Wondering what you’re going to do on vacation if it rains? Lake Norman, NC, offers plenty of options on the rare occasion that the weather isn’t cooperating. Here are 10 rainy day activities to keep you and your crew entertained.
Visit a Museum
If you’re up for a quick drive into Charlotte, you will have many different museums and exhibitions to explore. Some of the most popular include:
The Mint Museum is Charlotte’s celebrated contemporary art museum.
At the NASCAR Hall of Fame you can learn about the sport’s history as well as participate in interactive exhibits.
The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture is known for its lineup of unique cultural experiences and family-friendly programming.
Imaginon is a collaborative effort between the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, featuring a most imaginative and interactive library experience.
Closer to Lake Norman, these are good options for families with littles:
Discovery Place Kids is a fantastic kids museum that’s ideal for kids ages 1-7.
Quest at Latta Nature Preserve is a nature center with exhibits and activities for nature-loving kids!
Indoor Activities
Feeling playful or traveling with bigger kids? These indoor entertainment venues will keep you busy and having fun for hours!
The Pit in Mooresville is home to a plethora of exciting activities, such as go-karts, mini golf, laser tag, axe throwing, and more.
Victory Lanes in Mooresville is your top spot for bowling.
Spare Time in Huntersville also offers bowling and an extensive arcade.
Urban Air in Cornelius is a next-level trampoline park.
Ninja Nation in Huntersville is sure to wear your kids out with their gigantic obstacle course.
Escape 109 in Davidson is a popular escape room venue.
For the Sports Lovers
Sports fans will find their niche at one of these indoor sports facilities:
Cliff Hangers in Mooresville is a state-of-the-art indoor climbing gym.
The Fungo in Cornelius is where you can find baseball and softball batting cages.
Hook It Golf and Tempo Golf Club in Huntersville both offer golf simulators.
Northern Regional Recreation Center allows non-residents to use their brand-new indoor lap and leisure pools for a nominal fee.
Get Creative
Get crafty in a variety of different ways and take home a souvenir!
Bells Box Collective in Cornelius is our favorite place for custom candle pouring.
AR Workshop in Davidson is a DIY studio where you can make personalized home decor.
Pinspiration in Cornelius gives you the chance to try splatter painting and unique craft projects.
Plant House in Huntersville offers a variety of workshops, or you can visit anytime and make your own terrarium.
Unwind at a Spa
Treat yourself (you deserve it!) to a relaxing spa day.
Enjoy a Unique Meal
Enjoy a view of the lake (from inside) at one of Lake Norman’s waterfront restaurants.
Or, if your group prefers different cuisines, we recommend checking out the upscale food hall in Charlotte, Optimist Hall.
Alternatively, you could arrange a private meal or cooking class in your rental with Carolina Gourmet!
Take in a Show
Whether it is a movie or live show you’re seeking, you can check out the websites of these venues (two local, one in Charlotte) to see what’s playing!
Cain Center for the Arts in Cornelius.
Our Town Cinemas in Davidson.
Blumenthal Arts in Charlotte.
Go Antique Shopping
Who doesn’t love searching for and finding a hidden treasure? You will have plenty to explore at these local antique shops:
Oak Street Mill Antiques in Cornelius.
Main Street Antiques and Design Gallery in Mooresville.
The Depot at Gibson Mill in Concord.
Visit a Local Watering Hole
Check out one of our many breweries and bottle shops around Lake Norman.
We also recommend the unique spot Overflow in Mooresville, the only self-pour beer and wine venue in the area.
Bring Fun Home
Maybe your idea of a perfect rainy day is staying cozy in your gorgeous StayLakeNorman vacation home. If so, we don’t blame you one bit! If you want to pick up a new board game or puzzle or good book to curl up with, here are a few places you can find them.
Main Street Books in Davidson
Fred & June’s Books in Mooresville
Parker Banner Kent and Wayne in Cornelius
Walls of Books in Cornelius