HUNTERSVILLE. This cozy Main Street-style development features a variety of mixed-use dwellings, from luxury apartment and office to retail, restaurant and entertainment space. Billed as an "urban village," Birkdale recalls the vibrant town centers found in many European countries, one that encourages folks to leave their cars parked, stroll the tree-lined sidewalks, and scan the racks of places like Pier 1, Victoria's Secret, Barnes & Noble, and Jones New York. Also in Birkdale Village is a 16-screen movie theater.

SOUTH END. Hop the trolley from Uptown and head to the Historic South End, an area that has emerged as one of the city's most distinctive districts. Here, among old mills and warehouses, you'll find Charlotte's eclectic side. While you stroll around, relax to soothing tunes and take in the construction on Charlotte's first rapid transit line, due to be completed in late 2007. When lunch time rolls around, try Price's Chicken Coop, a true local legend. Afterwards, be sure to make passes through trendy shops like Niche, Black Sheep or American Appeal.

NODA. North of Uptown, this revitalized area is quickly establishing itself in Charlotte's art circles thanks to unique galleries, performance venues, coffee shops, and eateries. If you're looking for original artwork in the Queen City, NoDa is the place to find everything from textile and heritage art to black-and-white stills and sculpture. After shopping, catch a show at the Neighborhood Theater or grab a bite to eat. NoDa's gallery crawls, held the first and third Friday of each month, are a terrific introduction to the district.

WAXHAW. In the 1960s, Waxhaw made the conversion from a sleepy little cotton town to an antique village for folks wanting to escape the busy streets of Charlotte. Though the village's "big sister" has inched ever closer over the years, Waxhaw has managed to maintain both its small town charm and sense of integrity. Today, the buildings that line both sides of the tracks feature close to two dozen antique stores and a handful of locally owned eateries and goody shops. Make the short drive to Waxhaw and rediscover what makes Small Town, America such a treasured commodity.