Charlotte, North Carolina, is a bustling Southern city with a blend of modern skyscrapers, historical sites, and a growing culinary scene. However, not all attractions are worth your time or money.

Funded by a $14 million grant from the Federal Railroad Administration, the service will be an upgraded amenity for the record-breaking number of passengers.

NC By Train, the state’s intercity rail program, began in 1990 with the Carolinian, which makes a dozen stops in North Carolina on a daily round trip between Charlotte and New York City.

North Carolina’s Atlantic Coast beaches ... and a 700-mile Route From Mountains to Sea Travel + Leisure is published by Meredith Corporation under license from Travel + Leisure Co.

North Carolina, Embassy Suites by Hilton Charlotte offers ready access to area attractions like Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte Motor Speedway, Discovery Place Science and SouthPark Mall.