Charlotte is more than just a bustling urban hub; it’s a paradise for nature enthusiasts. What’s one of the most captivating ways to immerse yourself in the city’s natural beauty? Exploring its extensive greenways. Dive into some of the best ones across Charlotte and uncover a harmonious mix of outdoor adventure and urban surroundings.

Photos courtesy of: Conde Nast Traveler (Banner Image); Gaston Gazette (Avon & Catawba Creeks Greenway); Land Design (Little Sugar Creek Greenway). 

Summer is finally here, and it’s time to make the most of it. If you’re looking for a destination that combines sports, adventure, and natural beauty, look no further than the Empire Sportsplex and Welland Flatwater Centre (WIFC). These two fantastic locations in Welland offer activities for everyone, from skilled athletes to nature enthusiasts. Read on to learn what you can do at these favourited spots to keep the adventure going all summer long.

Interested in moving to Welland, Ontario? Check out our new homes for sale at Empire Canals, the city’s newest master-planned community.

Next, discover these local-approved activities and some of the region’s top schools.

Greenery is a great way to enhance your outdoor living area, whether you have a large backyard or a small patio. But what if you have limited outdoor space?

Fear not, because with a little creativity and some guidance, you can create the outdoor area of your dreams, even if you don’t have the square footage. We’ve rounded up our top gardening tips and tricks for small spaces so you can spruce up your outdoor area and patio of any size into an oasis.

• Garden Art: Consider adding art to your balcony, such as a sculpture or wind chimes; this adds instant personality and style to your outdoor space.
• Potted plants/herbs: A few small pots of herbs or flowers can make a big difference in livening up a balcony. Plus, you can use the herbs or veggies in your cooking.

• Impatiens: These colorful annuals are easy to grow and come in a wide range of shades, from soft pastels to vibrant hues.
• Ferns: Ferns come in many different varieties, from delicate fronds to bold and bushy plants. They add a lush, tropical feel to shaded spaces.

• Dwarf fruit trees: If you have enough sun and space in your home’s outdoor area, you can grow dwarf fruit trees in large pots. Some go-to options include citrus trees and dwarf apple trees.
• Succulents: Great for small spaces, succulents don’t require a lot of water or maintenance, making them perfect plants for those who don’t have a ton of time to water their greens on a daily basis.

Looking for some additional inspiration to create a beautiful outdoor space in a small area? Here are a few of the stunning homes in our communities that prove a little creativity, and some well-chosen plants and accessories can go a long way.

Next, discover the top five essentials for your backyard and learn how you can build a beautiful backyard.

Images courtesy of: GardenWorks (Hanging Baskets); Beyond Behnke’s (Begonias).

With the Carolinas’ abundance of parks and trails, lakes, and enchanting gardens, us locals are spoiled for choice when it comes to things to see and do outdoors on a beautiful afternoon. To help you get out and explore the best hidden gems and must-see spots, we’ve rounded up a list of the best outdoor adventures close to home.

Setting out on your outdoor adventure in the Carolinas? Share your photos with us on Instagram by tagging @empire_thecarolinas. Next, check out these 4 celebrity-owned restaurants in the Carolinas or 5 must-visit fairways for golf lovers in Charlotte.

Images courtesy of: Charlotte’s Got a Lot (Lake Norman, UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens); Conde Nast Traveler (Little Sugar Creek Greenway); DPR Design (Reedy Creek Park); Pacer (Four-Mile Creek Greenway); Catawba Lands Conservancy (Seven Oaks Preserve); Anne Springs Close Greenway (Anne Springs Close Greenway); Lake Wylie Marine Commission (Lake Wylie); Greenville, SC (Table Rock State Park); South Carolina Lakes Database (Paris Mountain State Park); Greenville Journal (Jones Gap State Park). 

Welland, known for its natural beauty and vibrant community life, offers so many outdoor activities to enjoy no matter your age or interests. From hiking trails to water sports, there are endless opportunities to explore the great outdoors in Welland, making it the ultimate outdoor destination. We’ve rounded up the top things to do in Welland that’ll make you want to spend all your time outdoors in this scenic city.

The Empire Sportsplex is a multi-purpose facility offering sports and fitness activities. It’s a great place to play outdoor sports or work out, and is suitable for people of all ages and skill levels. Enjoy the sunshine on one of several volleyball courts, basketball courts, tennis courts, and pickleball courts.

The facility is also home to a state-of-the-art fitness centre, indoor turf fields, and is well-maintained with top-of-the-line equipment — making it the perfect place to train, practice, or simply have fun with friends. Also on site is the Jumpstart Multi-Sport Court, made possible by Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities. This Multi-Sport Court offers inclusive amenities such as cushioned court surfacing, adjustable volleyball and basketball nets for seated and standing games, shaded benches, high-contrast colours and a self-guided free play area.

And if you’re looking for a fun and challenging workout, the sportsplex also offers group fitness classes, including spin, boot camp, and Zumba, led by experienced and certified instructors who are passionate about helping you achieve your fitness goals.

The Welland River is the perfect spot for adventure-seekers. It winds through the heart of Welland, providing paddlers with a unique perspective of the city. Its relatively shallow waters and gentle current makes for an easy and enjoyable paddle, and is home to a variety of wildlife including waterfowl, turtles, and fish, providing kayakers with a chance to observe the natural habitat up close.

Many tour operators also offer evening paddles, providing a unique opportunity to experience the river under the stars. Kayakers can choose to explore the river on their own, or join a guided tour to learn more about the history and ecology of the area.

The Welland Recreational Canal is Welland’s premier spot for fishing, home to a variety of fish species, including bass, pike, and carp. The canal is a 10km-long waterway that was constructed in the early 20th century to bypass the Welland Canal, and provide a safe and scenic route for pleasure boating and water sports. Today, the canal is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts.

Anglers from all over can be found fishing from the shore, or at one of the many docks and piers located along the canal. It’s also a popular destination for boating, kayaking, and canoeing — so whether you want to rent a boat or bring your own, this scenic waterway is ready for exploration at your convenience.

The Welland Waterfront Trail is a scenic 13km trail that runs along the Welland Canal and the Welland Recreational Waterway. It’s part of the larger Great Lakes Waterfront Trail, a 3,000km trail that runs along the shorelines of the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River. Offering stunning views of the canal, the waterway, and the Niagara Region’s natural beauty, visitors can enjoy a variety of amenities, including picnic areas and benches.

The trail also has several access points, making it easy to start and finish your journey at different locations. Visitors can pass through several parks including Chippawa Park, which has a playground, a splash pad, and picnic areas.

If you want an authentic Welland experience, a trip to Welland Stadium for a Welland Jackfish game should be at the top of your list. The Welland Jackfish is a Welland-based professional baseball team that’s a member of the Intercounty Baseball League (IBL) — the oldest operating independent baseball league in Canada. The team plays its home games at Welland Stadium, a historic ballpark that has been the home of baseball in Welland since 1925. The stadium underwent extensive renovations in 2019, and today features modern amenities such as a video scoreboard, a new sound system, and improved seating and sightlines.

The Niagara Circle Route is a popular destination for biking enthusiasts of all levels, offering a scenic and challenging ride through some of the most beautiful areas in southern Ontario. The route is approximately 140km long and takes riders through a variety of landscapes, including waterfront trails, vineyards, and charming small towns.

One of the highlights of the Niagara Circle Route is the Niagara Parkway, a picturesque stretch of road that runs parallel to the Niagara River. The route is also home to several bike rental shops and tour operators, providing riders with everything they need for an enjoyable and stress-free ride.

The Welland Slo-Pitch League is a recreational softball league based in the city of Welland, open to players of all skill levels. Games are played at local parks and ball diamonds throughout the summer months. The league consists of multiple divisions, with teams organized by skill and competitive level. The league is run entirely by volunteers, with a dedicated executive board overseeing its operations. With its emphasis on fun and inclusivity, it’s a great source of summertime entertainment and a beloved part of the Welland sports scene.

Thinking about making your time in Welland more permanent? Learn about our newest community, Empire Canals, and join our interest list to stay in the know on the latest release of homes.

Next, check out these fun water-based activities in Southwestern Ontario and discover why you’ll love living at Empire Canals.

Images courtesy of: Wikipedia (Welland Stadium); Niagara Region (Niagara Circle Route); Niagara Falls Review (Welland River).

About 40 miles north of Atlanta in the well-known Forsyth County is Cumming — a small city rooted in history that’s anything but ordinary. Rich in modern conveniences, bustling entertainment, and mouth-watering restaurants, it’s a great place to live for people of all ages. From beautiful parks to historic sites, here you’ll find attractions that appeal to the masses. Read on to discover some of the best things to do in Cumming and learn why this area of Atlanta is unlike any other.

Feeling like planting roots in Cumming and living close to these incredible conveniences? Check out the available homes in our Heirloom community just minutes from all the fun.

Images courtesy of: Pond & Company (Big Creek Greenway); Reddit (Sawnee Mountain Preserve); GolfPass (Polo Golf & Country Club); The Preston Partnership (The Collection at Forsyth); Explore Georgia (Vickery Village); Patch (Cumming City Center).

Texas’ temperatures are increasing and those who live in the state know all too well what that means. Low rainfall and heat are a recipe for drought, and with the peak of summer approaching, it’s time to get prepared. No one wants to see the flowers and plants in their front or back lawns not surviving the season. Hear how Valerie Depew, member of the Ask a Master Gardener Committee at Texas A&M, recommends setting your home landscape up for success.

• If you have an irrigation system in place, audit it yearly to ensure it’s working properly. Clear clogs and adjust the settings as the year goes on. Plants require less water in cooler months and more in warmer weather, so there should be a difference in your settings each season.
• Fun fact: “Between 25% – 60% of the water homeowners try to apply to their lawns actually meets the target,” says Depew. To increase this percentage, ensure your lawn is watered in the morning to reduce loss to evaporation and the chances of moisture latching onto grass at night. Also, avoid watering when there’s high winds — this can blow sprinklers off which is a big water waster, in addition to runoff.
• “Water less frequently, but more deeply,” says Depew. A watering method known as Cycle and Soak will water your lawn for a longer duration so that the roots receive moisture. “More frequent, shorter watering leads to shallow roots and unhealthy turf.”
• Cut your grass taller. “Shorter blades don’t have enough surface to retain water and they’ll suffer more from the drought and heat,” says Depew. “The optimum height for mowing with water conservation in mind is 3 inches.”

There are many ways to reduce our use of water and drought-proof our landscapes. Using these methods will result in thousands of gallons saved and better plant choices for our home landscapes.

Helpful Resources:

Get Inspired

Ready to design your home’s landscape? Take inspiration from some of Empire’s model homes in Houston, Austin and San Antonio.

Next, get our beginners guide for gardening in Texas and learn why biophilic design is good for your health and home.

There’s never a shortage of exciting things to do in Pflugerville. Whether you’re exploring the outdoors, visiting a national landmark or indulging in a delicious meal, boredom is a foreign feeling to long-time residents and newcomers. Discover some of the region’s biggest hot spots and learn how to live like a true Pflugerville local.

Interested in living in Pflugerville near Austin? Explore our available homes at Villas at Rowe or contact our New Home Specialist via email at rowe@empirecommunities.com or phone today.

Before you go, don’t forget to check out these impressive golf courses in Texas and some of the best school districts in the area.

Images courtesy of: Top Brunch Spots (Stoney Creek Park); FD’s Grill House (FD’s Grill House); Do 512 Family (Texas Typhoon); Artnet (The Museum of Ice Cream); UIC Athletics (Turf Training Facility).

Brimming with charm, Ontario is home to a number of picturesque small towns, perfect for a weekend getaway or an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Pack your bags, start the car and explore our top five staycation destinations in Ontario.

29 minute drive from Empire Legacy and Empire Calderwood.

If you’re looking to plan a getaway that’s equal parts relaxing and activity-filled, the city of Port Colborne in Niagara’s south coast is the perfect spot to put on your radar. Steeped in marine heritage, this city boasts historic shopping districts, a variety of restaurants, a beautiful beachfront and a selection of natural attractions. Visitors can stroll along the Welland Canal and take in the scenic view. 

24 minute drive from Empire Legacy and Empire Calderwood.

Niagara-on-the-Lake is the perfect place for a romantic weekend getaway. Get the full experience by planning your stay at a bed and breakfast in one of the area’s beautifully-restored homes from the 19th century. Spend your days strolling down Picton Street and grab a coffee or lunch on a patio. Looking for an alternative mode of transportation? Take the scenic route and rent bicycles along the Niagara Parkway. End off your evening watching one of the many shows playing at the Shaw Festival Theatre.

29 minute drive from Empire Legacy and Empire Calderwood.

Whether you’re travelling with your family or planning a weekend trip with friends, Lincoln is filled with must-see places and things to do. Compromised of a few smaller townships that are packed with cozy cafes, shops, and farms throughout the region, there’s truly something for everyone in Lincoln. If you’re planning an overnight visit, check out some of the area’s charming bed and breakfasts, like Bonnybank. 

18 minute drive from Empire Wyndfield.

If you’re looking to spend time outdoors and enjoy an action-packed weekend, then Paris might be the perfect spot for you. Located along the Grand River, you can partake in activities like river rafting and tubing, or if relaxing is more your speed, enjoy some R&R at Pinehurst Lake. 

2 hour and 40 minute drive from Empire Maven.

For those in need of a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the city, consider visiting Prince Edward County for your next getaway. Located on Lake Ontario, you’ll fall in love with the food, wine, nature, art and charming community. ‘The County’ is home to artists, entrepreneurs, farmers, wine makers, and talented chefs, allowing you to enjoy activities suited to all interests. 

Looking for fun-filled activities closer to home? Check out our list of things to do along Southwestern Ontario’s waterways and the best parks in Toronto.

City of Port Colborne (Port); Time Out (Town); Trip Advisor (Waterfall); Travel Blog (Town); Blog TO (Beach). 

You don’t have to travel far to immerse yourself in nature, especially when you have some of Ontario’s most beautiful waterways in your backyard. Whether you’re native to Ontario or just visiting, there’s a variety to do across each of its regions. Now that summer is in full swing, we’re sharing some of our favourite things to do along Southwestern Ontario’s most popular bodies of water. Pull out your note paper and pen, and jot down some of these bucket-list worthy activities.

Looking for other ways to spend your time outdoors this summer? Check out the best parks in Toronto and the top 5 trails to visit in Caledonia.

Images courtesy of: City of Welland (Welland Light Display); Welland International Flatwater Centre (WIFC); Wellington Advertiser (Elora Gorge); View the VIBE (Music Garden); Elevation Map Logs (Point Abino).