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Travel and Outdoors
Trade the crowds for mountain moments this spring
Presented by Discover Jackson, NC
If you’re craving fresh air, waterfall hikes, scenic overlooks, and small-town charm, a mountain getaway might be exactly what your family needs. | Photos provided by Discover Jackson, NC
Spring break does not have to mean long lines, packed beaches, or overspending.
In Jackson County, NC, families can swap chaos for crisp mountain air, wide-open views, and an easygoing pace that feels like a true reset. Tucked in the heart of Western North Carolina, this destination delivers outdoor adventure, small-town charm, and plenty of ways to keep costs in check.
Fill your days with free outdoor adventure
Spring in the mountains comes with built-in entertainment. Families can spend their days exploring:
Family-friendly hikes that balance fun and accessibility
For a lively taste of local culture, plan around Greening Up the Mountains in downtown Sylva, a spring celebration featuring live music, art vendors, and mountain heritage.
Keep it fun and budget-friendly
Between outdoor adventures, Jackson County offers simple pleasures that make trips memorable:
The Queen City Quarter is home to several eateries and specialty shops.
Photo by CLTtoday
Biz
Queen City Quarter, formerly known as the EpiCentre, is going on the market. Deutsche Bank currently owns the property, after purchasing it in 2022 for $95 million. (Charlotte Business Journal)
Number
$37.9 million. That’s how much Charlotte City Council approved to fund the next design stage the Red Line commuter rail. The funding will help the design reach 30% completion by the end of 2027. A construction timeline is TBD. (WCNC)
Coming Soon
Pinky’s Westside Grill will open a third location in the former Grinning Mule space in Plaza Midwood. The restaurant is known for its burgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches. It’s anticipated to open by this summer. (The Charlotte Observer)
Sports
The Carolina Panthers are raising ticket prices by 12% in the 2026-2027 season. For the most affordable seats, that’s about $8 per game. (The Charlotte Observer)
Try This
Mimosa Grill is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a five-course dinner featuring past and current chefs, including Charlotte’s “Top Chef” cheftestant, Brittany Cochran. The “Legacy Dinner” is scheduled for Thursday, April 23 — get your reservation in.
Announced
The 10th annual University City Wine Fest returns on Saturday, April 11, with the Royal Wine Dinner planned for Thursday, April 9, and the Wine on the Water experience on Friday, April 10. The event welcomes guests to sample 100+ wines from across the Tar Heel State. Tickets start at $35.
Environment
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services is looking for volunteers for Creek Week and the Big Spring Clean, happening Saturday, March 21 through Saturday, March 28. Last year, more than 500 volunteers cleared 20,000 pounds of trash from parks, greenways, and creeks across the county.
Shop
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Wellness
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Plan Ahead
🍀 Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day
Be on the lookout for Irish stepdancers during this year’s St. Patrick’s Day parade. | Photo by CLTtoday
“You don’t have to be Irish to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day,” said Sandra Connick, the Grand Marshal for this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Uptown. Whether you’re celebrating at a parade or donning your best green, there’s something for everyone before the big day on Tuesday, March 17. Here are three ways you can sham-rock out this weekend across the Queen City: St. Patrick’s Day Parade | Saturday, March 14 | 10 a.m.-7 p.m. | Uptown | Free | Gather in Uptown for a large festival, live music, dancing, and family-friendly activities — the parade steps off at 11 a.m.
Green River Revival 2026 | Saturday, March 14 | 12 p.m.-12 a.m. | US National Whitewater Center | Free+ | Start the day with a green trail run before jamming to live music and watching the rapids turn green.
St. Patrick’s Day Afternoon Tea | Saturday, March 15 + Sunday, March 16 | Times vary | The Ballantyne | $35+ | Celebrate the luck of the Irish through Irish-inspired treats.
The perfect spring date night outfit doesn’t exi … It does, and it’s even under $200. Shop the look:
👗 This floral maxi dress features a flattering A-line silhouette and ruffle sleeve design.
👡 Pair it with these cloud-like ballet flats that don’t sacrifice comfort for style.
👛 Priced at under $25, this vegan leather saddle bag adds a touch of understated elegance.
💎 Complete the look with this matching 18K gold bracelet stack and necklace set — both over 70% off.
How fun is this? I put together today’s newsletter at the Spectrum Center, where the ACC Tournament continues to draw thousands of basketball fans during its five-day run. I got to watch NC State against Pitt — the Wolfpack won 98-88. Today, Virginia, Miami, Duke, and UNC will hit the courts with games starting at 12 p.m. If you go, or if you’re cheering from a watch party, send me a picture! I’d love to share it.
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