Guide to Charlotte's highways

For those traveling to Charlotte soon or relocating, it's important to learn the lay of the land. There are four major Charlotte highways: Interstate 85, Interstate 77, Interstate 485 and Interstate 277. Read on for more information about these highways, including major destinations found on each.

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Interstate 85
Interstate 85 is a major highway that runs through the Southeastern region of the United States, including Charlotte. In Charlotte, Interstate 85 notable destinations include the Charlotte Douglas International Airport and the hip area of the city otherwise known as Uptown Charlotte until it reaches Interstate 77.

Interstate 77
Interstate 77, otherwise known as I-77, is a highway that includes more than 100 miles of road within North Carolina and more specifically within Charlotte. The highway actually starts at the South Carolina state line and connects through Center City. Interstate 77 is chiefly a north and south corridor highway, which means it connects the north and southern suburbs, such as Pineville and Davidson, with the more central parts of the city.

Interstate 485
Considered to be an Outer Belt highway, Interstate 485 in Charlotte encircles the perimeter of the city for a total of 68 miles. Attractions that can accessed through I-485 include PNC Music Pavilion, Concord Mills Mall, Charlotte Motor Speedway and President James K. Polk Historic Site.

Interstate 277
For those mostly traveling in downtown Charlotte, drivers should be familiar with Interstate 277. This highway is a downtown beltway that loops around the center of the city. Bank of America Stadium, NASCAR Hall of Fame and The Spectrum Center are notable destinations along this route.