lunch and dinner, expect a wait some evenings, but you will find that the wait is well worth it once you bite into your taco, burrito, or empanada.
Transportation
- Airports – Charlotte Douglas International Airport is just under 10 miles from Elizabeth. The airport is one of the busiest in the country and serves over 45 million customers each year.
- Public Transportation – The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) provides bus service to the Elizabeth neighborhood via several bus stations scattered throughout the area. Travel via light rail is also available from CATS.
- Major Roads and Interstates– Both US Route 74 and Interstate 277 run through parts of Elizabeth.
Shopping
- Local Shops and Boutiques – Many of Elizabeth’s historic homes have been renovated and turned into small, locally-owned shops. From the comic books at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find to the craft supplies at Stash Charlotte, shop local in Elizabeth every day of the week.
- Metropolitan – Metropolitan in nearby Midtown Charlotte is just a quick drive away. Stores and restaurants here include Best Buy, Marshall&'s, Trader Joes, Which Wich, Zoes Kitchen, and Dressler’s Restaurant.
- SouthPark Mall – Elizabeth is about 5 miles from SouthPark Mall, and it is one of the most popular shopping destinations in Charlotte. The upscale mall is home to a number of restaurants and stores, including Macy’s, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Apple, Burberry, lululemon, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., and Crate & Barrel.
Entertainment
- Bank of America Stadium – Just under 3 miles from Elizabeth is Bank of America stadium, home of the NFL's Carolina Panthers. Every fall, football fans from throughout the region flock to the stadium to cheer on their favorite team. It hosts other events throughout the year, and tours are available on non-game days.
- Spectrum Center – If you prefer basketball, hockey, music, or the theater, Spectrum Center may be your venue of choice. The arena is the home of the Charlotte Hornets, and it hosts concerts and other events throughout the year.
- American Legion Memorial Stadium– Before Charlotte had Bank of America Stadium, it had American Legion Memorial Stadium. The 21-000-seat venue dates back to 1934 and sits in the Elizabeth community. Over the years it has hosted political events, band competitions, and high school and college sporting events. It is currently being renovated and will re-open in 2021.
- Visulite Theatre – The Visulite Theatre was once Charlotte's first movie house, but today, it is a popular live music venue located in Elizabeth. Enjoy live jazz, blues, rock, and reggae music practically every night of the year.
Things To Do
- Independence Park – Independence Park in Elizabeth is the oldest park in Charlotte, and it still a popular spot today. On its 19 acres, it houses a baseball field and batting cage, 2 half-court basketball courts, 2 tennis courts, a volleyball court, table tennis, 4 picnic shelters, grills, walking trails, a playground, and demonstration gardens. On any given spring or summer day, you will find the park packed with Elizabeth residents of all ages.
Real Estate Information
Elizabeth is one of the few neighborhoods in Charlotte where you can still find a charming vintage home built between the late 1800s and early 1900s. While you will find some new construction in spots where older homes once stood, as well as some condos, the majority of the homes lining the streets of Elizabeth were built between the 1900s and 1950s. Condos in the neighborhood start around $150,000, while homes typically fall within the $320,000 to $1,800,000 range. Styles include bungalows, cottages, and Craftsman.
Based on information submitted to the MLS GRID as of