I am so thankful IKEA is in Charlotte. Before it opened, I always had to fight traffic around the Philly burbs while visiting family to get my IKEA fix.
You can walk (and yes you do walk a lot) in the showroom first to get ideas on how things might look in a room. Then go down to the home store on the first floor to pick up your odds and ends.
I have never bought anything big from IKEA but its a great place for bookshelves, tables and housewares. Most Swedish furniture isn't built for us tall people so I'll go elsewhere for that.
If you are local, the best time to hit IKEA is during the week. On a weekend, it's a tourist destination. I wonder how it compares to Concord Mills in that aspect.
Also, if you have time, have lunch or dinner in the cafeteria. Taste the swedish meatballs, the potato/broccoli cakes, or the stuffed salmon. Also partake in the Lingonberry soda. Then you can pick some up to purchase at the food store near the checkouts.