Tours

On a tour of the Innovation Barn, you'll experience firsthand how sustainability and innovation intersect to create a zero-waste future for Charlotte. You'll see plastic waste transformed into useful products, explore composting and food waste solutions, and engage with interactive exhibits that showcase circular economy principles. The atmosphere is both educational and inspiring, offering a hands-on look at how small changes can make a big environmental impact. Whether you're an eco-enthusiast or just curious, you’ll leave with new insights and practical ideas for sustainable living.

Self Guided Tours - Walk through the building looking for the tall yellow columns that indicate a sign you can read and QR code you can scan to learn more.  Check out the exhibits and interact with information about plastics, food waste, and recycling in Mecklenburg County. Read about the businesses and labs showcasing circular initiatives in action.  Stroll through Grow and Gather, an urban food forest to see our beautiful ecosystems at work providing food, water, and shelter for our wildlife. Grab a coffee and/or drink from And/Or and take in all of the beautiful art.

* QR Code Map available in front foyer for visitors.

Cost

Free Public Guided Tours - 30 minute tour designed for individuals. To sign up click HERE.

Group Guided Tours - 1-hour private, customized tour for $250 (up to 25 participants). Please email erica@envisioncharlotte.org to schedule.

Planning a Large Group Visit?If you have more than 25 participants, we’d love to help create a customized experience for your group. To coordinate your visit, please reach out to us at erica@envisioncharlotte.org.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Is parking available?

    Yes! We have a parking lot that provides ample, free parking. In the event that all spaces are filled, street parking is available along Otts St. We are also conveniently located blocks away from a CATS bus stop and the Sugar Creek Greenway.

    What can I expect during the tour?

    The tour lasts for approximately 30-45 minutes and begins just inside the main entrance to the Innovation Barn. This is a walking tour suitable for strollers, wheelchairs, and other mobility aids. The majority of the tour takes place indoors, with the last portion being outside.

    Are there restrooms?

    Yes! Restrooms are available for use inside the Innovation Barn, by Change Please Cafe. NOTE: Handicapped stalls are available in both men's and women's restrooms, along with changing stations.

    Can I bring a group to the public tour?

    We ask that groups schedule a private tour so we can customize the tour specifically for your group and leave the public tour for individuals. You can schedule a group tour by emailing erica@envisioncharlotte.org.

    I can't sign up for a date I wanted

    If a date is not available, most likely sales have ended for that event or the event is sold out. We end ticket sign ups 2 days in advance of the event so our staff has enough time to prepare for the number of people attending.

    Is there food or drinks available?

    Our partners at Cuisines Culinary and Catering offer a hot plate lunch from 11-1 M-F for $9/plate self serve and our parters at And/Or serve coffee, tea, beer, & wine. Feel free to come early and grab lunch and a drink before or after your tour!

  • Is parking available?

    Yes! We offer free on-site parking in our large parking lot. If the lot is full, additional street parking is available along Otts Street.

    We're also just a short walk from a CATS bus stop and the Sugar Creek Greenway.

    Arriving by bus? Let us know in advance, and we'll send you a bus parking map. Bus parking is available on the street only.

    What can I expect during the tour?

    Group tours last approximately 1 hour and begin just inside the main entrance of the Innovation Barn. Each tour is customized to your group's interests, goals, and audience, creating a more engaging and impactful experience.

    This is a guided walking tour that is accessible for strollers, wheelchairs, and other mobility devices. Most of the tour takes place indoors, with the final portion outdoors.

    Are there restrooms?

    Yes! Accessible restrooms with changing stations are available inside the Innovation Barn.

    Is food and drink available?

    Enjoy lunch or refreshments before or after your tour!

    Cuisines Culinary & Catering serves hot lunch Monday–Friday, 11 AM–1 PM.

    And/Or offers coffee, tea, beer, and wine.

    Groups may also pre-order a catered meal or refreshments with advance notice. Contact erica@envisioncharlotte.org for details.

    When are group tours available?

    Private group tours are typically offered Tuesday–Friday between 10 AM and 4 PM, based on staff availability.

    Tours outside of regular business hours may be available for an additional fee.

    How do I schedule a group tour?

    Email erica@envisioncharlotte.org with:

    Your group size, Preferred date(s) and time(s), Any information about your group or special requests.

    Because we are a small nonprofit with limited tour availability, we recommend contacting us as early as possible. We'll do our best to accommodate your preferred date.