Plan a Staycation: SOUTHEND

Unfortunately the weather this weekend is not looking too promising.  They are calling for thunderstorms all weekend so you may just want to rent some movies, have a floor picnic, and not go a place.  If you are up for a rainy adventure though, here is a plan for visiting the Southend area.  Make sure to bookmark these "staycation" pages so you can quickly reference them this summer.

• SOUTHEND

Southend is a great little area right outside of downtown.  The light rail runs right along this part of town so you can always park and ride to make things a little more interesting.

• Where to park
• There is plenty of public (free) parking in this area.  

• Where to eat
• Pike's Old Fashioned Soda Shop (1930 Camden Rd.) 
• Owen's Bagel Shop (2041 South Blvd)
• Rudino's Pizza (2000 South Blvd. Ste. 300)
• Luna's Living Market (2102 South Blvd.)
• Five Guys (2201 South Blvd)
• Noodles and Co. (2201 South Blvd)
• Common Market (1515 South Tryon St.)
• Phat Burrito (1537 Camden Rd.)

• What to see/do

The must stop on this staycation is the Atherton Market!  Its a great farmer's market with fresh produce, meats, vegetables, and plenty of local vendors.  There is also art and jewelry.  The market is open on Saturdays from 9-2 so you could stop in here first and then walk to one of the places listed above for lunch.  Luna's Living Market has been getting rave reviews for it's healthy but delicious food.  They have vegan and vegetarian selections as well as take-home treats.  Common Market is another great spot for sandwiches or their BOB Award-winning pimento cheese!  Big Ben Pub also relocated here to a great spot right next to the light rail tracks.  

After lunch you can take the kids for ice cream at long-time Charlotte staple, Mr. K's (open Sat. 10-4) located at 2107 South Blvd.  If you are looking for more hands-on activities check out these events:

• Lowes Build and Grow Clinics
• Offered at several locations but why not check out the store at 217 Iverson Way while in the Southend area.  Click on the link for sign-up information and clinic dates.
• Charlotte Art League
• Located at 1517 Camden Rd., this community art center is hosting Spring Fling Family Art Day this Saturday, May 14th.  Parents and kids can rotate through stations making take-home art projects.  Best part...its FREE!  Visit their website to sign up.