10 ways to enjoy the outdoors in Ballantyne
Why it matters: The neighborhood's green spaces and pop-up events offer low-key ways to get outside — for locals and visitors alike.
Here are 10 free and inexpensive things to do outdoors in Ballantyne.
1. Climb to new heights at Big Rock Nature Preserve
What to expect: Big Rock Nature Preserve, a 23-acre Mecklenburg County site, has under 0.5 miles of trail with plenty of shade. The main attraction is the big rocks, as the name suggests.
There is no parking, as the preserve is designed to be accessed by pedestrians, a county spokesperson tells Axios.
Open from sunrise to sunset.
2. Play pickleball
What to expect: Two pickleball courts sit on the top level of the Hayes parking deck. They're free and open to the public 8am–7:30pm daily on a first-come, first-served basis. Pickleball paddles and balls are there for your use.
What's next: Mecklenburg County plans to add new pickleball courts at Elon Park, which borders Ballantyne.
3. Explore the greenway
What to expect: Ballantyne Greenway is about 2 miles and takes you along part of the Carolina Thread Trail, connecting you to restaurants at The Bowl, plus offices, hotels and apartments. It also connects to more than 20 miles of walking paths and bike lanes.
Stop by: The trail has several access points, including from The Bowl at 15119 Bowl St.
4. Shop local at the farmers market
What to expect: Every first Wednesday of the month from April through October, local vendors sell fresh produce, honey, eggs and baked goods 10am–1pm.
5.
What to expect: The Fit Trail is about 0.75 miles round trip and has 20 free workout stations for exercises such as pullups, leg raises and hamstring stretching.
Stop by: 13515 Ballantyne Corporate Pl.
Open 7am–8pm daily.
6. Go rock climbing in the park
What to expect: Stream Park is a 6-acre kids' paradise, with a rock-climbing wall, a covered pavilion and slides along rolling hills.
It's one of several parks in the area.
Stop by: Stream Park 14105 Stream Way, between The Bowl and The Ballantyne Hotel & Spa.
7. Sip and stroll around The Bowl at Ballantyne
What to expect: This mixed-use district is a walkable town center with plenty of places to eat, drink and gather.
Zoom in: We recommend starting your day at Fly Kid Fly, a coffee spot from the team behind HEX, then spend the afternoon at Postino WineCafe, followed by a summertime brew from Olde Mecklenburg Brewery's massive biergarten.
8. Catch a concert at The Amp
What to expect: The Amp is a 5,000-person outdoor amphitheater with live shows, festivals, markets and fitness classes. Upcoming August shows include:
Dave Koz and Friends Summer Horns 2025 on Aug. 7 at 7:30pm.
Shot Thru the Heart — A tribute to Bon Jovi on Aug. 8 at 5:30pm.
Cypress Hill & Atmosphere on Aug. 12 at 6pm.
Ben Rector's "The Richest Man in the World" tour on Aug. 22 at 7pm.
The "Good Intentions" tour featuring Toad the Wet Sprocket, KT Tunstall and Sixpence None the Richer on Aug. 23 at 7pm.
Stop by: 11115 Upper Ave.
9. Go for a run or take a fitness class
What to expect: Ballantyne Running Club meets every Thursday at 6:30pm in OMB's biergarten. There are 1.5-, 3- and 5-mile routes.
Ballantyne also offers monthly fitness classes that are free for Ballantyne office customers through the goBallantyne app and $5 for community members.
Outdoor fitness classes are at the Simmons Building (13840 Ballantyne Corporate Pl.).
10. Check out a festival at Ballantyne's Backyard
What to expect: Ballantyne hosts several festivals throughout the year, including:
Charlotte International Arts Festival runs the entire month of September with art, food, music and entertainment.
The Latin American Festival starts at 12pm on Sept. 20. Tickets are $5.
The Festival of India is free to attend on Sept. 21.
Whiskey, Wine and Fire Fest on Oct. 25 will take place 5–9pm. Tickets start at $59.
Stop by: Ballantyne's Backyard is at 11611 North Community House Road.
What we're watching: Ballantyne will soon open a non-sanctioned 18-hole disc golf course along Lower Avenue, between North Community House Road and Ballantyne Commons Parkway. There will be plenty of street parking.
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