This is a lesser known place in Charlotte, but one that is truly unique. The airport overlook looks across the runways at the airport where planes land & take off all day long. This is a great spot to take in lunch if you work nearby, or a nice place to just stop by & relax after a busy day. It provides amazingly up close views of planes landing, & if you hit the time just right, you'll get landing & takeoffs back to back, over & over again.
You could also take the kids here to show them great views & a good time without spending a dime. They have some picnic tables & some nice shade trees at the back of the overlook so you can relax out of the sun on a hot day. Most people though sit in their cars at the front of the overlook, taking this great sight all in.
The airport overlook really is a great place to visit off Old Dowd Rd, the back way around the airport. Check it out, it won't cost you anything & it will definitely impress you & take your mind off work for a little while.