As an empty nester and parent of two Davidson College graduates, I am very familiar with North Carolina’s greater Lake Norman area. The beautiful lake welcomes you as you drive down the highway on I-77, the main highway that stretches from southern Virginia to Lake Norman, past Davidson and Charlotte, and onwards to South Carolina. Seeing the lake on our drive from Northern Virginia signaled that we had arrived to the area, bringing a smile to our faces. I looked forward to dinners by the water, sunny walks by the lake and beautiful stays during graduations. Without a doubt, Life is Good on Lake Norman.
The Lake Norman area attracts thousands of visitors every year. Young families flock here for the good schools. Empty nesters relocate to the area for an affordable, simpler lifestyle with a gentler climate. Local university students enjoy time on the Lake Norman and love returning for reunions with friends and families. This relaxed and welcoming area is teeming with outdoor activities and vibrant communities. It retains a small town feel, with big city Charlotte only a short car ride away. Some celebrities have also been bit by the Lake Norman bug and return for more. Learn why Lake Norman should be on your list of places to visit!
Outdoor Activities Abound in Lake Norman
Lake Norman’s man-made lake is located just under 30 minutes from Charlotte, North Carolina. It was created in the 1960s as a result of the construction of the Cowans Ford Dam on the Catawba River. With over 520 miles of shoreline and several marinas, there is no shortage of places to enjoy the lake.
The lake offers a variety of water sports such as boating, kayaking, water skiing, and paddle boarding. Lake Norman State Park and Jetton Park boast several hiking trails, camping sites, and a public beach. These parks offer stunning views of the lake, as well as opportunities for camping, biking, picnicking, and hiking. The area is also home to several golf courses, museums, and historical sites.
Fishing is also a popular activity on Lake Norman. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish, and more. The lake hosts several fishing tournaments throughout the year, attracting anglers from all over the country.
Unique and Vibrant Community Surrounding Lake Norman
From young families to retirees, people are relocating to the Lake Norman area. Lake Norman’s close proximity to Charlotte allows you to enjoy the small town feel of Cornelius, Huntersville, Mooresville and Davidson, with big city Charlotte a mere 20 miles away. You can boat by day and head to Charlotte’s top restaurants by night.
But don’t be fooled … the vibrant communities surrounding Lake Norman are chock full of fine dining, entertainment and natural beauty to keep you very busy. The towns that surround the lake, including Davidson, Cornelius, Huntersville and Mooresville, each have their own unique charm and character.
Davidson and Davidson College
The quaint town of Davidson attracts some of the most educated and wealthiest in the state. In fact, household incomes are more than twice the North Carolina state average in this small town. The close-knit community is comfortable and safe, with great schools for young children. Idyllic Main Street is delightful, with great restaurants, small boutique shops, and a weekly seasonal farmers market.
The town is home to Davidson College, a top liberal arts school in the country. This small, competitive, college is considered a “hidden gem” to its many of its students and faculty. In addition to the main campus, students enjoy time at Davidson’s nearby Lake Campus, for picnics, study sessions or a peaceful, mental break. The college ranks #5 on Forbes Top 25 List of the Happiest, Most Successful Alumni.
In addition to its rigorous academics, Davidson’s Division 1 athletics allows scholar-athletes to compete in the NCAA Division 1 Atlantic 10 conference in 21 different sports. Alum greats, such as legendary basketball player Steph Curry, attended Davidson College. Curry recently returned to his alma mater to celebrate 3 milestones — officially graduating (NBA delayed it), retiring his jersey and induction into the school’s Hall of Fame.
For foodies, there is no shortage of good restaurants in Davidson. Bon Appetit raved about Kindred Restaurant on Main Street. Turn the corner and head to Davidson Wine Co for happy hour and wine tastings. Or head next door for seasonal Italian fare at Il Bosco. For a sweet treat, walk down a little further to Ben & Jerry’s, the Soda Shop or grab a coffee from local fave brew shop Summit Coffee. Enjoy Lakefront dining at North Harbor Club, just off the exit in Davidson. With even more options, you can see why so many people are attracted to this small town.
Cornelius, Huntersville and Mooresville on Lake Norman
Cornelius, Huntersville and Mooresville are also buzzing with activity. Homes dot the lake, where you see boats, kayaks, paddle boards and jet skis on the move. Each town hosts music and arts festivals throughout the year. The craft brewery scene is growing and becoming more popular, with Cornelius and Huntersville in the lead. For craft beers, head to Cornelius, where you will find breweries such as Ass Clown Brewing Company, D9 Brewing Company, Eleven Lakes Brewing Company and Lost Worlds Brewing Co. Bring your pooch to Lucky Dog Bark and Brew. Try some beer flights and see what is your favorite.
Grab some delicious seafood at Hello Sailor, Kindred’s sister restaurant located on the waterfront in Cornelius. Enjoy cocktails on a man made mini beach at Port City Club also in Cornelius.
For shopping and good eats, head to Huntersville where Birkdale Village has it all. Get what you need by day from your favorite stores, then dine and watch concerts or movies on the green by night. Birkdale has a community feel that is great for all ages. Grab a craft beer at Primal Brewery later in the evening!
Life is Good for Celebrities in Lake Norman
Notable celebrities in sports, film and music have either purchased a home or spent time in Lake Norman. Baskbetball legend Michael Jordan grew up in North Carolina and purchased a home in Cornelius in 2012. Golden State Warriors Steph Curry grew up in the area, graduated from Davidson College and returns often. Running back Christian MCcaffrey purchased a huge lakefront home in the area and enjoys it with his girlfriend, music sensation Olivia Culpo. Reese Witherspoon and Emma Roberts have eaten at Kindred Restaurant in Davidson. And Will Ferrel, John C. Reilly and Nick Jonas have all filmed movies around Lake Norman, just to name a few!
NASCAR Fans
In addition to the celebrities mentioned above, NASCAR fans flock to Lake Norman to learn more about their favorite NASCAR team drivers. With Charlotte Motor Speedway, Hendricks Motorsports and Joe Gibbs Racing nearby, you can see why more NASCAR racers are also moving the Lake Norman area. In fact, Mooresville, NC has become home to many NASCAR teams, suppliers and the NASCAR Technical Institute. Retired NASCAR Hall of Famer Dale Earnhardt, Jr. lives on a 300-acre estate outside Mooresville that has been dubbed “Race City USA”. Hamlin, by contrast, lives in a 30,000 square foot mansion on the lake in nearby Cornelius. When dining, you just may be sitting next to your favorite racing legends living in the Lake Norman area.
Where to Stay In Lake Norman
As you can see, there are many options of where to stay around Lake Norman. You can stay in a hotel, cottage, cabin, or lakeside home. Several hotel chains and independent hotels are in the area. You can check Expedia for all your hotel needs. It will list the large array of hotels brands available in the area. For lakeside homes, cottages, and cabins, you can reserve homes of all sizes on VRBO, Expedia and StayLakeNorman.
Boat rentals, fishing gear and other water toys are available at a number of local places for the day or for your entire stay. You should price them out to suit your needs. You will need a car, so be sure to drive or get a rental car so you can check out the surrounding area. Throw in your favorite suitcase, your lake floats and away you go!
Relax and Unwind in Lake Norman
As you can see, Lake Norman is a wonderful destination for anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of nature, while experiencing the vibrant culture of North Carolina. Whether you are looking to relax by the lake with family and friends, explore the outdoors, or indulge in some fine dining, Lake Norman has something for everyone. With so much to do, you will feel like you need to go again and again to discover the beauty of this area. Life if Good on Lake Norman. Relax. Unwind. Enjoy.
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