Your Guide To Cafes in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia (2026 Edition)

***Please note that this Your Guide To Cafes in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia dining guide will be updated and recirculated periodically to reflect the most up-to-date Alexandria brunch scene. This guide was most recently updated as of June 2026.***

Whether a local spot or a well loved DMV area chain, there are several excellent cafes in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia to try! This dining guide will walk you through some of the many cafes in this historic district to give a try.

*Disclaimer: Please note that this post contains affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through one of my links, then I will receive a small commission. This commission is at no extra cost to you. Additionally, this post is not sponsored, and all opinions are my own.*

For more United States travel inspiration, check out my Exploring 50 States expedition page. For more Washington, DC area travel inspiration, check out my Exploring The DMV page.

Your Guide To Cafes in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia (2026 Edition)

This dining guide will focus on cafes in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia. If you are interested in checking out spots for all kinds of eats in Old Town Alexandria, then look no further than my dining guide and/or my spots for brunch guide. And, if you are interested in checking out wine bars in Alexandria, then check out my local wine bars guide. For small businesses to shop and support in Old Town Alexandria, then look no further than my local small businesses guide. If you’re venturing into Washington, DC and want a historic and very Washingtonian-like experience, then be sure to check out my Old Ebbitt Grill Restaurant Review.

Table of Contents

Plan Your Visit

Getting There

Cafes in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia

Plan Your Visit

If you’re visiting Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, then be sure to use this map to help you decide where to stay!

 

Getting There

Weekends (and occasionally weekdays) are a popular time for diners, including for visiting cafes in Old Town Alexandria, so it is a busy time especially in the heart of Old Town. I recommend, regardless of how you choose to get there, that you plan ahead and allow for extra buffer time in case you are meeting someone at a particular cafe.

Parking: Parking can also be limited and a tricky thing to navigate especially when traveling to Old Town Alexandria, Virginia. If you opt to drive and park your car, then be mindful that it is a busy time especially on the weekends and be prepared to pay upwards of $20+ for parking, especially as you get closer to the waterfront.

Public Transportation: That being said, I highly recommend, from personal experience, using public transportation via Metro (King Street-Old Town Station is accessible via Metro’s Blue and Yellow lines). It is worth noting that King Street Station is about a 20-30 minute walk to Old Town Alexandria’s waterfront and the heart of its historic district. The walk is pretty easy and a straight shot on the historic King Street (Old Town’s main street!) and a fun way to get to know the charming town and its several small businesses and people. However, if you’re not up for walking, then don’t fret! Old Town Alexandria also has the DART Bus and King Street Trolley’s, which are free shuttles to visitors to use to/from King Street Station. When using Metro, be sure to plan your trip via WMATA’s Trip Planner which has the most up-to-date information, as sometimes stations are closed due to maintenance or there are train delays.

Cafes in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia

Call Your Mother Deli (1300 King Street) – Having several locations across the Washington, DC area and in Colorado, Call Your Mother Deli is a well-known deli and bagel shop and cafe paying homage to its owners’ Jewish roots. Call Your Mother has an adorable branding of pink and teal and has beautiful interiors!

Cherry On Top (1021 Queen Street) – A newly-opened as of June 2026 woman-owned coffee and wine bar that also doubles as an event and community gathering space, Cherry On Top is more than just a coffee and wine bar: it’s a spot to bring together people from all walks of life.

Dolci Gelati (107 North Fairfax Street) – Offering free samples and delicious gelato and coffee, I had an amazing time and will be coming back for more gelato at Dolci Gelati! It’s location is in close proximity to Market Square – the heart of Old Town Alexandria’s downtown and home to the historic Alexandria City Clerk and Clerk of Council Building alongside several town events and festivities and the weekly farmers market – making it a perfect stop along an Old Town Alexandria walking journey!

Eclairons (430 South Washington Street) – Proudly serving French and Lebanese desserts and coffee for over 30 years made by owner Chef Toni Srour, Eclairons has recently opened a brand-new location in Old Town Alexandria. 

Fontaine Caffe & Creperie (119 South Royal Street) – A gorgeous French-inspired cafe and creperie serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well as wine, beer, and cocktails. I have passed by Fontaine Caffe & Creperie on a few occasions and knew I would LOVE dining there before having a wonderful dining experience with my college best friend Hannah when she came to visit from North Carolina. The atmosphere is adorable and the eats and drinks are delicious!

For Five Coffee (1800C Diagonal Road) – For Five Coffee started in Queens, New York in 2010 as a micro-roasting facility born from the dreams of two close friends. Since 2010, For Five Coffee has expanded as a well-known cafe across the Washington, DC area and beyond. 

Homegrown Alexandria (1600 King Street) – A breakfast and brunch spot serving locally-sourced and homegrown delights, Homegrown, located in the boutique Archer Hotel, is a popular and affordable place to grab a delicious bite or grab a coffee at their bar. Their pancakes (with a gluten-free option) are to die for good and don’t taste as if they are gluten-free, too, and is something that I am still craving since trying them a few months ago! The staff at Homegrown are extremely friendly, too, and make everyone feel right at home. It is worth noting that Homegrown does not take reservations, but they do have a call ahead list and it’s advised to get there early (before 9-10am) on weekends. Homegrown is also open until ~3pm daily.

LaPluma Coffee & Wine (1000 Cameron Street) – Celebrating Guatemalan and Salvadoran coffee and dishes including delicious churros, LaPluma Coffee & Wine truly is a place to work, catch up, or simply grab a cup of coffee and/or savor a glass of wine.

Lily’s Chocolate & Coffee (631 King Street) – A gorgeous Persian-inspired dessert shop and cafe owned by a woman and mother named Lily. Lily’s Chocolate & Coffee is all-things pretty and pink from the flower walls to the chocolate, tea, coffee, and desserts! Indeed, Lily’s is an excellent place to stop for a sweet refreshment while gallivanting the streets of Old Town Alexandria and perhaps snapping a photo, too.

Maman (701 King Street) – With locations all across the Washington, DC area including in Washington, DC’s Georgetown neighborhood and Fairfax’s Mosaic shopping center and a flagship location in New York City’s Soho, Maman is a whimsy and all-things grand millennial dream of a cafe. Maman serves up delicious pastries, eats, and cafe delights. It is worth noting that Maman is a popular spot and offers online ordering, which is suggested on the weekends due to the potential for limited seating.

Misha’s (6 Prince Street & 917 King Street) – An independent coffee shop and roaster with two locations in Old Town Alexandria, Misha’s has been serving local coffee and selling their coffee to customers since 1991. Misha’s location on Prince Street has a gorgeous rooftop section that is fun to enjoy in the warmer months (and remains on my bucket list!). One unique aspect of Misha’s is that their variety of coffee beans are on display for customers to see.

Starbucks (100 South Union Street) – While I try to steer clear of sharing chain restaurants like Starbucks in my dining guides, I do want to point out that the specific Starbucks on 100 South Union Street overlooking the Potomac River is pretty unique and a historic site within itself! The Starbucks’s interiors are stone-lined and represent Old Town Alexandria’s historic charm. There is a historic plaque in there to honor this Starbucks’ roots as the once Seaport Inn & Restaurant dating back to 1765. It is definitely my favorite Starbucks location due to its unique history!

Tatte (515 King Street) – Tatte has several locations across the Washington, DC area as well as the Boston area, however, I ALWAYS forget that there is a Tatte right in the heart of Old Town Alexandria! Tatte is a Mediterranean-inspired cafe selling everything from breakfast and lunch dishes to baked goods and pastries and coffee and tea. Each Tatte location has the most elegant and sophisticated flair and the staff are always ultra-kind and go above and beyond to ensure that each customer has a wonderful experience there. One thing to note about Tatte is that due to its high popularity, locals and tourists alike will flock here in crowds during peak breakfast and lunch times.

Turkish Coffee Lady (1001 King Street) – With an emphasis on women’s empowerment, Turkish Coffee Lady is a woman-owned cafe focused on bridging cross-cultural friendships between the United States and Turkey through brewing and serving Turkish coffee delights. 

Wrap-Up

One of the things I LOVE about many of the cafes in Old Town Alexandria is how they celebrate several cultures and bridge international friendships intentionally one sip at a time. Truly, coffee can bring people together and the cafes in Old Town Alexandria and their missions are a true testament of community.

XOXO – Katie <3 

thepinkchickadee1 Comment

Does Tuckernuck Have Sales?!

***Please note that this Does Tuckernuck Have Sales?! shopping guide will be updated and recirculated periodically to reflect the most up-to-date information. This review was most recently updated as of June 2026.***

You are definitely here for the sole reason of what many of us wonder: does Tuckernuck have sales?! We all know that Tuckernuck is an adorable preppy fashion brand that is pretty expensive, and we all LOVE a good deal! Keep scrolling to get an answer to … does Tuckernuck have sales?!

And, if you’re like me and LOVE Tuckernuck and other preppy brands such as Lilly Pulitzer and J Crew, then be sure to check out my brands like Tuckernuck and Tuckernuck Amazon Dupes guides. For my fellow Lilly lovers, be sure to check out my brands like Lilly Pulitzer and Lilly Pulitzer Amazon Dupes guides. If you love J Crew and other preppy brands, then be sure to check out my brands like J Crew, brands like Kate Spade, and brands like Banana Republic shopping guides.

*Disclaimer: Please note that this post contains affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through one of my links, then I will receive a small commission. This commission is at no extra cost to you. Additionally, this post is not sponsored, and all opinions are my own.*

For more preppy style & grand millennial home content, check out my Preppy Fashion & Grand Millennial Home page.

Interested in getting the latest scoop on all the preppy + grand millennial fashion and decor (& more!) deals?!?! Be sure to join in on the fun over on Substack!

       

& now, for the question you are all wondering …

Does Tuckernuck Have Sales?!

YES!!!!!

Tuckernuck has its popular Tuckernuck Sample Sale a few times a year as well as a Sale section on their website (however, I find the Sale section on Tuckernuck’s website to be a bit on the pricier side!). While Tuckernuck’s Sample Sale typically isn’t live and ongoing, you can shop it when it is live and learn more about it here. And, on a regular basis, you can shop Tuckernuck’s sales on their website here.

Is The Tuckernuck Sample Sale Legit?!

The Tuckernuck Sample Sale is a legit Sample Sale AND the brand’s biggest sales of the year. During the Tuckernuck Sample Sale, popular items go on sale and are marked down typically at the lowest prices that it will be at. Sometimes, items from previous seasons will be marked down even lower than the previous Sample Sale, but I would highly suggest purchasing all items you’re eyeing when they go live in the Tuckernuck Sample Sale.

Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping the Tuckernuck Sample Sale:

  • Sign up for email and text alerts from Tuckernuck, as you’ll be able to get the latest scoop as to when Tuckernuck has sales.
  • Buy items as soon as they go on sale in the Sample Sale as they are at the lowest price and may go fast (popular items tend to!).
  • Typically, items are not eligible for returns, so be sure to double check what sizes you order to ensure you have ordered the right size. Trust me: I’ve been on the receiving end of ordering a drastically wrong size by accident, myself! But, if you do order something that you don’t like or doesn’t fit, then don’t fret, as many folks including myself have had lots of success reselling on sites such as Poshmark where Tuckernuck items tend to do well.
  • It is worth noting that some customers have suggested that Sample Sale items may be sold at a lower quality. If you are concerned about garment quality, then be sure to check out the textile and fabric makeup of your garments of interest before buying. You can also always resell, too, if you don’t like what you receive. 
  • Most importantly, have fun!!

You can shop the Tuckernuck Sample Sale here and Tuckernuck Sale section here.

How Often Is The Tuckernuck Sample Sale?!

Typically, the Tuckernuck Sample Sale is held twice a year: once in the Winter in January/February and once in the Summer in July/August. As previously mentioned, be sure to sign up for email and text alerts from Tuckernuck, as you’ll be able to get the latest scoop as to when Tuckernuck has sales. 

If you love Lilly Pulitzer (like myself!) in addition to Tuckernuck, then be sure to check out my guide that predicts when the Lilly Pulitzer Sunshine Sale is. 

You can shop the Tuckernuck Sample Sale here and Tuckernuck Sale section here.

Wrap-Up

To sum it all up, does Tuckernuck have sales?! YES! And, the Tuckernuck sales are an excellent opportunity to stock up and grab some of your favorite finds from this Washington, DC-based preppy fashion brand. Happy shopping and Tuckernucking, friends!!!

XOXO – Katie <3 

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20 Brands Like J Crew

***Please note that this 20 Brands Like J Crew shopping guide will be updated and recirculated periodically to reflect the most up-to-date information. This review was most recently updated as of June 2026.***

Whether you’re shopping for Mom, Dad, or children or anyone for that matter, J Crew is truly a family brand that has something for everyone! Personally, I’ve been a lifelong fan of J Crew and its outlet sister brand J Crew Factory. But, we all know that J Crew can be a bit pricey and that there are brands like J Crew worth supporting and shopping at, too. This shopping guide outlines 20 brands like J Crew – many of which sell clothing for both men and women (and sometimes children, too!) in hopes that YOU find a new brand to love and support.

If you’re like me and also love other popular brands like J Crew, including brands like Banana Republic, brands like Talbots, brands like Kate Spade, and brands like Ann Taylor, such as Lilly Pulitzer and Tuckernuck, then be sure to check out my brands like Lilly Pulitzer and brands like Tuckernuck guides. If you are looking to find ways to save on gorgeous preppy pieces from Lilly Pulitzer (or brands like it), then check out Lilly Pulitzer’s semi-annual Sunshine Sale and Black Friday/Cyber Monday deals, my list of Lilly Pulitzer Dupes on Amazon, where to buy dresses like Lilly Pulitzer, as well as other brands that are mentioned’s sales. And if you’re into luxury fashion for less, than check out my brands like Louis Vuitton guide.

*Disclaimer: Please note that this post contains affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through one of my links, then I will receive a small commission. This commission is at no extra cost to you. Additionally, this post is not sponsored, and all opinions are my own.*

For more preppy style & grand millennial home content, check out my Preppy Fashion & Grand Millennial Home page.

Interested in getting the latest scoop on all the preppy + grand millennial fashion and decor (& more!) deals?!?! Be sure to join in on the fun over on Substack!

      

20 Brands Like J Crew

If you are like me and LOVE J Crew, then be sure to also check out J Crew’s outlet store: J Crew Factory, with Men’s, Women’s, and Children’s apparel. Shop J Crew Factory here.

1 – Madewell

Started in 2006 as a premium denim brand for both men and women, Madewell strives to create pieces with the utmost high-quality craftsmanship fit to last a lifetime. Shop Madewell here.

2 – Mango

A well-known global fast-fashion retailer with its beginning in 1984 in Barcelona, Spain, Mango focuses trend-driven, accessible clothing, accessories, and footwear for all with positioning in the high-street market. Shop Mango here.

3 – Tuckernuck

Taking its namesake from Summers on Nantucket via the nearby island Tuckernuck, Tuckernuck focuses on designing gorgeous preppy fashion with price ranges and styles from affordable luxury to high-end investment pieces. Shop Tuckernuck here.

4 – LL Bean

With a core belief that the more time we spend outside together, the better, LL Bean’s roots began in Maine when Leon Leonwood Bean invented the Maine Hunting Shoe in 1911. Over a century later, LL Bean is still going strong, selling the popular LL Bean bean boots, personalized canvas totes, and preppy outerwear apparel, all with its Maine roots at the heart of everything. Shop LL Bean here. 

5 – Barbour

Barbour is a British retailer notoriously known for their classic waxed field jackets and country apparel for the entire family. Shop Barbour at Nordstrom here.

6 – Lands’ End

Lands’ End has been proudly pioneering the way for beautiful, classic, and versatile clothing and footwear for the whole family since 1963 with size inclusion in mind. Shop Lands’ End here. 

7 – Vineyard Vines

Founded on Martha’s Vineyard in 1988 by brothers Shep and Ian Murray, Vineyard Vines is an all-things preppy, bright, and Americana fashion brand known for their pink whale logo that makes a splash. Shop Vineyard Vines here. 

8 – Ralph Lauren

Dating back to 1967 with its founding by Ralph Lauren in New York City as a timeless, preppy fashion brand selling menswear, womenswear, home, accessories, and fragrance products, Ralph Lauren has since become a well-known namesake in the fashion industry globally. Shop Ralph Lauren here.

9 – Brooks Brothers

Since 1818 Brooks Brothers has been designing timeless American preppy apparel for women, men, and children. Shop Brooks Brothers here.

10 – Tommy Hilfiger

Founded in 1985 by Tommy Hilfiger, Tommy Hilfiger offers classic American-cool, preppy, and nautical apparel for all. Shop Tommy Hilfiger here.

11 – Abercrombie & Fitch

Dating back to 1892 as an upscale sporting goods brand, Abercrombie & Fitch has since evolved into a size-inclusive global fashion brand for all focused on everyday life. Shop Abercrombie & Fitch here.

12 – Crown & Ivy at Belk

Started in 2014, Crown & Ivy is a Belk-exclusive brand selling all-things colorful and preppy. Shop Crown & Ivy here. 

13 – Southern Tide

Dating back to 2006, Southern Tide was founded in Greenville, South Carolina by Allen Stephenson as a coastal lifestyle apparel brand that honors traditions while charting its own unique course. Shop Southern Tide here. 

14 – Free Assembly at Walmart

Free Assembly is a private label brand at Walmart founded in 2020 specializing in preppy, modern, and affordable apparel for men and women. Shop Free Assembly at Walmart here.

15 – J. McLaughlin

Started by two brothers Kevin and Jay McLaughlin in 1977, J. McLaughlin has since become a visionary of timeless style with stores all across the United States. Shop J. McLaughlin here.

16 – Old Navy

Owned by GAP, Inc., the well-known and budget-friendly American retailer offers all-things casual and fashionable apparel, including preppy pieces at a fraction of the cost. Shop Old Navy here.

17 – Uniqlo

Originally founded in Yamaguchi, Japan as a textiles manufacturer in 1949, Uniqlo is on a mission to redefine clothing with an emphasis on textiles and quality in the fast-fashion sector with over 1,000 stores worldwide. Shop Uniqlo here.

18 – Quince

Quince focuses on bringing high-end, luxury materials such as cashmere, Mongolian wool, and linen at an affordable price point all with sustainability and using recycled materials in mind. Shop Quince here. 

19 – Tommy Bahama

Tommy Bahama is a resort wear brand that brings paradise to everyday life (and vacation, too!). Shop Tommy Bahama here.

20 – Chaps

Owned by the Ralph Lauren Corporation and founded in 1978, Chaps operates as a budget-friendly preppy lifestyle brand (one of many preppy brands in this list!) to its sister brand Ralph Lauren. Shop Chaps at Belk here.

Wrap-Up

Happy Shopping and browsing, J Crew fans!!!

XOXO – Katie <3 

thepinkchickadee11 Comments

20 Brands Like Banana Republic

***Please note that this 20 Brands Like Banana Republic shopping guide will be updated and recirculated periodically to reflect the most up-to-date information. This review was most recently updated as of June 2026.***

Banana Republic is a well-known retailer in the fashion space for all. There are also several other brands like Banana Republic to love and support, too. This shopping guide will share 20 brands like Banana Republic in hopes that you can discover a new-to-you brand!

If you’re like me and also love other popular brands like Banana Republic, including brands like Talbots, brands like Kate Spade, and brands like Ann Taylor, such as Lilly Pulitzer and Tuckernuck, then be sure to check out my brands like Lilly Pulitzer and brands like Tuckernuck guides. If you are looking to find ways to save on gorgeous preppy pieces from Lilly Pulitzer (or brands like it), then check out Lilly Pulitzer’s semi-annual Sunshine Sale and Black Friday/Cyber Monday deals, my list of Lilly Pulitzer Dupes on Amazon, where to buy dresses like Lilly Pulitzer, as well as other brands that are mentioned’s sales. And if you’re into luxury fashion for less, than check out my brands like Louis Vuitton guide.

*Disclaimer: Please note that this post contains affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through one of my links, then I will receive a small commission. This commission is at no extra cost to you. Additionally, this post is not sponsored, and all opinions are my own.*

For more preppy style & grand millennial home content, check out my Preppy Fashion & Grand Millennial Home page.

Interested in getting the latest scoop on all the preppy + grand millennial fashion and decor (& more!) deals?!?! Be sure to join in on the fun over on Substack!

      

20 Brands Like Banana Republic

1 – J Crew/J Crew Factory

Founded in 1983, J Crew is a renowned American preppy fashion brand known for its classic and affordable styles with an emphasis on high quality. J Crew also brings its preppy and classic A-game at an even affordable price range via its outlet store J Crew Factory. Shop J Crew here and shop J Crew Factory here. 

2 – Old Navy

Owned by GAP, Inc., the well-known and budget-friendly American retailer offers all-things casual and fashionable apparel, including preppy pieces at a fraction of the cost. Shop Old Navy here.

3 – Tuckernuck

Taking its namesake from Summers on Nantucket via the nearby island Tuckernuck, Tuckernuck focuses on designing gorgeous preppy fashion with price ranges and styles from affordable luxury to high-end investment pieces. Shop Tuckernuck here.

4 – Madewell

Started in 2006 as a premium denim brand for both men and women, Madewell strives to create pieces with the utmost high-quality craftsmanship fit to last a lifetime. Shop Madewell here.

5 – GAP

Dating back to its first San Francisco storefront in 1969 selling denim for all, GAP has since become one of the most well-known clothing retailers focused on denim and wardrobe basics. Shop GAP here.

6 – Ann Taylor

Since its 1954 founding, Ann Taylor has grown into an iconic American women’s fashion brand, known for elegant, timeless, and reliable work apparel and sportswear with a size-inclusive focus. Shop Ann Taylor here.

7 – LOFT

Founded in 1998, LOFT is a well-known women’s wear fashion brand and sister brand to Ann Taylor that empowers women to feel their best on a budget whether in the workplace, at home, a night out, or on vacation. Shop LOFT here. 

8 – White House Black Market

Two separate Baltimore, Maryland-based boutique chains – “White House,” which sold only ivory and white garments, and “Black Market,” which sold only basic black garments – merged to form what people now know as White House Black Market. White House Black Market has since expanded its palette beyond white and black into other neutrals, prints, and even vibrant colors all with a timeless flair. Shop White House Black Market here.

9 – Quince

Quince focuses on bringing high-end, luxury materials such as cashmere, Mongolian wool, and linen at an affordable price point all with sustainability and using recycled materials in mind. Shop Quince here. 

10 – Free Assembly at Walmart

Free Assembly is a private-label brand that Walmart founded in 2020. It specializes in preppy, modern, and affordable apparel for men and women. Shop Free Assembly at Walmart here.

11 – RIHOAS

Inspired by the romance, beauty, artistry, and visual appeal of European cinema, Hong Kong-founded fashion brand RIHOAS brings their inspiration to life through their women’s wear clothing that has a vintage appeal with a sustainable vision for the future. For more information, check out my review of RIHOAS here. Shop RIHOAS here. 

12 – Brooks Brothers

Since 1818 Brooks Brothers has been designing timeless American preppy apparel for women, men, and children. Shop Brooks Brothers here.

13 – Tommy Hilfiger

Founded in 1985 by Tommy Hilfiger, Tommy Hilfiger offers classic American-cool, preppy, and nautical apparel for all. Shop Tommy Hilfiger here.

14 – Ralph Lauren

Dating back to 1967 with its founding by Ralph Lauren in New York City as a timeless, preppy fashion brand selling menswear, womenswear, home, accessories, and fragrance products, Ralph Lauren has since become a well-known namesake in the fashion industry globally. Shop Ralph Lauren here.

15 – Chaps

Owned by the Ralph Lauren Corporation and founded in 1978, Chaps operates as a budget-friendly preppy lifestyle brand (one of many preppy brands in this list!) to its sister brand Ralph Lauren. Shop Chaps at Belk here.

16 – Charter Club at Macy’s

Known for its preppy women’s apparel especially their cashmere products, Charter Club is a private label brand at Macy’s that offers all-things preppy for women at an affordable and accessible price point. Shop Charter Club here.

17 – Calvin Klein

Founded in New York with a $10,000 loan by Calvin Klein and Barry Schwartz, Calvin Klein has since grown into a global billion-dollar fashion empire with styles focused on everyday, minimalist styles including blue jeans. Shop Calvin Klein here.

18 – Karl Lagerfeld

Born in 1933 in Hamburg, Germany, Karl Lagerfeld became one of the most influential fashion designers in the world, being most well-known for his work as Creative Director of Chanel from 1983 to when he passed away in 2019. Karl Lagerfeld’s namesake brand lives onto this day to honor Lagerfeld’s designer career, life, and legacy at an accessible price point. Shop Karl Lagerfeld here and regularly marked down at Belk here.

19 – Mango

A well-known global fast-fashion retailer with its beginning in 1984 in Barcelona, Spain, Mango focuses trend-driven, accessible clothing, accessories, and footwear for all with positioning in the high-street market. Shop Mango here.

20 – Uniqlo

Originally founded in Yamaguchi, Japan as a textiles manufacturer in 1949, Uniqlo is on a mission to redefine clothing with an emphasis on textiles and quality in the fast-fashion sector with over 1,000 stores worldwide. Shop Uniqlo here.

Wrap-Up

Happy shopping and browsing!!!

XOXO – Katie <3 

thepinkchickadee8 Comments

Tuckernuck Amazon Dupes As Curated By A Fan

***Please note that this Tuckernuck Amazon Dupes As Curated By A Fan list will be updated and recirculated periodically to reflect the most up-to-date information. This guide was most recently updated as of June 2026.***

If you’re like me, then you’re probably a HUGE Tuckernuck fan! I personally feel really lucky to live near Washington, DC where this popular preppy brand is headquartered AND has their Flagship Storefront (and *even* got to visit their reopening celebration in Winter 2026). We all know that Tuckernuck pieces have a big price tag attached to them, and we likely can’t afford to have an entire wardrobe filled with just Tuckernuck pieces and only Tuckernuck pieces. However, no need to fret, as there are several Tuckernuck Amazon Dupes – some of which look just like the real deal! This shopping guide will outline the several adorable and affordable Tuckernuck Amazon Dupes at your fingertips. 

*Disclaimer: Please note that this post contains affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through one of my links, then I will receive a small commission. This commission is at no extra cost to you. Additionally, this post is not sponsored, and all opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting The Pink Chickadee.*

For more preppy style & grand millennial home content, check out my Preppy Fashion & Grand Millennial Home page.

Looking for ways to save on your favorite preppy brands?!?! Be sure to check out my Poshmark which is updated weekly with the latest & greatest secondhand preppy deals!

 

Interested in getting the latest scoop on all the preppy + grand millennial fashion and decor (& more!) deals?!?! Be sure to join in on the fun over on Substack!

  

Tuckernuck Amazon Dupes As Curated By A Fan

Know Before You Buy

Before I start sharing some adorable Lilly Pulitzer dupes on Amazon, I am going to share a few things to note before you buy:

  • Prices on many clothing items (like everything else on Amazon) do fluctuate. It is worthwhile to monitor prices on Amazon, enjoy coupons when given the opportunity to.
  • Garments do come and go in and out of stock, like a lot of inventory on Amazon (or anywhere else). Be sure to keep an eye on garments of interest upon buying.
  • Most garments within the Item Description section will have information on material and sizing. I highly recommend looking at that before making a purchase so there are no surprises.
  • Be sure to read product reviews, if you feel nervous before making a purchase. Many product reviews may be bots or spam, so be sure to look for real product images and filter out ratings to get the full scope of what you’re looking to buy before you buy.

Tuckernuck Amazon Dupes

There are so many ways to enjoy the Tuckernuck look (and even make people think you’re wearing Tuckernuck!) while actually in one of these many Tuckernuck Amazon Dupes. Indeed, there are tons of ways to enjoy styling your looks for every season – in true Tuckernuck fashion without the receipt to prove it!

For more preppy and grand millennial deals and steals for less, check out my Amazon Storefront to save big on lookalikes for your favorite brands, including Lilly Pulitzer, Bogg, Mackenzie Childs, and Queen of Sparkles. If you’re looking to discover more brands like Tuckernuck, then check out my guide on just that. For all-things pink and preppy, check out my pink preppy stuff on Amazon shopping guide for more inspiration. 

Shirt Dresses

Tweed + Sweater Dresses

Cocktail Dresses

Cardigans

Blouses 

Happy Shopping, my fellow Tuckernuck fans!!!

XOXO – Katie <3 

thepinkchickadee6 Comments

Bogg Bag Alternatives As Curated By A Fan

***Please note that this Bogg Bag Alternatives As Curated By A Fan list will be updated and recirculated periodically to reflect the most up-to-date information. This guide was most recently updated as of June 2026.***

Beach and pool days are upon us and you just may be looking for your next best go-to beach bag! You’re probably here because you’ve heard about the iconic Bogg Bag – a bag designed perfectly for beach and pool days and errands and everything in between. As we all know, the Bogg Bag comes at a high price point. However, there are some excellent Bogg Bag alternatives for less, which I will outline in this shopping guide.

*Disclaimer: Please note that this post contains affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through one of my links, then I will receive a small commission. This commission is at no extra cost to you. Additionally, this post is not sponsored, and all opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting The Pink Chickadee.*

For more preppy style & grand millennial home content, check out my Preppy Fashion & Grand Millennial Home page.

Interested in getting the latest scoop on all the preppy + grand millennial fashion and decor (& more!) deals?!?! Be sure to join in on the fun over on Substack!

    

Bogg Bag Alternatives As Curated By A Fan

Know Before You Buy

  • Prices on many clothing items (including Bogg Bag alternatives) do fluctuate. It is worthwhile to monitor prices on items you love, enjoy coupons when given the opportunity to.
  • Garments do come and go in and out of stock, like a lot of inventory online. Be sure to keep an eye on garments of interest upon buying.
  • Most garments within the Item Description section will have information on material and sizing. I highly recommend looking at that before making a purchase so there are no surprises.
  • Be sure to read product reviews, if you feel nervous before making a purchase. Many product reviews may be bots or spam, so be sure to look for real product images and filter out ratings to get the full scope of what you’re looking to buy before you buy.

Bogg Bag Alternatives

There are several adorable and affordable Bogg Bag alternatives in several colors, prints, styles and prices, for you to grace pool days, beach days, errands, and the everyday in-style. For more preppy and grand millennial deals and steals for less, check out my Amazon Storefront to save big on lookalikes for your favorite brands, including Lilly Pulitzer, Tuckernuck, Mackenzie Childs, and Queen of Sparkles.

Wrap-Up

Happy Shopping, my fellow Bogg Bag fans!!!

XOXO – Katie <3 

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Queen Of Sparkles Dupes As Curated By A Fan

***Please note that this Queen Of Sparkles Dupes As Curated By A Fan list will be updated and recirculated periodically to reflect the most up-to-date information. This guide was most recently updated as of June 2026.***

If you’re like me, then you’ve probably been a Queen of Sparkles fan for quite some time! You probably know that Queen of Sparkles’ pieces come at a hefty price tag, too. Over the years, I have found myself admiring and perusing several Queen of Sparkles Dupes that are perfectly fit for every holiday from Christmas to Halloween to Mardi Gras and everything in between, which this shopping guide will outline.

*Disclaimer: Please note that this post contains affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through one of my links, then I will receive a small commission. This commission is at no extra cost to you. Additionally, this post is not sponsored, and all opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting The Pink Chickadee.*

For more preppy style & grand millennial home content, check out my Preppy Fashion & Grand Millennial Home page.

Interested in getting the latest scoop on all the preppy + grand millennial fashion and decor (& more!) deals?!?! Be sure to join in on the fun over on Substack!

Queen Of Sparkles Dupes As Curated By A Fan

Know Before You Buy

Before I start sharing some adorable Queen Of Sparkles dupes, I am going to share a few things to note before you buy:

  • Prices on many clothing items (including Queen Of Sparkles Dupes) do fluctuate. It is worthwhile to monitor prices on items you love, enjoy coupons when given the opportunity to.
  • Garments do come and go in and out of stock, like a lot of inventory online. Be sure to keep an eye on garments of interest upon buying.
  • Most garments within the Item Description section will have information on material and sizing. I highly recommend looking at that before making a purchase so there are no surprises.
  • Be sure to read product reviews, if you feel nervous before making a purchase. Many product reviews may be bots or spam, so be sure to look for real product images and filter out ratings to get the full scope of what you’re looking to buy before you buy.

Queen of Sparkles Dupes

There are several adorable and affordable Queen Of Sparkles dupes so you can enjoy your favorite fun sequined brand and rock some sparkles for less. There are Queen of Sparkles Dupes for *just about* every holiday and season, including: Halloween, Football/Baseball Season, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mardi Gras, Easter, and the Fourth of July. For more preppy and grand millennial deals and steals for less, check out my Amazon Storefront to save big on lookalikes for your favorite brands, including Lilly Pulitzer, Tuckernuck, Mackenzie Childs, and Bogg.

Halloween Dupes

Football/Baseball Season Dupes

Thanksgiving Dupes

Christmas Dupes

Valentine’s Day Dupes

Mardi Gras Dupes

Easter Dupes

Fourth of July Dupes

Wrap-Up

Happy Shopping, my fellow Queen of Sparkles fans :)))

XOXO – Katie <3 

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Mackenzie Childs Dupes As Curated By A Fan

***Please note that this Mackenzie Childs Dupes As Curated By A Fan list will be updated and recirculated periodically to reflect the most up-to-date information. This guide was most recently updated as of June 2026.***

If you’re a Mackenzie Childs fan like myself, then you know that the products from this home decor brand come at a hefty cost. Personally, I have admired Mackenzie Childs’ products, however, I have yet to take the plunge on purchasing my *very own* Mackenzie Childs piece for my own home. BUT, my hesitancy to buy some Mackenzie Childs for myself hasn’t stopped me from admiring several Mackenzie Childs dupes over the years, which I am sharing in this shopping guide.

*Disclaimer: Please note that this post contains affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through one of my links, then I will receive a small commission. This commission is at no extra cost to you. Additionally, this post is not sponsored, and all opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting The Pink Chickadee.*

For more preppy style & grand millennial home content, check out my Preppy Fashion & Grand Millennial Home page.

Interested in getting the latest scoop on all the preppy + grand millennial fashion and decor (& more!) deals?!?! Be sure to join in on the fun over on Substack!

   

Mackenzie Childs Dupes As Curated By A Fan

Know Before You Buy

Before I start sharing some adorable Mackenzie Childs dupes, I am going to share a few things to note before you buy:

  • Prices on many items (including Mackenzie Childs Dupes) do fluctuate. It is worthwhile to monitor prices on items you love, enjoy coupons when given the opportunity to.
  • Items do come and go in and out of stock, like a lot of inventory online. Be sure to keep an eye on items of interest upon buying.
  • Most items within the Item Description section will have information on material and sizing. I highly recommend looking at that before making a purchase so there are no surprises.
  • Be sure to read product reviews, if you feel nervous before making a purchase. Many product reviews may be bots or spam, so be sure to look for real product images and filter out ratings to get the full scope of what you’re looking to buy before you buy.

Mackenzie Childs Dupes

There are several adorable and affordable Mackenzie Childs dupes, including a Mackenzie Childs utensil holder dupe, Mackenzie Childs teapot dupe, and Mackenzie Childs canister dupe, for all to enjoy that iconic checkered look for less. For more preppy and grand millennial deals and steals for less, check out my Amazon Storefront to save big on lookalikes for your favorite brands, including Lilly Pulitzer, Tuckernuck, Queen of Sparkles, and Bogg.

Mackenzie Childs Utensil Holder Dupe

Mackenzie Childs Teapot Dupe

Mackenzie Childs Canister Dupe

Wrap-Up

Happy Shopping, Mackenzie Childs fans!!!

XOXO – Katie <3

thepinkchickadeeLeave a comment

My Experience with Cork and Keg Tours + Review

***Please note that this My Experience with Cork and Keg Tours + Review will be updated and recirculated periodically to reflect the most up-to-date Virginia Wine scene. This guide was most recently updated as of June 2026.***

Cork and Keg Tours was proudly named one of America’s Top 5 Wine Tour Experiences, and I hope I can help share just why that is in my own review. Recently, I got to experience how Cork and Keg goes above and beyond for all guests that choose to experience one of their wine tours in the heart of the Washington, DC area’s Wine Country – in Loudoun County, Virginia. In this review, I will share my experiences on a Cork and Keg Tour and a bit about this incredible wine tour operator.

*Disclaimer: Please note that this page contains affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through one of my links, then I will receive a small commission. This commission is at no extra cost to you. Additionally, this post is sponsored, and all opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting The Pink Chickadee.*

For more United States travel inspiration, check out my Exploring 50 States expedition page. For more Washington, DC area travel inspiration, check out my Exploring The DMV page.

My Experience with Cork and Keg Tours + Review

Table of Contents

A Way To Save at Northern Virginia Wineries

Know Before You Go On A Northern Virginia Wine Tour with Cork and Keg Tours

About Cork and Keg Tours 

Cork and Keg Tours Offered

My Experience 

A Way To Save at Northern Virginia Wineries

Reserve Pass is currently the only app in the United States that is essentially a nationwide wine (and sometimes beer) tasting pass for you and a guest (see more here)! Memberships are available in monthly and annual formats. The key features of Reserve Pass are:

  • Explore – by simply downloading the Reserve Pass app, you can simply plan your wine tasting adventure within your own backyard or while on vacation.
  • Perks – as a Reserve Pass member, you get to enjoy exclusive perks while touring historical sites, strolling through vineyards, and tasting local wines.
  • Revisit – unlike just any old coupon, you can revisit any of the wineries you loved and get the same Reserve Pass deals with them time and time again.

Interested in getting your own Reserve Pass today?! Interested in trying Reserve Pass for yourself?!?! Use my discount code “ktwine40” for 40% off an annual membership today (value: $69). For more details on Reserve Pass, look no further than here.

Download Reserve Pass and sign up for YOUR membership today!! 

Know Before You Go On A Northern Virginia Wine Tour with Cork & Keg Tours

Before embarking on your Northern Virginia Wine Tour experience, here are some things to know before you go:

  • Be sure to bring lots of water and snacks – the more wine you drink, the more you’ll need both! Afterwards, be sure to drink some electrolytes, too. My go-to electrolytes are from Liquid IV and come in several flavors.
  • Depending on the weather, you may want to have a mobile fan on-hand. This is my favorite mobile fan and it’s next-day delivery ready.
  • Bring a portable charger to ensure that your phone does not die during your experience.
  • Last but not least, be sure to have a designated driver or use a rideshare service such as Uber or Lyft to ensure your utmost safety.

About Cork & Keg Tours 

Specializing in leisure and corporate tours all around Loudoun County’s Wine Country, Cork and Keg Tours is a family-owned wine and beer tour operator that couple Nic and Julissa Kendall turned their local love into something special. With group wine tours that take you all to multiple local wineries and breweries and a van filled with water and snacks for you to enjoy throughout the day, Nic and Julissa (and their staff) truly open their doors to everyone who comes on a tour with them and treats them like family. Truly there’s no wonder Cork and Keg Tours has been named one of the Top 5 Wine Tours in the United States!

In addition to bringing guests along to local Northern Virginia wineries, Cork and Keg Tours has many deep local ties and proudly partners with several wineries, breweries, hotels, and restaurants in the area (see more information here). Cork and Keg truly focuses on the following:

  • Comprehensive Packages – enjoy special deals with local partners including hotels, Bed & Breakfasts, and restaurants
  • Exclusive Wine Tastings – savor private tastings at local wineries, including an opportunity to savor wineries’ premium wines 
  • Gourmet Cuisine – try a delicious local lunch 
  • Luxury Transportation – travel in comfort and style in one of Cork and Keg’s spacious vehicles and with a skilled driver 
  • Personal Concierge – benefit from a dedicated local concierge who will ensure your tour runs smoothly and will cater to your group’s needs
  • VIP Treatment – given Nic’s and Julissa’s established relationships within the local community, your tour will be given exclusive experiences not available to the general public 

See more information here to book your Cork and Keg Tours and to submit a quote for your tour.

Cork & Keg Tours Offered

Cork and Keg Tours offers a variety of tours for every and all occasions, whether it be: 

  • Bachelor & Bachelorette parties
  • Brewery tours
  • Corporate outings
  • Custom designed tours
  • Group wine tours
  • Private events 

See more information here to book your Cork and Keg Tours and to submit a quote for your tour.

My Experience 

From being greeted to a van to meet my group with a ton of snacks and an air conditioned luxury van and guide ready to go to excellent commentary shared throughout the day as we sipped and savored the moment at 3 different wineries, my experience on a Cork & Keg wine tour was unforgettable! I felt we all hit the jackpot with my guide – Dana – who is a proud Loudoun County native and shared a plethora of stories growing up in the area as its evolved over the decades as well as basic information and history and local recommendations, too. Personally, I LOVED hearing about Dana’s experiences growing up in Loudoun County and learning about how the county has changed over the years from her local perspective. Dana truly made our experience such a special and great one for the books! 

Complimentary Snacks & Water!
Highlight of our drive in Loudoun County!

Now, for the highlights of our Cork & Keg wine tour … the wineries we went to!!

We went to 3 Loudoun County wineries, where we had about 2 hours at (including time for lunch at one of them!):

  • Breaux Vineyards (36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane, Purcellville) – A family-owned winery nestled between the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains with vines extending upward into Short Hill Mountain with close proximity to Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia. The Breaux family has proud Cajun ties and hosts an annual Cajun food festival. Breaux Vineyards has multiple resident cats!
  • 8 Chains North Winery (38593 Daymont Ln, Waterford) – 8 Chains North Winery is a working farm, event venue, winery, and brewery near Leesburg, Virginia that gets is name from the first vineyard on its grounds that were used as a Civil War Crossing known as 8 Chains. This farm, event venue, winery, and brewery is also extremely dog-friendly with a fenced area for your four-legged friends to run around at while you savor a glass of wine.
  • Doukenie Winery (14727 Mountain Rd, Hillsboro) – With over 40 years of family-crafted wine-making experience, Doukenie Winery has been proudly owned by the Bazaco family – with deep Greek roots that are shared with all who come to sip and savor. There is a beautiful pond overlooking the beautiful mountains that this family-owned winery is nestled amongst!

Above all else, the common ground between all 3 wineries was … the people who make it happen. There are several distinct and incredible wineries nestled amongst Washington, DC’s Wine Country, but each is owned, run, and made up of a team of people that make each winery what it is (alongside many of each winery’s unique histories and stories, too!). Truly, the kind souls that welcome guests from around the globe into the winery (many of which are participating with the Reserve Pass app) to sip, savor, and enjoy time together is what makes a wine tour experience so special. 

Wrap-Up

Cork & Keg Tours truly goes above and beyond to ensure all guests have a wonderful wine tour experience within the heart of Washington, DC’s Wine Country. Most importantly, the people – both Cork & Keg’s guides and those at each winery – make any and every Cork & Keg experience worthwhile and oh so special. 

A special thank you to Reserve Pass and Cork and Keg Tours for coordinating my visit and sponsoring today’s blog post. Without their support, The Pink Chickadee wouldn’t be where it is today!

XOXO – Katie <3 

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Your Guide To A Girl’s Weekend in Charlotte, North Carolina

***Please note that this Your Guide To A Girl’s Weekend in Charlotte, North Carolina will be updated and recirculated periodically to reflect my most up-to-date experiences. This guide was most recently updated as of June 2026.***

While Charlotte, North Carolina may not come to mind when you think of where to go for a girl’s weekend, it should be! Personally, I have spent several girls’ weekends in the Queen City with some of my best friends who currently call it home. Anddd, this guide will show you exactly why you should plan your girl’s weekend in Charlotte and help you plan your next best weekend away with your best girls. 

*Disclaimer: Please note that this post contains affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through one of my links, then I will receive a small commission. This commission is at no extra cost to you. Additionally, this post is not sponsored, and all opinions are my own.*

For more United States travel inspiration, check out my Exploring 50 States expedition page.

Your Guide To A Girl’s Weekend in Charlotte, North Carolina

Table of Contents 

Where To Stay in Charlotte

What To Do in Charlotte

Where To Eat in Charlotte

Where To Stay in Charlotte

While I primarily stay with my friends when I’m on a girl’s weekend in Charlotte, there are several adorable hotels that I’ve heard of and become familiar with that would be fun to stay at when in the Queen City, including:

  • Canopy By Hilton SouthPark – Adjacent to the city’s popular SouthPark Mall in its SouthPark neighborhood, Canopy By Hilton SouthPark is a funky hotel with a modern and artistic design at the footstep of 300+ restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. 
  • Le Meridien Charlotte – Located in the heart of Uptown Charlotte, Le Meridien Charlotte is a chic boutique hotel that is also both sophisticated and comfortable and has an onsite rooftop bar.
  • The Mecklen Hotel – A Tribute Portfolio Hotel apart of Marriott, The Mecklen Hotel is located just minutes away from the University of North Carolina Charlotte’s campus and offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere with a plethora of nearby shopping and dining options at your fingertips.
  • Aloft By Marriott Charlotte City Center – A luxury hotel just a two-minute walk from the Spectrum Center, the Aloft By Marriott Charlotte City Center is a boutique hotel offering live entertainment and onsite dining including at their bar which provides craft cocktails and luxurious vibes.
  • Omni Charlotte Hotel – A luxury Omni Hotel sparkling in the heart of Charlotte’s Financial District, the Omni Charlotte Hotel provides just about everything that the Queen City has to offer – from dining to entertainment right at your fingertips. 

In case you need additional hotel inspiration on where to stay in Charlotte, North Carolina, look no further than this map:

 

What To Do in Charlotte

Whether visiting a local art museum, strolling at local parks or *even* a charming rose garden, shopping, or grabbing coffee and cocktails, there are so many unique options of things to do on a girl’s weekend in Charlotte. 

Admire Artwork at the Mint Museum & Shop at the Mint Museum Store – Although we didn’t visit the Mint Museum – an art museum in the heart of Uptown Charlotte that is high on my future girl’s weekend in Charlotte bucket list – we did walk through the Mint Museum Store, which has an excellent selection of home goods, jewelry, and souvenirs for all. 

Stop and Smell the Roses at McGill Rose Garden – A long-time public garden and so-called hidden gem, McGill Rose Garden is a nonprofit organization which hosts a community area for weddings/events, outside organizations to bring people together, and MORE! While there, Hannah, Rachel and I happened to not only admire the many beautiful roses and flowers within the gardens, but also support local artists – graduating Class of 2025 Seniors at the University of North Carolina Charlotte who studied Art there – who were selling their incredible creations. It was AMAZING to be able to meet so many incredible soon-to-be college graduates while also supporting and empowering them in such a gorgeous spot.

Support and Empower Women Across the Globe at Braveworks – Braveworks is a faith-based nonprofit and boutique with a mission to empower women starting over in their lives. Through the power of faith, networking, and creating, Braveworks provides the framework for women to feel safe and empowered for the next phase of their lives. Many of the pieces in their boutique – all ethically and sustainably made – are made by the women locally in Charlotte or in Africa, all with the chance to feel something good and to provide for themselves and their families. 

Admire skyline views at Novelty House Rooftop – the first night that we arrived in Charlotte, we went to Uptown to celebrate Alanna’s Birthday dinner at Sea Level NC (more on that below!). Afterwards, we went to Novelty House – a gorgeous bar with skyline views in Uptown Charlotte – which happened to be right next door to where we just had dinner. While the rooftop bar was closed at Novelty House when we went up to the top floor around 10:30pm, the staff there kindly let us take in ALLLL the scenic views and snap one tooo many photos at the MANY photo opportunities there. I am a city girl through thick and thin and LOVE a good city view (!!!!), so Novelty House was a highlight for me when in the Queen City!

Shop and stroll in South End – Home to Evelyn Henson’s iconic Confetti Hearts Wall, South End is an adorable shopping and dining district in Charlotte with close proximity to Uptown aka Charlotte’s downtown! We enjoyed shopping at Girl Tribe Co. while there and admiring the Confetti Hearts Wall, too. There’s several shopping and dining opportunities at South End – ranging from Bitty & Beau’s Coffee to Jeni’s Ice Creams. Check out all that South End has to offer here.

Catch the Sunset at Charlotte Airport Overlook – With some food trucks, a Navy jet on display, skyline views, and a playground, the Charlotte Airport Overlook has become a popular spot to enjoy sunset or sunrise views in the Queen City. We happened to catch sunset after a few laps around the crowded parking lot with no luck of finding parking. The Charlotte Airport Overlook is a stunning spot to not only watch planes land/take off and enjoy the sunset, but to also pack a picnic, read, journal, and enjoy time with loved ones.

Indulge in some retail therapy at SouthPark – SouthPark is Charlotte’s popular shopping mall! As of November 2025, a beautiful and brand-new Lilly Pulitzer store opened up at the city’s well-known mall. Other well-known stores at SouthPark include Belk, Nordstrom, and Dillards. 

Take a Walk at Freedom Park – For YEARS, I have been wanting to walk Freedom Park – a large park with a lake, amphitheater, and so much more in the heart of Charlotte’s Freedom Park neighborhood – with Hannah and her dog Pixie. *Finally*, we got the chance to walk Freedom Park altogether! Freedom Park is a gorgeous park in Charlotte that I’ve enjoyed visiting for years, since my initial visits to the Queen City in college.

Shop and stroll at Phillip’s Place – An outdoor shopping mall with a European feel to it located right by Charlotte’s SouthPark Mall, Phillip’s Place is truly one of the Queen City’s premier shopping and dining destinations. Phillip’s Place offers a plethora of high-end shops to browse, admire, and shop at including Hill House Home, La Vie Style House, LoveShackFancy, J. Crew, and Ralph Lauren. 

Where To Eat in Charlotte

There are so many great shops to eat in Charlotte, North Carolina, whether it be a rooftop bar boasting skyline views, a vegan foodie spot to take in some live music with a drink in-hand, or an adorable pastry shop and cafe. 

Drinks at Rosie’s Coffee and Wine – Located adjacent to the McGill Rose Garden (more on that above!), Rosie’s Coffee and Wine Garden serves a vast array of coffees and wines for guests to enjoy as they peruse the garden.

Dinner at Sea Level NC – Dining at Sea Level NC, located in Charlotte’s iconic Uptown, is such a GREAT way to kick off your girl’s weekend in Charlotte, NC! I ordered wayyyy too much food, including a delicious grouper and fried oysters, and lots of great cocktails, too! The staff were extremely kind and personable, too. I would definitely dine here again!

Lunch or Dinner at Mac’s Speed Shop – We were truly in for a great treat dining at Mac’s Speed Shop! Offering an array of North Carolinian staples, including American fare AND barbecue AND *even* Mexican (!!!!), Mac’s Speed Shop was a great affordable restaurant with options for all. We ordered chips and guacamole and queso before all mainly ordering barbecue dishes. Definitely a fun Charlotte spot!

Coffee at Ralph’s Coffee Truck – We were all in for a treat when we got to grab some coffee/tea at the Ralph’s Coffee Truck outside of the Ralph Lauren store in Phillips Place after brunch at the nearby RH Rooftop! Due to my seasonal allergies bugging me over the weekend, I got a delicious tea that truly hit the spot for me. ALSO, I LOVED the many fun fun fun photo opportunities outside of this adorable green truck (!!!!).

Drinks at Small Bites at RH Rooftop – The RH Rooftop location in Charlotte located at Phillips Place ALSO is on the 3rd floor of the Restoration Hardware storefront just like in Dallas. The RH Rooftop has a very distinct atmosphere to its Dallas counterpart, however, there are a few subtle differences between the two. The menu remains the same, though, and it was fun to try brunch in Charlotte, including the AMAZING forest bacon (!!!!) and a Mimosa! Read my guide on experiencing dining at multiple RH Rooftop locations here.

Drinks at Lost Worlds Brewing – Located in the heart of Charlotte’s Midtown, Lost Worlds Brewing is a taproom pouring beers, wines, and specialty cocktails alongside some delicious snacks to munch on. Nearby, diners can enjoy a beautiful skyline of the Queen City! 

Brunch at Renaissance Patisserie – In the heart of Charlotte’s SouthPark neighborhood, Renaissance Patisserie is a French-inspired patisserie serving up delicious pastries, desserts, and breakfast + lunch food. I adored their seasonal cookies in honor of the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday!  

Dinner, Drinks, & Live Music at Oh My Soul – Located in Charlotte’s ultra-fun NoDa neighborhood, Oh My Soul serves delicious South African vegan food with an onsite bar and live music on select nights.

Dinner at YaME Asian Noodles – A delicious fast casual and family-owned Asian restaurant, YaME Asian Noodles makes you feel like you’re enjoying the comfort of Chinese takeout in a more upscale way.

Drinks & Delights at Pinky’s Westside Grill – Featured on Diners, Drive-In’s, and Dives, Pinky’s Westside Grill specializes in fried pickles and onion rings, after owner Greg Austen found himself throwing away excess of both. Truly, alll-things fried is Pinky’s Westside Grill’s specialty which we all enjoyed caving in on together!

Breakfast, Coffee, & Dessert at Amelie’s French Bakery & Cafe – My friend Rachel and I went to Amelie’s French Bakery & Cafe as per her suggestion and, needless to say, this suggestion of Rachel’s was a GREAT one!! We ended up waiting in line for about 20 minutes and it was well worth the wait. The array of delicious French pastries ranging from macarons to croissants as well as their vast breakfast menu and coffees and teas, Amelie’s truly has it ALL and I was BLOWN AWAY!!

Wrap-Up

Personally, I never even considered traveling for a girl’s weekend in Charlotte until some of my best friends moved there. However, Charlotte, North Carolina is such an awesome spot to savor and enjoy a girl’s weekend (although it may not be the first spot that comes to mind!). From luxury shopping and lodging to unique dining experiences and everything in between, the Queen City has it all for the perfect girl’s weekend away!

XOXO – Katie <3 

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