Every year, families across South Charlotte and Union County cast their votes for the places they love most - the businesses that make parenting easier, weekends more fun, and our community such a great place to raise kids. 💙

After hundreds of votes and lots of local love, the results are in for the 2026 Family Favorites Awards! These winners represent the very best family-focused businesses and experiences in the South Charlotte and Union County areas - from after-school programs and birthday party spots to sweet treats and trusted pediatricians.

If you’re looking for new places to try with your family, this list is a great place to start. And if your favorites made the list, be sure to show them some love next time you visit!

You can also see the list of nominees here:  2026 Family Faves Voting Is Now Open

Announcing the 2026 South Charlotte/Union County Family Favorites Winners

🎭 Activities, Classes & Kids Programs

• Best Dance Studio: Charlotte Ballet Academy
• Best Art Class: Small Hands Big Art
• Best Music Studio: Charlotte Academy of Music
• Best Drama/Theatre Class: Children's Theatre of Charlotte
• Best Gymnastics Studio: Charlotte Allstars Gymnastics & Cheerleading
• Best Martial Arts Studio: Charlotte Martial Arts Academy
• Best Swim Lessons: YMCA of Greater Charlotte
• Best Place for Kids Sports: Charlotte Soccer Academy
• Best After-School Program: Idea Lab Kids Wesley Chapel

These programs help kids build confidence, explore their interests, and stay active - all while having a lot of fun.

🎓 Education

• Best Preschool: The Learning Experience
• Best Private School: Charlotte Preparatory School
• Best Educational Resource: Ballantyne Reading Academy

These local education leaders are helping shape the next generation of Charlotte students.

🎉 Family Fun Around Charlotte

• Best Local Festival: Matthews Alive Festival
• Best Indoor Play Space: Sports Connection
• Best Outdoor Play Space: U.S. National Whitewater Center
• Best Kids Birthday Party Spot: SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium

When it comes to keeping kids entertained, Charlotte families clearly have some favorite spots!

🍦 Food & Treats

• Best Sweet Treat: The Local Scoop
• Best Bite: Ilios Crafted Greek

Whether you’re celebrating a big win or just treating the kids after school, these local favorites always hit the spot.

🩺 Health, Wellness & Self-Care

• Best Local Spa: Restore Hyper Wellness Rea Farms
• Best Orthodontist: Webb & Goldsmith Orthodontics
• Best Dentist: Rea Farms Pediatric Dentistry
• Best Pediatrician: Novant Health Pediatrics Ardrey Kell
• Best Place to Workout: HOTWORX Arboretum

From trusted healthcare providers to places parents can recharge, these winners keep Charlotte families feeling their best.

🌟 Hidden Gems & Day Trips

• Best Kept Secret in Charlotte: Serenity Garden at McGill Rose Garden
• Best Day Trip from Charlotte: Riverbanks Zoo and Garden

Sometimes the best discoveries are the ones you didn’t know you were looking for!

💙 Thank You, Charlotte Area Families!

A huge thank you to everyone who voted in the 2026 South Charlotte/Union County Macaroni Kid Family Favorites Awards. These winners represent the businesses that families trust, love, and recommend to friends.

Be sure to support these amazing local businesses - and keep an eye out for next year’s voting!