Are you looking to get away from home or planning a getaway to Lake Norman? Well, lucky for you, the area has much to offer regarding family entertainment! From mini golf and axe throwing to historic sites and paddle boarding, we have highlighted some favorites to make deciding on a family activity easier!


 

Birkdale Village

Birkdale Village is an outdoor shopping haven perfect for those who enjoy leisurely strolls. Explore the myriad of shops and when your appetite calls, savor a meal at one of the many restaurants like eeZ Fusion & Sushi or Brixx Wood Fired Pizza followed by a sweet treat from Kilwins. There are plenty of big brand shops and local boutiques to choose from whether you're in the market for a unique gift or a personal indulgence.

 

Birkdale Village

 

Carolina Raptor Center

Carolina Raptor Center

The Carolina Raptor Center is a thrilling destination for families visiting the area, where majestic birds of prey like eagles, falcons, ospreys, owls, hawks, and vultures take center stage. This unique sanctuary is committed to the conservation, research, and rehabilitation of these magnificent creatures while also sharing their wonder with the public. Embark on a self-guided tour along the Raptor Trail, leading you to outdoor aviaries featuring more than 30 diverse species of live birds of prey! It's an educational and awe-inspiring experience the whole family will treasure.

Escape 109

Escape 109 is an interactive, real-life adventure game for everyone to experience! You and your group are locked in a themed room and have to navigate using the room's elements to solve puzzles, find clues, and escape the space within the 60-minute time limit. You can bring up to groups of eight people to try and escape, making this a great activity for you and your family!

Escape 109

 

Copy of Frankie's Go Kart

Frankie's Fun Park

For families in search of an exhilarating adventure, Frankie's Fun Park has all your thrills covered. They've got three go-kart tracks, 18-hole miniature golf, laser tag, 120 arcade games, an indoor "Drop Zone" ride, and 24 bowling lanes to keep everyone entertained. And when hunger strikes, their cafe boasts a wide range of chef-crafted delights, featuring options like pizza, wings, fresh salads, burgers, sandwiches, and so much more to refuel your energy for more fun!

Jetton Park

Jetton Park is a 104-acre lakefront park that offers opportunities for the entire family! Bring along a well-stocked cooler for a delightful picnic, engage in a friendly game of tennis, and embark on a leisurely stroll along their scenic 1.5-mile loop. As the day winds down, relish the magic of a breathtaking sunset at their sunning beach (please note, swimming is not permitted).

 

Jetton Park

Mini golf

Lake Norman Mini Golf

Looking for a fantastic family-friendly outing that combines relaxation and excitement? Look no further than Lake Norman Mini Golf's 18-hole course, tailor-made for families and friends to enjoy. What makes it even more special is that the course links the first five and last four holes designed to be wheelchair-accessible (ADA compliant).

But the fun doesn't stop there; you can also try your hand at axe throwing, navigate the laser maze, conquer the rock climbing wall, and treat yourselves to delicious snow cones! It's a destination that promises a blend of leisure and adventure for everyone in the family.

Latta Nature Preserve

Providing an escape from the bustling sounds of civilization, the Latta Nature Preserve offers over 16 miles of hiking and biking trails that wind through lush natural landscapes. You can also find a couple different areas to launch a paddleboard or kayak onto the lake. For those seeking a moment of tranquility, there are numerous fishing spots allowing you to unwind by the water's edge. As you explore the trails, be prepared to be captivated by magnificent lake views that truly immerse you in the beauty of the natural world.

 

Latta Nature Preserve

Copy of Paddleboarding at Latta Nature Preserve

Mountain Island Lake Paddle Co.

For the family interested in an aquatic adventure, kayak or paddleboard through the quiet coves of Mountain Island Lake, the least developed of the three Catawba River-fed lakes in the area. This place is home to fewer boats and lots of wildlife. Mountain Island Lake Paddle Co. provides all the equipment dropped off right to you at Latta Nature Preserve for your self-guided rental. So grab your bathing suit and sunscreen, and head out on the lake.

Urban Air Adventure Park

Urban Air is an indoor trampoline and adventure park in Cornelius that is open year-round. The ultimate playground is perfect for spending a fun day with friends and family or hosting your kids' birthday party. Urban Air has been voted BEST Gym in America for Kids by Shape Magazine. 

 

Urban Air


 

If you and your family dive into any of these activities, tag us in your pictures on social media @visitlakenorman! These are just a few of many other activities for families to enjoy, so we encourage you to browse our Family Fun page or sign up for our newsletter to stay in the know of all the happenings in the area.