Welcome to Plaza-Midwood
A funky neighborhood balancing Uptown's buttoned-down vibe with eclectic shops and casual bars
Each neighborhood in Charlotte has its own story to tell—a unique personality that reflects its history, culture, and residents. So, even though Plaza-Midwood is described as "NoDa's quirky cousin" or "Eccentric neighbor to Elizabeth," it can't be compared to other Charlotte neighborhoods; it has a heartbeat that's truly its own.
Sitting one mile east of Uptown Charlotte, with Hawthorne Lane on the west and Briar Creek Road and the Charlotte Country Club on the east, Plaza-Midwood was established around 1910 as a "streetcar suburb." Today, Plaza-Midwood is a central locale with the most eclectic dining, shopping, and entertainment in most of Charlotte, plus a packed calendar of events and activities.
Plaza-Midwood real estate features single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments in various architectural styles, such as Victorian, Bungalow, Colonial, Tudor, and more. You can also find revamped ranch homes, condos, and brick cottages.
What to Love
- A rich cuisine scene featuring delicacies from all around the world
- A laid-back vibe
- Several activities and amenities for both individuals and families
- A small, walkable neighborhood you can walk through in 25 minutes
Local Lifestyle
Plaza-Midwood is where eclectic creativity meets traditional Southern values. On one block, you will see historic homes and office spaces lined with century-old trees, and on the following, graffiti-covered consignment shops selling second-hand goods.
Despite its upsurge and growth from the early 90s, Plaza-Midwood has maintained an inclusive, socially minded, historical, and fun vibe. It is highly sought-after for its laid-back atmosphere, low-key dive bars, tattoo parlors, consignment shops, and vibrant restaurant culture.
Plaza-Midwood is one of the most pedestrian-friendly areas in the city, hence why it's referred to as a "stroll district" (a walkable area of small shops). A walk down The Plaza or Thomas Avenue will show you most of the neighborhood's historic homes, local shops, restaurants, and bars. It takes 25 minutes to go from one end to the other.
Plaza-Midwood is a growing neighborhood that mostly attracts young buyers and starting families. Nonetheless, as you stroll around the neighborhood, you will meet long-time residents sitting on their porches, new ones packed in apartment buildings, and young families pushing strollers.
Dining, Entertainment, and Shopping
Despite being a compact area spanning just two square blocks, Plaza-Midwood has a very large international cuisine scene—you'll have a hard time exploring it all.
The Midwood Smokehouse is perfect for a slap in the face, mouth-watering barbeque, and sandwiches in a roadhouse-like setting. The owners of Haberdish in NoDa have a rustic-chic steak house in what used to be a church, Supperland. Drop by for some hearty Southern dishes, cocktails, and wines.
To explore Plaza-Midwood's large international cuisine scene, rather than head to specific destinations, walk the Central Avenue Restaurant and Bar Strip and discover eclectic and upscale restaurants offering global food, such as Chinese, Mexican, Vietnamese, Thai, Salvadorian, and more.
Green with Envy is one of Charlotte's best boutiques for a shopping spree, with over 4000 square feet of shopping; they have everything you need. Plaza Central Shopping Center is also a great shopping destination. Check out Black Sheep Skate Shop and Social Status for the latest sneaker releases, and CLTCH for unique accessories and kitschy gifts.
Things to Do
There is so much going on in Plaza-Midwood and so many things to do. If you prefer social activities, head to the Thomas Street Tavern for ping pong, Pinhouse for duckpin bowling, beer, and games, or practice your mini-golf skills at Stroke Putt, a retro-inspired mini-golf spot.
The Skylark Social Club is also a great destination with several things to do. You can play pool and darts or attend any of its several concerts from various genres and artists. If you want an upscale experience, head to The Novelty House, a cocktail bar with a dress code.
A relaxing day can be spent in the laid-back, chic The Bohemian Wine Bar or hanging out on the patio at Common Market. To spend the day outdoors, grab a bike and attend Charlotte's Tuesday Night Ride or explore the Briar Creek Greenway along Plaza-Midwood's eastern border.