Charlotte's Walkable Neighborhood Is The Place To Go For Restaurants, Nightlife, And Greenway Hikes

Cars are king in Charlotte, the largest city in North Carolina. So much so that, according to Axios, this Southern metropolis has previously ranked as one of the cities in the country with the most daily vehicle miles traveled per person. Nevertheless, Charlotte has its fair share of walkable neighborhoods. This includes Dilworth, where you can explore local shops and delicious cuisine, as well as Wesley Heights, established in 1911. Located a little over a mile away from Uptown, aka the city's downtown area, Wesley Heights is a suburban neighborhood and Charlotte's first historic district. Notably, its streets boast bungalows and other early 20th-century architectural styles.

But Wesley Heights has more to offer visitors and residents than just vintage charm. The neighborhood features a couple of restaurants and nightlife establishments, many of which are located on Thrift Road and Jay Street. Visitors have their pick of places to choose from, and they are all within walking distance of each other. Nature is easily within reach in Wesley Heights, too. Sections of the Stewart Creek and Wesley Heights Greenway run through the neighborhood, well-suited for enjoying an urban hike. Thus, if you're looking to dine, drink, and enjoy Charlotte's natural beauty, Wesley Heights is a solid option.

Although Wesley Heights is a residential neighborhood, you'll find a good mix of eateries and restaurants to indulge in around this Queen City neighborhood. Craving brunch? Maiz Agua Sal on Jay Street is a modern Mexican-inspired joint with a 4.5-star rating on Google. This rustic spot is known for its freshly-made tortillas and offers mid-morning dishes like chilaquiles and huevos rancheros, which one reviewer said "are the best I have had outside of Mexico." Maiz Agua Sal, open at 10:30 a.m. from Tuesday to Sunday, also serves lunch and dinner (the menu consists of items like enchiladas, flautas, and other classics).

However, if you're not in the mood for Mexican, there's more to enjoy in Wesley Heights. A short walk away from Jay Street is Thrift Road, home to Pizza Baby, North Carolina's favorite local pizzeria, as well as Restaurant Constance, a Michelin-recognized, farm-to-table eatery. Featuring a farmhouse-chic aesthetic, Restaurant Constance dishes up seasonal fare, with past entrees including everything from butternut ricotta ravioli to rock shrimp and buttermilk grits. Keep in mind that Restaurant Constance is only open for dinner Tuesday to Saturday, and reservations are required for this 10-table establishment.

On that note, there are other ways to spend an evening in Wesley Heights' Thrift Road. You can, for instance, have a drink at Runaway Whiskey and Wine. This swanky speakeasy with Art Deco flair and elegant tufted booths serves specialty cocktails, like the Daisy Buchanan (no doubt a nod to "The Great Gatsby"). Next door is Streetcar Bar + Bites, an eclectic watering hole with cartoon-style pop art. Here, you can grab a beer and play a game of cornhole or Skee-Ball.

Despite the fact that Charlotte is a major city and a car-centric one at that, this destination offers access to nature through trails, such as the Booty Loop, beloved by locals and tourists alike, and greenways, consisting of paved bike-friendly routes. These can be found throughout the city, including in Wesley Heights. In fact, you can embark on a car-free outing from this neighborhood via the Wesley Heights Greenway. This path leads you straight to Uptown in about 30 minutes, with scenic views of the Charlotte skyline.

Charlotte's greenways are dog-friendly, and you can traverse the Wesley Heights Greenway to the Irwin Creek Greenway to reach nearby Frazier Park, located on the edge of Uptown. Among the amenities at this green space is a dog park, where your pet can play and exercise off-leash. Within Wesley Heights, you can also stroll the Stewart Creek Greenway and take in the sights and sounds of this residential neighborhood. Be sure to watch for bicycles and vehicles on your hike. 

Due to its walkability and proximity to Uptown, you may want to consider staying in Wesley Heights on your next visit to Charlotte. While the neighborhood lacks hotels, you can find a short-term rental on Airbnb, like this guest favorite 1940s-era condo.