Pineville Lake Park

Description: A 21-acre community park centered around a scenic man-made lake, with a 0.7-mile walking trail, several playground areas, picnic shelters, benches, and open green space. The park also includes a splash pad, dog park, outdoor stage, restrooms, and the Belle Johnston Community Center, with its gym, basketball court, running track, and multipurpose rooms. Regular community events, concerts, movies, races, and festivals make the park an active gathering place throughout the year.

Comments: I can’t call it a hidden gem because people in Pineville know about it and use it plenty, but to the rest of Charlotte, it certainly is.

It’s a pond with a paved walking trail around it, alongside a playground area for kids. All around the pond there’s seating, including some swing seats. Great place to walk around after a long day until you’re tired, then sit on one of the benches and read or just stare at the water.

The area is very well maintained and clean, and there’s a fountain in the pond that adds some nice ambience.