Charlotte ladies - quick location question

Jules_NC

We're headed down to Charlotte this weekend to visit some extended family.  Apparently they live in the Steele Creek area (?) and we're planning to stay nearby (1-2 nights).  Is Arrowwood Road ok (near 77/485)?  We're looking at the Holiday Inn Express or Hilton Garden Inn (DH has points to use at either).

We're also trying to decide what to do with E one afternoon.  I've never been to Discovery Place and wondered if it would be good for us.  I know the kids museums are packed on the weekends here in Raleigh, so I'm assuming that would be the case at Discovery Place as well.

She LOVES animals & trains, so I had considered making a stop at Dan Nicholas Park sometime, but we'll be passing by it at 'off' times.  We visited the NC Transportation Museum in August and it was a hit

Thanks a bunch!

laceysmom82

Is the Hilton Garden Inn you are talking about in Ayrsley?  I've never stayed there but I think it would be nice.

There is a park further down S. Tryon (highway 49) called McDowell Park you might want to check out if the weather is nice. 

I think Discovery Place would be fun, but definitely crowded.  I haven't been since they remodeled, etc...

Buttercup29

We took my nephews a few weeks back and it wasn't that full. I think it is worth it and you could really spend all day there. There's a cool explore section where they can play with water and lots of cool loud toys. They also have some 3D movies that are a part of the cost of your ticket. Both my nephews LOVE coming into town to go to DP.

JuberP

We've had a lot of fun taking my nephew on the light rail into the city. We drive to and park at the stop at hwy 485 and South Blvd. If she likes trains this might be a hit. If you get off at the last stop in uptown, you are only a few blocks from Discovery Place. The library is also at the last stop and has some impressive activity areas for kids - and it's free. Also not far from Steele Creek, by Carowinds amusement park, is an indoor mall called Fiesta Plaza. I haven't actually been, but there are apparently indoor play areas with playground equipment (??) super cheap that my SIL swears is a great place to take kids, and a great Mexican food court. And yes, the hotels at 77 & Arrowwood are good, but the hotel mentioned at Ayrsley might be a little closer. Have fun!

rosegarden9305

My DH asctually works at Discovery Place so I'll go ahead and give the plug. He helped design two of the new exhibits and they are soooo fun. However, you may want to consider going to the new Discovery Place Kids. It's in Huntersville. I know they have been really busy, but it's geared towards ages 0-7 so it may be more age appropriate. Have a great time!