University City's Lifestyle Pleasures

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University City Report

While it may be called University City, this is no average college town. Located near the intersection of Interstates 85 and 485, University City has some of Charlotte’s prime real estate with easy access to many amenities — from a super speedway to passive nature preserves, this Charlotte suburb has it all! Where else can you attend class at the fastest growing UNC system campus, peddle paddle boats during a shopping stint, catch NASCAR fever at the Speedway, or slide down a water ride in the state’s only indoor water park — all within a few miles of one, dynamic place?

Residents frequently “hit the Boardwalk” at Shoppes at University Place. Besides the restaurant that created that namesake, Boardwalk Billy’s, this unique shopping center is easily differentiated from other shopping centers. Shoppes at University Place has become the unofficial “town center.” The pedestrian friendly, mixed-use shopping center boasts a 2-mile trail around the lake, the tranquil focal point of the shops. Whether strolling alone or packing the whole family, outdoor entertainment options such as the paddle boats and concert series provide fun for everyone. Enjoy the delectable eateries and unique shops, or just relax and feed the ducks.

After a meal on the boardwalk, more live music awaits you at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater. This outdoor pavilion is a frequent gathering spot for enjoying live shows. Get a ticket for the covered seating, or the lawn, then grab a blanket and some friends, and enjoy the music shows ranging from rock to jazz and everything in between.

Of course, Shoppes at University Place isn’t the only option for retail therapy. The top shopping entertainment destination of the Carolinas and North Carolina’s number one visitor attraction, Concord Mills mall, is just up the road. Boasting over 200 stores, with anchors such as Bass Pro Shop, Dave and Busters and name brand factory stores to choose from, the choices can be difficult, but the deals can be many.

The same road that leads to the mall is also the one the many tourists and residents take when they feel the need for speed. They find fast-paced fulfillment at Lowes Motor Speedway. This 1.5 mile super speedway hosts several major events throughout the year: three NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series events, two NASCAR Busch Series races and a NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. Construction of the zMAX Dragway dragstrip, the first with four, all-concrete racing lanes, was finished in August 2008. Fans enjoying one of the larger events at the speedway can choose on of the many outdoor seats, where the rumble of the engines literally can be felt. But there are 40 luxury suites, overlooking the track and away from the plumes of exhaust, where the race can be watched in air-conditioned comfort.

Another fantastic climate-controlled experience in the same vicinity is the Great Wolf Lodge and Water Park Resort that will be open in 2009 at the intersection of I-85 and Speedway Boulevard/Bruton Smith Boulevard. This will be the first North Carolina location for the fullservice family destination resort. The first-class facility is designed for fun and adventure and to mimic the atmosphere of the Northwoods, with rustic lodge decorated accommodations. Because the water park is indoors, the resort is open year-round. The park’s attractions include towering water slides, raft rides and the 1,000 gallon “tipping bucket.” All-suite rooms make for a sweet family destination, but there are thousands of square feet of meeting and event space for business functions or even family reunions.

Sometimes playing in water is more fun in the sun. If catching some rays is important, enjoy the outdoor water park at the University City YMCA. This fantastic facility has over 10,000 square
feet of fitness space with state-of-the-art cardio equipment. Sports fields, dance rooms, group exercise and a community playground, among other assets, set this fitness center apart from the rest.

Of course, if shopping, racing or water park excitement doesn’t get you going, there are more serene and interactive options, not to mention budget friendly. Public golf courses and parks abound. In fact, four of Mecklenburg County’s largest parks are in this area. The largest of University City’s parks, Mallard Creek Community Park, spreads out over 500 acres and is adjacent to the Tradition Golf Course. Smaller parks with playing fields and picnic areas are also sprinkled throughout the area. In addition, the Reedy Creek Park includes a nature preserve, 10 miles of hiking trails, 18-hole disc golf and a dog-park. In August, the hummingbird festival at the Reedy Creek Park Nature Center delights adults and children alike.

Several greenways wind through the area, connecting parts of UNC Charlotte with other parts of University City. More greenways are planned, and new housing developments are increasingly adding trails and open space to their projects. Mallard and Clark’s Creek Greenway offers over five miles of paved trail, where the late summer or early fall provides terrific butterfly viewing. The trails at UNC Charlotte offer cross-country fitness trails, bike paths, nature trails and picnic spots.

UNC Charlotte offers other entertainment options that rival the shows seen in uptown Charlotte. The newly completed Robinson Hall for the Performing Arts offers student-led productions in dance, music and theater. There is also an acclaimed guest artist series that always draws a large audience. Many people also enjoy the 49ers’ basketball, baseball and soccer games, among other
sporting events. Given the options, there’s sure to be something for everyone to enjoy.

University City has so much to offer both residents and people doing business. The community is as diverse as the things to see and do. Come see for yourself what others have already discovered in University City.

by Lauren Reinhardt