Who said that you have to be outside to have fun? Whether it's rainy, gloomy, too hot or too cold, there are still plenty of ways to have fun in Lake Norman. We listed our favorite activities to get you out of the house and make the best of your day!
1. Shop to your Heart's Content
There’s nothing better than relaxing in bed, reading your favorite book with the rain gently falling outside your window. Out of books to read? Main Street Books offers the best selection of books for all ages and interests. This charming and cozy shop even offers a seating area if you can’t wait to dive into your next book. There is plenty of shopping to be done around here, whether that's in Downtown Davidson at places like The Village Store, in Downtown Cornelius at establishments like Nina's Boutique or at one of the many great shops at Birkdale Village in Huntersville.
The Village Store
2. Break Out of an Escape Room!
Solve puzzles and riddles using clues, hints, and strategy to unlock your way to freedom.
Escape 109 features two exciting rooms: Lollipops and Lemon Drops and Derailed. It’s located in the heart of Davidson, just steps away from Main Street Books and the famous Kindred Restaurant.
Another great option is United Escapes of America in Cornelius, where you can discover the secrets of Aladdin, walk the grounds of Uwharrie Forest for a Bigfoot encounter, or learn the truth behind the Pirate’s Keep!
3. Beer Hop Around Town
The craft beer scene in Lake Norman has ramped up over the last few years. The newest addition to the Lake Norman brewery scene is the long-awaited arrival of the popular Charlotte brewery, Suffolk Punch in Birkdale Village. Lost Worlds has become a fun spot for a couple of beers and live music, too. They have unique artifacts from around the world hanging on the walls to create the perfect environment. Just 10 minutes away from Lost Worlds, you'll find Ass Clown and Eleven Lakes, all within 1 mile. Eleven Lakes also brings in live music performers just about every weekend, as well as countless happenings throughout the week to keep you busy. King Canary offers a beautiful setting in Downtown Davidson with a full selection of beers crafted in Mooresville and a lineup of cocktails and food options with their restaurant partner Marlee Jeans Raw Bar + Kitchen.
Primal Brewery, 760 Craftworks, and Neoteric round out the eight local breweries in the lakeside of Charlotte. You can't miss Primal's cool wooden totem standing by the road, and they consistently have food trucks on-site and a fun atmosphere to gather with friends. If it's your first time checking out any of the breweries, we recommend getting a flight to sample several of their brews. Have fun hopping around town with our Beer and Wine Trail Map!
4. Enjoy a Glass (or Bottle) of Wine
Enjoy some exclusive wines, custom cocktails/beers & bites at the lake, and a very relaxed atmosphere. Lake Norman Wine Cottage has quickly become one of the favorite spots for Lake Norman wine connoisseurs desiring a unique concept with an old-fashioned, homey feel. It's a wine shop within a shop! One side of the business caters to tasting and trying new wines, offering the best homemade cookies, and the other side carries gifts to purchase. The Wine Room is always offering current releases and new arrival wines. If you're near Birkdale Village, swing by Foxcroft Food & Wine. They offer 40 different wines by the glass to go with any seasonal options they have. If you're a wine connoisseur, it's 100% worth the stop.
5. Hit Up The Arcade and Get Active
Lake Norman's largest amusement park features more than 100 different arcade games along with bowling, laser tag, virtual reality games, and an indoor drop zone. It's the largest Frankie's in the Carolinas! Adults 21+ can grab mixed drinks or beer from the bar, or if you're feeling a bit hungry, you can grab a bite to eat from their full-service cafe. You'll want to keep this spot in mind as you plan birthday parties, celebrations, or your next night out. Don't forget to try Dive Bar the next time you're out as well. Located in the bustling area of Shops On the Green, Dive Bar Cornelius is one of Lake Norman's newer late-night spots. It's an ideal cross between an arcade and a classic dive bar. Open six days a week until one a.m. (two a.m. on Friday and Saturday), it's a great spot to keep the party going. If you're looking for a fun place to take your younger children, Discovery Place Kids in Huntersville is the perfect spot. It's a great learning-based activity to keep the kids engaged while having a great time. There are even live shows to further enhance the kiddos' experience!
Head to the Northern Regional Recreation Center to get active inside! This is a state-of-the-art facility that includes a fitness area, athletic courts, an indoor pool with a waterslide, and more! So no matter the weather, you can enjoy time with the whole family. This center is open to the public, and daily pool pass pricing starts at $8 per person; however, the pool is closed until March for repairs. If you want to stay active, The Serve Pickleball + Kitchen offers a full experience of indoor pickleball courts, a full restaurant, and bar, and the Topgolf Swing Suites that have a multitude of sports like football, baseball, and golf!
Spare Time Entertainment is another great spot to have some fun! In addition to bowling, they have arcade games, laser tag, and four escape rooms. If you get a little hungry, you can enjoy their full-service restaurant and bar.
Urban Air Adventure Park can help burn off some energy. This trampoline park is full of attractions like a drop zone, tumble track, bumper cars, Sky Rider, ropes course, climbing walls, VR games, slam dunk, and more. If you get hungry, stop by the indoor cafe with pizza, snacks, ice cream, and drinks. Ninja Nation is the leading provider of world-class obstacle course arenas across the country and has now come to Lake Norman to see who is up for the challenge. It's great for kids too!
6. Find Comfort Food
Rainy days call for great food and even better company. Bring your close ones around and satisfy your cravings with quality food at any of the waterfront restaurants. Cornelius is home to LakeHouse Wine Bar and Grill and Hello, Sailor, while Davidson holds North Harbor Club. All offer a distinct yet welcoming atmosphere. Even with rainy weather, you're able to sit on their covered patios, enjoying a delicious meal with stunning views. The lake itself is beautiful, even with overcast skies.
Birkdale Village in Huntersville is home to plenty of culinary destinations of its own. With over 20 dining options, you can find the perfect restaurant for any day and any craving.
Downtown Davidson's Main Street, aka Restaurant Row, is home to Kindred Restaurant, Soda Shop, and Mestizo. Kindred is the popular sister restaurant to Hello, Sailor. Joe Kindred is a 5-time James Beard semifinalist and locally sources the freshest ingredients. Because it's farm-to-table, Kindred changes its menu on a weekly basis, providing you with an opportunity to try something new each time you visit.
The Soda Shop offers a nostalgic experience with historic town images and newspaper clippings on the walls. The booths and tile flooring bring you back to the golden days, and their menu is sure to please. Their Philly Cheesesteak and curly fries are a local favorite and definitely worth trying! A few doors down, you'll find Mestizo for any Tex-Mex cravings you might have. If you're looking for a recommendation, their Tacos Al Pastor are a consistent lunchtime pick.
7. Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
On a dull, rainy day, rich, delicious desserts are a must. Whether you love chocolate, cupcakes, pies, bundt cakes, or anything in between, you'll find it here. Swing by Nothing Bundt Cakes in Huntersville or grab a cup of coffee or hot chocolate to pair with at Coffee Republic in Cornelius. Birkdale Village's new dessert pleaser, Mon Macaron, is also a must-try for French treats. If you like dessert drinks and boba tea of all kinds, be sure to check out Tsaocaa. Their ingredients are all meant to offer the sweet treat of boba tea in a healthier light, so you can treat yourself without the guilt.
8. Try Out a Golf Simulator
Don't let a rainy or cold day stop you from getting a round of golf out on the course! With golf simulators, you can play a round at Pebble Beach or Augusta like you're in the Masters without ever leaving Lake Norman.
Tempo Golf Club in Huntersville invites golfers of all skill levels to play at one of their 650+ courses from around the globe! Hook It Golf in Huntersville offers a relaxed atmosphere to hit the virtual driving range to see how far you hit your driver, as well as virtual courses from around the world to get a round in!
Tempo Golf Club
9. Take Some Shots at The Range
The Range at Lake Norman offers safety training and coaching for handling firearms. With a knowledgeable and kind staff, you are sure to have a comfortable yet memorable experience. Adults of all ages are encouraged to learn and practice firearm safety, so if you are looking to spice up a gloomy day, this will keep you busy!
Just because there is bad weather doesn't mean you have to stay inside and do nothing all day. There are so many fun and exciting activities to do in Lake Norman, even if the sun isn’t shining. Tag us in your indoor adventures on social media @VisitLakeNorman!
