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Fun Things to do in Mooresville Right Now – FALL

Fun Things to do in Mooresville Right Now

The cooler days of fall are here and it is a great time to enjoy all the things to do in and around Mooresville. From the adrenaline pumping excitement of go-karting to a soul-feeding hike or paddle at Lake Norman State Park, pick the speed you want to go! Take your pick of family friendly attractions and entertainment, as well as great festivals and special events. We can’t wait to show you all of the great things you can do right now in Mooresville!

Take in a Fall Festival

Nothing says fall like a festival! One of the most highly anticipated events in our area each fall is the Carolina BalloonFest. Held just north of Mooresville at the Statesville Municipal Airport, this year will mark the festival’s 47th year delighting attendees with the daily ascension of more than 40 hot air balloons, a true wonder to behold. Guests can even schedule a tethered balloon ride to get a feel for the thrill of flight. Other entertainment includes live music, a ninja obstacle course, artisan and marketplace village, kids’ zone, NC wine and craft beer garden and much more! The festival takes place October 14, 15, 16 and tickets can be purchased online at www.carolinaballoonfest.com.

Other festival fun will take place at one of our safari animal parks, at some of our great craft breweries, and also downtown. Check out the full list here.

Experience our Downtown: Happening. Unexpected. Inviting.

If you love a blending of old and new, historic and modern, then you will love our inviting downtown. Browse a more than 100-year-old hardware store as well as a contemporary artisan shop dedicated to giving back, all in the same block! Stop for lunch in a charming café or for a beverage at a historic bank turned corner pub.  Step back in time with the historic murals on many of the downtown buildings. Many of the murals have been refreshed and restored, but some are brand new. They are super popular for social media photos – and are one of our most popular Instagrammable places in Mooresville! Take a stroll through the fall flower exhibit in the John Franklin Moore Park on Main Street. You’ll also find a number of contemporary craft cocktails and fun watering holes at our Main Street bars, like 158 on Main for an elevated cocktail experience. There are so many treasures in our beautiful downtown – schedule a day to see it all!

Find Treasures Old and New

Main St. Antiques & Design Gallery is a treasure hunters dream! With nearly 500 vendors in the 160,000 square foot former textile mill, you are sure to find something you can’t live without. Items range from vintage to repurposed to brand new, with furniture, home decor, and even clothing items. Though it is vast, the Antiques mall is only a small part of the mill property, which covers 40 acres and more than 1 million square feet of space. There are other retailers, like home decor store Nest & Bower, as well as popular restaurants Alino Pizzeria and Barcelona Burger Bar. Defined Coffee recently opened a beautiful space, and you can shop for fresh produce and local goodies at the Merino Mill Market*FUN FACT* The mill has been a backdrop for a number of tv shows and movies, including the Cinemax show “Banshee”.

Be a Giraffe’s BFF

Get kisses from a giraffe, or one of the many other species of animals you’ll find at our two animal parks, Lazy 5 Ranch and Zootastic Park.  Take a drive through the safaris and feed the animals that come right up to your window.

Take a Hike

With more than 30 miles of wooded trails, Lake Norman State Park offers visitors a great way to enjoy the fresh air, abundant wildlife, and stunning scenery around Lake Norman. Take an easy trail around the lake or challenge yourself with a more moderate hike, or bring your mountain bike for a fun workout.

Rev Up Your Engines

Experience exhilarating racing action at the world-class kart track at GoPro Motorplex. This track was built by racing professionals and modeled after the famous and historic Kartdromo Parma circuit in Italy and is sure to get your adrenaline pumping! The rental karts are capable of speeds up to 55-miles per hour, and the twists and turns of the track will test your skill. In fact, many of racing’s top drivers use the track to stay in shape during the off season.

Treat Yourself

The best part about a weekend away is treating yourself to some goodies! Luckily there are some great places around Mooresville to do just that. Take a step back in time when you visit Mooresville Ice Cream Company in downtown Mooresville. They have been providing freshly made ice cream to the community since 1924! Enjoy your treat while you stroll downtown and take in the artist murals on the buildings, or pop in one of the charming shops. If cookies are your thing, you have to check out Red’s Scratch Made on Main Street. These cookies are next level, with flavors like Pumpkin Cheesecake, Rocky Road Brookies and Spiced Caramel Apple. Just be sure to get there early as they frequently sell out before closing time! CynTucci’s Bakery features classic tarts, cupcakes, and other confectionary treats in their charming Main Street storefront. For a complete list of sweets and other treats check out our listings.

Fun Things to do in Mooresville Right Now – FALL

Fun Things to do in Mooresville Right Now – SUMMER

Fun Things to do in Mooresville Right Now

Summer is here and it is a great time to enjoy all the things to do in and around Mooresville. From the adrenaline pumping excitement of wakesurfing to a soul-feeding hike or paddle at Lake Norman State Park, pick the speed you want to go on the lake! Or if you prefer dry land, take your pick of family friendly attractions and entertainment. We can’t wait to show you all of the great things you can do right now in Mooresville!

Soak Up The Fun on Lake Norman

With more than 500 miles of shoreline, Lake Norman is the largest manmade lake in North Carolina. There are numerous ways to experience lake life. Rent a boat, jet ski, or water toys to get out on the water. Or if you’d prefer that someone else do the piloting so you can relax and enjoy the cruise, try Carolina Cruising Charters or one of the cruise boats at Queen’s Landing, a replica paddleboat named the Catawba Queen, and the luxury yacht, Lady of the Lake. You can choose a site seeing tour or a dinner cruise.

If you crave a little more excitement – why not learn to wakesurf or hydrofoil with the team at Ride LKN Wake & Surf Co.? With their expert coaches, they will have you up and surfing like a pro in no time.

You can also hire a fishing guide to help you navigate the great fishing spots on Lake Norman. Let the experts show you the best spots to reel in a species of bass, crappie, catfish and more.

Experience our Downtown: Happening. Unexpected. Inviting.

If you love a blending of old and new, historic and modern, then you will love our inviting downtown. Browse a more than 100-year-old hardware store as well as a contemporary artisan shop dedicated to giving back, all in the same block! Stop for lunch in a charming café or for a beverage at a historic bank turned corner pub.  Step back in time with the historic murals on many of the downtown buildings. Many of the murals have been refreshed and restored, but some are brand new. They are super popular for social media photos – and are one of our most popular Instagrammable places in Mooresville! There are so many treasures in our beautiful downtown – schedule a day to see it all!

Find Treasures Old and New

Main St. Antiques & Design Gallery is a treasure hunters dream! With nearly 500 vendors in the 160,000 square foot former textile mill, you are sure to find something you can’t live without. Items range from vintage to repurposed to brand new, with furniture, home decor, and even clothing items. Though it is vast, the Antiques mall is only a small part of the mill property, which covers 40 acres and more than 1 million square feet of space. There are other retailers, like home decor store Nest & Bower, as well as popular restaurants Alino Pizzeria and Barcelona Burger Bar. Defined Coffee recently opened a beautiful space, and you can shop for fresh produce and local goodies at the Merino Mill Market*FUN FACT* The mill has been a backdrop for a number of tv shows and movies, including the Cinemax show “Banshee”.

Be a Giraffe’s BFF

Get kisses from a giraffe, or one of the many other species of animals you’ll find at our two animal parks, Lazy 5 Ranch and Zootastic Park.  Take a drive through the safaris and feed the animals that come right up to your window.

Take a Hike

With more than 30 miles of wooded trails, Lake Norman State Park offers visitors a great way to enjoy the fresh air, abundant wildlife, and stunning scenery around Lake Norman. Take an easy trail around the lake or challenge yourself with a more moderate hike, or bring your mountain bike for a fun workout.

Rev Up Your Engines

Experience exhilarating racing action at the world-class kart track at GoPro Motorplex. This track was built by racing professionals and modeled after the famous and historic Kartdromo Parma circuit in Italy and is sure to get your adrenaline pumping! The rental karts are capable of speeds up to 55-miles per hour, and the twists and turns of the track will test your skill. In fact, many of racing’s top drivers use the track to stay in shape during the off season.

Treat Yourself

The best part about a weekend away is treating yourself to some goodies! Luckily there are some great places around Mooresville to do just that. Take a step back in time when you visit Mooresville Ice Cream Company in downtown Mooresville. They have been providing freshly made ice cream to the community since 1924! Enjoy your treat while you stroll downtown and take in the artist murals on the buildings, or pop in one of the charming shops. If cookies are your thing, you have to check out Red’s Scratch Made on Main Street. These cookies are next level, with flavors like Pumpkin Cheesecake, Rocky Road Brookies and Spiced Caramel Apple. Just be sure to get there early as they frequently sell out before closing time! CynTucci’s Bakery features classic tarts, cupcakes, and other confectionary treats in their charming Main Street storefront. For a complete list of sweets and other treats check out our listings.

Fun Things to do in Mooresville Right Now – SUMMER

Why We Love Fall in Mooresville

Why We Love Fall in Mooresville

Everyone in our office loves fall. The crisp air (low humidity!) and the promise of cooler days to come motivates us to get out and enjoy the great activities and events that Mooresville has to offer. From apple cider doughnuts to brisk hikes to work them off, fall is the perfect time to get out and refresh your soul!

1. A Fall Display

Experience autumn hues in all their splendor at the Fall Display on Main Street. Sponsored by the Mooresville Downtown Commission and produced by Brawley Garden Center (a Mooresville staple since 1946!), this floral installation is the perfect spot for portraits or selfies. Stroll the path amid pumpkins, gourds, mums, and other fall flowers. The garden display is located at the corner of Main Street and E. Center Avenue, across from Epic Chophouse.

2. Pumpkin Patch Picking

It wouldn’t be fall without pumpkins, and luckily we have some fun places for you to pick that perfect gourd. Carrigan Farms pumpkin season runs through the month of October, and is a true pumpkin patch where you can wander around the field in search of the perfect pumpkin. They also offer hayrides to and from the fields. Don’t miss the apple cider doughnut truck!

The Triple Diamond Farms Pumpkin Patch runs every Saturday and Sunday in October. In addition to bringing home a pumpkin, you can enjoy hayrides, a petting zoo, games, pony rides and more. Josh’s Farmers Market has pumpkins galore, as well as a huge selection of mums and other seasonal decor. While you’re there, pick up some of the freshest produce around!

There are also a few seasonal vendors that set up around Mooresville offering pumpkins and fall plants and decor. Keep an eye out for them while you’re out and about.

3. Outdoor Eats & Drinks

While summer patio dining certainly has its advantages, to us it’s even better in the fall, when you don’t have to time your meal to avoid the heat of the day. Most days in the fall you can hit the decks any time of the day or night and be comfortable. We have some great outdoor dining experiences in Mooresville, including some that are waterfront for awesome lake views.

Havana 33 and Eddies on Lake Norman share the same parking lot and the same waterfront view of Lake Norman. Havana 33 serves modern Cuban cuisine and tasty variations on the margarita, while Eddies specializes in casual seafood, Italian and American classics. The lakeside deck bar at Eddies is popular with locals and visitors alike, and you can even arrive by boat or other watercraft, as they have a sandy beach where you can dock your boat.

The Blue Parrot Grill is quite the bustling scene on summer weekends, and while they are seasonal and close in the colder months, the warm days of fall are perfect for drinks and lunch or dinner on their waterfront deck. Bartenders serve up cold drinks from the tiki bar, and the giant beach chair is a popular spot for taking photos. Their sister restaurant, Toucan’s, is right next door, with a seafood centric menu and a large deck for lakeside dining.

For true outdoor dining, grab a meal from a food truck at one of our local breweries. Our newest brewery, Hoptown Brewing, has a large patio with a louvered roof that can be opened or closed depending on weather. You can order food for delivery from one of the nearby restaurants. King Canary Brewing has a large and welcoming patio area with umbrellas and picnic tables. They usually have a food truck parked on site, or you can grab light snacks at the bar while you sip your craft beer, cider, or wine. Beer Lab has an outdoor covered patio with picnic tables for enjoying their experimental beers, which change weekly and sometimes daily, and food and snacks available from their kitchen.  Ghostface Brewing is popular with the lunch and dinner crowd as they partner with Davidson Pizza Company, located in the same space, to serve specialty pizzas and the most amazing wings. Dogs are welcome on the patios at all of the breweries!

4. Water Sports

While you wouldn’t traditionally think of water sports as activities to enjoy in the fall, thanks to our mild climate, we can have warm days all through the fall, often up until Thanksgiving! It’s a great time to enjoy Lake Norman, as there are fewer boats on the water and the days are warm but not too hot. One of our favorite lake activities is Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP). You can be as active as you want, with a fast paced paddle or yoga workout, or simply hang out on the board and soak up some rays. If you want to cruise a larger area of the lake, you may want to rent a boat or jet ski.

Check out our list of places to rent boats, jet skis, SUPs and more.

If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you may want to try wakeboarding or wakesurfing. For the best experience, go with a lesson from one of the experienced coaches on Lake Norman. You’ll not only get expert instruction, you’ll also have access to the nicest boards, gear, and boats. STP Wake and Ride LKN will have you up and behind the boat in no time!

5. Hiking or Biking at LKN State Park

While everyone loves summer, I think most people find the break in the heat refreshing on fall days. It’s the perfect time to get outdoors and enjoy some recreation, like hiking or biking at Lake Norman State Park. One of the most visited attractions in our area, the park offers a wide range of activities for all members of the family. Take advantage of scenic hiking trails, from easy out and back trails along the waterfront to more moderate terrain on longer loops. If you are a biker, the mountain bike trails at LKNSP offer more than 30 miles of adventures!

Why We Love Fall in Mooresville

Fun Things to do in Mooresville Right Now – FALL

Fun Things to do in Mooresville Right Now

As much as we hate to bid farewell to summer, we so love the cooler air and fun events that come with fall in Mooresville! From picking pumpkins from the patch, to devouring those apple cider doughnuts, to taking a soul-feeding hike or paddle at Lake Norman State Park, we can’t wait to show you all of the great things you can do right now in Mooresville!

Pick a Perfect Pumpkin

Nothing says Fall like a pumpkin patch, and the apple cider doughnuts to go with it! For an authentic pumpkin picking experience, head over to Carrigan Farms every day in October. Take a hayride out to the patch where you can select a pumpkin right off the vine. A stop at the petting zoo awaits you on the return trip, as does the apple cider doughnut food truck. Visits this year require face masks on the shuttle as well as reservations. Visit the Carrigan Farms website for details.

A huge selection of pumpkins is available at Josh’s Farmer’s Market, a favorite farm stand with locals. Their Fall Market is set for September 25, featuring the Granny’s Old Fashioned Donuts truck with their apple cider doughnuts. Prepare to wait in line for this wildly popular event, but the freshly prepared donuts are totally worth it. They are set to reappear on October 9th.

Fall For Downtown

Our beautiful and happening downtown features some highly anticipated events, kicking off a fabulous weekend with the Uncorked and Artsy fall edition on Friday, October 1. The gallery crawl and wine/beer tasting event takes place on Broad and Main Streets, with shops holding special events and sales. The following morning get ready for one of Mooresville’s most fun, and unique, events. The Downtown Mooresville Wiener Races. This entertaining, charitable event helps raise awareness and donations for Lake Norman Humane and is open for the public to attend at no cost! Come watch Dachshund dogs race for the tile of champion in multiple events. There’s no need to leave downtown after the races because the Festival of Food Trucks gets started at 5pm on Main and Broad Streets. More than 13 trucks are scheduled with fare ranging from lobster dogs to dumplings to barbeque. Bring a chair and hang out for the live music in the last food trucks event of the year.

Soak Up The Fun on Lake Norman

With more than 500 miles of shoreline, Lake Norman is the largest manmade lake in North Carolina. The pleasantly warm days of fall are perfect for exploring secluded coves and taking in the scenery.

One of the best ways to see the lake at a leisurely pace is by paddleboard. Don’t have one of your own? Rent one at one of the rental shops around the lake. Or if you want to speed things up a bit and explore a larger area, rent a boat or jet ski for the day. Check out all the rental options. Pack a picnic for the day or visit one of our lakefront restaurants for a bite.

You can also hire a fishing guide to help you navigate the great fishing spots on Lake Norman. For a truly unique experience, schedule a wakeboarding or wakesurfing lesson with a professional wakeboarder at Ride LKN Wake & Surf School or Stephen Pierce Wake.

Be a Giraffe’s BFF

Get kisses from a giraffe, or one of the many other species of animals you’ll find at our two animal parks, Lazy 5 Ranch and Zootastic Park.  Take a drive through the safaris and feed the animals that come right up to your window.

Take a Hike

With more than 30 miles of wooded trails, Lake Norman State Park offers visitors a great way to enjoy the fresh air, abundant wildlife, and stunning scenery around Lake Norman. Take an easy trail around the lake or challenge yourself with a more moderate hike, or bring your mountain bike for a fun workout.

Rev Up Your Engines

Experience exhilarating racing action at the world-class kart track at GoPro Motorplex. This track was built by racing professionals and modeled after the famous and historic Kartdromo Parma circuit in Italy and is sure to get your adrenaline pumping! The rental karts are capable of speeds up to 55-miles per hour, and the twists and turns of the track will test your skill. In fact, many of racing’s top drivers use the track to stay in shape during the off season.

Treat Yourself

The best part about a weekend away is treating yourself to some goodies! Luckily there are some great places around Mooresville to do just that. Take a step back in time when you visit Mooresville Ice Cream Company in downtown Mooresville. They have been providing freshly made ice cream to the community since 1924! Enjoy your treat while you stroll downtown and take in the artist murals on the buildings, or pop in one of the charming shops. If cookies are your thing, you have to check out Red’s Scratch Made on Main Street. These cookies are next level, with flavors like Pumpkin Cheesecake, Rocky Road Brookies and Spiced Caramel Apple. Just be sure to get there early as they frequently sell out before closing time! CynTucci’s Bakery features classic tarts, cupcakes, and other confectionary treats in their charming Main Street storefront. For a complete list of sweets and other treats check out our listings.

Fun Things to do in Mooresville Right Now – FALL

This Week in Mooresville

About Last Week in Mooresville

Each Monday we’re updating this page to show how our visitors and locals entertained themselves from the week before in Mooresville. Whether you’re daydreaming about your own experiences or looking for inspiration for a future visit, we hope you enjoy seeing all there is to see and do in Mooresville. Post your favorite photos and videos on social media using #VisitMooresville and tag us for a chance to be featured.

This Week in Mooresville

Fun Things to do in Mooresville Right Now

Fun Things to do in Mooresville Right Now

In Mooresville, NC, we know how to do summer! Beautiful Lake Norman is right in our back yard, and you can spend the day (or week!) floating, paddling, skiing, surfing, and more! Make new friends at an animal park or channel your inner speed demon on a world-class karting track. There are also some fun things to do indoors. Be sure to tag us in your social media photos when you are out and about so we can see how everyone is enjoying Mooresville! #visitmooresville @visitmooresville

Hit the Lake

There’s no more perfect way to enjoy Mooresville than with a day on the lake! Rent jet skis, boats, or paddleboards – or treat yourself to a professional wakesurfing lesson. Or try your hand at fishing with a guided tour. Check out our list of water activities. We’re sure you’ll find something to love!

After a day on the lake, stay waterfront with one of our lakeside restaurants. It’s the perfect way to catch a sunset and soak up the last of a lake day.

Take a Hike

 

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With more than 30 miles of wooded trails, Lake Norman State Park offers visitors a great way to enjoy the fresh air, abundant wildlife, and stunning scenery around Lake Norman. Take an easy trail around the lake or challenge yourself with a more moderate hike, or bring your mountain bike for a fun workout. A favorite place to bring your pups!

Go Climbing

 

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Cliff Hangers Climbing and Fitness Gym is a fun challenge for the whole family. This state-of-the-art indoor climbing facility features a speed wall, bouldering, and a designated kids area. All you need is comfortable clothes and determination, and their friendly staff will get you started climbing! The cafe offers snacks to keep you going, as well as a great beer selection to reward you for all of your hard work. Cliff Hangers is located at 326 Oates Road, Mooresville, NC 28117 or visit them at www.cliffhangersclimbing.com.

Go Karting

GoPro Motorplex is a truly unique attraction in Mooresville! With karts that reach speeds of up to 55-mph around the twisty curvy track, it’s as close to auto racing as most will ever get. If the weather keeps you from experiencing the outdoor track, The Pit Indoor Kart Racing offers an under-roof solution. The 70,000 sq. ft. track is one of the largest, single indoor kart tracks in the country. With speeds of up to 45 miles per hour, and a 20-foot wide track, that means more passing, more speed, and more of that adrenaline rush. The completely indoor facility also features a climbing wall, arcade, laser tag, bumper cars and more.  The Pit Indoor Kart is located at 346 E. Plaza Drive, Mooresville NC 28117. You can visit them online at meetatthepit.com.

Enjoy the Arts

Take a stroll through the Mooresville Arts Gallery, housed in the historic Mooresville Train Depot, which is on the National Register of Historic Buildings and in near-original condition. The Gallery hosts shows and displays all types of fine art. They also hold public receptions and openings for exhibits throughout the year, so check their website for events. 103 W. Center Avenue.

Be inspired with a walk through the Gallery of Argentinian artist Leandro Manzo. View his impressive collection of oversized paintings and get a glimpse into his workspace. A bonus is that it is housed inside a wing at the historic Merino Mill, with its beautiful exposed brick and beams. Gallery hours are Thursday – Sunday 3pm – 8pm. Merino Mill, 500 S. Main Street.

Get Brewing

 

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After a day of climbing, karting, or art, treat yourself to an afternoon or evening of beer sampling! Mooresville is home to some great craft beer breweries, pubs, and ale houses, where you are sure to find a new favorite. Take a journey on our Ale Trail to sample from our six unique breweries! Ghostface Brewing features up to 20 unique and tasty beers along with mead and ciders at any given time in their taproom. They have a second brewery, Beer Lab, which was created from the R&D (Research & Drinking) events at the original location, where they would unleash 7 new beers at a time and experiment with strange ingredients, fruit and yeast. Beer Lab features experimental beers with taps consistently changing weekly if not daily. Ghostface Brewery is located at 427 East Statesville Avenue and Beer Lab is located at 225 S. Broad Street. Both can be found online at www.ghostfacebrewing.com

King Canary Brewing is a craft brew pub with charming decor and a wide range of styles in their brew selection, with a number of IPAs, fruited sours, dessert inspired stouts and everything in between. They also offer wines, light snacks, and a revolving lineup of food trucks. Located at 562 Williamson Rd, or online at www.kingcanarybrewing.com.

Hoptown Brewery is the newest kid on the ale block in Mooresville. Living true to their “Beer a Good Neighbor” slogan, the brewery not only offers an impressive selection in a modern space, but also gives a portion of their sales to selected local charities through their Sip it Forward program. Win-win!

Located in downtown Mooresville, (On)Tap taphouse features 23 taps of craft beers and ciders from small, independent breweries and cideries primarily in North Carolina. In addition, they have prosecco and wine on tap, can serve you craft beer flights and fill a growler for you to take home. The renovated historic building is quite beautiful and the perfect location for enjoying a brew or two. (on)Tap is located at 188 N Main St, Mooresville, NC 28115 and online at www.ontap.pub.

Ultimate Ales was the first bottle shop in Mooresville and offers a revolving selection of beers and ciders on tap, as well as an extensive bottle collection. Ultimate Ales is located at 134-C Mooresville Commons Way , Mooresville, NC 28117 and online at www.ultimateales.com.

Enjoy your days exploring Mooresville, and remember you can always stop by our Visitor Center if you need help planning fun things to do while you are visiting!

Fun Things to do in Mooresville Right Now

Five Things We Love About Fall in Mooresville

Five Things We Love About Fall in Mooresville

In our office, everyone gets excited when fall is in the air. There is something about the crisper air and the promise of cooler days to come that motivates us to get out and enjoy the great activities and events that Mooresville has to offer. Here, we’ve picked five of our favorite things that we love about fall. Let us know if you agree, and as always, tag us in your photos when you are out and about experiencing the fall season!

1. Fall Festivals

Nothing says put on your plaid and grab a craft beer like a fall festival! And luckily, we have a few to choose from around Mooresville. The Carolina BalloonFest is one of the most popular and anticipated events in our area. The second oldest hot air balloon festival in the country, Carolina BalloonFest features more than 50 balloons, live music acts, an artisan marketplace, food, craft beer and wine vendors, as well as special events and entertainment. The 3-day festival attracts upwards of 40,000 attendees every year. This year’s festival is October 18, 19 & 20. Tickets can be purchased online or at the event, and children under 12 are admitted for free.

One of our favorite fall traditions here is the Mooresville Weiner Race, where weiner dogs (also known as Dachshunds) race it out for the title of champion. Entries compete in different divisions, which include “Cutest” and “Best Dressed.”  The free October 12 event is a great photo opportunity, fun for the entire family, and helps raise awareness and funds for local animal rescue groups.

If you’re in to art and wine, or just something really fun to do on a Friday night, head to downtown Mooresville on October 4th for Uncorked & Artsy. Stroll down Main and Broad Streets for wine and beer tastings while taking in the artwork of local and regional artists. Live music and light appetizers are part of the entry fee, as well as a souvenir Downtown Uncorked & Artsy glass. Tickets are available online here. 

Our two animals parks, Lazy 5 Ranch and Zootastic, also hold Fall Festivals. The cooler weather is perfect for interacting with the animals, and special fall activities keep the kiddos (and you!) entertained. Zootastic holds its festival on October 26 & 27, while the Fall Festival at Lazy 5 Ranch runs October 5 – 27.

2. Pumpkin Patch Picking

It wouldn’t be fall without pumpkins, and luckily we have some fun places for you to pick that perfect gourd. Carrigan Farms pumpkin season runs through the month of October, and is a true pumpkin patch where you can wander around the field in search of the perfect pumpkin. They also offer hayrides to and from the fields.

The Triple Diamond Farms Pumpkin Patch runs every Saturday and Sunday in October. In addition to bringing home a pumpkin, you can enjoy hayrides, a petting zoo, games, pony rides and more. Josh’s Farmers Market has pumpkins galore, as well as a huge selection of mums and other seasonal decor. While you’re there, pick up some of the freshest produce around!

There are also a few seasonal vendors that set up around Mooresville offering pumpkins and fall plants and decor. Keep an eye out for them while you’re out and about.

3. Outdoor Eats & Drinks

While summer patio dining certainly has its advantages, to us it’s even better in the fall, when you don’t have to time your meal to avoid the heat of the day. Most days in the fall you can hit the decks any time of the day or night and be comfortable. We have some great outdoor dining experiences in Mooresville, including some that are waterfront for awesome lake views.

Prickly Pear and Eddies on Lake Norman share the same parking lot and the same peaceful view of Lake Norman. Prickly Pear serves upscale modern Mexican cuisine and tasty variations on the margarita, while Eddies specializes in casual seafood, Italian and American classics. The lakeside deck bar at Eddies is popular with locals and visitors alike, and you can even arrive by boat or other watercraft, as they have a sandy beach where you can dock your boat.

The Blue Parrot Grill is quite the bustling scene on summer weekends, and while they are seasonal and close in the colder months, the warm days of fall are perfect for drinks and lunch or dinner on their waterfront deck. Bartenders serve up cold drinks from the tiki bar, and the giant beach chair is a popular spot for taking photos. They also welcome dogs on the patio!

For true outdoor dining, grab a meal from a food truck at one of our local breweries. King Canary Brewing has a large and welcoming patio area with umbrellas and picnic tables. They usually have a food truck parked on site, or you can grab light snacks at the bar while you sip your craft beer, cider, or wine. Beer Lab has an outdoor patio with picnic tables for enjoying their experimental beers, which change weekly and sometimes daily. They do not serve food, but you can grab some awesome barbeque from Smokey J’s, located next door. Ghostface Brewing is popular with the lunch and dinner crowd as they partner with Davidson Pizza Company, located in the same space, to serve specialty pizzas and the most amazing wings. Dogs are welcome on the patios at all of the breweries!

4. Water Sports

While you wouldn’t traditionally think of water sports as activities to enjoy in the fall, thanks to our mild climate, we can have warm days all through the fall, often up until Thanksgiving! It’s a great time to enjoy Lake Norman, as there are fewer boats on the water and the days are warm but not too hot. One of our favorite lake activities is Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP). You can be as active as you want, with a fast paced paddle or yoga workout, or simply hang out on the board and soak up some rays. If you want to cruise a larger area of the lake, you may want to rent a boat or jet ski.

Check out our list of places to rent boats, jet skis, SUPs and more.

If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you may want to try wakeboarding or wakesurfing. For the best experience, go with a lesson from one of the experienced coaches on Lake Norman. You’ll not only get expert instruction, you’ll also have access to the nicest boards, gear, and boats. STP Wake and Ride LKN will have you up and behind the boat in no time!

5. Hiking or Biking at LKN State Park

While everyone loves summer, I think most people find the break in the heat refreshing on fall days. It’s the perfect time to get outdoors and enjoy some recreation, like hiking or biking at Lake Norman State Park. One of the most visited attractions in our area, the park offers a wide range of activities for all members of the family. Take advantage of scenic hiking trails, from easy out and back trails along the waterfront to more moderate terrain on longer loops. If you are a biker, the mountain bike trails at LKNSP offer more than 30 miles of adventures!

Five Things We Love About Fall in Mooresville

Summer Fun in Mooresville

Experience Summer Fun in Mooresville

When you are planning your vacation days this year, remember that summer is the perfect time to enjoy all that Mooresville, NC has to offer. Connect with your Outdoor Enthusiast on beautiful Lake Norman, channel your inner speed demon at GoPro Motorplex, or practice your selfies at any of our Instagrammable Places around Mooresville. No matter what your idea of fun is, we know you’ll find your perfect self here.

Check out our special Mooresville Escapes packages to find stay and play deals!

Because the COVID situation is an ever changing environment, some attractions or activities may be closed or have limited availability. Please visit the website or social media channels of businesses before you make plans.

Soak Up The Fun on Lake Norman

With more than 500 miles of shoreline, Lake Norman is the largest manmade lake in North Carolina. Whether you like the speed of a jet ski or prefer to take a more leisurely pace, you can find a watersport that suits your mood on Lake Norman.

Spend the day at Lake Norman State Park, which offers year-round boating, fishing, camping, hiking and mountain bike trails. You can rent Stand Up Paddleboards, kayaks and canoes to enjoy the beautiful shoreline around the park. There’s also a swim area with a 125-yard-long sand beach that’s open from April to October.

If you want to enjoy other areas of the lake, look into water toy rentals. You can rent paddleboards, kayaks, jet skis, and boats for partial or full days out on the lake. For a truly unique experience, schedule a wakeboarding lesson with a professional wakeboarder at STP Wake or Ride LKN.

Take a Walk on the Wild Side

Mooresville is home to the Lazy 5 Ranch and Zootastic Park. At the privately owned Lazy 5 Ranch, you and your family can embark on a drive-through safari featuring over 700 animals. Drive your own vehicle and feed the animals along the way for the ultimate socially-distanced fun.

Also privately owned, Zootastic Park offers educational programs and animal encounters. Take the whole family for a leisurely stroll through the park, and visit the many animal species, including Arabian camels, kangaroos, ring-tailed lemurs, tigers and much more. Taking selfies with the giraffes is a visitor favorite at Zootastic Park!

Take a Hike

With more than 30 miles of wooded trails, Lake Norman State Park is a great place to spend the day exploring. Trails range from the easy Dragonfly Trail, which with a 0.15 mile paved surface is perfect for little ones, to the moderate Lake Shore Trail which was voted as a must-see trail in the Charlotte area. The 30.5 mile Itusi trail is also open to mountain bikers and offers more challenging trail loops with beautiful views of Lake Norman.

Rev Up Your Engines

Experience exhilarating racing action at the world-class kart track at GoPro Motorplex. This track was built by racing professionals and modeled after the famous and historic Kartdromo Parma circuit in Italy and is sure to get your adrenaline pumping!

If indoor racing is more your style, or if you have younger kids, then head to PIT Indoor Kart Track, which features the nation’s largest indoor kart track. The facility also features entertainment in addition to the karts, like a laser tag arena, a rock climbing wall, bumper cars and a black light mini-golf course, though some of the activities may be closed due to restrictions and safety protocols.

Once you have filled your need for speed, be sure to check out the race shops in Mooresville, including JR Motorsports, Kasey Kahne Racing, Kyle Busch Motorsports, and Team Penske, to see the teams preparing the race cars for the next race.

Swim in a Super Cool Rock Quarry

If you need to cool off, head to the Quarry at Carrigan Farms, where you can swim in a quarry that was mined for its granite back in the 1960s. This natural, spring-fed body of water is 25 feet deep and surrounded by towering cliffs of granite. If you’re feeling brave you can swing out on a rope swing from one of the cliffs, another of our favorite places for Instagram!  Check their website for hours and information. Reservations may be required to comply with guidelines on social distancing.

Soar to New Heights

If you want to gain some altitude and get a good workout while doing so, check out Cliff Hangers, a climbing facility that features indoor and outdoor climbing walls, bouldering, and a kids climbing area. With climbing walls up to 50 feet, you can get an adrenaline rush as you climb for the top. Safety measures they have taken include requiring masks and advanced reservations, which you can do on their website.

Kick Back with a Beer

A day of summer fun would not be complete without a good dinner and beverage to cap off your day. Visit our restaurants page for a complete list of dining options sure to suit every taste. Try out one of our local breweries, Ghostface Brewing, Beer Lab, King Canary Brewing, or Jolly Roger Brew for a relaxing end to the day. Or if you prefer a glass of wine or a craft cocktail, our list of Kegs, Casks, and Barrels will get you going in the right direction.

No matter what speed you choose for your summer fun in Mooresville, we’re sure you’re going to love our town!

Summer Fun in Mooresville

Fall in Love with Mooresville

Fall in Love with Mooresville

There are so many things for visitors to love about Mooresville: the beautiful sunsets over Lake Norman, the unique swimming hole at Carrigan Farms, adrenaline inducing action of karting at GoPro Motorplex. While summer in Mooresville is filled with fun activities and things to do, for those of us at the Visitors Center, we tend to love autumn here the best. Maybe it’s the promise of cooler weather, or all of the awesome festivals, or perhaps it’s because of everything PUMPKIN! Whatever the reason, we wanted to share some of our favorite things about Fall in Mooresville.

Get a workout on the water
Most people think fall means starting to bundle up in sweaters, but here in North Carolina, there are still plenty of nice warm days for enjoying Lake Norman. In fact, many of our residents use their boats and water toys almost year round. If you want to try your hand at watersports like Stand Up Paddleboarding or kayaking, fall is a great time to do so. Not only are the temperatures great for outdoor sports, but in some places and at times, you could have the lake almost to yourself. You can rent paddle boards or kayaks at Lake Norman State Park as well as other places around Mooresville. Check out our watersports page for more information.

Hike or bike through the woods
Lake Norman State Park is not only great for watersports, it is a great place to hike or mountain bike. With more than 30 miles of trails, moderate elevation changes and gorgeous scenery, it’s easy to see why Lake Norman State Park has one of the highest visitor rates in the state, with nearly one million visitors in 2017! The Lake Shore Trail offers beautiful water views and was voted a must see trail. Once the leaves start turning, you are in for an awesome display of nature on your walk, run, or ride.

Pick a Pumpkin at Carrigan Farms
Pumpkin. Isn’t that the real reason everyone loves fall? From pumpkin lattes to ice cream to beer, the fruit that screams autumn turns up almost everywhere. Whether you want to decorate your porch or use it in a recipe, what better way to acquire your pumpkin than to pick it straight out of the patch? Better yet, take a tractor drawn hay ride to get to the patch. Does it get any better than that?

Let Your Imagination Soar
2018 will mark the 45th year for the Carolina BalloonFest! This must-see event fills the sky with colorful balloons twice per day (weather permitting) to the delight of festival goers. There is a ton of entertainment for attendees, including an artisan village and marketplace, wine and craft beer tasting garden, live entertainment, food vendors, kids zone and more! You can even book a balloon ride for the ultimate experience. Be sure to take your camera and tag us in your photos! (@visitmooresville)

Tap Into Your Wild Side
Though the animal parks near Mooresville are open year round, fall is a great time to visit, as the animals enjoy the cooler temperatures as much as we do! At the Lazy 5 Ranch Drive Thru Safari, get up close and personal to more than 750 domestic and exotic animals from six continents. Take the horse drawn wagon ride through the park to get the full experience. The park hosts a Fall Festival for the month of October, included in the admission price. See how high you can climb on the straw castle, or try your hand at the pumpkin slingshot. It’s great family fun!


At Zootastic Park, giraffe selfies are a favorite with visitors! You can feed and pet these gentle giants, as well as many other animals around the zoo. You can also purchase animal encounters where you can play with animals such as Fennec Fox, Lion cubs, Kangaroo or Ring Tail Lemurs. Zootastic also hosts a Fall Festival. This year’s date is October 27-28.

Get Crafty
Thanks to some awesome local breweries, experiencing craft beer in Mooresville is easier than ever! Visit the beautifully decorated and happening scene at King Canary Brewing. Owners Matt and Andrea wanted the taproom to be a family place where people could gather and relax, and they have done just that. The outdoor patio area is perfect for the coming cooler temps, and is a great place for kids to play while the adults socialize. There is usually a food truck on hand for meals, and they also serve snacks such as popcorn and pretzels from the bar.

One of the first breweries in Mooresville, Ghostface Brewing prides itself on creating unique and tasty beers – and features up to 20 at any given time. They also serve mead and ciders as well as pizza from a brick oven. Housed in a quaint building with exposed brick walls just a couple blocks off Main Street, this brewery is a popular local hangout. Check their events page for some fun happenings like yoga classes and the Mooresville Artisanal Marketplace where you can sip and shop.

OnTap Crafty Brews is located in the heart of historic downtown, in a corner building with a great view of the Main Street scene. Built in 1907 as a bank, the building’s original vault was converted into a beer cooler in the renovation, preserving a piece of history and adding to the “cool” factor of the bar. OnTap features 23 taps of craft beers and ciders, as well as a prosecco and wine tap. Order up some toasted sandwiches if you’re hungry, and strike up a conversation with other bar patrons for a laid back experience.


Get Your Scare On!

If your idea of fun is to walk (or run) down a totally dark trail with creepy clowns and freaks with chainsaws jumping out at you, then you will probably get a kick out of Scarrigan Farms! Not for the faint of heart, the one-mile trail promises to be one of the scariest that you can encounter, and it is the perfect way to welcome in the Halloween season. Tickets are sold at the gate only and are first come, first served. Check the website for the full schedule of dates and times. And don’t get into that creepy clown’s van!

We want to know what you love about Fall in Mooresville! Please tag us in your photos as you enjoy the festivals, attractions, and activities this fall! @visitmooresville #visitmooresville

Fall in Love with Mooresville

Summer Fun In Mooresville, NC!

Summer Fun in Mooresville NC!

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy all that Mooresville, NC has to offer. From hiking, paddleboarding, or kayaking at Lake Norman State Park to experiencing exotic animals up close at Lazy 5 Ranch, plenty of exciting adventures await you this summer in Race City USA!

Soak up the Fun on Lake Norman
With more than 500 miles of shoreline, Lake Norman is the largest manmade lake in North Carolina. Whether you like the speed of a jet ski or prefer to take a more leisurely pace, you can find a watersport that suits your mood on Lake Norman.

Spend the day at Lake Norman State Park, which offers year-round boating, fishing, camping, hiking and mountain bike trails. You can rent Stand Up Paddleboards, kayaks and canoes to enjoy the beautiful shoreline around the park. There’s also a swim area with a 125-yard-long sand beach that’s open from April to October.

If you want to enjoy paddleboarding and windsurfing on other areas of the lake, look into rentals from Hard Core Sports and Swell Board Shop during the summer months. Check out What’s Up Watersports for jet skis, boats, paddleboards and kayak rentals – available April through early October. And for a truly unique experience, take in a sightseeing and dinner cruise on Lake Norman aboard the Catawba Queen or Lady of the Lake at Queens Landing.

Take A Walk On The Wild Side
Mooresville is home to the Lazy 5 Ranch and Zootastic Park. At the privately owned Lazy 5 Ranch, you and your family can embark on a drive-through safari featuring over 700 animals. Drive your own vehicle or book a horse-drawn wagon ride, and feed the animals along the way.

Also privately owned, Zootastic Park offers educational programs and animal encounters. Take the whole family for a leisurely stroll through the park, and visit the many animal species, including Arabian camels, kangaroos, ring-tailed lemurs, tigers and much more. Taking selfies with the giraffes is a visitor favorite at Zootastic Park!

Rev Up Your Engines
Experience exhilarating racing action at the world-class kart track at GoPro Motorplex. This track was built by racing professionals and modeled after the famous and historic Kartdromo Parma circuit in Italy and is sure to get your adrenaline pumping!

If indoor racing is more your style, or if you have younger kids, then head to PIT Indoor Kart Track, which features the nation’s largest indoor kart track. The facility also features entertainment in addition to the karts, like a laser tag arena, a rock climbing wall, bumper cars and a black light mini-golf course.

Once you have filled your need for speed, be sure to check out the race shops in Mooresville, including JR Motorsports, Kasey Kahne Racing, Kyle Busch Motorsports, and Team Penske, to see the teams preparing the race cars for the next race.

Swim in a Super Cool Rock Quarry
For a truly unique summer experience, head to the Quarry at Carrigan Farms, where you can swim in a quarry that was mined for its granite back in the 1960s. This natural, spring-fed body of water is 25 feet deep and surrounded by towering cliffs of granite. Jump from one of the rocks if you’re brave! Check their website for hours and information.

Soar to New Heights
If you want to gain some altitude and get a good workout while doing so, check out Cliff Hangers, a climbing facility that features indoor and outdoor climbing walls, bouldering, and a kids climbing area. With climbing walls up to 50 feet, you can get an adrenaline rush as you climb for the top.

Kick Back with a Beer
A day of summer fun would not be complete without a good dinner and beverage to cap off your day. Visit our restaurants page for a complete list of dining options sure to suit every taste. And try out Ghostface Brewing, On Tap Crafty Brews, or King Canary Brewing for a relaxing end to the day.

No matter what speed you choose for your summer fun in Mooresville, we’re sure you’re going to love our town!

Summer Fun In Mooresville, NC!