Charlotte will forever have my heart. I stay there from August to May, and I still find new things to do when I visit over the summer. Here's some things you have to try.

1. Amelie's

I probably spent more time here than I did in class. It's a french bakery that's open 24/7. From macaroons and eclairs to sandwiches and soups, they have it all. It's the best place to study or go after a night out, if you ask me.

2. Smelly Cat Coffeehouse

If you're a Friends fan, then this is a must see. It's a really cool place with great coffee. They also have really cute mugs for sale, so if you're a die hard fan I recommend making a stop in.

3. EpiCentre

Charlotte's night life is pretty, Suite. Don't forget to check out Suite, Label, Prohibition, etc. especially if you're a college student from somewhere else looking to have some fun.

4. Carolina Panthers or Charlotte Knights

Considering the Panthers went to the super bowl this year, i'm dead set on going to at least one game next year. I have been to a Knights game, the view is incredible.

5. Romare Bearden Park

When you first get here, you'll wonder why I said you should come here. It's like a mini Central Park, in Charlotte. You are surrounded by sky scrapers, Knights Stadium, beautiful sculptures, etc. It's a nice place to go for a picnic, and for pictures of course.

6. Metalmorphosis

It's a giant head, I don't know why it's so cool but it is.

7. Fahrenheit

You can eat here, and get an amazing view of uptown Charlotte. It's definitely on my bucket list, mostly for the picture.

8. U.S. National White Water Center

Okay, maybe don't go right now, but when this whole amoeba thing clears up you should go. It's not too expensive considering the zip lining and water rafting is an unforgettable experience.

9. Food Truck Friday

Food Truck Friday sounds kind of sketchy, I know. But it has became one of Charlotte's most talked about events. Starting with just three trucks and no customers, 14 trucks now serve hundreds if not thousands of people every Friday. It's a good experience compared to going to a regular restaurant to eat.

10. UNC Charlotte

You can't come to the Queen City and not check out the 49ers stomping ground. You'll fall in love with the campus' art and beautiful architecture. From the self-made man and Norm the miner to the tenth floor of Atkins Library, you'll want to see it all. Don't forget to check out our fairly new football stadium and support our fellow Niners.

11. Lazy 5 Ranch

Okay, so maybe this isn't exactly in Charlotte (Mooresville), but plenty of UNC Charlotte students visit this ranch. You pay $11 to drive through the woods where animals, including zebras, stick their heads into your windows to get food. It's by far my favorite place to take people. Plus, the ice cream is delicious.