A pro-level kart track and amazing granite quarry swimming hole are joined by top-notch mountain bike trails, a diverse state park, beautiful Lake Norman and more
MOORESVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA – OCTOBER 2024 – Mooresville, North Carolina is a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts. While it may be known as Race City USA but it is so much more. A diverse slate of activities and the unmatched collection of attractions draws a mix of visitors who enjoy hiking, boating and golf as well as some rare recreational opportunities. Located just 20 minutes north of Charlotte on Interstate 77, Mooresville’s dynamic downtown, filled with eclectic shops and local restaurants, is the perfect home base for exploring the area’s variety of outdoor activities.
Mooresville is home to Carrigan Farms (1261 Oak Ridge Farm Highway, Mooresville, North Carolina, 28115; 704-664-1450) a 5th generation family-owned farm that, in addition to its planting and harvesting, has added a variety of activities for visitors. Spring and fall bring u-pick opportunities in the strawberry, apple and pumpkin fields. The farm’s quartz quarry is open for swimming from May through September. The crystal-clear waters – 10 million gallons of it – await as swimmers jump from the rope swing or cliff walls that rise 70 feet from the surface. Those who want to cast a line during swim season can bring their gear and enjoy catch-and-release fishing for bass, bream and crappie at two farm ponds.
Another must-do, one-of-a-kind Race City USA experience is visiting Trackhouse Motorplex (130 Motorplex Drive, Mooresville North Carolina 28115; 704-696-2926). Visitors can experience the excitement of high-performance karting in the latest and most exciting rental karts on a world-class racetrack. No reservations are required, racers just “arrive and drive” on the 0.7-mile, outdoor, 11-turn track in adult rental karts (for ages 16+) that are capable of speeds of more than 55 miles per hour.
Mazeppa Park (645 Mazeppa Road, Mooresville North Carolina 28115; 704-663-7026) has five miles of fast and flowy singletrack trails, for those who prefer peddle power adventure. It is loaded with turns and berms for high-speed action. While beginner-friendly, this trail offers excitement for all.
The jewel of the lake is Lake Norman State Park (759 State Park Road, Troutman, North Carolina 28166; 704-528-6350), which has 38 miles of hiking trails. Campers can choose from tent and RV sites and six cabin are also available for rent. The park is also home to the region’s popular mountain biking trail system, the Itusi Trail, which consists of nearly 31 miles of single-track trail. Lake Norman is the largest manmade lake in the state and the park extends through approximately 17 miles of its northern shoreline. The lake is popular for fishing, swimming and paddling and the park offers seasonal boat, kayak and paddleboard rentals. Park Lake, set off from the larger Lake Norman by a dam, offers quiet fishing spots and is the perfect place for birders to view 25 great blue heron nests in native rookeries on two lake islands.
Beyond the park, there are additional ways to enjoy the lake. Lake Norman Boat Rentals (121 Pinnacle Lane, Mooresville North Carolina 28117; 704-892-5990) offers a large selection of pontoons for rent at Saltshaker Marine for a day of family fun on the water. At Stutts Marina (571 Stutts Road, Mooresville, North Carolina 28117; 704-664-3106), paddleboard and kayak rentals are available with easy launch from the marina’s sandy beach area. Carolina Tiki (571 Stutts Road, Mooresville, North Carolina 28117; 702-706-8454) offers charters from the marina on custom pontoon boats. Master captains and first mates provide all the expertise and hospitality needed for fun lake excursions for up to 15 people.
Golfers can find quality play here, as well. At Mallard Head Country Club (185 Mallard Way; Brawley School Road, Mooresville North Carolina 28117; 704-664-7031), on the shores of Lake Norman, a 6,900-yard championship golf course awaits, offering a challenging round to any player. The Mooresville Golf Club (205 Golf Course Drive, Mooresville, North Carolina 28115; 704-663-2539) boasts a newly redesigned award-winning links style public course, as well as a top tier practice facility.
WHERE TO EAT:
Adventure seekers need sustenance and Mooresville restaurants deliver with taste and variety. Here are just a few of the local favorites, showing the variety in the food scene, unmatched by most towns this size.
Table 31 (130 Landings Drive Suite 103, Mooresville North Carolina 28117; 980-447-9012) offers American cuisine, featuring regional specialties, along with creative craft cocktails and an approachable wine list. It is located in Langtree at the Lake.
Barcelona Burger & Beer Garden (500 S. Main Street, Mooresville, North Carolina 28115) serves award-winning burgers, including veggie burgers, hand-pressed, grilled to perfection and served with a variety of toppings. An extensive selection of craft beers is on tap.
Pisces Sushi Bar & Lounge (591-A River Highway, Mooresville, North Carolina 28117; 704-662-0062) Award-winning locally-owned Pisces Sushi offers a friendly, comfortable atmosphere for a relaxing dining experience. The variety of sushi choices nigiri/sashimi and a selection of house specialty rolls. There are also traditional Japanese appetizers, hibachi entrees and an extensive menu of wine, sake and specialty cocktails.
Big Daddy’s of Lake Norman (1162 River Hwy, Mooresville North Carolina 28117; 704-663-4242) has served the finest fresh seafood, steak and prime rib in a family atmosphere for 40 years. The large menu includes an oyster bar, broiled lobster, steamed shrimp, seafood alfredo, steak and homemade desserts.