Hidden gems of Charlotte: Where to find and visit 3 secret parks and greenways
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Hidden gems of Charlotte: Where to find and visit 3 secret parks and greenways
Let’s talk about the best greenways, trails and parks in the Charlotte area
No matter the season in Charlotte, we’re at the park or on the greenways. Freedom Park, of course. Or Romare Bearden. Reedy Creek. McMullen or McAlpine. Whitewater Center.
Yes, yes, we know about those places already, you’re probably thinking. If you’ve been in Charlotte for more than five minutes, you have been to these outdoor spots — and for good reason, they are staples here.
But what about lesser-known outdoor spots around the Queen City, its hidden gems? We’ve got a few of those, too! Here are three of our favorite parks and greenways that are off the beaten path:
Howie Acres Neighborhood Park
Location: 4200 Redwood Ave, Charlotte, NC 28205
Howie Acres Neighborhood Park has three entrances, subtly tucked away on neighborhood streets. The biggest surprise, however, is when you get there by taking a walk through NoDa. Turn left at the Fitness Factory, walk past Sugar Creek station and under the bridge.
You’ll think you’re past the residential parts of your walk — and then you’ll find Bearwood Avenue a sweet surprise. The street, part of the historic Black neighborhood Howie Acres, is lined with cozy houses — including residents sitting on front porches waving hello as you walk by. At the end of the street is the park. Mosey through it — it’s not big, with winding sidewalks and playground equipment — and come out of it on Howie Circle.
Take the loop either way to stop at Eastway Drive — you’ll spy Roses and Bojangles across the street, and you might wonder how you got there so quickly from NoDa.
Magic, that’s how.
Secret Fountain
Location: Poplar and 9th Street, Charlotte NC 28202
Blink and you’ll miss the Secret Fountain in Fourth Ward — but it’s got a park sign and even has posted hours. It’ll take just a few steps to get from one side to the other. I’ve heard it called the smallest park in Charlotte — and I’d be shocked if that weren’t true.
The park even has a small fountain in the middle.
Enter at North Poplar Street, and then once you’re out the other side, you’ll be facing Alexander Michael’s — the perfect spot to sit down with a brew and some comfort food after all that walking through the park you just did!
Six Mile Creek Greenway
Location: Park at 17820 Marvin Rd, Charlotte, NC 28277; greenway begins just across Patterson Road.
Here’s the real secret: Despite its name stating otherwise, Six Mile Creek Greenway is less than one mile long (.92 miles).
Because it’s so short, if you go at the right time you might get the whole trail to yourself. When I was training for my first marathon, I used to ride my bike to the trail and then run up and down as many times as it took to get my miles in. It’s beginner friendly — both flat and paved (with wooden bridges). It can get a little muddy if it’s been raining a lot, so keep that in mind.
And the one time I saw a copperhead out there, I realized how truly isolating it is without other people around — so make sure to bring a buddy. (For the record, the copperhead didn’t even blink as I sprinted past it to my bike at top speed that day!)
This story was originally published April 13, 2023 at 5:00 AM.
