events in the area/outdoor activities (Charlotte, Monroe: neighborhoods, plantations, gardens)

[mhetfiel]

My fiance and I are heading down next week, we have interviews in Union County Wed. and Thurs. mornings, but will be done by one o' clock. We would really like to attend a pig pickin', art /craft show, farmers market...something different and community oriented...any suggestions? We were also thinking of the Discovery Kids Museum one afternoon (is this a fun place for young adults? we are teachers so we like educational stuff!), and are looking for something to do outdoors if the weather is nice (gardens, biking, hiking, plantations...we are up for anything!)...we would be willing to travel into the Charlotte area...and we are young and adventureous...any suggestions?
THANKS! Can't wait to be in the south!

[charlottere]

i'd suggest to check: whitewater rafting center, latta plantation, winston-salem.

[NCN]

Union County North Carolina click on "sellect an office" and choose the parks and recreation. Cane Creek is a good place to get outside.
James K. Polk birthplace in Pineville
Andrew Jackson Memorial at Waxhaw and another one off highway 521 in South Carolina
I believe the theme park Carowinds is open on week ends now.
Jesse Helms Center at Wingate
The Marshville Library (Lois Morgan Edwards Memorial Library) always has an art display and the Home News in Marshville has art in its lobby. Monroe's downtown stores are having art displays this week, so they may have some art still around for your visit. The old courthouse would be worth a visit. This is all in downtown Monroe.
Daniel Stowe Memorial Gardens on the other side of Charlotte
UNCC has gardens and will let the public visit sometimes.
When you are interviewed, you may want to ask what is going on in the area where you will be teaching, if you will be teaching. This time of year there is always a barbecue going on somewhere.
If you can wait around until the last weekend in April, the Queenscup Steeplechase is a must see event in Mineral Springs.
And we all get Historical about Waxhaw. Waxhaw is an antique town.
This time of year it is just a pleasure to drive through the neighborhoods and see the flowering trees.