10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Concord, North Carolina (Cabarrus County)
If you’re looking for a fun getaway in North Carolina that’s easy to reach, family‑friendly, and full of surprises,
Concord, NC in
Cabarrus County should be on your list.
Just northeast of Charlotte, Concord blends small‑town charm with big‑time attractions. Whether you love fast cars, local breweries, outlet shopping, or quiet nature trails, you’ll find something that fits your style.
Below are
10 things to do in and near Concord, NC that locals love and visitors shouldn’t miss.
1. Feel the Speed at Charlotte Motor Speedway
Concord is best known for one thing:
racing.
The legendary
Charlotte Motor Speedway sits right in Cabarrus County and draws NASCAR fans from all over the country. Even if you’re not a die‑hard racing fan, this place is worth a visit.
- Catch a NASCAR race or special event in the grandstands.
- Try a track tour and ride around the 1.5‑mile oval.
- Visit during the holidays for the Christmas lights drive‑through that winds through the infield.
The first time I visited, I was surprised by how huge the place is. Walking up into the stands and looking down at the track feels almost like stepping into a bowl built for speed.
If you’re planning a trip, check their calendar—there’s often something happening, from car shows to dirt track races.
2. Explore Concord’s Historic Downtown
When you’re done with the roar of engines, slow things down in
Downtown Concord.
This historic area is walkable, relaxed, and full of character. You’ll find:
- Local restaurants and coffee shops
- Boutiques and antique stores
- Murals and historic buildings
Grab a coffee, stroll along Union Street, and peek into the locally owned shops. If you like architecture, take a minute to look up—many of the older brick buildings still have their original details.
It’s the kind of place where you can park once, wander for a couple of hours, and just see what you discover.
3. Shop (and Snack) at Concord Mills
If you enjoy shopping, you’ll want to set aside time for
Concord Mills.
This huge outlet and entertainment mall is one of the most popular things to do near Concord, NC. It’s a great option for a rainy day, or if you just want to walk, browse, and people‑watch.
Inside you’ll find:
- Brand‑name outlet stores
- A food court and sit‑down restaurants
- Entertainment like mini‑golf, a movie theater, and more (offerings can change over time)
Even if you’re not a big shopper, you can easily spend a few hours here. It’s also only a short drive from Charlotte Motor Speedway, so you can combine both in one day.
4. Get Hands‑On at SEA LIFE Aquarium
Right inside Concord Mills is one of the most kid‑friendly things to do in Cabarrus County: the
SEA LIFE Aquarium.
This small but engaging aquarium is perfect if you’re traveling with children or just love ocean life. Expect to see:
- Colorful fish and coral displays
- Touch pools where you can gently feel starfish
- Sharks and rays gliding around you in a walk‑through tunnel
It’s not as large as a coastal aquarium, but that can actually be a plus. You can enjoy everything at a relaxed pace, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
If you’re already at Concord Mills, this is an easy add‑on to your day.
5. Taste Local Flavor on the Cabarrus County Beer & Wine Trail
If you like to get to know a place through its flavors, you’ll love the growing
beer and wine scene in and around Concord.
In Cabarrus County, you can find:
- Boutique wineries in the countryside
- Craft breweries with taprooms and outdoor seating
- Cider and other creative drinks
Many spots are casual and kid‑friendly during the day, with food trucks, live music, or lawn games. It’s an easy way to spend an afternoon—try a flight, sit outside, and soak up the local vibe.
If you’re driving, of course, make a plan: pick a designated driver or stick to just one stop and take it slow.
6. Step Back in Time at Historic Sites & Museums
Concord and Cabarrus County have deeper roots than many visitors realize. If you like history, you’ll find several ways to explore the area’s past.
Look for:
- Local history museums that share stories of the region’s textile mills, racing heritage, and early days.
- Historic homes and buildings scattered around downtown and nearby neighborhoods.
- Small exhibits or plaques that explain how Concord has changed over the years.
One tip: when you’re walking downtown, keep an eye out for historical markers. They’re a simple, free way to learn something new as you wander.
7. Enjoy the Outdoors at Parks and Greenways
Need a break from crowds and traffic? Concord offers plenty of ways to get outside without driving far.
You’ll find:
- City parks with playgrounds, picnic tables, and walking paths
- Greenways great for walking, running, or biking
- Shaded spots where you can just sit with a book or a coffee
If you’re traveling with kids, a stop at a local park can be the perfect reset between attractions. And if you like to stay active on vacation, pack your sneakers—you can easily fit in a walk or jog in the morning before heading out for the day.
8. Catch a Game or Local Event
Sports are a big part of life around Concord, NC. Besides NASCAR at Charlotte Motor Speedway, the area often hosts:
- Youth and minor league sporting events
- College games and tournaments in nearby communities
- Seasonal festivals, fairs, and community events
If you’re visiting on a weekend, check local calendars before you go. You might find a small‑town festival, a food truck rally, or an outdoor concert happening during your stay.
These kinds of events are some of the best ways to feel like a local, even if you’re only in town for a couple of days.
9. Take a Scenic Drive Through Cabarrus County
Sometimes, the best way to see a place is just to get in the car and drive.
The roads around Concord and greater Cabarrus County offer a mix of:
- Rolling countryside
- Historic churches and farmhouses
- Small downtowns in nearby communities
You can make your own mini road trip: start in Concord, then head out on back roads, stopping at local diners, farm stands, or roadside markets when you see them.
Think of it as a choose‑your‑own adventure. No tight schedule, no big crowds—just you, the road, and a slice of North Carolina life.
10. Sample Southern Comfort Food Around Town
No trip to Concord, NC is complete without trying some
classic Southern comfort food.
Across Concord and Cabarrus County, you’ll find:
- Barbecue joints serving pulled pork, ribs, and hush puppies
- Breakfast spots with biscuits, gravy, and country ham
- Family restaurants with fried chicken, mac and cheese, and sweet tea
Food is a big part of local culture here. Ask your server what they recommend or what the restaurant is known for—you’ll often get the most honest tips that way.
If you’re traveling with picky eaters, don’t worry. Many places have simple options like burgers, sandwiches, and salads, too.
Planning Your Visit to Concord, NC
Here are a few quick tips to make the most of your trip to Concord and Cabarrus County:
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall are comfortable, but summer is great if you want to catch major races and events.
- Getting around: A car makes things easier. Most attractions are spread out, especially outside downtown.
- Trip length: You can see the big highlights in a weekend, but three to four days lets you slow down and explore more.
If you’re coming from out of state, Charlotte Douglas International Airport is the closest major airport, and Concord is just a short drive from there.
What Did We Miss? Share Your Favorite Concord Spots
Concord, North Carolina may be known for fast cars and outlet shopping, but there’s a lot more here once you start looking—local flavors, friendly people, and plenty of things to do for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Have you been to
Concord or Cabarrus County?
- What was your favorite thing to do near Concord, NC?
- Do you have a go‑to restaurant, park, or hidden gem?
Drop your tips and experiences in the comments—your ideas can help other travelers plan their own trip.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend or on social media so more people can discover all the fun things to do in and around Concord, North Carolina.
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