The 14 Best Historical Tours In Charlotte

Charlotte’s charm isn’t just skin deep; beneath its modern skyscrapers and lively neighborhoods lie stories of old trade routes, revolutionary battles, and southern elegance. Unlike many cities, Charlotte combines a rich tapestry of historic neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and intriguing ghost stories, giving travelers a chance to touch the past while enjoying lively, often interactive tours. Whether you prefer zipping through Uptown on a Segway, wandering ghostly streets at dusk, or riding in vintage style—Charlotte offers a variety of unique, well-reviewed options that bring its history to life. These tours aren’t just about facts; they’re about feeling the city’s pulse through engaging guides and authentic experiences. For history lovers, there’s no shortage of ways to explore Charlotte’s evolution, and many tours reveal surprising details that even locals might not know.

While some tours focus on urban exploration, others take a more relaxed approach, like vintage carts or eco-friendly electric rides, perfect for those who prefer a slower pace or want to fit more into a short trip. No matter your style, this guide highlights the best historical tours in Charlotte—from thrilling ghost walks to comprehensive city bus rides. Read on to find the tour that best matches your curiosity and schedule.

1. 90 Minute Historic Uptown Neighborhood Segway Tour of Charlotte

Imagine gliding effortlessly past Charlotte’s most famous museums and historic districts in just 90 minutes. This Segway tour is a fun, safe way to cover a lot of ground without breaking a sweat. You’ll pass by the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, the Mint Museum, and the Gantt Center, all within Charlotte’s lively arts district. For a little extra, you can extend your ride to include visits to historic cemeteries and the Carolina Panthers’ stadium—a nice touch for sports fans or history buffs alike.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of entertainment and education. The knowledgeable local guide shares stories about Charlotte’s past as you glide through the Fourth Ward and Trade & Tryon, with plenty of time to stop and take photos. The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5/5 rating from nearly 900 visitors. People especially appreciate how easy the Segway is to learn and how the guide keeps things fun and interesting. At $75, it’s a bit of a splurge, but the quick pace and insider stories give you a great overview in a short time.

Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want a quick, engaging introduction to Charlotte’s Uptown neighborhoods with a fun twist. Book early, as this tour sells out fast.

2. Carolina History and Haunts Charlotte Historical Ghost Walking Tour

For something a little spooky, this ghost walking tour takes you through the Fourth Ward, where history and ghost stories collide. In about 1.5 hours, your guide reveals tales of haunted mansions, revolutionary battles, and Indian trading paths—with plenty of theatrical ghost stories thrown in. It’s a great way to see the city streets at dusk, with stops at the Old Settlers Cemetery, which is steeped in spooky legends.

The highlight is the informative storytelling—Elizabeth, the guide, is praised for her entertaining, professional style that transports you back in time while sharing the city’s most haunted tales. The tour is very affordable at $27, and reviews emphasize how fun and engaging the experience is, especially for families or those interested in local legends. Expect to learn about Charlotte’s most famous and mysterious residents and to visit some of the city’s most historic, haunted houses.

Bottom Line: An ideal choice for those who love history with a ghostly twist. It’s a playful, spooky evening that offers a different lens on Charlotte’s past.

3. Charlotte: Historical City Tour on Eco-Friendly Cart

Discover Charlotte comfortably on this eco-friendly cart, a 1.5-hour ride through the city’s Uptown wards. This tour takes you past iconic museums, parks, and stadiums, offering a rundown of Charlotte’s evolution from a trading hub to a modern financial center. The electric cart is a quiet, environmentally friendly way to see the sights without the fatigue of walking or the expense of a bus.

Guide David is highly praised for his wealth of knowledge, sharing stories about Charlotte’s past, present, and future. Guests are delighted by the opportunity to see the city’s most famous landmarks like the Levine Cultural Park and Romare Bearden Park, with personal touches that make the tour special. At $40 per person, it’s a good value for the intimate, relaxed experience, especially suitable for travelers who want a brief, insightful look at the city without much fuss.

Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a relaxed, eco-friendly overview of Charlotte’s central neighborhoods. Perfect for eco-conscious travelers or small groups.

4. Charlotte: Historic Uptown 90-Minute Segway Tour

This Segway tour shares many similarities with our first pick but focuses specifically on Charlotte’s historic uptown district. It offers a 90-minute ride through the heart of the city, covering museums, historic squares, and Victorian architecture. Guides like Rod and James are praised for their friendly approach and detailed insights. Guests learn why Charlotte is a city on the rise while zipping past landmarks like the Fourth Ward and historic parks.

The tour is highly rated at 4.9/5 and is especially popular among first-timers, with guests noting how easy it is to learn the Segway and how much fun it is to see the city from this new perspective. At $69, it’s slightly cheaper than the 1.5-hour version, making it a good value for a fun and informative city overview. The main downside is limited time—so it’s best for those who want a quick but thorough look at Uptown.

Bottom Line: A lively and engaging way to see Charlotte’s historic core on a modern ride. Ideal for active visitors who want a mix of sightseeing and fun.

5. Charlotte:Historical Southern Elegance Tour by Vintage Cart

Travel back in time in style with this vintage cart tour. For just $35, you’ll ride in a charming vintage golf cart while visiting landmarks like the Charlotte Hornets’ home venues, NASCAR Hall of Fame, and historic cemeteries. The guides share engaging stories about Charlotte’s history and culture, with stops that include photo opportunities at notable sites like the Mint Museum and Discovery Place Science.

This tour’s appeal lies in its relaxed pace and nostalgic vibe, making it perfect for families or travelers short on time. The tour includes fun games, and the vintage cart adds a layer of charm that appeals to those wanting a more personal and leisurely experience. Reviews highlight its value and the guide’s friendly demeanor.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a relaxed, nostalgic journey through Charlotte’s core landmarks with a touch of southern elegance.

6. Charlotte: Historical City Tour by Shuttle Bus

See Charlotte comfortably on this shuttle bus, which covers the city’s major sights in about 1.5 hours. The tour is perfect for those who prefer a seated experience with panoramic views of Uptown and South End. Guides share stories about Charlotte’s history, neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks like the Fourth Ward homes and the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

Rated at 4.9/5 with many positive reviews, the main advantage is the easy, accessible format—great for older travelers or those with limited mobility. Some reviews mention a cooling issue in the bus, but overall, it’s praised for its informative narration and flexible schedule.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a comfortable, guided overview of Charlotte with minimal walking involved. Book early to secure your spot.

7. Charlotte’s Ultimate Southern Charm Historical City Bus Tour

This bus tour offers a deep dive into Charlotte’s southern roots over approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Highlights include the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Romare Bearden Park, and historic Fourth Ward. The guide shares stories about Elvis performances, the city’s nickname “Queen City,” and gold mining history—all with stops for photos and short walks.

Guests love the warm southern hospitality and the detailed tales that take you back to the 1700s. Priced at $39, it’s a solid value for a comprehensive, narrated city tour that appeals to first-time visitors wanting context and quick sightseeing.

Bottom Line: A friendly, engaging way to learn about Charlotte’s southern history and culture from the comfort of a luxurious bus.

8. Charlotte:Historical Southern Elegance Guided Tour by Vintage Car

Travel in style on this vintage car, a 1-hour tour that highlights Charlotte’s top landmarks. The guide shares stories about the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Discovery Place, and the Mint Museum, all while you enjoy the luxury and nostalgia of riding in a vintage vehicle.

Rated 4.5/5, travelers find it perfect for first-timers and families alike, especially those who want a more personalized experience. The limited size—up to 7 travelers—ensures a cozy, tailored journey. At just under $35, the value is excellent.

Bottom Line: A stylish, intimate way to explore Charlotte’s historic sights with an air of elegance. Best suited for those wanting a special, relaxed experience.

9. Charlotte Historic : Queen Bee City Tour

This Queen Bee City Tour offers a relaxed ride through Charlotte’s city center aboard an electric shuttle. It passes by the Bank of America Stadium, Fourth Ward, NASCAR Hall of Fame, and local neighborhoods, with personal stories from the guide about Charlotte’s development. It costs $50 and lasts about an hour.

Rated 4.5/5, guests appreciate the personal touch and the chance to see popular sites like the Disco Chicken at Uptown. It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want an easy, friendly overview with photo stops along the way.

Bottom Line: An affordable, personable introduction perfect for those new to Charlotte, with plenty of opportunities for photos and questions.

10. Charlotte’s Premier Historical City Tour on Eco- Friendly Cart

This eco-friendly cart is a favorite, with over 1,000 reviews praising its personalized, small-group experience. For about 90 minutes, you visit major landmarks like the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Discovery Place, Mint Museum, and historic neighborhoods—all in an open-air 7-person golf cart. The guide shares insights into the city’s history and modern developments.

Guests love the relaxed pace and the intimacy of the small group, making it ideal for families, first-timers, or anyone wanting a tailored tour. At $39, it’s very competitive given the number of stops and quality of storytelling.

Bottom Line: Top choice for those seeking a personalized, accessible tour with a blend of history and modern attractions.

11. Small Group Karaoke Cultural Tour in Charlotte

For a lively twist, this karaoke tour combines city sights with karaoke fun in a chauffeured van. It visits Independence Square, Romare Bearden Park, and major sports venues. The 1-2 hour tour emphasizes entertainment and education with personal stories from the guide.

Rated 5/5, travelers praise the engaging guides and the unique experience of singing while sightseeing. It’s a good fit for groups who want a fun, interactive way to learn about Charlotte’s landmarks, making it suitable for families or friends who like to mix education with a bit of humor.

Bottom Line: An energetic, unconventional way to explore Charlotte’s cultural highlights with a side of singing.

12. Charlotte’s Premier Historical City Tour on Eco- Friendly Cart

This small-group eco-tour is the most reviewed, with over 1,000 five-star ratings. It covers major attractions like the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Discovery Place, Mint Museum, and historic neighborhoods like Fourth Ward. The open-air, 7-passenger golf cart is perfect for personalized sightseeing and seeing both historic and modern sites.

Guests value the intimate experience and the knowledgeable local guides. The tour is ideal for visitors who want a rundown in a relaxed setting, especially if they prefer traveling at a slower pace with plenty of photo opportunities.

Bottom Line: The top pick for travelers craving a personal, flexible city tour that hits all the highlights.

13. Charlotte’s Ultimate Southern Charm Historical City Cart Tour

The Ultimate Southern Charm tour is known for its luxury vibe and deep dive into Charlotte’s southern roots. Over 1.3 hours, you’ll learn about Elvis performances, the city’s nickname, and the gold mining history, among others. The tour stops at key sites like the Queen City’s parks and historic districts, with guides sharing stories that connect the past to today.

Rated 5/5, travelers love its comfort and storytelling quality. The tour includes photo stops, and the luxury golf carts provide a smooth, elegant experience. It’s especially suitable for those seeking a personalized, in-depth look at Charlotte’s history.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers who appreciate southern hospitality and want a luxurious, detailed exploration of Charlotte’s past.

14. 2 Hours African American History E-Bike Tour in Charlotte

This e-bike tour offers a unique perspective on Charlotte’s African American heritage. Over two hours, you’ll visit impactful sites such as the Gantt Center, JCSU, and historic West End neighborhoods. Guides, who are passionate cyclists, share stories about civil rights, cultural contributions, and notable local figures.

Rated 5/5 with a single review, the tour is praised for its up-close experience—something you can’t get from a bus or car. It’s perfect for active travelers wanting an immersive, educational ride at just $15, making it the most affordable option.

Bottom Line: A wonderful way to explore Charlotte’s African American history with the flexibility of bicycle exploration, ideal for those who want to combine activity with learning.

How to Choose Your Perfect Charlotte Historical Tour

Choosing among these options depends on your budget, fitness level, and interest. If you like quick, exciting rides with storytelling, the Segway tours or Segway Charlotte are excellent. For a more relaxed and intimate experience, the eco-friendly cart tours or vintage cart options provide comfort and personalization.

History enthusiasts seeking depth might prefer the bus tour or ultimate Southern Charm for comprehensive storytelling. Those interested in ghost stories should consider the Haunts walking tour, especially at sunset.

Remember, many tours sell out early, especially during peak seasons. Booking in advance guarantees your spot and allows you to plan your day around the best times for each experience.

Final Thoughts

Charlotte offers a diverse lineup of historical tours that cater to different interests and activity levels. For a quick, energetic overview, the Segway options and Charlotte on a cart are fantastic. For those who prefer a relaxed approach, vintage or eco-friendly carts highlight the city’s charm without the rush.

If you’re intrigued by ghost stories or want a deep dive into African American history, the ghost walk and e-bike tour are excellent choices. For a comprehensive experience that covers the city’s past and present, the city bus tours or historic city cart tours deliver detailed narratives and memorable sights.

No matter which tour you choose, Charlotte’s mix of historic neighborhoods, cultural landmarks, and lively stories makes it a city well worth exploring. To get the most out of your trip, consider booking your preferred tour early and enjoy the journey through Queen City’s storied streets.