Mobile
City Life: Critics' Picks
Page 3 of 4
WORST EYESORE
Calvary Church
Referred to in the past as "that pink church" (to go along with "that pink building" on South Boulevard; see the Readers' Pick in this category), this garish edifice on Hwy. 51 is just the sort of temple of worship one would expect down Ballantyne way: expensive, superficial and calling attention to itself (no wonder intolerant County Commissioner Bill James is a member). So much for the meek inheriting the earth ...
BEST HOTEL
The Westin
With their signature Heavenly Beds, you probably won't want to leave the comforts of your hotel room except to mosey on down to the lobby bar for some people-watching and a well-made (albeit over-priced) cocktail. A light rail stop right outside the hotel doors makes it convenient for travelers to get around, and for locals who want to avoid the sardine-esque parking garage.
601 S. College St.
704-375-2600
BEST MUSEUM
(tie) The Mint Museum of Art & Levine Museum of the New South
Charlotte museums are stoic, grand and vulnerable -- a small stand of giant Sequoias sprouting from an asphalt savanna. Levine Museum of the New South, Charlotte Museum of History and the two Mints are the best bundle in the state, and together boast more high-end shows than most cities. With last year's Andy Warhol Portfolios, Claire Leighton's Quiet Spirit, Skillful Hand and Jiha Moon's Turbulent Utopia, the Mint noses out most of her vaunted competition, but we denizens of Charlotte are the real winners. On the other hand, you won't find a better snapshot of post-Civil War Southern society than at the Levine. Interactive exhibits, events, lectures, workshops and walking tours all come together for a comprehensive look at the city's history and sociological evolution since 1865. Changing Places, a current exhibit that examines Charlotte's increasingly diverse culture, allows and encourages visitors to become part of the project. And the space itself is immaculate -- a great place to throw a party.
Mint Museum of Art
2730 Randolph Road
704-337-2000
Levine Museum of the New South
200 E. 7th St.
704-333-1887
BEST AREA TO LIVE IN CHARLOTTE
Plaza Midwood
"There's no neighborhood as cool as Plaza Midwood in the nation's capital, and your restaurants are certainly better." OK, so Will Smith never actually said this. But anyone can see why folks might've fallen for the Observer's April Fool's Day gag. Living in PM has its perks: Some of the best food and hippest hangouts sit in walking distance of the beautiful historical homes, while new construction reflects the growing popularity of the area, complimenting the eclectic look and feel of what is inarguably the center of Charlotte's melting pot. Ask anyone who lives here, and they'll tell you there's not a better place to hang your hat (in Charlotte, that is).
BEST PRE-GAME HANGOUT DOWNTOWN
Tailgating Parties
Tailgating is a sport in its own right, with folks constantly looking for ways to one-up the competition for "top tailgate" title. (He's picking up fried chicken from Price's? Well, I'm roasting my own pig!) There are several choice locations dotting the downtown parking lots to get your game face on. Due to the recent urban growth, the hottest spots can now be found off Church Street, between Third and MLK. There's nothing better than throwing down with friends in the privacy of your own parking space -- you may not even notice that you missed kickoff.
WORST INTERSECTION
Queens, Queens, Providence and Providence
Anyone who's had to make their way through Myers Park knows that the unholiest of intersections isn't the Bermuda Triangle -- it's the corner(s) of Queens, Queens, Providence and Providence. Whether you're inching away from downtown on your way home from work or trying to give directions to an out-of-towner, the traffic pattern here is nothing but an exercise in frustration. The only redeeming quality is the often-decorated statue of Hugh McManaway, who actually used to direct traffic in that very spot. We could use another Hugh.
BEST FESTIVAL
FemmeFest
Lea Kuhlman's idea for an event that celebrates women has grown into a neighborhood-encompassing festival in only its second year. Attendance exceeded expectations, and the level of talent has grown while continuing to showcase local, regional and national acts. It's a benefit show for a good cause and also helps boost the local economy in NoDa. Inside stages, outside stages, merchandise and more -- it's a great addition to the local music scene that we hope continues for many years to come.
Latest in Best of Charlotte 2009 Winners
-
City Life: Readers' Picks
Jun 1, 2010 -
Media: Critics' Picks
Jun 1, 2010 -
Media: Readers' Picks
Jun 1, 2010 - More »
