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What's the surrounding area like?

The PNC Music Pavilion is located a 20 to 25 minute drive from downtown Charlotte. The closest destination of note is the Charlotte Motor Speedway. It is also located relatively close to the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

How can I spend the day in Charlotte before heading to a concert?

NASCAR at the Charlotte Motor Speedway

If you're an aficionado of high-octane action, then you'll want to head straight to the Charlotte Motor Speedway, where you can catch America's best drivers showing the track who's boss. If you've got some extra time, you can sign up for a full racing experience yourself during the daytime before heading to the concert at night. Now that's a full day.

The Mint Museum Uptown

There are two branches of the Mint Museum. In the uptown branch, you'll find a diversity of American and European art, as well as the lauded and famous Mint Museum of Craft & Design. Head here to take in all that's new and old in the Charlotte art scene.

U.S. National Whitewater Center

Looking to get that heart pumping? Head to the 500-acre U.S. National Whitewater Center, located just northwest of downtown Charlotte. Here you'll find the world's largest man-made whitewater river, where you can partake in activities ranging from stand-up paddle boarding to kayaking and - you guessed it - white water rafting.

Where are the best places to eat and drink near the PNC Music Pavilion?

There aren't many great eateries and drinkeries near the Pavilion, but there are several excellent options within a few miles.

The Flying Saucer Draught Emporium

There are more beers on tap here - both foreign and domestic - than you could drink in a lifetime - though you'll get your name on the wall if you actually do it. With pretzels as good as any you'll find in Germany and a variety of fare for meat eaters and vegetarians alike, you'll feel nice and fortified before heading to the concert.

Jim N' Nick's Bar-B-Q

Just shy of 5 miles from the Pavilion, the highly rated Jim N' Nick's Bar-B-Q serves a brisket like no other. Located not too far from a mall and the motor speedway, you'll be in for a real American experience whenx you dine here.

The Wine Vault

For a more upscale feeling, head to the Wine Vault, which offers 20 different wine varieties by the glass. Wine tastings and other events are held often, and you'll likely be treated to a musical guest on the patio.

View more restaurants near PNC Music Pavilion

What's the best way to get to the PNC Music Pavilion?

Due to the distance to the venue from downtown Charlotte (around 15 miles), it's probably best to drive to the PNC Music Pavilion. However, the Charlotte Area Transport System (CATS) public buses do run to just outside of the pavilion. The number 11, for instance, will get you there from downtown Charlotte in approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Is there any parking?

There are lots located right next to the PNC Music Pavilion and, even better, you won't have to pay for them, as they're included in the price of the ticket. However, you can upgrade to Premier Parking for $30.

What kind of food and drink can visitors expect?

Concessions consist of typical American fare, from hot dogs to hamburgers, nachos, pretzels and beer. Prices vary but are generally hefty, costing upwards of $13 for a beer. Given the lawn seating, this is one of the rare venues into which you can bring a clear 1-gallon plastic bag of your own food, so it may make sense to stock up beforehand. You can also bring in 1 sealed bottle of water.

Does the venue have WiFi? Is it free?

There is no WiFi and cell phone service can be spotty. Yes, that's right. You may be disconnected from the Interwebs while you're attending a concert here. The horror.

What time do doors normally open?

Exact times vary, but generally the gates open about 1½ hours before the concert begins. The parking lots open 2½ hours before the beginning of the concert to account for heavy traffic.

Any other important information visitors should know?

The PNC Music Pavilion is an outdoor amphitheatre. This means that low beach chairs are both welcome and expected, as long as the seat isn't higher than 9 inches from the ground. And if you forget your chair they can be hired for $5 from the venue. Settle into your seat, dig into your gallon of food, and enjoy the event.