Hi Reader,

Sometimes you don’t have to travel far to enjoy a great adventure. This summer, Gary and I attended two concerts, one in Charlotte and another close to home in Greensboro.

Traveling to Charlotte for a Summer Concert

We traveled to Charlotte for an outdoor concert featuring Foreigner and Lynyrd Skynyrd. Both bands put on a great show, and we were lucky to have temperatures in the 70s that evening.

We did have a rain shower right at the end of Foreigner’s set, but we had checked the weather before leaving and packed our raincoats. That small amount of preparation made a big difference.

We stayed at the Hyatt Place University, a nice hotel located close to the concert venue. Instead of paying the higher food prices inside, we picked up Firehouse Subs before the concert.

We drove to the amphitheater, where parking was free. Since we arrived shortly before the gates opened, traffic wasn’t too bad. The venue was fine overall, although there was some smoking, which I didn’t particularly enjoy.

Finding a Great Local Breakfast

The next morning, we discovered Vavela Cafe. I found it through the American Airlines Dining Advantage app, which I often check when we’re traveling and aren’t sure where to eat.

The recommendations are usually helpful, and we earned a few American Airlines miles from our purchase. We really enjoyed the mini pancakes, coffee, and refresher. Finding a new local coffee shop made the morning even better.

What We Packed

We brought our clear stadium backpack, which we like because it has several pockets for organizing items and two bottle holders.

Inside, we carried:

• Raincoats
• Bottled water
• A few snacks
• A portable charger

If the weather had been as hot as it was the previous week, we would’ve packed handheld fans, too.

Tips for Attending an Outdoor Concert

• Check the weather forecast before you leave.
• Pack a raincoat or poncho if rain is possible.
• Review the venue’s bag policy.
• Confirm whether bottled water and snacks are allowed.
• Eat before entering if venue food is expensive.
• Check parking costs and availability.
• Bring a portable charger.
• Pack a fan during hot summer weather.
• Arrive near the time gates open to avoid heavy traffic.

Don’t Forget Concerts Close to Home

We also attended an Air Supply concert in Greensboro. That show was only a short drive from home, which made it especially easy.

There’s something wonderful about seeing a favorite band without needing a hotel or complicated travel plans. Whether you travel to another city or attend a concert in your hometown, live music makes a fun summer outing.

With a little planning, you can stay comfortable, save money, and enjoy the show.

Have you attended a summer concert this year?

Until next time,

Melodie
​Travel Must Do's​

P.S. Join the Come Travel with Melodie Facebook group to share travel tips, ask questions, and connect with fellow travelers.

P.P.S. Some links may be affiliate links, which means if you click and buy something, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting Travel Must Do's.