Secret Gardens of Fourth Ward Tour: May 16-17
A Rare Look at One of Charlotte’s Most Unique Neighborhoods
A surprising number of Charlotte locals have never experienced one of Uptown’s most charming traditions— Fourth Ward Secret Gardens Tour, where tucked-away courtyards, historic porches, and neighborhood stories quietly come to life.
Taking place May 16–17, 2026 (Noon–4 PM each day), this walkable, self-guided tour offers rare access inside Historic Fourth Ward—one of the city’s most distinctive and often overlooked neighborhoods. Along the route, you’ll step into private gardens, admire Victorian-era homes, and explore outdoor living spaces that most people pass by without ever realizing what’s behind the hedges and gates.
But it’s more than a garden tour. Throughout the weekend, the neighborhood transforms into an immersive experience featuring live music, local art, and complimentary food, wine, and cocktail tastings hosted in both gardens and nearby establishments. The entire district becomes part of the experience—blending architecture, history, and community into something that feels both relaxed and elevated.
Featured stops and experiences include:
- Open house tastings at The Asbury in Charlotte's historic Dunhill Hotel, including their signature Sticky Biscuits paired with a bourbon cocktail.
- Saturday-only tastings at Spaghett, featuring Executive Chef Kendall Moore and mixologist Amanda Britton, inside the historic Morrison House.
- Docent-led tours of Historic Settlers Cemetery (1–4 PM daily), offering a look into Charlotte’s earliest days.
Complimentary tastings are provided by a curated mix of local favorites and premium brands, including Arbol Eatery, The Asbury, Assorted Table Wine, Doc Porter’s Distillery, Don Q Rum, The Dunhill Hotel, Indigo Tea & Coffee, The Daily, Drumbshanbo Gunpowder Gin, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Pizzeria Sapienza, It’s Poppin’ Gourmet Kettle Korn, Beverly’s Gourmet Foods, and more.
Live music throughout the neighborhood features The Porchlights, Prevox Trio, Isaac & Adele, and Leisure McCorkle—creating a relaxed, inviting atmosphere as you explore.
Tickets:
Day-specific tickets are $35 per person, or $45 for a Weekend Flex pass. Each ticket includes access to the full tour, tastings, and entertainment. The event is self-paced, rain or shine.
Tickets are redeemed for guidebooks at the corner of West 9th & North Poplar Streets, which also serves as the only location for same-day ticket sales (if available).
A few things to know:
- The tour is fully walkable and self-guided
- Children who cannot be carried require a ticket
- Strollers can be difficult on brick sidewalks and narrow garden paths
- Pets are not permitted
Parking is limited, so rideshare or light rail is recommended. The 9th Street station is just a short walk away.
About Fourth Ward:
Tucked inside Charlotte's Uptown, Fourth Ward is Charlotte’s oldest historic district—a rare blend of restored 100+ year-old Victorian homes, tree-lined streets, pocket parks, and modern urban living. It’s a neighborhood where historic charm and city convenience intersect, offering a lifestyle that feels both connected and quietly removed from the pace of the surrounding skyline.
Events like the Fourth Ward Secret Gardens Tour give a glimpse into that lifestyle—opening doors to spaces and stories that define one of Charlotte’s most unique communities.
Presented by the Friends of Fourth Ward, this annual tour showcases the character, history, and livability that make Fourth Ward unlike anywhere else in Charlotte.
Thinking About Calling Fourth Ward Home?
Whether you're drawn to historic properties, walkable city living, or the character you simply can’t replicate in newer construction, experiencing Fourth Ward in person is the best way to understand its appeal.
Homes in this historic district don’t come on the market often—and when they do, they tend to attract strong interest for exactly the reasons you’ll see on this tour.
Nina Hollander with Coldwell Banker Realty has been helping Greater Charlotte buyers and sellers since 1999. If you’re considering buying or selling in Fourth Ward—or want a realistic sense of pricing, timing, and current opportunities—she’s available as a knowledgeable, no-pressure resource. Reach out to Nina Hollander when the time is right for you.
Originally published on www.GreatHomesInCharlotte.com
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