Explore the Best of the County
While the state is a hot spot for horsepower, Cabarrus County is more than just a destination for motorsports. Along with a rich racing heritage, this vibrant region offers no shortage of exciting ways to play.
Things to Do in Cabarrus County
Bost Grist Mill
Nestled along beautiful countryside in Concord, the Bost Grist Mill was the main source of cornmeal and flour for the southern portion of Cabarrus County in the 1800s. Visitors can tour the mill, which is listed on the National Registrar of Historic Places. Admission is free.
Carolina Thread Trail
This portion of North Carolina is absolutely breathtaking, so any chance you have to explore its natural beauty, you should. The Carolina Thread Trail, a regional network of greenways, trails and blueways spanning 15 counties, connects visitors to scenic vistas and is the ideal way to unwind.
Charlotte Motor Speedway
Concord is home to Charlotte Motor Speedway, zMAX Dragway and The Dirt Track. This speedway hosts major NASCAR events as well as pre-race entertainment and concerts. Racing enthusiasts can see Charlotte Motor Speedway any time of year on one of the daily tours and in a whole new light during Speedway Christmas.
Craft Beer & Whiskey
Beer enthusiasts flock to Cabarrus County for a sip of the unique libations at craft breweries throughout the area. Cabarrus Brewing Company, Commoners Brewing Company, Twenty-Six Acres Brewing Company and High Branch Brewing are all must-stops for beer drinkers. Whiskey drinkers have their pick too. Southern Grace Distilleries in Mt. Pleasant makes small batch whiskey and bourbon. It is also the first distillery in the country located in a former prison.
The Dale Trail
As the hometown to NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt Sr., Kannapolis is the cornerstone of the Dale Trail, a self-guided tour that features points of interest from the racer’s childhood and racing legacy. Dale Earnhardt Plaza is one of the tour’s most significant locations and features a 9-foot, 900-pound bronze statue of Dale as the centerpiece of a courtyard in the heart of downtown. This is a must-see attraction for all racing fans.
Golf
Tee off at some of the nicest courses in the state at Cabarrus Country Club, The Club at Irish Creek and Rocky River Golf Club at Embassy Suites Concord Golf Resort & Spa. Golfers enjoy the challenging, yet fun rounds.
Great Wolf Lodge
Adventure for the whole family awaits at Great Wolf Lodge, which is the largest indoor water park in the Carolinas. Better yet, it is reserved exclusively for hotel guests. The 84-degree water park has rides and slides for all ages, as well as other amenities like kid-friendly activities and adult wine down service.
Kannapolis Summer Concerts
Spend the summer swaying to the music. The concerts range in musical genres and are fun for the whole family. Previous headliners have been Starship, featuring Mickey Thomas, Clay Walker and Charlotte Symphony.
NASCAR Racing
Believe it or not, 90 percent of NASCAR race shops are located in Cabarrus County and the surrounding area. Chip Ganassi Racing, Hendrick Motorsports, Roush Fenway Racing and Stewart-Hass Racing are all located within minutes of Charlotte Motor Speedway and are free of charge to tour. To top off the adventure, get a behind-the-scenes look at how teams prepare for race day, then get behind the wheel with ride and drive experiences like NASCAR Racing Experience!
Reed Gold Mine
Did you know the first documented discovery of gold in the U.S. happened right here in Cabarrus County? The Reed Gold Mine, located in Midland, is the only underground mine in the state open to the public, and guests can tour the museum, walk through mine tunnels and pan for gold.
Shopping & Dining
Cabarrus County is chock full of shopping accommodations. From small boutiques to malls, no matter what you are looking for, you can find it here. Concord Mills, Boot Barn, Badcock and More Home Furniture, Lovely Lines Boutique and national chains like Walmart and Publix Super Market are all here. Foodies have a wealth of eateries from which to choose too. 73 and Main in Mt Pleasant, and 44 Mills and Union Street Bistro in Concord are must-stops. For more shopping and dining info, see the directory in the back of this publication.