


Children's Theatre of Charlotte
About
Children's Theatre of Charlotte is a professional theater company dedicated exclusively to young audiences, offering Broadway-quality productions tailored for kids. With an impressive 4.8-star rating from hundreds of families, this beloved institution goes beyond just performances,they also offer theater camps and classes where budding performers can develop their skills on the same stages where professional shows come to life.
Highlights
- ✓Professional-quality productions of classics like The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Charlotte's Web, and seasonal favorites
- ✓Interactive performances where kids may be invited to participate from their seats
- ✓Theater education programs including camps, classes, and workshops for ages 3-18
- ✓Intimate theater setting where every seat offers a great view
- ✓Special sensory-friendly performances designed for children with autism and sensory processing needs
Pro Tips
- 1.Book tickets early for popular shows, especially weekend matinees and holiday productions, as they often sell out weeks in advance
- 2.Arrive 20-30 minutes before showtime to give kids a chance to use the restroom, get settled in their seats, and soak in the theater atmosphere without rushing
- 3.Opt for center orchestra seats if possible,the immersive staging often involves actors coming into the audience, making middle sections prime viewing spots
- 4.Check their website for sensory-friendly performance dates if you have a child with autism or sensory sensitivities,they offer specially adapted shows with adjusted lighting and sound
- 5.Consider enrolling in their weeklong summer camps early (registration opens in winter) as spots fill quickly for these popular programs
Best Time to Visit
Saturday morning matinees (typically 11 AM) are ideal for younger children who are most alert earlier in the day, while weekday performances during school breaks offer smaller crowds. The box office is open Saturdays from 9 AM for in-person ticket purchases and questions.
What to Know
Ticket prices typically range from $15-30 per person depending on the show and seating. The theater is located in Uptown Charlotte with paid parking available in nearby decks and street parking. Most productions run 60-90 minutes, perfect for young attention spans.
Seasonal Notes
The theater operates on a seasonal schedule with productions typically running September through May, with summer camps filling the June-August gap. Holiday shows (November-December) are extremely popular and sell out quickly. The box office is closed Sundays and Mondays year-round.
Nearby Eats
Head to Amélie's French Bakery (multiple Uptown locations) for kid-friendly pastries, sandwiches, and hot chocolate in a whimsical atmosphere, or visit Mellow Mushroom on 7th Street for pizza that pleases picky eaters with its fun, artsy vibe just blocks from the theater.
More Activities Near Charlotte
Freedom Park
Freedom Park is Charlotte's beloved 98-acre urban oasis that offers something for every age, from its expansive modern playground to paddle boat adventures on the scenic lake. With wide open fields perfect for kite flying, well-maintained walking trails, and plenty of shade trees for picnicking, it's an ideal spot for families looking to spend quality outdoor time without leaving the city.
Main Event
Main Event in Charlotte is the ultimate one-stop entertainment destination where families can spend hours enjoying bowling, laser tag, an exciting gravity ropes course, and a massive arcade under one roof. With dining options on-site, parents can easily make this an all-day adventure without having to worry about multiple stops or hungry kids.
Reedy Creek Nature Preserve
Reedy Creek Nature Preserve offers 927 acres of natural exploration perfect for families who love the outdoors. Kids can get up close with live animal exhibits featuring native North Carolina wildlife, explore 10 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to moderate, and participate in hands-on educational programs that make learning about local ecosystems exciting and interactive.
U.S. National Whitewater Center
The U.S. National Whitewater Center is an adventure playground paradise where families can experience everything from gentle beginner activities to thrilling outdoor challenges. With over 1,300 acres along the Catawba River, this isn't just a one-activity stop,it's an all-day destination where toddlers can splash in calm waters while teens conquer zip lines and rock climbing walls, making it perfect for families with kids of varying ages and adventure levels.