IME South brings together ATX South, Design & Manufacturing South, MD&M South, PLASTEC South, Powder & Bulk Solids South, and SouthPack — all under one roof at the Charlotte Convention Center on June 4–6. But when you’re not busy with meetings, sessions, and the search for new solutions, where will you eat? What will you do? We’ve compiled this list to help get you going.

Food & Drink

Charlotte’s got it all, from fast food to rooftop taverns to fine dining. For casual fare, this list includes the city’s 15 best burgers, barbecue, and an “ultimate list” of local craft beer breweries. Going upscale? The award-winning Gallery Restaurant serves a Southern twist on new American cuisine. Another award winner: Jimmy Pearls, an Afro-Southern fast-casual restaurant just blocks from the convention center.

Arts & Music

The Blumenthal Arts Center features live theater ranging from touring Broadway shows to independent local performances at one complex. Similarly, the Levine Center for the Arts hosts multiple museums, theater screenings, and jazz performances all at one location. FYI, Charlotte Theater provides a handy show guide and sells tickets.

Sports

Racing fans can walk just down the block from the convention to the NASCAR Hall of Fame, which features exhibits on racing legends and a Racing Insiders Tour. For in-season team sports, visit Seat Geek for a calendar and ticket sales. Of course, there’s more at area stadiums, ballparks, and golf clubs.

Guided tours

Learn about the city’s history, see local points of interest, and even venture out for a local brewery crawl with various tour operators. These include Queen City Rides, C-Charlotte Tours, Charlotte NC Tours, which specializes in e-bikes and Segways — even a Funny Bus featuring comedians as tour guides.

If you’d like to relax and recharge, take a stroll at one of the city’s many botanic and related garden gems. Or if your time is tight, take a break anytime at The Green, a small pocket park across the street from the convention center.

There’s lots more. Find it at Charlotte's Got A Lot, run by the city’s Regional Visitor’s Authority.