Though you wouldn't know it if you didn't look quickly, Charlotte actually has a decent number of parks scattered about. The problem is that, unlike say New York and places like Central park, most of those in the Queen City are tucked into places you can't really see that well from the street as you drive by. Even Freedom Park is not all that visible as you go roaring past. Marshall Park is probably the most visible from the street, and let's face it - it isn't pretty.
Independence Park, on the other hand, is a nice little spot, smack dab in a nice area of town. It is, in fact, perhaps nearly on par with Freedom Park in sheer size - but it's not nearly as nice for enjoyment, because it's long and narrow and a bit more difficult to enjoy. Parking can also be a bit of a bear, since there are something like three spots, rather than the monstrous lot that can be found at Freedom (or the huge lot at Marshall, which is probably larger than the grass).
Still, it's a nice area, whether you are interested in the ball field, strolling the path, or just hanging out by the fountain. Definitely worth a look.