The CIAA tournament is a celebration of college players who have succeeded expectations on the court throughout the basketball season. The tournament, which is hosted in Charlotte, North Carolina, represents legacy and tradition. Tournament weekend brings a fun whirlwind of family focused events and after hour festivities to the Queen City. Whether you’re craving southern soul food or looking for a late night spot, rolling out has a list of native favorites that will help guide you while you’re taking a break from all of the basketball games. –shalmar brown mozee
Eat Like a True Southerner
Mert’s Heart and Soul restaurant is one of the most visited restaurants in Charlotte, located within walking distance from the Time Warner Cable Arena. This southern cuisine Charlotte jewel is the perfect spot to grab dinner with your family and satisfy your soul food cravings. The inside décor is the true charm. The timeless art hanging on the walls and multi-sized photographs accompanied with other soulful pieces create a warm atmosphere.
“We take pride in treating all of our customers like family. We will be open extended hours during the CIAA tournament week. I recommend that everyone tries our shrimp and grits and definitely our famous cornbread.”- Veronica, general manager
It’s Five ‘o’clock Somewhere
Sports One Bar and Lounge will be the meet up hot spot. This contemporary bar combines top shelf bar selections and high end décor to create its welcoming modern ambience. Locals stand in line for favorites like the bottomless mimosa and red velvet waffles served during brunch.
“For the CIAA, we are doing incredible events here at the bar, like putting up a beautiful big tent where we will host day and night parties. We are also doing a soft opening of our new club, which is Club One located in the Music Factory.” – Toni Scott, manager
Day to Night Fun
Take a break from the chaos of the city and visit the Piedmont Social Club. This 32,000 sq. ft., two floor adult playground is far from your everyday bowling alley. Piedmont Social Club is packed with three bars, 12 bowling lanes, 43 TVs, four pool tables, and endless board games. It is a great spot to meet before you start your day and also a great spot to end the evening.
For more day to night fun, visit the NC Music Factory. The NC Music Factory is the perfect place to eat, play, and party. Located in Charlotte’s hipster part of town, the NC Music Factory is home to some of the city’s most infamous hang out places. While there, you can visit Wet Willies, Comedy Zone, and a few nightclubs.
“If you’re hotel is on the South- End of Charlotte, visit Stache House Bar and Oakroam Nightclub.” – Lashanna Lance
Party
The Epicenter is your party hub. The Epicenter is located conveniently across the street from the Time Warner Cable Arena. It has over nine entertainment locations, including a series of clubs and bars that vary to fit your needs. Don’t worry about working up an appetite, because the place is home to over ten restaurants.
“The places I recommend people visit at the Epicenter are Whiskey River, Studio Movie Grill, Suite Night Club, and Bubble.“ – Kelli Cabuno
