Summertime is a great time to visit the Lake Norman area. Whether you swing-by the college town of Davidson for live music, head farther north to hit the shores of Troutman, or take a dive in the natural quarry in Mooresville – there’s lots the lake has to offer whether you’re just finding your sea legs or are an expert in all things nautical.
First and Foremost, Enjoy the Water
The best way to experience the lake is to get in it or on it by renting a boat, jet skis, kayaks or stand-up paddle boards.
Cornelius Pontoon Rentals
Not only do you get the boat, but Cornelius Pontoon Rentals provides a host of free amenities with each rental including gas, coolers, bottled water, snacks, water noodles and more.
Carolina Tiki
Carolina Tiki comfortably accommodates a total of 20 guests, with a maximum of 15 adults. All trips include a Captain and Mate, fuel, and a cooler with bottled water and ice. Tour Rates: 4 hours – $800 | 6 hours – $1050 | 8 hours – $1300
77 Watersports
Take the boat out for a day, keep one at your rental house for the weekend or sit back and relax as a 77 Watersports tour guide takes care of all the work for you.
Cajun Carolina Adventures
If you will be taking kids out on the water with you, consider the 25’ pontoon from Cajun Carolina Adventures which includes a slide (for them!) and a wet bar (for you!).
Carolina Boat Rentals
In addition to pontoon boats for rent and lake tours, Carolina Boat Rentals offers jet ski rentals for those looking for a faster, more adventurous day on the lake.
What’s Up Watersports
If you can’t decide how you’d like to spend your day on the lake, What’s Up Watersports has you covered with pontoon & ski boats as well as jet skis, paddleboards and kayaks.
Ride LKN Wake and Surf School
It doesn’t matter if it’s your first time wakeboarding or you’re an old pro looking for a challenge, Ride LKN provides fun on the water for all ages.
Fishing with Gus
Learn the art of fishing from Captain Gus, an expert on the waters of Lake Norman.
Other Lake Area Outdoor Adventures
The Quarry at Carrigan Farms
Mooresville (1213 Oak Ridge Farm Highway)
If you haven’t done this yet – get in the car and start heading there now. It’s a natural, spring-fed body of water that was created when the land was mined in the late 1960s. Book tix and sign waivers in advance to save time. Life jackets provided.
Lake Norman State Park
Statesville/Troutman (For GPS: 759 State Park Road, Troutman)
Lake Norman State Park is amazing and offers everything from sunbathing spots, stargazing events, pedal boats and paddle boarding. You can even bring your mountain bike to take on the trails for the perfect summer activity.
Latta Nature Center and Preserve
Huntersville, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville
There’s trails for days, birds of prey, kayaking and more to explore at Quest, Latta Nature Center, and the preserve.
Jetton Park
Take a relaxing walk around the paved loop, soak up the sun and put your feet in the sand or just pick a spot and enjoy the breathtaking views found all around Jetton Park.
Parham Park
If getting a good workout is a priority, stop by Parham Park which includes a natural surface trail with 14 exercise stations. And as a bonus, you can cool off on the shores of the lake after you finish!
Fireworks and Festivals This Summer
Denver Fireworks Spectacular
East Lincoln High School (Denver)
June 25
A fun-filled evening with fireworks, your favorite fair food, and live music featuring band members from Journey, Rascal Flatts, and Chicago.
Festival of Food Trucks
Downtown Mooresville (Main St)
July 2, August 6
Visiting downtown Mooresville is worth the trip alone. Enjoy tons of food trucks with some of the best food LKN has to offer.
2nd Friday Street Festival
Cornelius (Main Street area)
July 8 and August 12
Free family friendly event that includes food trucks, local breweries and the opportunity to shop from local artisans.
Head Up to Enjoy a Lakeside Meal
Grab a bite at one of many lakeside restaurants around the area.
North Harbor Club
A Regatta-themed restaurant on the lake with an especially delicious brunch menu.
Hello Sailor
Come for the fresh, unique menu and stay for the lively decor and patio seating with lake views.
Port City Club
A casual yet sophisticated lakefront restaurant with beautiful views from every room.
Eddie’s
Located on the lake and serving fresh fish and seafood with plenty of additional options for every palette.
Take in an Outdoor Movie
Huntersville Movies in the Park
Huntersville, Veterans Park
July 8, August 5
Snuggle-up by the cool caboose and enjoy a movie under the stars catered by food trucks and local vendors.
Outdoor Cinema: Sing 2
Cornelius, Robbins Park
August 20
Worth the drive for a movie under the stars. Bring comfy seating, and coolers are OK too (no glass), food trucks are on-hand including local craft beer vendors.
Live Theatre and Music
LangTree LIVE
LangTree Lake Norman (get off at exit 31)
Thursday evenings
Each Thursday brings a different live band. Grab a drink or bite at the nearby restaurants.
Legally Blonde The Musical
Davidson Community Players, Duke Family Performance Hall
June 23 – July 3
Dress to impress like Elle, for the action-packed musical with memorable songs and dynamic dances.
The Charlotte Symphony
Huntersville (Duke Energy’s EnergyExplorium, 13339 McGuire Nuclear Station Road)
June 17
Missed the symphony uptown? Then head by boat or car to the lake for classical music by the water; it just doesn’t get much better than the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra on the shores of Lake Norman.
Davidson’s Concerts @ The Circles
Jetton Street, Davidson (near Milkbread and Clean Juice)
July 2, Radio Revolver, July 16, REO Survivor, August 6, Shot thru the Heart, August 20 Pushh
Enjoy live music with friends in the summer breeze. Arrive early to get a spot.
Davidson’s Concert on the Green
Davidson, intersection of Main street and Concord road
July 3, Rivermist, August 14, Gospelfest
Bring a blanket or chair and enjoy live music in one of the most unique towns in the Carolinas.
Live Under The Oaks
Birkdale (Huntersville)
July 1: Tim Cook, July 8: The HC Oakes Band, July 15: Stormin’ Norman, July 22: Joseph Gallo, July 29: Melonbelly
If you haven’t been to Birkdale in a while, now is the time. Easy-to-navigate construction is going on to make way for new things including dinning among the treetops. Bar onsite during the concerts.
