Summer is in full swing… And that all too familiar hot and humid North Carolina weather is here with a vengeance. What better way to cool off and escape the woes of city living than to luxuriate in the cool waters of Lake Norman? Located just 45 minutes north of Charlotte, Lake Norman is the backyard lakeside getaway you didn’t know you needed.
At 32 miles in length, Lake Norman is the largest manmade lake in North Carolina. Its shoreline spans 520 miles, covering Mecklenburg, Iredell, Catawba, and Lincoln counties. Due to its large size, there are almost endless opportunities for adventure. There are restaurants, yacht clubs, seasonal festivals and events, bars and breweries, and so much more. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day out on the lake, or something a little more adventurous, we’ve got you covered. Check out some of our favorite lake-side activities down below.
Things To Do Lake Norman NC
Carolina Grace
Carolina Grace is an 100-foot luxury yacht charter that takes guests on a cruise of Lake Norman. It’s the perfect venue for special events, weddings, and almost any other celebration you can think of. The yacht accommodates 10 to 120 guests and, thanks to their heated top deck, offers cruises year round. They also have a fitness class on Saturday mornings!
Queens Landing
Take a sightseeing or dinner cruise via Queens Landing. Try the “Lady of the Lake” dinner cruise, which provides guests with a three-course, chef-driven meal on a 93-foot luxury yacht. If you’re looking for a low-key night out on the water this is the way to go. Sit back and relax as you cruise along the languid shores of Lake Norman.
Carolina Boat Rentals
If you want to spend a day out on the lake on your own accord, we recommend renting a boat from Carolina Boat Rentals. They offer pontoon boats and waverunners. This way you can fish, swim, lounge, and stop to eat at any of the lakeside restaurants you please.
Jetton Park
When it comes to LKN this is one of our favorite things to do. Lake Norman NC has several great parks and this one is one of the best! While a day spent on the lake is always a delight, we also recommend spending a day at beloved lakefront park Jetton Park. The 105-acre park is home to tennis courts, miles of bike trails, a garden, a beachfront for lounging (although, no swimming is allowed here), concessions, and a playground for the little ones.
Where to Eat
Hello, Sailor
Hello, Sailor is a bright, mid century modern restaurant with fantastic eats and inspired libations. Owned by Joe and Katy Kindred of the eponymous and beloved Kindred restaurant in Davidson, Hello, Sailor provides a fun, 1950s tiki aesthetic with a diverse, Southern-inspired menu.
North Harbor Club
The North Harbor Club is an upscale lake-side eatery that you can dock your boat up to. The interior is filled with historical nautical decor, an homage to the restaurant’s locale. Their menu features an array of delectable seafood fare as well as handcrafted “docktails,” aka craft cocktails with a tropical leaning.
Alino
Located in Mooresville, this pizza spot is well worth the drive. Expect a counter serve setup with a large outdoor patio. Alino offers wood-fired pies, salads, and fresh gelato seven days a week.
Where to Stay
Stay Lake Norman
Stay Lake Norman offers an array of luxury, lakefront rentals that can accommodate large groups and even pets. Many of their rentals have upscale amenities such as hot tubs, heated pools, and private docks.
Davidson Village Inn
Built in 1993, the Davidson Village Inn has been serving Lake Norman visitors for nearly 29 years. The European-style bed and breakfast is located in the heart of downtown Davidson, just a mile away from Lake Norman. Their suites are equipped with Turkish bamboo towels, L’Occitane bath amenities, and Comphy Company linens.
The Simply Home Host
This upscale private rental on Lake Norman comes with two private docks, a hot tub, kayaks and paddle boards. Not to mention, each room offers excellent views of the lake. The rental is hosted by The Simply Home Host Company.
