The largest city in North Carolina, Charlotte has a rising population of 756,912, according to the 2010 U.S. Census Bureau, and is the 18th largest city in the United States. Charlotte’s primary nickname is Queen City, honoring Princess Charlotte of Mecklenburg. During the Revolutionary War, British General Cornwallis, whose forces occupied “The QC,” but was later repelled by angry residents, said “The City of Churches” was “a hornet’s nest of rebellion.” Those are interesting facts about “The Gem of the South.” If you have three days to visit “Bank Town” and want to learn more about the city’s history and offerings, reserve room on one of the following four tours. — Jeff Hawkins

Charlotte NC Tours

128 East Park Avenue
Charlotte, N.C. 28203
704-962-4548
www.charlottenctours.com

Promising passengers will learn something new every turn, Charlotte NC Tours is a full-service establishment, offering wine tours, Segway and bicycle tours and rentals, van tours and a walking ghost tour. The latter activity explores paranormal activity through your senses, touch and sound. The company is planning to open a new Uptown location early in 2011. Hours: Call to book a tour.

Queen City Tours

3125 Eastway Drive
Charlotte, N.C. 28205
704-566-0104
www.queencitytours.com

Promoting prompt and professional tours, transportation, travel and event planning, Queen City Tours has been offering local pilgrimages since 1993. Daily Tours are available, with services for groups and individuals. Popular pilgrimages include the Charlotte Black/African-American Heritage Tour and Charlotte annual Women’s History and Heritage Tour. Hours: (Live Customer Care Center) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Charlotte Segway Tours Experience

1000 Seaboard Street
Charlotte, N.C. 28206
704-908-0444
www.queencitysegway.com

Ready for adventure? Here’s an opportunity to zip around Uptown on electrically powered personal transportation devices. Initially, adventure seekers learn to ride the device in a warehouse and when the group is ready, everyone rolls out to explore the city’s history. Popular destinations include the Fourth Ward, Elwood Cemetery, Bank Of America Stadium and favorite views. Hours: Call for reservations.

Charlotte City Center Walking Tour

330 South Tryon Street
Charlotte, N.C. 28202
704-331-2753
www.charlottesgotalot.com

Here is an educational diversion – for free. It’s a 90-minute walking exploration of Charlotte’s Victorian past and its modern – and future – expansion. Charlotte’s historic Fourth Ward is highlighted. Hours: Friday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.