The Charlotte Motor Speedway is known as 'America's Home for Racing', hosting its flagship Coca-Cola 600 on Memorial Day weekend, and the ROVAL 400 on October 5, as well as many other races throughout the calendar year. Lake Norman is a favorite among fans to stay at whenever they come to catch a race due to its proximity to the speedway, its gorgeous setting, its variety of restaurants, and the myriad of activities to enjoy during your stay. Take a look at some of the things our area has to offer in the racing world!


Dining Stops

Lancaster's Eastern-Style BBQ has two establishments, one in Huntersville and the other in Mooresville, and is a fantastic option for all racing fans. Their dining room is decked from top to bottom and everything in between in NASCAR gear! They blend in classic barbeque entrees like pulled pork and beef brisket with house specialties like 'Redneck Fries' and hush puppies. Seriously, it doesn't get better as a racing fan than North Carolina's Que and NASCAR memorabilia everywhere.

Located within Birkdale Village, Red Rocks Café beckons as a prime dining spot in NASCAR territory.  The restaurant is a favorite amongst locals and visitors alike, offering delicious American-style food at great prices. Whether you're craving a steak cooked medium-rare or just a delicious pasta, Red Rocks has you covered.

Lancasters BBQ
Lancasters BBQ
Red Rocks Cafe
Red Rocks Cafe
NASCAR Hall of Fame
NASCAR Hall of Fame
Joe Gibbs Racing
Joe Gibbs Racing


Racing Shops and Activities

The NASCAR Hall of Fame, located in Charlotte, serves as an immersive tribute to the rich history of NASCAR. Visitors can test their racing skills in in-car simulators, perform a pit stop on a stock car, and explore artifacts and exhibits chronicling the sport's evolution—all under one roof.

Joe Gibbs Racing boasts a roster of talented drivers, including Denny Hamlin and Christopher Bell, known for their exceptional performances on the track. Open to the public, the team's shop offers access to its gift store, showcases various artifacts highlighting JGR's history, and provides a glimpse into the car assembly garage. Truex Jr. secured his inaugural victory at Charlotte in 2019 during the Coca-Cola 600, showcasing his dominance. Visitors might even catch a glimpse of Joe Gibbs himself during their visit to the race shop.

Victory Lap

Have an itch to do some racing of your own? Take it slow - or fast, and check out Frankie’s Fun Park located in Huntersville for a family-friendly racing experience, the GoPro Motorplex in Mooresville, or Victory Lane Karting in Charlotte.

Want the true NASCAR experience? Get behind the wheel of a stock car at the Richard Petty Driving Experience, located at Charlotte Motor Speedway. With Speeds up to 165 MPH, it’s the only place in the area where you can truly put the pedal to the metal.

GoPro Motorplex
GoPro Motorplex

Lake Norman has plenty of great hotels for a NASCAR-themed getaway. Eat where the drivers eat, explore their hangouts, and stay in the area that so many call home. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vibe or high-speed fun, Lake Norman has it all for your perfect weekend getaway. Don't forget to tag us on Instagram and share how you're enjoying your time here!