Getting to & Around Charlotte
Everything you need to plan your travel to the American Evaluation Association's Evaluation 2026 Conference — from flights and trains to local transit and parking.
Flying to Charlotte
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Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is the primary gateway for Evaluation 2026 attendees flying in from across the country and internationally. It is one of the busiest airports in the United States and serves as American Airlines' second-largest hub, offering direct service to more than 160 domestic and international destinations.
Charlotte Douglas International (CLT)
Located approximately 7 miles west of Uptown Charlotte — typically a 15–25 minute drive to the Convention Center, depending on traffic. Open 24 hours. One terminal with five concourses.
Piedmont Triad International (GSO)
Located in Greensboro, NC — roughly 90 miles northeast of Charlotte. A viable option for those flying regional carriers or finding significantly lower fares. Rental car recommended from GSO.
Raleigh-Durham International (RDU)
Located approximately 170 miles east of Charlotte. Best paired with Amtrak's Piedmont line, which connects Raleigh and Charlotte directly. Rental car or train service available.
Pro Tip:
Charlotte Douglas is American Airlines' major hub, which often means the most competitive fares and the most direct routes from major cities. We recommend booking flights into CLT for the most convenient experience.
Getting from the Airport to the Convention Center
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All ground transportation options depart from the lower level (Arrivals/Baggage Claim) of the terminal. The Charlotte Convention Center is located in Uptown Charlotte, approximately 7 miles from CLT.
Rideshare (Uber & Lyft)
Both Uber and Lyft operate at CLT. Pick up at Arrivals/Baggage Claim Level, Zone 4. Average fare to Uptown Charlotte runs approximately $20–$30; average trip time is around 17 minutes. Uber Reserve allows advance scheduling up to 90 days out — ideal for early morning arrivals.
CATS Sprinter (Route 5)
The CATS Sprinter bus runs directly between Charlotte Douglas and the Charlotte Transportation Center in Uptown. Departs from Zone D, Baggage Claim level. Journey takes approximately 30 minutes. Budget-friendly and reliable — check charlottenc.gov/CATS for current fares and schedules.
Taxi
Taxis are available curbside at the lower level with an attendant on duty daily from 6:45 AM to 12:15 AM ET. Expect to pay approximately $25–$35 to the city center, depending on traffic and destination. Please note that exact rates may vary, and tipping is widely expected though not obligatory.
Private Car & Shuttle
Pre-arranged limousine and private shuttle services are available. Companies include Karmel Connect and Superior Car Service, offering fixed-rate pricing with no surge costs. Reservations must be made in advance — check visitor information boards in Baggage Claim for options.
Rental Car
Nine rental companies (Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Thrifty, and others) operate from the Consolidated Rental Car Facility on Level 2 of the Hourly Parking Deck. Exit the terminal lower level and follow the covered walkways. Note: Uptown parking costs can add up over a multi-day conference stay.
Hotel Courtesy Shuttles
Many downtown and Uptown hotels operate complimentary shuttle services from CLT. Check with your hotel when making your reservation. Visitor information centers in Baggage Claim can provide current schedules and contact numbers.
Arriving by Train (Amtrak)
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Charlotte is well-connected by Amtrak and is the busiest Amtrak station in North Carolina — and one of the busiest in the Southeast. Three routes serve the city, making train travel a practical and comfortable option for attendees traveling from the mid-Atlantic, Northeast, and Southeast.
The Charlotte Amtrak Station is located approximately 1.5 miles northeast of Uptown Charlotte. It is not walkable to the Convention Center — plan to use a rideshare, taxi, or CATS bus (Route 11) upon arrival.
| Route |
Key Cities Served |
Frequency |
| Carolinian |
Charlotte → Raleigh → Durham → Richmond → Washington, D.C. → Philadelphia → New York Penn Station |
1 train daily each direction |
| Piedmont |
Charlotte ↔ Kannapolis → Salisbury → High Point → Greensboro → Burlington → Durham → Raleigh Union Station |
Multiple trains daily (NC regional service) |
| Crescent |
New York → Washington, D.C. → Charlotte → Atlanta → Birmingham → New Orleans |
1 train daily each direction (overnight) |
Station to Convention Center
Take CATS Route 11 (North Tryon) bus to the Charlotte Transportation Center in Uptown, then walk to the Convention Center (~10 min). Or use Uber/Lyft for a direct 5–8 minute ride (~$10–$15).
Parking Near the Convention Center
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The Charlotte Convention Center does not offer on-site parking. However, numerous garages and lots are within easy walking distance in Uptown. We strongly recommend pre-booking parking for conference days, as spaces fill quickly during large events. Rates typically range from $7 to $37 per day depending on the facility, time, and whether advance booking is used.
Pre-booking a parking spot through SpotHero, ParkMobile, or ParkWhiz typically offers lower rates than paying at the gate. Event pricing may apply during peak conference days — lock in your rate early.