Instagram has become a popular platform for travelers to show off where they've been. So what are the most tagged spots in Lake Norman? From Huntersville to Davidson, there are many places for you to visit. Based on our geo-tagged data, we have compiled a list of places that were visited the most in Lake Norman.

Birkdale Village 

First up on our list is Birkdale Village! At this popular, open-air retail destination, there is a wide variety of things to do such as shopping, dining, or even just hanging out with friends & family. Birkdale offers 250,000 square feet of retail, 320 apartments, and 50,000 square feet of office space, so there is enough room for everyone.

Birkdale Village View
Birkdale Village 

They are currently undergoing major renovations to add in a collection of upscale lounge areas, a full-service concierge and valet, new retail, restaurants and more. But you can still shop around the big name stores like Dicks's, Banana Republic, Chico's, and many more. If you like to shop small, be sure to check out Nina's Boutique and Poppie's. After a nice afternoon of shopping, there are many dining options to choose from such as eeZ Fusion, Red Rocks Cafe, Bad Daddy's Burger Bar, and more. Birkdale is a great place for family gatherings as well as catching up with friends. Take advantage of Live Under the Oaks which is a live music event in the Grove every Friday from June to October.


 

Davidson College 

Established in 1837, Davidson College is a liberal arts college that is named after Revolutionary War general William Lee Davidson, who was killed at the nearby Battle of Cowan's Ford. This college has been a staple to the town of Davidson and is open to the public where you can wander and explore the beauty of the campus at your own leisure.

Athletics are a large part of the Davidson College culture with well over half of admitted students participating in Division 1 athletics. The most well-known Davidson Wildcat is seven-time NBA All-Star, Steph Curry of the Golden State Warriors. There is also a large art presence at the college, offering state-of-the-art facilities and venues including the Belk Visual Arts Center. After visiting the college, we encourage you to take a stroll through downtown Davidson where there are plenty of restaurant options known as "restaurant row".  Filled with art and history, the town of Davidson is the place to visit if you want to learn more about the college as well as the history behind it.

Davidson College Sculpture
Davidson College 


 

Latta Nature Preserve 

For countless opportunities of outdoor recreation and photo ops, the Latta Nature Preserve is the place to be. With 16 miles of trails for hikers, bikers and horseback riders, launch areas for paddling enthusiasts, a fishing dock, picnic areas and a volleyball court.

Picnic at Latta Nature Preserve
Latta Nature Preserve

If you like to get out on the water, there is direct access to Gar Creek and Mountain Island Lake for fishing and kayak lovers. If you just want to relax and enjoy the day, there are picnic areas and shelters that can be reserved. Other attractions within the 1,460 acre park include the Quest Center and Carolina Raptor Center, an education and rehabilitation facility dedicated to the conservation of birds of prey and home to the Southeast's largest eagle aviary.


 

Frankie's Fun Park 

If arcades and games are more your style, Frankie's Fun Park is a great choice to bring the whole family. With over 20 acres of fun, there are a ton of different activities that can last a whole day.

Frankie's has three go-kart tracks, three 18-hole miniature golf courses, and various full-size outdoor carnival rides. Inside Frankie's, you'll find 24 bowling lanes, a full-service restaurant & bar, a private party room, laser tag, LED bumper cars, a 30 ft. drop tower, and 120 different arcade games. Frankie's is a great place for family and friends to bring out their competitive nature from getting the best lap time on the track or beating everyone at golf or bowling. After a long day, it is important to fuel up at their restaurant where they offer indoor and outdoor seating options. Some of their menu items include pizza, wings, burgers, and hotdogs. They even have big slushies to help battle the hot summer days.

Frankie's of Charlotte
Frankie's Fun Park


 

Waterfront Parks 

As the weather gets warmer, we know you want to get outdoors and enjoy the lake. Here in Lake Norman, we have 3 waterfront parks that offer great views for that IG-worthy photo. These parks include Jetton Park, Ramsey Creek Park and Blythe Landing

Copy of Ramsey Creek Park

Ramsey Creek Park

With 104 acres, Jetton Park is the biggest out of the three that offers opportunities for the entire family with picnic sites, lighted tennis courts, walking trails, a gazebo, sunning beach (no swimming), playgrounds, restrooms, and Waterfront Hall which may be reserved for special events. If you want to swim, Ramsey Creek Park has a public swimming beach open now during weekends! They also offer boat launching, a playground, picnic shelters, and nature trails. For fishing, Blythe Landing and Ramsey Creek both offer piers where you can also enjoy the beautiful view of the lake. As a plus, Ramsey Creek offers an ADA-compliant pier.

We highly encourage you to give one or all of these places a visit because they are all unique in their own way. When you are there, be sure to tag us on social media @VisitLakeNorman in all of your pictures so we can see all the fun that's going on!