May the odds be ever in your favor. Competing for parking spaces in some of Charlotte's busiest places can feel like "The Hunger Games."

City Editor Jack, here. After navigating springtime parking at Freedom Park, I was left wondering what other spots are challenging for Charlotteans trying to park their cars.

Here are just a few places I've encountered + tips to make your parking experience a tad less stressful.

The Dowd YMCA, South End

Be prepared for limited parking options on weekday afternoons between 3-7 p.m. as many people hit the gym after work + expect to join a line of cars circling to find an empty spot.

Possible solution: There's a free parking garage for YMCA members at the corner of South Caldwell Street and Lexington Ave.

Anticipate few open parking spots at Panera Bread in SouthPark. | Image via Google Maps

Panera Bread, SouthPark

Grabbing lunch at Panera or swinging by AT&T? This tiny lot fills up quickly in the afternoon + the hairpin turn doesn't help.

Possible solution: Guests can find a free garage nearby at South Executive Park Drive.

Selwyn Pub, Myers Park

This popular spot in Myers Park is bustling in the evenings and weekends — especially on game day — leaving limited parking.

Possible solution: Arrive early before a game or try to navigate street parking along Colony Road.

Latta Arcade and Romare Bearden Park

We get it. Parking spots are a premium in the heart of Uptown, especially on weekends and game days for the Carolina Panthers, Charlotte Knights, and Charlotte FC.

Possible solution: Check out numerous paid parking lots nearby including South Poplar Street and South Mint Street. Prices may vary.

Compact cars will be your friends when parking at Metropolitan. | Image via Google Maps

Metropolitan, Midtown

Attention shoppers: A trip to Target or At Home can cause a headache navigating this claustrophobic parking deck so anticipate cruising up to Level 2 or 3 to save time.

Possible solution: Arrive early in the day to avoid late-day shoppers.

Suffolk Punch Brewing, South End

Parking spaces fill up fast at this popular hangout, especially during nice weather conditions and evening hours.

Possible solution: Street parking can be found a few blocks down along Youngblood Street.

What did we miss? Let us know what parking spots across Charlotte leave you gripping the steering wheel.