A- Overview:
Charlotte has the air of a congenial southern town, where hospitality is taken seriously and guests are made to feel not only welcome but at home. At the same time, it is a bustling cosmopolitan city, and also home to the NFL Panthers and the NBA Hornets.
Charlotte’s outdoor activities include sightseeing in the surrounding countryside as well as a number of more structured events. Charlotte offers over 14,000 acres of parks and 17 designated recreation centers. Charlotte Metro Zoo prides itself on letting visitors “see the animals up close at a safe distance,” including its prized collection of large primates, bears, and big cats. The Lazy 5 Ranch allows visitors to drive through a real ranch and look at over 600 animals. Visitors can enjoy the 3 ½ miles safari drive in their own cars or in horse-drawn wagons. Some outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Balloons Over Carolina, offering one-hour balloon rides over Charlotte and the surrounding environs 7 days a week. Two large lakes nearby encourage a variety of water sports including water skiing, boating and fishing.
The city’s museums and galleries display many of the much sought after crafts produced by area residents. The Brem House Artisans Gallery and the Fieldcrest Cannon Textile Museum offer visitors a look at local handicrafts from times past and from the present. The First Light Fine-Craft Gallery and the Harris Holt Gallery also showcase local artists and their creative talents. For more traditional art offerings, visitors should seek out the Mint Art Museum, the first art museum in North Carolina. Children love Discovery Place, which is rated one of the top hands-on science museums in the country.
North Carolina has become one of the nation’s premiere vacation spots in recent years, and Charlotte is the ideal place to begin an exploration of this remarkable state. Natural splendor is only a short drive in any direction, whether one is looking for spectacular beaches or for the Blue Ridge Mountains. There is so much to see and explore in this family friendly southern city. Some parts of the itinerary can be planned in advance, but leave room in the schedule for the enjoyable discoveries that will be sure to occur during a Charlotte, North Carolina vacation.
B- City Information:
Population: 540,828
Elevation: 850 feet above sea level
Land Area: 242.3 square miles
Location: Located in the southwestern section of North Carolina, only 15 miles from the South Carolina border, at the intersection of Interstate 77 from the north and south and Interstate 85 from the southwest and northeast
Time Zone: Eastern Time Zone (when it’s noon in Charlotte, it’s 11am in Chicago and 9am in Los Angeles)
Average Temperatures:
Month
High
Low
January
51F
31F
February
55F
33F
March
63F
40F
April
72F
48F
May
79F
57F
June
86F
65F
July
90F
70F
August
88F
68F
September
82F
62F
October
72F
50F
November
62F
41F
December
53F
34F
Local Seasons:
Charlotte is a four season city. The summer does tend to be busier as a result of the city’s convenient location to major interstate highways. In addition, with a moderate climate year round, any season is ideal for a visit. In the summer daytime temperatures can reach into the low 90s F but with the nights dropping to the 60s, it is quite pleasant. Spring and fall are very beautiful due to the changing of the seasons. With ideal temperatures, it’s the perfect time to experience Nature’s seasonal changes. During these times, the city and its surrounding area abound with a multitude of color. Winters are equally temperate with very little snow.
How to Get There:
By Air
Charlotte – Douglas International Airport
6501 Old Dowd
Charlotte, NC 28219
704-359-4000
Ground Transportation:
Most of the major car rental companies as well as taxi and limousine service is available at the airport and throughout the city.
By Car
Major routes into Charlotte are I-85 from the northeast and southwest, and I-77 from the north and south.
By Bus
Greyhound
601 W Trade St.
Charlotte, NC 28202
704-375-3332
By Train
Amtrak
1914 North Tryon St.
Charlotte, NC 28206
800-USA-RAIL
How to Get Around:
Due to the many sites and attractions available in and around Charlotte, the easiest way to get around is by car, either personal or rental.
National Holidays:
New Year’s Day, Jan. 1
Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, 3rd Mon. in Jan.
President’s Day, 3rd Mon. in Feb.
Memorial Day, last Mon. in May
Independence Day, July 4
Labor Day, 1st Mon. in Sept.
Thanksgiving Day, 4th Thurs. in Nov.
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, Dec. 24 and 25
New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31
C- Attractions/Things To Do:
Wing Haven Gardens and Bird Sanctuary
248 Ridgewood Avenue
Charlotte, NC 28209
Once a private residence, Wing Haven features four acres filled with woods, formal gardens and walks. The gardens, designed as a bird sanctuary, provide plenty of food and shelter for numerous species of birds. Visitors can also tour the home and visit the garden shop.
UNC-Charlotte Botanical Gardens
9201 University City Blvd
Charlotte, NC 28223
704-547-2555
These gardens feature hundreds of varieties of flowers, from roses to rhododendron to crepe myrtles to cymbidium orchids. The Van Landingham Glen, one of the leading rhododendron gardens in the Southeast, and the Susie Harwood Garden with its Oriental gazebo, winter garden, and plants from around the world, are both open to the public daily during daylight hours. A special highlight of the Greenhouse is a two-story simulated rain forest. The Greenhouse also offers a number of other climate areas which house desert plants, winter-flowering orchids, carnivorous pitcher plants and many others.
The Energy Explorium at Lake Norman
13339 Hagers Ferry Rd
Huntersville, NC 28078
704-875-5600
Located at McGuire Nuclear Station, the Explorium features a a number of hands-on exhibits and interactive games designed to introduce and educate kids about the wonders of atomic power generation. The Explorium also offers a mile-long nature trail, wildflower garden, and picnic area.
Paramount’s Carowinds Water and Theme Park
14523 Carowinds Blvd
Charlotte, NC
704-588-2600
Paramount’s Carowinds Water and Theme Park commands over 100 acres and includes more than 50 roller coasters and thrill rides. The WaterWorks boasts water slides, a river ride, and a wave pool. The Drop Zone hoists you and your loved ones up 100 feet and (safely) drops you. The Carolina Cyclone coaster includes four consecutive 360-degree loops and a 450-degree uphill helix. Top Gun: The Jet Coaster is an inverted steel coaster (the only one in the Carolinas) with floorless cars suspended below the track. For a break from the thrill seeking, visitors might want to head to the Family Fun area that features child friendly attractions and rides, with several life-size Hanna-Barbera and Nickelodeon cartoon characters roaming the streets.
Carolina Raptor Center
6000 Sample Rd
Huntersville, NC 28078
704-875-6521
Visitors to the Carolina Raptor Center can watch these magnificent wild birds. Located within the Latta Preserve complex, the Raptor Center is an outdoor recreation spot. The center focuses on research and rehabilitation, helping injured birds heal and return safely into the wild. Indoor facilities house a visitor center and exhibits, while outdoor attractions include aviaries.
Charlotte Metro Zoo
4400 Cook Rd
Rockwell, NC 28138
704-279-6363
Large cats, primates, bears, and reptiles call this zoo home, and there is a large petting zoo. Bring a lunch and enjoy the picnic facilities.
Charlotte Museum of History
3500 Shamrock Dr
Charlotte, NC 28215
Recently expanded to cover 36,000 square feet, the Charlotte Museum of History now emphasizes three themes: freedom, the influence of our environment, and the changing face of Charlotte. The museum is near the Hezekiah Alexander house, home to a Carolinian who signed the Declaration of Independence and co-framed the first North Carolina State Constitution and Bill of Rights. Built in 1774, it is the oldest original structure in Charlotte and Mecklenburg County. On the homesite tour, guides in authentic colonial dress show visitors around. The museum’s collection of art and objects from around the world, date from pre-colonial times to the present.
Charlotte Trolley and Museum
2104 South Blvd
Charlotte, NC 28203
704-375-0850
This museum features the last surviving trolley (since 1938) in Charlotte. The trolley ride goes 1/2 mile from Atherton Mill and back again. The conductors point out items of interest along the way, making this a good tour of the area. The Museum contains several trolley cars in the process of being renovated; also offered are historical displays on the role of the streetcar in Charlotte’s history, photos of trolleys around the world, and the trolley-themed gift shop.
Crowders Mountain State Park
25 miles west of Charlotte
701-853-5375
Crowders Mountain State Park will challenge the experienced as well as the novice climber, and is perfect for both lead and top-rope climbing. For the hiker, Crowders offers 12 miles of scenic, and somewhat strenuous, hiking trails. Spacious picnic areas and a nine-acre lake with canoe rentals are also available within the park.
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
6500 S. New Hope Rd
Belmont, NC 28012
704-825-9286
The gardens are located on the banks of Lake Wylie and have recently expanded to 110 acres comprising four major gardens: the Perennial garden, the Cottage garden, the Four Seasons garden and the Canal garden. The gardens’ managers have designed a Southern-style visitors’ center framed by enormous white columns and topped with an authentic stained glass roof. With many species ranging from crepe myrtle and gromfina to roses and sweet potato plants, the Botanical Garden offers much to see and to delight the eye.
Discovery Place
301 N. Tryon St.
Charlotte, NC 28202
704-372-6261
This museum features some of the coolest science exhibits around, including the “Sparks, Anyone?” electricity demonstration of an enormous Van der Graaf generator crackling with menacing-appearing blue lightning bolts. There’s also a giant walk-through replica of a human eyeball and an assortment of animatronic dinosaurs, complete with sound effects. A three-story rainforest, aquarium, NASA control-room simulation, and other hands-on areas offer more than enough to keep children and adults busy and entertained.
Historic Latta Plantation
5225 Sample Rd
Huntersville, NC 28078
704-875-2312
The house, built in the early 1800s by prosperous traveling merchant James Latta, has been carefully restored and refurbished with antiques approximating, as closely as possible, the Lattas’ original furnishings. Several personable and knowledgeable costumed guides lead tours throughout the two-story, Federal-style home. Visitors should be prepared to make a day of it: Latta Place is just one of Latta Plantation Park’s many offerings. The Carolina Raptor Center, an Equestrian Center, canoe rentals, and picnic areas also await guests.
Independence Park
Charlotte, NC 28204
704-336-3854
Newly remodeled Independence Park is located in the popular Elizabeth and Chantilly neighborhoods near the hospitals and downtown Charlotte. The park has big playgrounds with new, lead-free equipment for the kids including a special toddler area, as well as soccer fields, basketball courts and nearby tennis courts.
NASCAR Silicon Motor Speedway
Concord Mills Shopping Mall
704-979-3000
Anyone who’s ever thought about driving a real Winston Cup racing car should visit this part of the Concord Mills Shopping Mall. Visitors strap themselves into one of 12 fully-equipped, 750-horsepower interactive stock cars and take it for a virtual spin. All the motions, sights and sounds of the raceway are there.
D- Family Fun Attractions:
Wing Haven Gardens and Bird Sanctuary
248 Ridgewood Avenue
Charlotte, NC 28209
Once a private residence, Wing Haven features four acres filled with woods, formal gardens and walks. The gardens, designed as a bird sanctuary, provide food and shelter for numerous species of birds. Visitors can also tour the home and visit the garden shop.
UNC-Charlotte Botanical Gardens
9201 University City Blvd
Charlotte, NC 28223
704-547-2555
These gardens feature hundreds of varieties of flowers, from roses to rhododendron to crepe myrtles to cymbidium orchids. The Van Landingham Glen, one of the leading rhododendron gardens in the Southeast, and the Susie Harwood Garden with its Oriental gazebo, winter garden, and plants from around the world, are both open to the public daily during daylight hours. A special highlight of the Greenhouse is a two-story simulated rain forest. The Greenhouse also offers a number of other climate areas which house desert plants, winter-flowering orchids, carnivorous pitcher plants, and many others.
The Energy Explorium at Lake Norman
13339 Hagers Ferry Rd
Huntersville, NC 28078
704-875-5600
Located at McGuire Nuclear Station, the Explorium features a a number of hands-on exhibits and interactive games designed to introduce and educate kids about the wonders of atomic power generation. The Explorium also offers a mile-long nature trail, wildflower garden, and picnic area.
Paramount’s Carowinds Water and Theme Park
14523 Carowinds Blvd
Charlotte, NC
704-588-2600
Paramount’s Carowinds Water and Theme Park commands over 100 acres and includes more than 50 roller coasters and thrill rides. The WaterWorks boasts water slides, a river ride, and a wave pool. The Drop Zone hoists you and your loved ones up100 feet and gives you a serious scare as it (safely) drops you. The Carolina Cyclone coaster includes four consecutive 360-degree loops and a 450-degree uphill helix. Top Gun: The Jet Coaster is an inverted steel coaster (the only one in the Carolinas) with floorless cars suspended below the track. For a break from the thrill seeking, visitors might want to head to the Family Fun area that features kid-paced attractions and rides, with several life-size Hanna-Barbera and Nickelodeon cartoon characters roaming the streets.
Charlotte Metro Zoo
4400 Cook Rd
Rockwell, NC 28138
704-279-6363
Large cats, primates, bears and reptiles call this zoo home, and there’s a large petting zoo. Bring a lunch and enjoy the picnic facilities.
Charlotte Museum of History
3500 Shamrock Dr
Charlotte, NC 28215
Recently expanded to cover 36,000 square feet, the Charlotte Museum of History now emphasizes three themes: freedom, the influence of our environment, and the changing face of Charlotte. The museum is near the Hezekiah Alexander house, home to a Carolinian who signed the Declaration of Independence and co-framed the first North Carolina State Constitution and Bill of Rights. Built in 1774, it’s the oldest original structure in Charlotte and Mecklenburg County. On the home site tour, guides in authentic colonial dress show visitors around. After checking out the house, enjoy the museum’s collection of art and objects from around the world, dating from pre-colonial times to the present.
Charlotte Trolley and Museum
2104 South Blvd
Charlotte, NC 28203
704-375-0850
This museum features the last surviving trolley (since 1938) in Charlotte. The trolley ride will take you about 1/2 mile to Atherton Mill and back again. The conductors point out items of interest along the way, for a good tour of the area. The Museum contains several trolley cars in the process of being renovated; also offered are historical displays on the role of the streetcar in Charlotte’s history, photos of trolleys around the world, and the trolley-themed gift shop.
Crowders Mountain State Park
25 miles west of Charlotte
701-853-5375
Crowders Mountain State Park will challenge the experienced as well as the novice climber, and is perfect for both lead and top-rope climbing. For the hiker, Crowders offers 12 miles of scenic, and somewhat strenuous, hiking trails. Spacious picnic areas and a nine-acre lake with canoe rentals are also available within the park.
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
6500 S. New Hope Rd
Belmont, NC 28012
704-825-9286
The gardens are located on the banks of Lake Wylie and have expanded to 110 new acres comprising four major gardens: the Perennial garden, the Cottage garden, the Four Seasons garden and the Canal garden. The gardens’ managers have designed a Southern-style visitors center framed by enormous white columns and topped with an authentic stained glass roof. With many species ranging from crepe myrtle and gromfina to roses and sweet potato plants, the Botanical Garden offers much to see.
Discovery Place
301 N. Tryon St.
Charlotte, NC 28202
704-372-6261
This museum features some of the coolest science exhibits around, including the “Sparks, Anyone?” electricity demonstration of an enormous Van der Graaf generator crackling with menacing-appearing blue lightning bolts. There’s also a giant walk-through replica of a human eyeball and an assortment of animatronic dinosaurs, complete with sound effects. A three-story rainforest, aquarium, NASA control-room simulation, and other hands-on areas offer plenty to keep kids and adults busy.
Historic Latta Plantation
5225 Sample Rd
Huntersville, NC 28078
704-875-2312
The house, built in the early 1800s by prosperous traveling merchant James Latta, has been carefully restored and refurbished with antiques approximating, as closely as possible, the Lattas’ original furnishings. Several personable and knowledgeable costumed guides lead tours throughout the two-story, Federal-style home. Visitors should be prepared to make a day of it: Latta Place is just one of Latta Plantation Park’s many offerings. The Carolina Raptor Center, an Equestrian Center, canoe rentals, and picnic areas also await guests.
Independence Park
Charlotte, NC 28204
704-336-3854
Newly remodeled Independence Park is located in the popular Elizabeth and Chantilly neighborhoods near the hospitals and downtown Charlotte. The park has extensive playgrounds with new, lead-free equipment for the children, including a special toddler area, as well as soccer fields, basketball courts and nearby tennis courts.
E- Events & Entertainment:
Charlotte Events & Entertainment
January
A Scots-Irish Twelfth Night Celebration
Held in early January
Location: Charlotte Museum of History
704-568-1774
Celebrate a tradition of old the way the Alexander Family may have. Frolick with costumes docents and interpreters, tour the 1774 Hezekiah Alexander House, participate with colonial dancers at the Twelfth Night Ball, and learn about the traditions of this historic celebration, including the Twelfth Night Cake.
Charlotte Observer Marathon Run for Peach
Held in early – mid January
Location: Charlotte Observer Building
704-358-5798
Marathon begins at 8AM, The 10K begins at 8:30AM at The Charlotte Observer Building; The 5K Walk begins at 9AM in front of The Charlotte Observer Building.
February
Africa Alive
Held in late February
Location: Museum of York County
803-329-2121
March
From Your Nose to Your Toes Health Festival
Held in early March
Location: Discovery Place
704-372-6261
Annual health festival for the entire family. Good health equals good life.
Charlotte Mime Festival & Circus
Held in late March
Location: Blumenthal Performing Arts Center
704-372-1000
Awe-inspiring aerial circus skills, comedy, juggling and subtle European clowning combine in this theatrically spectacular show featuring Cirque du Soleil and Ringling Bros. Circus performers.
May
Smokin” Bluz Festival
Held in early May
Location: Lowe’s Motor Speedway
704-455-3200
Annual celebration at the Speedway
Lake Norman Festival
Held in mid May
Location: Lake Norman
704-664-3898
Annual festival with fun and activities for the entire family.
Celebration on Trade & Tryon
Held in mid May
Location: Main Library Auditorium
704-336-2980
The laying of a wreath at Settler’s Cemetery.
The Greater Hickory Smoke Barbeque Festival
Held in late May
Location: Catawba Furniture Mall
828-345-1445
Southwest Business Association of Hickory announces the annual Greater Hickory Smoke BBQ Festival with all proceeds to benefit Sipes Orchard Home and Catawba Valley Habitat for Humanity.
June
National Balloon Rally
Held in early June
Location: Iredell Country Fairgrounds
704-873-2892
See beautiful hot air balloons as well as a host of activities at this annual event. Fun for the whole family.
Mid Summer Festival at the Schiele Museum
Held in mid June
Location: Schiele Museum
704-866-6900
The Schiele Museum offers exceptional opportunities for families and visitors of all ages to see the region’s rocks and minerals, hills and rivers, plants and animals with fresh wonder.
August
Caribbean Festival
Held in mid – late August
Location: Marshall Park
704-598-7644
Join in the all of the Caribbean festivities at this annual all day family event.
September
Charlotte Shout
Held in early – late September
Location: Throughout Charlotte
704-332-1800
More than 200 events all across Charlotte celebrating art, music, culture, and food.
Our State Magazine’s Best of Our State
Held in early September
Location: Ballantyne Resort
704-332-2227
A festival to celebrate the arts, crafts, culture, music and food that makes North Carolina unique.
Food Lion Auto Fair
Held in mid September
Location: Lowe’s Motor Speedway
704-455-3205
The four-day Food Lion AutoFair includes a car show featuring various makes and models from nearly 50 clubs; thousands of vendor spaces that offer a plethora of automotive parts and memorabilia; and a car corral with nearly 2,000 vehicles of all makes and models available for sale or trade.
Festival in the Park
Held in late September
Location: Freedom Park
704-338-1060
A fun day for the entire family at this annual popular event.
Murray’s Mill Harvest Festival
Held in late September
Location: Murray’s Mill Historic District
828-465-9383
Come and join the festivities! There is molasses making, bee keeping, petting zoo, farrier, gold panning, Civil War re-enactors, apple cider making, quilting, blacksmith, steam engines & antique farm machinery, butter & apple butter making, to name a few. Come browse the wares of craftsmen, local potters and woodcarvers as well.
October
Annual Carolina Renaissance Festival
Held weekends early October – mid November
Location: Charlotte
704-896-5544
Looking for an uplifting good time? The Renaissance is back and you can be part of one of the greatest parties since Camelot!
Beerfest
Held in early October
Location: Wine Vault @ the Shoppes at University Place
704-548-9463
A benefit for the Charlotte 49er Athletic Foundation. 20 Breweries with 75 beers; live music; food by Boardwalk Billy’s.
UNC Charlotte International Festival
Held in early October
Location: UNC Charlotte
704-687-2410
Follow your nose to global delicacies at the annual multicultural International Festival at UNC Charlotte.
Haunting Creatures of Halloween
Held in late October
Location: Schiele Museum
704-866-6900
Have fun at this annual Halloween event.
November
Annual Carolina Pottery Festival
Held in mid November
Location: Cleveland County Fairgrounds
A one day pottery-only festival featuring the works of over 85 local and regional potters. A fine variation of work, ranging from dinnerware and serving pieces to sculptural and decorative art are available for purchase, with each piece hand crafted and the artists present to discuss their work and answer questions as to inspiration, use and care of these created objects.
Annual Carolina Renaissance Festival
Held weekends through mid November
Location: Charlotte
704-896-5544
Looking for an uplifting good time? The Renaissance is back and you can be part of one of the greatest parties since Camelot!
Harvest Day
Held in late November
Location: Schiele Museum
704-866-6900
The Schiele Museum offers exceptional opportunities for families and visitors of all ages to see the region’s rocks and minerals, hills and rivers, plants and animals with fresh wonder.
Souvenir Blow-Out
Held in late November
Location: Lowe’s Motor Speedway
704-455-3204
NASCAR enthusiasts will have the opportunity to fulfill their dream of driving around Lowe’s Motor Speedway during the Souvenir Blow-Out.
Annual Love Lights
Held in late November
Location: Freedom Park Lake
704-814-4567
The Pilot Club of Charlotte, Inc. lights thousands of luminaries during its Annual “Love Lights” around Freedom Park. This will benefit Alzheimer’s research.
December
Celtic Traditions Festival
Held in mid December
Location: The Charlotte Museum of History
704-568-1774
Celebrate the rich Celtic heritage of this region at this annual festival! Enjoy traditional Irish and Scottish dance, bagpipes, contemporary Celtic music, and more at The Charlotte Museum of History. Young people will enjoy Celtic craft making in the Hands-on-History Room.
Continental Tire Bowl Uptown Street Festival
Held in late December
Location: Trade & Tryon Streets
800-618-8149
Come out and enjoy the prelude to the Continental Tire Bowl. There are interactive games & rides, live entertainment, team appearances, cheerleaders and team band performances.
Continental Tire bowl
Held in late December
Location: Bank of America Stadium
800-618-8149
The Continental Tire Bowl brings the passion and excitement of college football to Charlotte and the Carolinas. The game features teams from the ACC and the Big East.
Entertainment
Charlotte Opera
345 N. College Street
Charlotte, NC 28202
704-332-7177
Call for performance schedule
The mission of Opera Carolina is to inspire and entertain the region’s diverse community through the presentation of excellent Opera, Operetta, Music Theater and Education & Outreach Programs that elevate the quality of life in the Carolinas.
Charlotte Symphony Orchestra
201 South College Street
Charlotte, NC 28244
704-972-2000
Call for performance schedule
Afro-American Cultural Center
401 North Myers Street
Charlotte, NC 28202
704-374-1565
Call for additional information
The center was established in 1974 and offers exhibits, educational programs, fascinating facts, music, theatre, dance and more.
Booth Playhouse
Founders Hall
130 North Tryon St.
Charlotte, NC 28202
704-372-1000
A 434-seat facility, the Booth Playhouse is a courtyard-style proscenium theater. The theater has the capability for theater-in-the-round. Generally, the Booth Playhouse hosts choral, dance and musical ensembles.
Paladium Amphitheatre at Paramount’s Carowinds
14523 Carowinds Boulevard
Charlotte, NC 28202
704-588-2600
Outdoor amphitheater which seats 13,000. Concerts are presented mid-spring through mid-fall.
Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre
707 Pavilion Boulevard
Charlotte, NC 28262
704-549-1292
State-of-the-art amphitheatre with concerts held May through October.
Sports
Carolina Panthers – NFL
Professional Football
800 South Mint Street
Charlotte, NC 28202
704-358-7000
Season runs September – January
Charlotte Bobcats – NBA
Games played at the Uptown Arena
129 W. Trade Street
Charlotte, NC 28202
704-BOBCATS
Season runs October – April
Charlotte Sting
Professional Women’s Basketball
129 West Trade Street
Charlotte, NC 28202
704-357-0252
Season runs May – September
Lowe’s Motor Speedway
Professional Race Car Racing
5555 Concord Parkway South
Concord, NC 28027
704-455-3200
Call for racing schedule and additional information