The Queen City is known for its bustling Uptown area, major sports teams, and awesome entertainment venues; however, most people are unaware of the Charlotte hidden gems within or around the city limits. These seven natural hidden gems are bound to surprise tourists and residents with their stunning beauty and unique locations.

1. McGill Rose Garden

The McGill Rose Garden is a gorgeous little garden tucked away on North Davidson Street in the NoDa Arts District. This Garden is approximately one-and-a-third acres and one of only four declared All-America Rose Selections (AARS) public gardens in North Carolina.

The McGill Rose Garden was brought to life in the 1950s by Henry and Helen McGill, who had purchased the land that was previously used as a coal yard.

Helen became so passionate about her rose garden, she was known as the "Rose Lady" of Charlotte. When she died in 1985, her husband took over care of the garden until he sold it to the city in 1995.

Today, the McGill Rose Garden is a place where visitors can stroll through winding pathways framed by thousands of rose bushes, fountains and sculptures that add to the magic of the landscape.

Now that you know about this little "Secret Garden," make sure you take time for a visit to indulge in the peace and tranquility this hidden gems in Charlotte NC offers. For more information, visit the McGill Rose Garden Facebook page.

2. Jetton Park

Jetton Park is a lakeside park on Lake Norman that is full of hidden gems for most Charlotte residents.

The park sits on 104 acres and offers visitors beautiful lakeside views from multiple picnic areas, paved and unpaved hiking trails, a formal garden, tennis courts, a playground, and much more.

And it's dog-friendly, so bring some toys to one of the best hidden gems in North Carolina.

And the sunset view over the water is one of the best sights you’ll see while visiting the park.

Learn more on the Jetton Park web page.

3. Big Rock Nature Preserve

The Big Rock Nature Preserve is a hidden gem in South Charlotte located at the intersection of I-485 and Rea Road.

The 22-acre preserve houses numerous historic rock formations unique to North Carolina.

Kids and adults alike love climbing these giant rock formations and checking out the views from the top.

If you have an interest in hiking and geology, Big Rock Nature Preserve is where you need to be this weekend.

4. Copperhead Island

If you’re looking for a quiet place to get out on the water and one of the most peaceful hidden gems near me, head out to Copperhead Island for your next boating trip.

The scenic views and quiet sounds of Lake Wylie, a 12,500-acre reservoir on the Catawba River, will not disappoint.

The island lies along the shoreline and is part of the 1,300-acre McDowell Nature Preserve that offers a range of outdoor activities. Read more on the Copperhead Island web page.

5. Wing Haven Gardens and Bird Sanctuary

This little sanctuary was started in the 1920s by Elizabeth and Edwin Clarkson, who combined two of the gardens around their house to form a bird sanctuary.

In 1971 the couple donated the gardens and sanctuary to the Wing Haven Foundation, and it became open for the public to visit and enjoy.

Designed with various species of birds in mind, the Wing Haven Gardens contain some of the most amazing trees and plants that attract birds all throughout the year.

There are many places for nesting within the gardens, as well as many fountains and bird baths on the property which give the birds a place to drink and bathe.

6. Romare Bearden Park

Romare Bearden Park is in the heart of Uptown, next to BB&T Ballpark with the prettiest view in the city.

We love the waterfall and the musical pipes that encourage creativity.

A lot of thought went into the design of this park, making it worthwhile. And Romare Bearden is someone you should get to know.

Find out more about him and the park on the Bearden Foundation website.

7. Carrigan Farms

Carrigan Farms is a family-owned farm located in Mooresville, North Carolina just 45 minutes away from Charlotte.

The farm is open to the public and offers many seasonal events for visitors to enjoy.

Strawberry picking, apple picking, hayrides, and wandering through the pumpkin patch are just a few of the things you can do on your visit.

Carrigan Farms also has a stunning rock quarry on the property that is open to the public. The quarry is 25 feet deep and filled with cool, refreshing natural water.

Visitors enjoy entering the water by jumping from the rocks or walking in at the beach.

Have you been to any of these Charlotte hidden gems? If so, please tell us about your experience in the comments below. While you're in Charlotte, stay for the weekend at a cozy Vrbo. And for more North Carolina outdoor adventures, head over to Franklin, which is surrounded by them.