Charlotte Douglas International Airport: where to stay, areas and…

Charlotte Douglas is less than 10 km from Uptown, but during rush hour the drive can stretch to 40 minutes: a margin worth keeping in mind for anyone with a tight connection, since the airport is American Airlines' main hub. The CATS Sprinter bus connects the terminal to downtown in about 25 minutes, handy for those who don't want a car. Travelers with an early morning flight or a long layover find it practical to stay in the airport area; those coming for work or to see the city choose between Uptown, with its skyscrapers and theaters, and SouthPark, the office and shopping district to the south.

Airport area

Less than 6 km from the terminal, with a free shuttle covering the trip in about 10 minutes.

Best for: American Airlines layovers, flights at dawn or late at night, when every minute of the trip counts.

Pros

Fast free shuttle, handy for those just changing planes
More choice of price than Uptown, with recently built properties

Cons

An area of interchanges and parking lots, nothing to do on foot in the evening
A car or taxi is still needed for Uptown, about 15-25 minutes

Recommended hotels in this area

Hilton Charlotte Airport Hotel: Less than 6 km from the terminal with a free shuttle in about 10 minutes, among the best-reviewed properties in the area.
Hyatt Place Charlotte Airport/Lake Pointe: Free airport shuttle and rooms with a separate sitting area, useful for short business stays.

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Uptown, Charlotte

City centre · The CATS Sprinter bus leaves from the stop across from baggage claim in Zone D and reaches the Uptown Transit Center in about 25 minutes; by car 15-25 minutes, up to 40 during rush hour.

Best for: Those working or visiting Uptown, among skyscrapers, theaters and restaurants.

Pros

A few steps from the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center and the financial district's skyscrapers
Direct bus link to the airport, handy for those who don't want to drive

Cons

During rush hour the drive to the airport lengthens considerably
Hotel parking often charged, as throughout downtown

Recommended hotels in this area

Charlotte Marriott City Center: On Trade Street, a few steps from the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center and Uptown's financial district.
The Ivey's Hotel: A boutique hotel in the building of the old Ivey's department store, in the heart of Uptown among theaters and restaurants.

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