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Nestled on the banks of beautiful Lake Norman are the towns of Cornelius, Davidson and Huntersville. These charming towns provide adventures of all shapes and sizes, including living history, upscale shopping, NASCAR and, of course, plenty of water play. Located only 20 miles from uptown Charlotte, Lake Norman is the Lake Side of Charlotte — and Visit Lake Norman is your ultimate resource!

There’s something here for everyone, whether you’re an art and culture enthusiast or a fan of the great outdoors. Regardless of what you choose to experience during

your stay, you can be certain that you’ll be welcomed by Lake Norman’s small town southern charm. Our hospitality, plus our variety of attractions and offerings will turn your pit stop into a great LAKE destination.

Welcome to Lake Norman

The Lakeside of Charlotte

WELCOME

Visit Lake Norman’s Visitor Center

19900 West Catawba Avenue, Suite 102Cornelius, NC 28031704.987.3300www.VisitLakeNorman.org

Sally Ashworth Executive Director

Travis Dancy Director of Sales

Cyndi Bartley Operations & Visitor Services Manager

Adrinne Beaver Marketing Coordinator

Stop by VLN’s Visitor Center & Meet a VLN Ambassador… your own personal area information tour guide.

From HOT weekend event updates, LKN scenic photos to ticket giveaways. Visit LKN:

@VisitLakeNorman facebook/VisitLakeNorman pinterest.com/VisitLakeNorman instagram.com/VisitLakeNorman youtube.com/VisitLakeNorman

2 Visit Lake Norman

704-787-9351 Monday-Saturday 10-7 • Sunday 1-6

www.depotgibsonmill.com

325 McGill Ave. NW, Concord, NC 28026

88,000 Square Feet • Over 625 Booths

Come visit the largest antique Mall in the south

Visit Lake Norman 3

8 History The creation of North Carolina’s Inland Sea changed the area forever

10 Weather Wonderful weather is one of our greatest assets, here’s what to wear when

11 Hotels Make yourself at home at one of our area hotels

15 Restaurants The Lake Norman area offers all types of cuisine

29 Attractions Great things to see and do

32 Lake Rental Activities

32 Golf Courses and Yacht Clubs

34 Parks36 Shopping40 Experience

Lake Norman Get the most out of your visit

45 Venues & Services Have your dream wedding at Lake Norman

TABLE OF CONTENTS

47 Annual Events There’s something for everyone throughout the year

49 Sports Get your game on here

50 Meeting Space Venues Family reunions and meetings are more fun here

4 Visit Lake Norman

Visit Lake Norman 5

Though the formation of Lake Norman began in 1963, plans for it were in the works long before then. In the early 1900s, James B. Duke, William S. Lee and Dr. W. Gil Wylie envisioned how a series of dams on the Catawba River could literally power the South’s future, in particular the Carolina Piedmont’s future.

Cowans Ford Dam was built by Duke Power (now Duke Energy) on a historic

Revolutionary War battle site. Ground was broken on the project on September 28, 1959. Four years later the dam was complete with a length of 7,387 feet, which includes more than a mile of earthen dam.

While the complexity of the project seemed at times staggering, not to mention the emotional impact on the community as two river crossings (Sherrill’s Ford and Beatty’s Ford) would be flooded in addition to many original homesites,

Lake Norman was the result of a dream (60 years in the making) come true.

Often referred to as “The Inland Sea,” Lake Norman offers 520 miles of shoreline (more than North and South Carolina’s coasts combined) and is named for Norman Atwater Cocke, a retired Duke Power president. For years, Lake Norman was a weekend getaway destination, as people in the Piedmont would flock to cabins along its shores to get away from everyday life. Eventually subdivisions were established, and folks began to live on Lake Norman’s shores full time.

Though people started realizing how beautiful and satisfying lake living was, heavy development didn’t take off until the 1990s, as the Charlotte area’s thriving business environment brought more people to the area. While Lake Norman has more than lived up to its power-producing expectations, it has also transformed what was once a heavily agricultural and textile community into more of a resort area that attracts a variety of people from around the world.

CorneliusFounded in 1893, Cornelius has a rich

history that can be traced back to its agrarian roots—in particular, cotton. A

Note: Lake Norman Our Inland Sea by Bill and Diana Gleasner and Images of America Around Lake Norman by Cindy Jacobs were used as research tools for this article. Both are excellent books about Lake Norman’s history.

Norman Atwater Cocke

A man surveys the construction of Davidson College’s lake campus.

North Carolina’s Inland SeaThe creation of Lake Norman changed the area foreverBY LORI K. TATE

HISTORY

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dispute about weighing cotton in nearby Davidson, forced a cotton firm to relocate its operations just south of town in what is now Cornelius (incorporated in 1905). Later on a cotton mill was constructed with funding provided by Joseph Benjamin Cornelius, hence the town’s name.

With the damming of the Catawba River in the early 1960s, Cornelius began to morph into a resort area. The town has approximately 70 miles of shoreline property, which has fueled its explosive population growth. Now with more than 25,000 residents, Cornelius offers the amenities of a metropolitan area and the hospitality of a small town all at once.

DavidsonDavidson College was established in 1837

and birthed the town of Davidson, although the town didn’t change its name from Davidson College to Davidson until 1891.Throughout its existence, Davidson College, with its classical architecture and grand trees, has influenced every aspect of the town from commerce to character.

These days Davidson College offers a variety of lectures, performances and exhibits for the community, and is ranked as one of the best liberal arts colleges in the country. In addition, Davidson’s quaint downtown offers boutique shopping, a coffee shop, as well as a variety of restaurants. If you’re looking for fun in a small college town, Davidson is the place for you.

Quick Facts about Lake Norman• Lake Norman was completed in 1963.

• Lake Norman has 520 miles of shoreline.

• Lake Norman is 34 miles long.

• Mecklenburg, Iredell, Lincoln and Catawba counties surround Lake Norman.

• The maximum depth of Lake Norman is 130 feet.

• Lake Norman is named after Norman Cocke, a former president of Duke Power, now Duke Energy.

HuntersvilleHuntersville is the first Lake Norman

town you encounter north of Charlotte. Originally named Craighead, the town changed its name to Huntersville to honor a major landowner and cotton farmer named Robert Boston Hunter. It was later incorporated in 1873.

Today, you’ll find many corporations making their homes here, as the area’s economic and weather climate make it an ideal place to do business and raise families.

Many historical landmarks remain in Huntersville, allowing you to get a sense of the town’s history. From Rural Hill to Cedar Grove to Historic Latta Plantation, Huntersville successfully marries its past with its future.

A group of men and two boys have their photo taken under Cornelius’ legendary Tree of Knowledge.

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An early flier advertising lots for sale on Lake Norman.

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Festive FallsDuring the fall season, the temperature ranges from mid-40s to low 70s, so take a light jacket with you and enjoy the leaves that fall from the trees and color our streets. The days get shorter during the fall, so do not waste a minute of daylight. Enjoy the outdoors a bit before winter comes rolling around the corner. Take a Ghost Walk in Davidson or go on a hike at one of our many parks in Lake Norman.

Winter Wonderlands Grab your winter coat, scarves and gloves because it’s going to be a cold one. With temperatures ranging from the 20s to 40s, you are bound to feel a little chilly. Did you know that on average, it snows about six inches annually here? Take advantage of indoor activities on a 30-degree day, such as the Davidson Community Players’ production of It’s a Wonderful Life at Armour Street Theatre in December. If you want to get outside a little bit, do not miss Christmas in Davidson, complete with carolers, a live nativity scene and carriage rides.

Blooming SpringsApril showers bring May flowers. With beautiful flowers blooming here and there, you get to enjoy spring just a little more. The skies are mostly clear blue with a cloud or two and temperatures ranging from the upper 50s to almost reaching the 80s. Even with an average rainfall of 9.1 inches for the spring months, there is plenty to do outside. Attend the 2nd Friday Bella Art Crawl with live music, beer and wine, and food trucks in downtown Cornelius.

Sun-kissed SummersSplash into the water with boating, kayaking, fishing, paddleboarding and other water activities that will keep your summer a little bit cooler. Other attractions you can enjoy include the Outdoor Cinema Series in Cornelius, Historic Latta Plantation in Huntersville and The Davidson Farmers’ Market. Enjoy all these activities with clear blue skies, warm weather and a nice summer breeze because it is going to be hot.

High Upper 70s

Low Upper 50s

What to pack: Light rain jacket, capris, cardigans, short- to mid-

length dresses and skirts

High Upper 40s

Low Lower to Mid 20s

What to pack: Winter coat, gloves, scarves, hats, sweaters,

and long pants or leggings

High Mid 60s to

Low 70s

Low Upper 30s

to 40s

What to pack: Light jackets and cardigans, capris, a pair of jeans

High Upper 80s

to 90s

Low Lower to Mid 60s

What to pack: Tank tops, sundresses and skirts, shorts,

sunglasses, sunscreen, and sandals

WEATHER

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Great Places

to Stay

CorneliusClarion Inn – Lake Norman 19608 Liverpool Parkway 704.896.0660 www.clarionhotel.com Po C B F PComfort Inn and Suites – Lake Norman 19521 Liverpool Parkway 704.896.7622 www.comfortinn.com Po C B F PDays Inn Lake Norman 19901 Holiday Lane 704.892.9120 www.daysinn.com Po C B F P

Econo Lodge 20740 Torrence Chapel Road 704.892.3500 www.econolodge.com Po C B F PHampton Inn Charlotte – North/Lake Norman 19501 Statesville Road 704.892.9900 www.hamptoninn3.hilton.com Po C B F PMicrotel Inn and Suites 20820 Torrence Chapel Road 704.895.1828 www.microtelinn.com C B P

Make Yourself at Home at One of Our Area Hotels

P – Pet friendly F - Fitness center Po – Indoor/outdoor pool C – Comp Wifi B – Free Continental Breakfast

HOTELS

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DavidsonDavidson Village Inn 117 Depot Street 704.892.8044 www.davidsoninn.com C B FHomewood Suites by Hilton – Davidson 125 Harbour Place Drive 704.987.1818 www.davidson.homewoodsuites.com Po C B F

HuntersvilleBest Western Plus Huntersville Inn & Suites 13830 Statesville Road 704.875.7880 www.book.bestwestern.com Po C B F PCandlewood Suites Huntersville 16530 Northcross Drive 704.895.3434 www.candlewoodsuites.com/ huntersvillenc C F P

Comfort Suites Huntersville 14510 Boulder Park Drive 704.875.6220 www.comfortsuites.com Po C B FCountry Inn & Suites by Carlson 16617 Statesville Road 704.895.6565 www.countryinns.com/huntersvillenc Po C F BCourtyard by Marriott – Lake Norman 16700 Northcross Drive 704.949.4900 www.marriott.com/cltln Po C FHampton Inn & Suites Huntersville 10305 Wilmington Road 704.947.5510 www.hamptoninn.hilton.com Po B F PHoliday Inn Express and Suites – Huntersville/Birkdale 16805 Caldwell Creek Drive 704.892.9487 www.hiexpress.com Po C B F

P – Pet friendly F - Fitness center Po – Indoor/outdoor pool C – Comp Wifi B – Free Continental Breakfast

Feel the Hamptonality!

Hampton Inn & Suites Huntersville

704-947-5510 www.huntersvillesuites.

hamptoninn.com

Hampton Inn Charlotte North/Lake Norman

704-892-9900 www.corneliusnc. hamptoninn.com

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Quality Inn – Huntersville 16825 Caldwell Creek Drive 704.892.6597 www.qualityinn.com C B PResidence Inn by Marriott 16830 Kenton Drive 704.584.0000 www.marriott.com/cltrn Po C B F P

Sleep Inn and Suites – Lake Norman 16508 Northcross Drive 704.766.2500 www.sleepinn.com/hotel/nc316 C B F PSuper 8 – Huntersville 14135 Statesville Road 704.875.1165 www.super8.com Po C B F P

P – Pet friendly F - Fitness center Po – Indoor/outdoor pool C – Comp Wifi B – Free Continental Breakfast

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Great Places to Eat

A Menu for Everyone

RESTAURANTS

The selection of restaurants in the Lake Norman area offers plenty of dining options, and the number of appetizing choices continues to grow. You will find everything from a traditional, old time soda shop serving grilled burgers to upscale eateries showcasing memorable regional specialties.

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In the Lake Norman area you'll find a variety of restaurants to suit any palate.

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Let’s EatThe Lake Norman area offers a variety of cuisineWaterfrontNorth Harbor Club 100-D North Harbor Pl., Davidson 704.896.5559 www.northharborclub.com $$-$$$Port City Club 18665 Harborside Dr., Cornelius (704) 765-1565 www.facebook.com/portcityclub $$-$$$Rusty Rudder 20210 Henderson Rd., Cornelius (704) 892-9195 www.therustyrudder.net $$

American 131 Main 17830 Statesville Rd., Cornelius 704.896.0131 www.131-main.com $$-$$$Acropolis Café and Grille 20659 Catawba Ave., Cornelius 704.894.0191 www.acropoliscg.com $-$$Alton’s Kitchen & Cocktails 19918 North Cove Rd., Cornelius 704.655.2727 www.altonskitchen.com $$-$$$

Armin’s Sunshine Café 15901 NC 73 Highway, Huntersville 704.947.1670 Closed Winters www.arminscatering.com $Arnie’s Tavern 16500 Birkdale Common South Pkwy., Huntersville 704.895.8058 www.birkdale.com/arnies-tavern $Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar 8625 Lindholm Dr., Huntersville 704.237.4055 www.baddaddysburgerbar.com $$Bagel Bin and Deli 9815-I Sam Furr Rd., Huntersville 704.895.1455 $Big Al’s Pub & Grubberia 8301 Magnolia Estates Dr., Cornelius 704.987.6582 www.bigalspubandgrubberia.com $Big Bite’z Grill 20430 West Catawba Ave., Cornelius 704.895.7728 www.bigbitez.com $Bob Evans Restaurant 16706 Northcross Dr., Huntersville 704.896.8846 www.bobevans.com $Bonefish Grill 8805 Townley Rd., Huntersville 704.892.3385 www.bonefishgrill.com $$-$$$Brickhouse Tavern 209 Delburg St., Davidson 704.987.2022 www.brickhousetavern.com $$

In additional to longstanding fish camps that were the norm when the lake was a weekend getaway, diners can now find the cuisine of many cultures. Menus featuring Mexican, Latin American, Caribbean, Japanese, Chinese, Thai, Italian, Greek, Irish and Indian join all manner of American cuisine.

The waters of the lake inspire relaxing and fun-filled times, and that mood carries over into many restaurants. More often than not, diners are casually dressed, children’s favorites are offered and prices are affordable. Many places also have outdoor seating, so you can enjoy your meal and the fresh air when the weather is favorable. Bon Appétit!

— Cathy Swiney

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Flatiron Kitchen + Taphouse in Davidson specializes in farm-to-table food.

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Bruegger’s Bagels 20619 Torrence Chapel Rd., Cornelius 704.896.3199 www.brueggers.com $Café 100 100 Huntersville-Concord Rd., Huntersville 704.875.7840 www.thecafe100.com $Chili’s Grill and Bar 16632 Statesville Rd., Huntersville 704.895.0133 www.chilis.com $Choplin’s 19700 One Norman Blvd., Cornelius 704.892.4800 www.choplinsrestaurant.com $$Cookhouse Restaurant 20936 Torrence Chapel Rd., Cornelius 704.895.2250 $

Dressler’s Restaurant 86301-1A Lindholm Dr., Huntersville 704.987.1779 www.dresslersrestaurant.com $$-$$$Duckworth’s Grill & Taphouse 16609 Statesville Rd., Huntersville 704.237.4387 www.duckworthsgrillandbar.com $-$$The Egg at Davidson 231 Griffith St., Davidson 704.987.1885 www.theeggrestaurants.com $Fireside Bar and Grill 19930 West Catawba Ave., Cornelius 704.892.5001 www.firesidebg.com $-$$Five Guys 9826 Gilead Rd., Huntersville 704.992.2033 www.fiveguys.com $

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Flatiron Kitchen & Taphouse 215 Main St., Davidson 704.237.3246 www.flatirononmain.com $$-$$$Fork! 20517 North Main St., Cornelius 704.655.7465 www.forkrestaurantcornelius.com $$-$$$Fox and Hound Pub & Grille 8711 Lindholm Dr., Huntersville 704.895.4504 www.foxandhound.com $-$$Galway Hooker Irish Pub 17044 Kenton Dr., Cornelius 704.895.1782 www.galwayhookerpub.com $$-$$$Harvey’s Bar and Grill Cornelius 19707 Liverpool Pl., Cornelius 704.892.1001 www.harveyslkn.com $$Harvey’s Bar and Grill Huntersville 13812 Cinnabar Pl., Huntersville 704.947.5080 www.harveyslkn.com $$Hickory Tavern Birkdale 9526 Birkdale Crossing Dr., Huntersville 704.897.8490 www.thehickorytavern.com $Huntersville Family Restaurant 105 North Statesville Rd., Huntersville 704.875.6038 www.huntersvillefamilyrestaurant.com $-$$International House of Pancakes (IHOP) 16815 Caldwell Creek Dr., Huntersville 704.987.3295 www.ihop.com $Irish Cue 19501 West Catawba Ave., Cornelius 704.892.6904 www.facebook.com/irishcue $$Jack’s Corner Tap 8301-1 Magnolia Estates Dr., Cornelius 704.892.4433 www.jackscornertaplkn.net $-$$

Killington’s Restaurant and Pub 10010 Rose Commons Dr., Huntersville 704.948.3770 www.killingtons.com $Lake Town Tavern 19708 West Catawba Ave., Cornelius 704.896.7109 www.laketowntavern.com $Lancaster’s BBQ 9230 Beatties Ford Rd., Huntersville 704.394.1464 www.lancastersbbq.com $Longhorn Steakhouse 16641 Statesville Rd., Huntersville 704.895.3488 www.longhornsteakhouse.com $$-$$$Lupie’s Café 101 Old Statesville Rd., Huntersville 704.948.3959 www.lupiescafe.net $Mac’s Speed Shop and BBQ 19601 Liverpool Pkwy., Cornelius 704.892.3554 www.macspeedshop.com $-$$Matt’s Chicago Dog 19732 One Norman Blvd., Cornelius 704.892.5005 www.eatatmatts.com $The Melting Pot 16625 Statesville Rd., Huntersville 704.987.2201 www.meltingpot.com $$-$$$

Mickey and Mooch 9723 Sam Furr Rd., Huntersville 704.895.6654 www.mickeyandmooch.com $$-$$$Mojo’s Grill and Pub 19901 Holiday Lane, Cornelius 704.438.9777 www.mojosgrillandpub.com $Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs 17029 Kenton Dr., Cornelius 704.896.2886 www.nathansfamous.com $The Original New York Bagels 19826 North Cove Rd., Cornelius 704.896.5855 www.theoriginalnewyorkbagels.com $The Original New York Bagels 9810 Gilead Rd., Huntersville 704.948.7668 www.theoriginalnewyorkbagels.com $Outback Steakhouse 16400 Northcross Dr., Huntersville 704.895.1888 www.outbacksteakhouse.com $$The Pickled Peach 202 South Main St., Davidson 704.765.2190 www.thepickledpeach.com $$Pinky’s Westside Grill 9818 Gilead Rd., Huntersville 704.727.0142 www.eatatpinkys.com $Red Rocks Café 8712 Lindholm Dr., Huntersville 704.892.9999 www.redrockscafe.com $$-$$$

Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar has some of the best burgers in town, as well as salads.

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Restaurant X 408 South Main St., Davidson 704.892.9369 www.restaurantx-davidson.com $$Saeed’s Bar and Grill 20832 Catawba Ave., Cornelius 704.896.3633 www.facebook.com/SaeedsKaraokeBarandGrill $Showmars Restaurant 9605 Sherrill Estates Rd., Huntersville 704.995.7775 www.showmars.com $The Soda Shop 104 South Main St., Davidson 704.896.7743 www.davidsonsodashop.com $Summit Coffee 128 South Main St., Davidson 704.895.9090 www.summitcoffee.com $T. Mac 8700 Sam Furr Rd., Huntersville 704.897.1315 www.tacomac.com $-$$

Toast Café at Davidson 101 North Main St., Davidson 704.655.2778 www.toastcafeonline.com $-$$Waffle House 20130 Catawba Ave., Cornelius 704.895.3223 www.wafflehouse.com $Waffle House 14106 Statesville Rd., Huntersville 704.875.8980 www.wafflehouse.com $The Wine Cellar 19712 One Norman Blvd., Cornelius 704.895.3292 www.winecellarlkn.com $$Zoe’s Kitchen 16735-D Cranlyn Rd., Huntersville 704.655.2636 www.zoeskitchen.com $-$$

Asian Asiana Fusion Sushi 20601 Torrence Chapel Rd., Cornelius 704.896.8827 www.asianafusionsushi.com $-$$Coral Sushi 9525 Birkdale Crossings Dr., Huntersville 704.895.6880 www.coralsushi.com $-$$Dragon Buffet Chinese Restaurant 20430 West Catawba Ave., Cornelius 704.895.8388 $Dragon Express 9815 Sam Furr Rd., Huntersville 704.655.8999 www.dragonexpressnc.com $eeZ Fusion Asian Grill 16925 Birkdale Commons Pkwy., Huntersville 704.892.4242 www.eezfusion.com $$$Fusion 108 10010 Rose Commons Dr., Huntersville 704.992.0808 www.fusion108huntersville.com $$

House of Taipei 16500 Northcross Dr., Huntersville 704.987.7997 www.houseoftaipei.com $$Jin Jin 14231 Market Square Dr., Huntersville 704.875.0027 www.jinjinchinese.com $Kabuto Japanese Steak House and Sushi Bar 16516 Northcross Dr., Huntersville 704.655.0077 www.kabutolakenorman.com $$-$$$Kobe Hero Japanese Steakhouse 20465 Chartwell Center Dr., Cornelius 704.896.7778 www.kobeherolkn.com $Ming’s Bistro 624 Jetton St., Davidson 704.895.5623 www.welovemings.com $Ming Garden 16610 West Catawba Ave., Huntersville 704.896.2226 www.viewmenu.com/ming-garden $Noodletasia 14211 Reese Blvd., Huntersville 704.992.2255 www.noodletasia.com $NY Chinese Restaurant 20121 N Main St., Cornelius 704.896.6576 $-$$Osaka Japanese and Chinese Restaurant 17115 Kenton Dr., Cornelius 704.987.8980 www.osakacornelius.com $$Panda Express 9918 Knockando Lane, Huntersville 704.987.7767 www.pandaexpress.com $Peninsula China Bistro 19906 North Cove Rd., Cornelius 704.987.2299 www.peninsulachinabistronc.com $$

Bonefish Grill offers a variety of seafood dishes.

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Pho Nam 18059-5 West Catawba Ave., Cornelius 704.892.9133 www.phonamvietnamese.com $Sabi Asian Bistro 130 Harbour Place Dr., Davidson 704.895.5707 www.ilovesabi.com $$Sangam Indian Cuisine 20910 Torrence Chapel Rd., Cornelius 704.655.9600 www.sangamindia.com $-$$Sushi at the Lake 19732 One Norman Blvd., Cornelius 704.987.8080 www.sushiatthelake.com $$-$$$Thai Emerald 10110 Northcross Center Ct., Huntersville 704.896.7484 www.thethaiemerald.com $$Thai Marlai 19700 One Norman Blvd., Cornelius 704.892.7191 www.thaimarlai.com $$Yoshi’s Grill 9905 Rose Commons Dr., Huntersville 704.947.5233 www.yoshisnc.com $-$$

Deli/Sandwiches Firehouse Subs 9826 Gilead Rd., Huntersville 704.992.2282 www.firehousesubs.com $Groucho’s Deli 9931 Rose Commons Dr., Huntersville 704.948.4545 www.grouchos.com $Honey Baked Ham Company and Café 20609 Torrence Chapel Rd., Cornelius 704.892.9592 www.honeybakedonline.com $Jason’s Deli 16639 Birkdale Commons Pkwy., Huntersville 704.895.2505 www.jasonsdeli.com $

Jersey Mike’s Subs 105 South Statesville Rd., Huntersville 704.948.7343 www.jerseymikes.com $Jimmy John’s 9625 Birkdale Crossing Dr., Huntersville 704.896.0600 www.jimmyjohns.com $McAlister’s Deli 19930 West Catawba Ave., Cornelius 704.896.3354 www.mcalistersdeli.com $Panera Bread 9905 Knockando Dr., Huntersville 704.655.1255 www.panerabread.com $Subway 20430 West Catawba Ave., Cornelius 704.892.6728 www.subway.com $Subway 170 North Harbor Pl., Davidson 704.892.0740 www.subway.com $Subway 102 North Statesville Rd., Huntersville 704.948.1551 www.subway.com $Subway 9121 Sam Furr Rd., Huntersville 704.896.9778 www.subway.com $

Which Wich? Superior Sandwiches 16620 Cranlyn Rd., Huntersville 704.892.3565 www.whichwich.com $

Dessert The Bakery Shoppe 9606-B Sherrill Estates Rd., Huntersville 704.987.8225 www.thebakeryshoppe.com $Baskin Robbins 10313 Wilmington St., Huntersville 704.948.5454 www.baskinrobbins.com $Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream and Frozen Yogurt 202 South Main St., Davidson 704.892.0604 www.benjerry.com $Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream and Frozen Yogurt 16915 Birkdale Commons Pkwy., Huntersville 704.895.5675 www.benjerry.com $Bruster’s Ice Cream and Yogurt 17029 Kenton Dr., Cornelius 704.896.2886 www.brustersicecream.com $Carolina Cones 20801 North Main St., Cornelius 704.892.8190 Closed Winters $

Southern delicacies, such as deviled eggs, pop up on menus around the area.

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Southern delicacies, such as deviled eggs, pop up on menus around the area.

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20 Visit Lake Norman

Dairy Queen 9121 Sam Furr Rd., Huntersville 704.892.1884 www.dairyqueen.com $Davidson Chocolate Company 610 Jetton St., Davidson 704.896.7245 www.davidsonchocolate.com $Dunkin’ Donuts 10310 Wilmington St., Huntersville 704.948.5454 www.dunkindonuts.com $Kilwin’s Chocolate, Fudge and Ice Cream 16926 Birkdale Commons Pkwy., Huntersville 704.237.4869 www.kilwins.com $Maddy’s Fatty’s Bakery 19905 West Catawba Ave., Cornelius 704.439.0996 www.maddysfattys.com $Nothing Bundt Cakes 8830 Lindholm Dr., Huntersville 704.894.8535 www.nothingbundtcakes.com $

Our Daily Bread 20124 West Catawba Ave., Cornelius 704.892.1360 www.ourdailybreadlkn.com $Sweet Cakes Bakery 20601 Torrence Chapel Rd., Cornelius 704.895.5800 www.sweetcakesbakery.com $-$$TCBY 610 Jetton Street, Davidson 704.892.3747 www.tcby.com $TCBY 16916 Birkdale Commons Pkwy., Huntersville 704.987.2262 www.tcby.com $

Fast FoodBojangles’ 20214 West Catawba Ave., Cornelius (704) 892-2705 www.bojangles.com $

Bojangles’ 9145 Sam Furr Rd., Huntersville 704.896.7500 www.bojangles.com $Burger King 16800 Caldwell Creek Dr., Huntersville 704.896.7895 www.bk.com $Chick-fil-A 16915 Statesville Rd., Huntersville 704.892.0071 www.chick-fil-a.com $Cookout 425 Huntersville Gateway Blvd., Huntersville 704.875.0077 www.cookout.com $Hardee’s 14101 Statesville Rd,. Huntersville 704.875.0290 www.hardees.com $Kentucky Fried Chicken 20220 West Catawba Ave., Cornelius 704.892.5700 www.kfc.com $

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McDonald’s 20500 Torrence Chapel Rd., Cornelius 704.892.8791 www.mcdonalds.com $McDonald’s 14220 Boren St., Huntersville 704.875.9020 www.mcdonalds.com $McDonald’s 11198 Davidson Hwy., Huntersville 704.439.0167 www.mcdonalds.com $McDonald’s 16834 Statesville Rd., Huntersville 704.896.4930 www.mcdonalds.com $Smoothie King 16933 Kaufinger St., Huntersville 704.987.1431 www.smoothieking.com $Starbucks 19722 One Lake Norman Blvd., Cornelius 704.895.6066 www.starbucks.com $Starbucks 16846 B Birkdale Commons Pkwy., Huntersville 704.892.2557 www.starbucks.com $

Starbucks 9832 Gilead Rd., Huntersville 704.948.4278 www.starbucks.com $Starbucks 9932 Knockando Lane, Huntersville 704.892.1063 www.starbucks.com $Taco Bell 106 Statesville Rd., Huntersville 704.875.9723 www.tacobell.com $Taco Bell 20329 West Catawba Ave., Cornelius 704.892.6417 www.tacobell.com $Tenders Fresh Food 18341 Statesville Rd., Cornelius 704.895.6017 www.tendersfreshfood.com $Wendy’s 20410 Catawba Ave., Cornelius 704.892.8921 www.wendys.com $Wendy’s 14139 Statesville Rd., Huntersville 704.948.9055 $

Zaxby’s 16601 Statesville Rd., Huntersville 704.997.6228 www.zaxbys.com $

ItalianBellacino’s Pizza and Grinders 20129 North Main St., Cornelius 704.987.9060 www.bellacinos.com $Brixx Woodfired Pizza 16915 Birkdale Commons Pkwy., Huntersville 704.894.0044 www.brixxpizza.com $-$$Brooklyn South Pizzeria and Italian Eatery 19400 Jetton Rd., Cornelius 704.896.2928 www.brooklynsouthpizzeria.com $Campania Café 416 South Main St., Davidson 704.987.5111 www.campaniacafe.com $$Carrabba’s Italian Grill 16408 Northcross Dr., Huntersville 704.895.3080 www.carrabas.com $$Davidson Pizza Company 300 Mock Rd., Davidson 704.237.4019 www.davidsonpizza.com $Domino’s Pizza 10000 Gilead Rd., Huntersville 704.922.0505 www.dominos.com $Domino’s Pizza 20601 Torrence Chapel Rd., Cornelius 704.897.8888 www.dominos.com $Ferrucci’s Old Tyme Italian Market 20910 Torrence Chapel Rd., Cornelius 704.896.3190 www.ferruccis.com $Fuel Pizza 402 South Main St., Davidson 704.655.3835 www.fuelpizza.com $Hawthorne’s New York Pizza 14205 Reese Blvd., Huntersville 704.992.1661 www.hawthornespizza.com $-$$

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Breweries & BeerCorneliusAss Clown Brewery 10620 Bailey Rd. 704.995.7767 www.assclownbrewery.comD9 Brewing Company 11138-C Treynorth Dr. 704.457.9368 www.d9brewing.com

DavidsonThe Cabin 400 A North Harbor Place Dr. 704.237.3629 www.exploredavidsonnc.com/dining/the-cabinDavidson Beverage Company 432 South Main St. 704.255.6232 www.davidsonbeverage.com/?age-verified=ffa6fba959

HuntersvilleCrafty Beer Guys 114 South Old Statesville Rd. 704.274.5793 www.craftybeerguys.com

NearbyLake Norman Brewing Company 159 Barley Park Ln. Mooresville 704.660.1182 www.lakenormanbrewing company.com

Jet’s Pizza 14316 Reese Blvd., Huntersville 704.992.2221 www.jetspizza.com $Il Bosco Ristorante & Bar 127 Depot St., Davidson 704.987.1388 www.ilboscoristorante.com $$-$$$Mama Mia Too 101 Maxwell Ave., Huntersville 704.875.0575 www.mamamiatoo.com $$Mama’s Pizza Express 19741 South Main St., Cornelius 704.892.3305 www.mamaspizzaexpress.com $Mama’s Pizza Express 500 South Old Statesville Rd., Huntersville 704.947.3223 www.mamaspizzaexpress.com $Papa John’s Pizza 16235 Statesville Rd., Huntersville 704.896.7272 www.papajohns.com $Pizza Hut 14210 Market Square Dr., Huntersville 704.992.1929 www.pizzahut.com $Pizza Hut 20300 West Catawba Ave., Cornelius 704.896.0160 www.pizzahut.com $Prosciutto’s Pizzeria Pub and Restaurant 20920 Torrence Chapel Rd., Cornelius 704.449.4444 www.prosciuttos.com $

Romanello’s Pasta-Pizza-Subs 105 North Old Statesville Rd., Huntersville 704.875.8686 www.romanellosnc.com $Taste of Buffalo 9610 Sherrill Estates Rd., Huntersville 704.439.0546 www.tasteofbuffalopizzeria.com $Tony’s Pizza 9548 Mount Holly-Huntersville Rd., Huntersville 704.394.5677 www.tonysbigpizza.com $-$$ Uncle Maddios Pizza Joint 10109 North Cross Center Ct., Huntersville 704.997.8524 $

Mexican/SouthwesternBaja Soul Taqueria 8625-C Lindholm Dr., Huntersville 704.895.4373 www.bajasoultaqueria.com $$Carrburritos 445 South Main St., Davidson 704.237.3040 www.carrburritos.com $Chico’s Mexican Grill 102 N Statesville Rd., Huntersville 704.992.2755 www.chicosmexgrill.com $-$$El Paraiso 20700 North Main St., Cornelius 704.896.6064 www.paraisorestaurant.com $-$$La Unica Mexican Restaurant 16203 Northcross Dr., Huntersville 704.895.5378 www.launicahuntersville.com $

Moe’s Southwestern Grille 16933 Kaufinger St., Huntersville 704.896.2206 www.moes.com $Qdoba Mexican Grill 16926 Birkdale Commons Pkwy., Huntersville 704.892.2818 www.qdoba.com $Salsarita’s Fresh Cantina 14230 Reese Blvd. West, Huntersville 704.875.7272 www.salsaritas.com $Taxco Mexican Grill 9719 Sam Furr Rd., Suite E, Huntersville 704.655.0566 www.taxcomexicangrill.com $-$$Three Amigos Mexican Grill and Cantina 13016 Eastfield Rd., Huntersville www.threeamigoscharlotte.com 704.947.8900 $-$$Verde Urban Mexican Gill & Cantina 9818 Gilead Rd., Huntersville 704.274.9192 www.facebook.com/verdemexican $$-$$$Zapata’s Cantina Mexican Restaurant 19905 West Catawba Ave., Cornelius 704.987.8890 www.zapatasrestaurant.com $-$$

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Wineries & Wine ShopsCorneliusLake Norman Winery 10508 Bailey Rd. 704.651.7767 www.lknwinery.comThe Wine Cellar 19712 One Norman Blvd., 704.895.3292 www.winecellarlkn.comSip and Savor 18047 West Catawba Ave., 704.879.2213 www.sipandsavor.bizThe Cork and Cask 9624 Bailey Rd. 704.795.5490 www.thecorkandcasknc.comCorks and Canvas 10501 Bailey Rd. 704.575.8543 www.corksandcanva-spaintingparties.comWine and Design 18059 West Catawba Ave. 704.608.9257 www.wineanddesignus.com

DavidsonLake Norman Wine Cottage 200-A North Harbor Pl. 704.237.3629 www.lakenormancottage.com

HuntersvilleCorkscrew Wine Shoppe & Bar 16916 Birkdale Commons Pkwy. 704.987.0011 www.thescrewcrew.com

Total Wine & More 8709 Townley Rd. 704.895.6115 www.totalwine.com

NearbyDaveste Vineyards 155 Lytton Farm Rd. Troutman 704.528.3882 www.daveste.com

Wine tastings abound in the Lake Norman area.

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Great Things to See

& Do

There’s Plenty to See and Do at Lake Norman

ATTRACTIONS

Driving over Lake Norman on I-77 on a clear and sunny day, it’s difficult not to turn your attention toward the boats drifting across the water. But while boating is a popular and fun pastime in the area, it’s only one of many recreational activities to enjoy.

In the Lake Norman area, there are all kinds of sights, attractions and activities to entertain. From race shops to greenways, from breweries to quaint boutiques, from award-winning theatre to Civil War reenactments, it’s all here. All you have to do is choose what’s right for you. Have fun!

— Renee Roberson

Discovery Place KIDS in Huntersville focuses on children up to 8 years of age.

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History & Heritage Delve into the area’s past

CorneliusCornelius Heritage Hall & Veteran’s Monument 21445 Catawba Ave. 704.892.6031 www.corneliusveterans monument.org

DavidsonAda Jenkins Center’s School House Heritage Hall 212 Gamble St. 704.896.0471 www.adajenkins.orgBeaver Dam Historical Home & Grounds 19600 Davidson Concord Rd. 704.947.1670 www.beaverdamdavidson.com

Arts & CultureCorneliusArt Glass Works 20850 Catawba Ave. 704.892.5995 www.artglassworks.netBrick Row Gallery 21325 Catawba Ave. 980.253.7475 www.facebook.com/brickrowcorneliusCornelius Arts Center 19725 Oak St. 704.896.8823 www.cornelius.org/index.aspx?NID=125The Community Arts Project 20700 N. Main St., Suite 112 704.896.8980 www.thecommunityartsproject.orgThe Warehouse Performing Arts Center 9216 Westmoreland Rd. 704.619.0429 www.warehousepac.com

DavidsonBelk Visual Arts Center 315 North Main St. 704.894.2344 www.davidson.edu/about/facilities/arts-and-culture/visual-arts-centerDavidson College Sculpture Garden 405 North Main St. 704.894.2519 www.davidsoncollegeartgalleries.org/collection/campus-sculpture

Davidson Community Players 307 Armour St. 704.892.7953 www.davidsoncommunity players.orgMerrill-Jennings Gallery 463 South Main St. 704.895.1213 www.merrilljennings.comSanctuary of Davidson Fine Art Gallery 108 South Main St. 704.664.0319 www.sanctuaryofdavidson.comVan Every/Smith Galleries 315 North Main St. 704.894.2519 www.davidsoncollegeartgalleries.orgWhistling Swan Gallery 202 South Main St. 704.896.8559 www.whistling-swan.comWooden Stone Gallery 445 South Main St. 704.892.1449 www.woodenstonegallery.com

HuntersvilleFoster’s Frame & Art Gallery 403 North Old Statesville Rd. 704.948.1750 www.fostersframeartgallery.comMeg Art Pottery Painting 15940 Northcross Dr. 704.896.5211 www.meg-art.com/about.aspCarolina Raptor Center 6000 Sample Rd. 704.875.6521 www.carolinaraptorcenter.org

Carolina Renaissance Festival 16445 Poplar Tent Rd. 704.896.5544 www.royalfaires.com/carolinaHuntersville Arts & Cultural Center 109 South Old Statesville Rd. 704.766.2220 www.huntersville.org/Departments/ParksRecreation/Facilities/IndoorFacilities.aspx

The Davidson Community Players offer high quality entertainment.

The Cashion family has deep roots in Lake Norman’s history.

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Davidson Cotton Mill 209 Delburg St. 704.895.1011 www.exploredavidsonnc.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Cotton-Mill.pdfGhost Walk of Davidson 104 South Main St. 704.928.5452 www.facebook.com/pages/Ghost-Walk-Of-Davidson-NC

HuntersvilleAlexandriana 9921 Old Statesville Rd. 704.896.9808 www.charmeck.org/Pages/default.aspxHistoric Rural Hill 4431 Neck Rd. 704.875.3113 www.ruralhill.netBradford Store and Farm 15915 Davidson Concord Rd. (Hwy 73) 704.439.4303 www.thebradfordstore.comDuke Energy’s Explorium 13339 Hagers Ferry Rd. 980.875.5600 www.duke-energy.com/visitor-centers/energyexplorium.asp

Historic Latta Plantation 5225 Sample Rd. 704.875.2312 www.lattaplantation.orgHugh Torance House and Store 8231 Gilead Rd. 704.875.6479 https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hugh-Torance-House-and-StoreFor more information regarding other historical sites in the area, contact the following entities.

Davidson Historical Society P.O. Box 144, Davidson 704.892.6022 www.davidsonhistoricalsociety.orgCornelius Historic Preservation Commission 21445 Catawba Ave., Cornelius 704.892.6031 www.cornelius.org/hpcCharlotte-Mecklenburg Historic Landmarks Commission 2100 Randolph Rd., Charlotte 704.376.9115 www.cmhpf.org

A ferry crossing the Catawba River way before the idea of Lake Norman.

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Lake Rental Activities Get out on the lakeCorneliusCarolina Boat Rentals 19357 H.M. Junker Dr. 704.614.2118 www.carolinaboatrentals.netLuxury Yacht Charters 18020 Kings Point Dr. 704.451.7433 www.cruisethelake.comMorningstar Marina 18020 Kings Point Dr. 704.892.3223 www.morningstarmari-nas.com/kings-pointMy Aloha Paddle & Surf 17505 West Catawba Ave. 704.526.8432 www.standuplkn.comPremier Boat Rental 18919 Catawba Ave. 704.743.8975 www.thelakecalls.comYachta Yachta Yachta Charters 18501 Harbor Light Blvd. 704.892.0991 www.yachtayachtayachta.com

DavidsonDuffy Electric Boats of Lake Norman 200 North Harbor Pl. 704.826.5401 www.duffylkn.comMoose Paddleboard Company 3380 Merchant Lane 980.200.0186 www.moosepaddle-boardcompany.com

HuntersvilleNC Community Sailing & Rowing 15901 NC Highway 73 704.947.7245 www.nccsailrow.orgPontoon Rentals Happen on Lake Norman 15901 NC Highway 73 704.655.0881 www.jetski-pontoonrentalshap-penonlakenorman.com

NearbyQueen’s Landing 1459 River Highway, Mooresville 704.663.2628 www.queenslanding.com

Golf Courses & Yacht Clubs Get outside and playCorneliusLake Norman Mini Golf Public 18639 Statesville Rd. 704.892.9800 www.lknminigolf.com

Peninsula Club Private 19101 Peninsula Club Dr. 704.896.7080 www.thepeninsulaclub.com

Peninsula Yacht Club Private 18501 Harbor Light Blvd. 704.765.1043 www.peninsulayacht.com

DavidsonRiver Run Golf and Country Club Private 19125 River Falls Dr. 704.896.7355 www.riverruncc.com

HuntersvilleBirkdale Golf Club Public 16500 Birkdale Commons Pkwy. 704.895.8038 www.birkdale.comNorthstone Country Club Private 15801 Northstone Dr. 704.948.4286 www.northstoneclub.comSkybrook Golf Club Public 14720 Northgreen Dr. 704.948.6611 www.skybrookgolf.com

NorthStone Country Club in Huntersville is one of the many challenging golf courses in the area.

Kayaking, anyone?

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Parks Lake Norman area parks offer a variety of experiencesCorneliusBailey Road Park 11536 Bailey Rd.Blythe Landing Waterfront 15901 NC Highway 73Jetton Park on Lake Norman Waterfront 19000 Jetton Rd.Legion Park 21214 Legion St.Ramsey Creek Park Waterfront 18441 Nantz Rd.Robbins Park 17738 West Catawba Ave.Swaney Point K-9 Park 18441 Nantz Rd.Smithville Park 19710 South Ferry St.Torrence Chapel Park 21309 Torrence Chapel Rd.Westmoreland Athletic Complex 8430 Westmoreland Rd.For more information on the listed parks above, visit www.cornelius.org.

DavidsonAda Jenkins Athletic Field 212 Gamble St.Fisher Farm Park 21215 Shearer Rd.

McEver Field 626 South St.Parham Gateway Park 414 Davidson Gateway Dr.Roosevelt Wilson Park 420 Griffith St.Preserve Dog Park 330 O’Henry Ave.Southeast Greenway South Street to Davidson Concord Rd.Village Green Corner of 115 and Concord Rd.For more information on the listed parks above, visit www.townofdavidson.org.

HuntersvilleAbernathy Park 207 Glendale Dr.Bradford Park 17005 Davidson Concord Rd.

Greenway Park Corner of Greenway and Dallas Dr.Hambright Park Hambright Rd.Holbrook Park 100 Sherwood Dr.Huntersville Athletic Park 11720 Verhoof Dr.McDowell Creek Greenway 8925 Townley Rd.North Mecklenburg Park 16131 Old Statesville Rd.Richard Barry Memorial Park 13707 Beatties Ford Rd.Waymer Park 14200 Holbrooks Rd.For more information on the listed parks above, visit www.huntersville.org.

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Shopping

CorneliusDowntown Cornelius 21325 Catawba Ave. www.cornelius.orgJetton Village 19815 North Cove Rd. www.shopjettonvillage.com

Kenton Place 17105 Kenton Dr. www.kentonplacelkn.comMagnolia Estates 8231 Magnolia Estates Dr.Shops at Fresh Market 20623 Torrence Chapel Rd.Shops at Oak Street Mill 19725 Oak St.

DavidsonDavidson Commons 610 Jetton St.Downtown Davidson 101 North Main St. www.exploredavidsonnc.comDavidson Farmer’s Market 120 South Main St. www.davidsonfarmersmarket.orgDavidson Harbor Landing 200 North Harbor Pl.South Main Square 416 South Main St.

HuntersvilleBirkdale Village 8712 Lindholm Dr. www.birkdalevillage.net

Bradford Store and Farm 15915 Davidson Concord Rd. www.thebradfordstore.comDowntown Huntersville 101 South Old Statesville Rd. www.huntersville.orgEarthfare 14021 Boren St. www.earthfare.com/our-stores/huntersvilleHuntersville Grower’s Market Corner of Main & Maxwell St. www.huntersville.orgNorthcross Shopping Center 9751 Sam Furr Rd. www.shopnorthcross.comOld Store Produce 14720 Brown Mill Rd.Regency Village Shopping Center 7715 Regency Lake Dr.Rosedale Shopping Center 9911 Rose Commons Dr.Shops at Birkdale Crossing 9530 Birkdale Crossing Dr.Torrence Village 9826 Gilead Rd.

Birkdale Village in Huntersville offers a fun mix of restaurants and shops.

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Don’t Miss These Exciting Stops in the Lake Norman Area

CorneliusAss Clown Brewery 10620 Bailey Rd. 704.995.7767 www.assclownbrewery.comCornelius Arts Center 19725 Oak St. 704.896.8823 www.cornelius.orgD9 Brewing Company 18627 Northline Dr. 704.457.9368 www.d9brewing.comLake Norman Mini Golf 18639 Statesville Rd. 704.892.9800 www.lknminigolf.com

Michael Waltrip Racing 20310 Chartwell Center Dr. 704.897.5555 www.michaelwaltrip.comRange at Lake Norman 10913 Bailey Rd. 704.895.3155 www.therangeatlakenorman.com

HuntersvilleBirkdale Village 8712 Lindholm Dr. 704.895.8744 www.birkdalevillage.net

Bradford Store and Farm 15915 Davidson Concord Rd. (Highway 73) 704.439.4303 www.thebradfordstore.comCarolina Raptor Center 6000 Sample Rd. 704.875.6521 www.carolinaraptorcenter.orgCarolina Renaissance Festival 16445 Poplar Tent Rd. 704.896.5544 www.renfestinfo.comDiscovery Place KIDS 105 Gilead Rd. 704.372.6261 www.huntersville.discoveryplacekids.orgDuke Energy’s Energy Explorium 13339 Hagers Ferry Rd. 704.875.5600 www.duke-energy.comHistoric Latta Plantation 5225 Sample Rd. 704.875.2312 www.lattaplantation.orgHistoric Rural Hill 4431 Neck Rd. 704.875.3113 www.ruralhill.netHugh Torance House and Store 8231 Gilead Rd. 704.875.6479 www.hughtorancehouseand store.comJoe Gibbs Racing 13415 Reese Blvd. West 704.944.5000 www.joegibbsracing.com

Latta Plantation Equestrian Center 6201 Sample Rd. 704.992.1550 www.lattaequestriancenter.com

Latta Plantation Nature Preserve 6211 Sample Rd. 704.875.1391 www.charmeck.orgSpare Time Bowling 16317 Statesville Rd. 704.892.7177 www.northcrosslanes.com

DavidsonBelk Visual Arts Center 315 North Main St. 704.894.2344 www.davidson.eduDavidson College 102 North Main St. 704.894.2374 www.davidson.eduDavidson Community Players at Armour Street Theatre 307 Armour St. 704.892.7953 www.davidsoncommunity players.org Merrill-Jennings Gallery 463 South Main St. 704.895.1213 www.merrilljennings.comOur Town Cinemas 227 Griffith St. 704-237-3235 www.ourtowncinemas.com

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An Adventure in Play Open Tuesday - Sunday

Through rich play experiences that value imagination, fun and learning, little ones can explore their world, test their skills and muscles, and try out new ideas.

MEMBERSHIPS

MEMBERSHIPSAvailableAvailable

SummerCamps

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DPKH_VisitorsGuideAd.pdf 1 7/15/14 10:30 AM

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Experience Lake NormanGet the Most Out of Your Visit

More than a travel trend these days, experiential tourism encourages visitors to engage their senses with memorable, hands-on experiences. Whether it is going behind the scenes at a NASCAR race shop or participating in an intimate and educational wine tasting, groups visiting Lake Norman can jump into the middle of the action, ultimately participating in customized activities that connect them to the region’s heritage, culture and character.

Contact Travis Dancy, VLN Director of Sales to book your next Lake Norman Experience or to become a Lake Norman experiential tourism destination, tdancy@lakenorman.org or 704.987.3300

■ American Academy of Applied Forensics at CPCC

Have you ever wondered what it is like to be a Crime Scene Investigator (CSI)? Visit the American Academy of Applied Forensics at CPCC to find out. The American Academy of Applied Forensics in Huntersville is the only forensics academy in the southeastern United States. You’ll participate in hands-on demonstrations and take a tour of their state-of-the-art facility, learning the same methods that real investigators use. You’ll use shooting reconstruction lasers, Bluestar blood reagent and you’ll also dust for fingerprints. The instructors include Police Officers, former Federal Agents and Forensic Scientists.

Stand Up Paddleboading is a great sport that everyone in the family can do.

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■ Michael Waltrip RacingFans are welcome to tour a working multi-car race shop and get a unique behind the scenes perspective of all the components involved in the development and production of today’s NASCAR race cars. This expansive complex houses Michael Waltrip Racing’s two SPRINT Cup Series race teams: Clint Bowyer’s #15 5 Hour Energy Toyota Camry and Brian Vicker’s #55 Aaron’s Toyota Camry. Fans can observe as never before, the inner workings of production such as the machine shop, shocks, suspension, gears and transmission, fabrication, and final assembly departments as technicians build the cars they can see every weekend on TV right before their eyes. Weather and schedule permitting, lucky fans can even watch a LIVE Pit Practice session where our pit crews sharpen the speed and efficiency of that most crucial component of race strategy, the pit stop.

■ My Aloha PaddleboardingStand up Paddleboarding is something that everyone can enjoy! It is a great family sport and is unique in that people of all

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ages and skill levels can do it. My Aloha Paddle and Surf, Inc. is the first of its kind in the Charlotte and Lake Norman area to offer Stand Up Paddle Fitness Programs, as well as Stand Up Paddle Board lessons by Certified WPA and PaddleFit Instructors. In addition it offers Paddleboard rentals. Stand up Paddleboarding provides mental and physical benefits while you enjoy beautiful Lake Norman. My Aloha offers various types of fitness programs for all skills, including PaddleFit Group Classes and personal coaching, Paddle Fusion and Paddleboard Boot Camp.

■ The Range at Lake NormanWhether you’re brand new to shooting sports or already an expert marksman, you can’t beat this experience! Your package includes shooting lanes, rental handguns and/or rifles, ammo, NRA-certified instructors, eye and ear safety protection, and targets. Learn to shoot under the guidance of their instructors or perfect your skills. It’s a fun experience for all levels of

shooters! In addition, you will spend time in a simulator, where you’ll compete with up to four others in your group on video scenarios- you’ll take down the bad guys with real firearms in live scenarios. You can also relax in the facility’s spacious and cozy lounge between activities..

■ Tour de FoodDavidson is a quaint charming town full of history and rich in flavor. Tour de Food starts at the Old Cotton Mill now known as the Brickhouse Tavern. After starting at the Brickhouse Tavern, you’ll meander your way through historical Davidson down Main Street, stopping at six to seven restaurants, from upscale dining to the Soda Shop along the way. You’ll sample some of the finest culinary delights these establishments have to offer paired with beer and wines at a few stops. You will have the opportunity to meet the owners and chefs for a very personal experience unlike any other. Come see how innovative these independently owned restaurants can turn farm fresh food into the most delectable dishes.

■ Carolina Raptor CenterCarolina Raptor Center is dedicated to environmental stewardship and the conservation of birds of prey, through education, research, and the rehabilitation of injured and orphan raptors.

■ Self-guided ToursMeet 25 species of raptors as you walk the ¾-mile Raptor Trail at Carolina

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Raptor Center. Catch a weekend live bird presentation, learn about these magnificent birds of prey or simply enjoy the setting inside Latta Plantation Nature Preserve.

■ Private Live Bird PresentationsDo you want something a little bit special for your group? Schedule a live bird presentation featuring three to four of Carolina Raptor Center’s permanent residents on the glove. Learn about conservation issues, natural history, and the native and exotic species that live here.

■ First in Flight Tours with Carolinas Aviation MuseumFascinated with flight? Carolina Raptor Center and Carolinas Aviation Museum have teamed up to offer a daylong tour that focuses on the physics and history of flight. Start the day at Carolina Raptor Center with a flight demonstration and self-guided tour. A box lunch from Jason’s Deli to eat onsite at Latta Plantation or on the way to your second destination at Carolinas Aviation Museum. You’ll see the history of flight in the Carolinas, featuring Flight 1549 “Miracle on the Hudson” exhibition.

■ Behind the ScenesBoasting one of the country’s most extensive collections of birds of prey, go behind the scenes at Carolina Raptor Center’s medical center and education trail. At the hospital, staff admits, treats and performs surgery and physical therapy on more than 1,000 birds a year. The goal is to get the majestic creatures healthy and released back into the wild.

■ PhotoWILDAmateur and professional photographers alike will enjoy this professional photo shoot with Carolina Raptor Center’s resident raptors. Featuring species such as owls, eagles and hawks, each outing highlights more than 20 different raptors. Begin with an early-bird breakfast, followed by six 30-minute sessions, where several birds will serve as models for the snapshots. The final hour of each day

features the Center’s flight show superstars in free flight.

■ Marcy’s Eagle Research Observatory TourEach January through April is known as nesting season at Carolina Raptor Center, where eagles Derek and Savannah tend to their eggs. The facility uses the opportunity to educate the public with tours of Marcy’s Eagle Research Observatory. Participants will spend time learning about the eaglets from the past, present and future as well as study the eagles from Marcy’s Observatory.

■ Raptor Keeper for a DayDiscover what it takes to feed, train and care for more than 100 resident birds representing 25 different species that reside at Carolina Raptor Center. Participants will work alongside center staff for the experience of a lifetime to accomplish daily raptor keeper responsibilities, such as feeding, enrichment, training and resident bird health exams. From vultures to owls to hawks, guests will see firsthand why these birds of prey are critical to the environment and the advancements being made to preserve them through center staff.

Contact Travis Dancy, VLN Director of Sales to book your next Lake Norman Experience or to become a Lake Norman experiential tourism destination, tdancy@lakenorman.org or 704.987.3300

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42 Visit Lake Norman

Great Venues & Services

Lake Norman Has Everything

You Need For A Successful Gathering

EVENTS & VENUES

On the shores of Lake Norman, you’ll find everything you need to create the perfect event or wedding. This is the place to plan the waterfront wedding of your dreams, complete with breathtaking sunsets. If you’re considering planning a corporate event at Lake Norman, our waterfront works well for that, too.

There’s nothing quite like a wedding at Lake Norman. Visit Lake Norman 43

Weddings Lake Norman Waterfront Weddings are a Dream Come True

Have your wedding on beautiful Lake Norman and let Visit Lake Norman help take a few planning items off your plate. Visit Lake Norman services include assistance with:• Venue selections — ask for Visit Lake

Norman’s comprehensive venue guide• Securing discount hotel rates and room blocks • Catering selections — ask for Visit Lake

Norman’s preferred catering list • Wedding informational packets tailored to

your group’s specific interests • Recommending Lake Norman Must Dos —

ask about Experience Lake Norman Still need assistance with something not

listed above? Don’t hesitate to ask!

Need Hotel Accommodations?Let us do the legwork for you. Visit Lake

Norman’s complimentary hotel lead service secures the lowest competitive rates by offering 19 hotels the opportunity to vie for your wedding group’s business. Hotel leads outline your wedding group’s specific hotel accommodation needs.

If interested in having your wedding at Lake

Norman, contact Travis Dancy at 704.987.3300 or tdancy@lakenorman.org.  

Need Wedding Informational Packets?

Customized wedding informational packets can be tailored to your wedding group’s interests and are commonly used as a part of wedding bags. They can also be given to your guests upon hotel check-in. If booking 10 hotel rooms or more, the informational packets are complimentary. For those last-minute planners, orders can be filled up to 10 business days prior to your wedding date. To place an order, email Cyndi Bartley at bartley@lakenorman.org.   

Jetton Park in Cornelius offers a beautiful waterfront location for nuptials.

Row to your happily ever after.

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Fresh vegetables from local farms make summer extra special at Lake Norman.

Annual Events There’s Something for Everyone Throughout the Year

■ JanuaryAnnual New Year’s Day First Footin’ Hike and 5 Miler, Rural Hill, HuntersvilleCivil War Homefront and Winter Quarters, Historic Latta Plantation, Huntersville

■ FebruaryValentine Sweetheart Tours, Historic Latta Plantation, HuntersvilleBlack History Month Events, Cornelius, Davidson and Huntersville

■ MarchArt of the Blacksmith, Historic Latta Plantation, HuntersvilleSaint Patrick’s Day Celebration, Galway Hooker, CorneliusPhoto WILD, Carolina Raptor Center, HuntersvilleHop into Spring, Bailey Road Park, Cornelius

■ AprilApril is for Arts, Cornelius, Davidson and HuntersvilleGallery Crawl, Trolley Stops, DavidsonScottish Festival and Loch Norman Highland Games, Rural Hill, HuntersvilleEaster Egg Hunt, Historic Latta Plantation, HuntersvilleEaster Egg Hunt, Rural Hill, HuntersvilleArt on the Green, Downtown Davidson Village Green, DavidsonBark in the Park, Rural Hill, HuntersvilleDiscover Latta Plantation, Historic Latta Plantation, Huntersville

■ MayFarmer’s Markets, Davidson and HuntersvilleConcerts on the Green, Downtown Davidson Village Green, DavidsonMovies in the Park, North Meck Park, Huntersville

Asian Festival and Dragon Boat Race, Ramsey Creek Park, CorneliusNational Tourism Week, VLN Visitor Center, CorneliusNC Brewer’s & Music Festival, Rural Hill, HuntersvilleHello Huntersville, Downtown HuntersvilleFan Festival, Michael Waltrip Racing, CorneliusNASCAR All-Star Challenge/Coca Cola 600, Charlotte Motor Speedway, ConcordMemorial Day Events, Cornelius, Davidson and Huntersville

■ Summertime FavoritesFarmer’s Markets, Davidson and HuntersvilleLive Music & Concert Series, Birkdale Village, HuntersvilleConcerts on the Green, Downtown Davidson Village Green, DavidsonWarrior Dash, Rural Hill, Huntersville Outdoor Cinema Series, Cornelius ParksPan for Gold, Historic Latta Plantation, HuntersvilleFirecracker 5K, Huntersville Family Fitness & Aquatics, HuntersvilleFourth of July Celebrations, Cornelius, Davidson and HuntersvilleMovies in the Park, North Meck Park, Huntersville

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Symphony Concerts, EnergyExplorium, Huntersville and Bailey Road Park, CorneliusNational Night Out Events, Cornelius, Davidson and HuntersvilleCivil War Reenactment, Historic Latta Plantation, Huntersville

■ SeptemberThe Amazing Maize Maze, Rural Hill, HuntersvilleMovies in the Park, North Meck Park, HuntersvilleRevolutionary War Reenactment, Historic Latta Plantation, HuntersvilleChiquita Classic,River Run Country Club, DavidsonDenver Days Festival, Downtown Denver

■ OctoberThe Amazing Maize Maze, Rural Hill, HuntersvilleDavidson Community Players, Dixie Swim Club, Armour Street Theatre, DavidsonCarolina Renaissance Festival, Poplar Tent Marketplace, HuntersvilleAnnual All-American Dog Show, Bailey Road Park, CorneliusNASCAR Bank of America 500, Charlotte Motor Speedway, ConcordFan Festival, Joe Gibbs Racing, HuntersvilleFall Harvest Run, Huntersville Family Fitness & Aquatics, HuntersvilleGhost Tales in the Dark, Historic Latta Plantation, HuntersvilleHalloween Hoot-n-Howl, Carolina Raptor Center, HuntersvilleTrick or Treat Scavenger Hunt, Birkdale Village, Huntersville

Civil War Ghost Walk, Historic Latta Plantation, HuntersvilleHalloween Event, Rural Hill, HuntersvilleDowntown Halloween March, Downtown Davidson

■ NovemberThe Amazing Maize Maze, Rural Hill, HuntersvilleCarolina Renaissance Festival, Poplar Tent Marketplace, HuntersvilleSheep Dog Trails and Dog Festival, Rural Hill, HuntersvilleHomecoming Weekend, Davidson College, DavidsonSanta Arrival and Tree Lighting, Birkdale Village, HuntersvilleA Plantation Christmas, Historic Latta Plantation, Huntersville

■ DecemberDavidson Community Players, It’s a Wonderful Life, Armour Street Theatre, Davidson Christmas in Davidson, Downtown Main Street, Davidson North Mecklenburg Christmas Parade, Cornelius and Davidson

Helpful Web Siteswww.birkdalevillage.netwww.carolinaraptorcenter.orgwww.charlottedragonboat.comwww.charlottemotorspeedway.comwww.ci.davidson.nc.uswww.cornelius.orgwww.davidsoncommunityplayers.orgwww.duke-energy.com/visitor-centers/

energyexplorium.aspwww.hffa.comwww.huntersville.orgwww.joegibbsracing.comwww.lattaplantation.orgwww.lknfun.comwww.lknsavings.comwww.michaelwaltrip.comwww.peninsulayacht.comwww.exploredavidsonnc.comwww.royalfaires.com/carolina/www.ruralhill.netwww.visitlakenorman.orgwww.zootasticpark.com

Amazing Maize Maze at Rural Hill

46 Visit Lake Norman

Sporting EventsLooking for a region with a variety of

sports facilities and venues? Lake Norman may be your answer. Visit Lake Norman, along with our regional hospitality partnerships has your game plan covered. Lake Norman offers tournament quality athletic facilities and sport friendly accommodations, restaurants and attractions for just about any sporting event.

Visit Lake Norman sports event services include:• Assistance in securing venues • Discount hotel room blocks

• Sponsorship and local business engagement assistance

• Media/PR assistance• Site visit coordination• Swag bag coupons/discounts from local

businesses, attractions, restaurants, etc.• Permit assistance• Assistance in securing local event service

vendors• Opening ceremonies/welcome local

speakers• Assistance in securing volunteers• Assistance with event registration• On-site visitor services booth

Holiday Celebration, Cornelius Town Hall, CorneliusLN Christmas Floatilla of Lights, Lake Norman and Rusty Rudder, CorneliusA Huntersville Christmas, Downtown HuntersvilleA Candlelight Christmas, Historic Latta Plantation, Huntersville

Lighted Boat Parade, Lake Norman and Peninsula Yacht Club, CorneliusCarolina Christmas, Charlotte Motor Speedway, ConcordChristmas Wonderland of Lights, Zootastic Park, TroutmanHuntersville Half Marathon & 5K Birkdale Village, Huntersville

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Family ReunionsReunited & it Feels So Good!

Lake Norman is the perfect destination for your next family reunion. It’s no secret that Lake Norman family reunions generate memories that last generations. Lake Norman has all the family reunion facilities and family friendly activities you need.

Need to take some planning items off your plate? Visit Lake Norman has all your Family Reunion planning needs covered and can help you with the following:• Venue selections — ask for Visit Lake

Norman’s comprehensive venue guide• Securing discount hotel rates

and room blocks• Catering selections — ask for Visit Lake

Norman’s preferred catering list• Reunion informational packets tailored

to your group’s specific interests • Recommending family reunion activities

— ask about Experience Lake NormanStill need assistance with something

not listed above? Don’t hesitate to ask!

Meetings & Special EventsLet’s Meet @ the Lake!

There is no better place than Lake Norman for your next meeting or special event. Lake Norman has a wide array of meeting and conference facility venues, including waterfront options. Contact Visit Lake Norman for our comprehensive venue guide. All you have to do is decide if you want your meeting or special event on the waterfront.

Visit Lake Norman meeting planning services include assistance with:• Venue selections — ask for Visit Lake

Norman’s comprehensive venue guide

• Securing discount hotel rates and room blocks

• Catering selections — ask for Visit Lake Norman’s preferred catering list

• Informational packets tailored to your meeting group’s specific interests

• Recommending corporate team-building activities — Experience Lake NormanStill need assistance with something

not listed above? Don’t hesitate to ask!

Need Hotel Accommodations?Let us do the legwork for you. Visit

Lake Norman’s complimentary hotel lead service secures the lowest competitive rates by offering 19 hotels the opportunity to vie for your meeting group’s business. Hotel leads outline your meeting group’s specific hotel accommodation needs.

If interested in having your meeting or special event at Lake Norman, please contact Travis Dancy at 704.987.3300 or tdancy@lakenorman.org. 

Informational Packets? Customized family reunion informational

packets can be tailored to your family reunion’s interests and given to your guests upon hotel check-in. If booking 10 hotel rooms or more, the informational packets are complimentary. Contact Cyndi Bartley at bartley@lakenorman.org to place an order. 

Meetings are much more productive (and fun) at Lake Norman.

Families reunited in Lake Norman

48 Visit Lake Norman