Suggestions on picturesque places to enjoy fall colors please (Charlotte: closing, restaurants)

[bayley29]

Can anyone suggest some great places to really enjoy the changing leaves and take pictures? I am in the Ballantyne/Charlotte area. I want to take pictures of my children with a great fall backround.

Thanks!

[chicagocubs]

Try the Arboretum. The area that has a pond & fountain behind the two (upscale)restaurants...don't remember the names of the restaurants now, but, on the side that faces Providence Rd. It is very pretty there and have taken family shots there before.

[fasterserv]

Crowders Mountain State Park less than 20 miles from you.

[mullman]

Originally Posted by chicagocubs

Try the Arboretum. The area that has a pond & fountain behind the two (upscale)restaurants...don't remember the names of the restaurants now, but, on the side that faces Providence Rd. It is very pretty there and have taken family shots there before.

One is Phil & Tonys (closing or soon to close) and the other is Mickey & Mooch: The Other Joint.

Honestly why not just take a short trip to the foothills just out of town?
Someone mentioned Crowders Mt, also Kings Mountain is just a bit further.
At that point it is only a hop to Boone, or any point on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Charlotte is just perfect for mountain day trips, I rode to Lake Lure (90 miles) and back for a late lunch on Thursday.