Parks & Greenways

Discover nature. Jog, walk or simply explore.

When fresh air is calling your name, University City is here to deliver. From hiking to biking, picnics to parties, enjoy exploring the great outdoors by visiting the nearby parks and greenways. There is plenty of opportunity to escape!

Parks

There are many private parks in planned neighborhoods, and public park options in and near University City. Visit Mecklenburg County Parks and Recreation to explore Reedy Creek Park and its dog park component, Kirk Farm Fields, Mallard Creek Community Park, Mallard Creek Soccer Fields, and Mallard Creek Tennis Courts. Reedy Creek and Mallard Creek Community Parks have rental facilities available for gathering with family, friends or colleagues.

Natural Escapes

University City has natural escapes close to homes and offices. Fourteen miles of greenway provide a bike-friendly way to travel, exercise or leisure. Toby Creek, Mallard Creek and Clarks Creek greenways connect to UNC Charlotte and its Botanical Gardens, University Research Park, light rail stations and a dozen neighborhoods.

UNC Charlotte’s botanical gardens and greenhouse showcase rhododendron, azaleas and other Carolina’s flora. Explore Reedy Creek Park and Nature Preserve. The 850-acre oasis includes athletic fields, playgrounds, fishing ponds and a competition-level disc golf course, plus 10 miles of forest trails (watch for deer, beaver, red-tailed hawks and barred owls!) and a nature center that offers programs and camps.

Fitness Centers

Looking for a quality gym in University City? Outdoors or indoors, there are several places to help you stay fit all year round with fitness centers and activities. Find and support your favorite local gym like the Keith Family YMCA, Defy Charlotte, 9Round Kickboxing, Fitness Connection, Fuzion Force Dance & Fitness, Orange Theory and more.

News

Healthy Choices in University City

From choosing healthy foods to taking time to enjoy nature and connect with community, here are a few ways to make healthy choices in University City. Choose healthy food. Learn more about University City's newest prepared health food store, Project LeanNation. Help a...

2023 Charlotte NYD 5K

Photos by Mariah Graham and Tracy Watts.

UNC Charlotte’s New Tailgating Space

An anonymous donor gifted UNC Charlotte with $10 million to fund the construction of a three-acre outdoor complex that can accommodate 2,500 students for student gatherings and tailgating. In addition to the open space and landscaping, there will also be an 8,000...

Charlotte New Year’s Day 5k

Start 2022 off on the right foot by participating in the family-friendly Charlotte New Year’s Day 5K on North Tryon Street.  The race starts at 10 AM and lasts until Noon. Participants will celebrate their accomplishment and toast the new year with a post-event...

Brotherhood of Leaders

Once a quarter, if you’re driving on Neal Road, you’ll see a group of men picking up trash. These aren’t just any group of men. These are members of the Beta Nu Lambda Chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Previous members of the fraternity include Martin Luther...

We’re Back…with a Vision!

University City Vision Plan – Connecting: People. Places. Nature. The growth and development being realized in University City is nothing short of transformational.  Major investments in transportation and mobility infrastructure, thousands of new rooftops, new...

Reedy Creek Nature Preserve expansion touches 3 schools

Two public schools and the CPCC Cato Campus have gained important access to a great learning resource, thanks to Mecklenburg County’s recent purchase of 100 acres for the planned Reedy Creek Greenway. The new addition to Reedy Creek Nature Preserve adjoins Northeast...

Starbucks coming to NC 49 at Cross Charlotte Trail

A new building for a Starbucks and other businesses is rising along University City Boulevard within a few feet of the emerging Cross Charlotte Trail (XCLT). The new building at the main entrance to Town Center Plaza replaces a former O’Charley’s restaurant building....

University City launches Barton Creek Greenway Native Meadow

By Azania Herron University City Partners, University of North Carolina at Charlotte Botanical Gardens and North Carolina Native Plant Society have partnered to install Barton Creek Greenway Native Meadows, a community native plant project in University City. On April...