Kannapolis, North Carolina: 10 Fun Things To Do Nearby

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10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Kannapolis, North Carolina

If you’re looking for a laid‑back, budget‑friendly getaway in North Carolina, Kannapolis in Cabarrus County is a great surprise. This former mill town has grown into a small city with a charming downtown, rich racing history, and plenty to do within a short drive. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip from Charlotte, visiting family nearby, or just passing through on I‑85, here are 10 fun things to do in Kannapolis and Cabarrus County that are easy to enjoy and easy on your wallet.

1. Stroll Through Downtown Kannapolis & The N.C. Music Hall of Fame

Downtown Kannapolis has had a big glow‑up in recent years. The streets are walkable, the buildings are fresh, and there’s a friendly, small‑town feel you notice as soon as you park the car. Start with a slow walk along West Avenue. You’ll find:
  • Local restaurants and coffee shops
  • Colorful murals and public art
  • Benches and swings where you can sit and people‑watch
Just a short distance away is the N.C. Music Hall of Fame. If you love music, this is a must‑see. It celebrates North Carolina artists from different genres—gospel, country, rock, R&B, and more. Inside, you’ll see:
  • Stage outfits and instruments
  • Gold and platinum records
  • Interactive displays about NC’s music history
It’s not a huge museum, which actually makes it perfect for an easy afternoon. You can explore at your own pace without feeling rushed. Tip: Check their hours before you go—this isn’t a 7‑days‑a‑week kind of spot, and hours can vary.

2. Catch a Ballgame at Atrium Health Ballpark

Right in downtown Kannapolis, you’ll find Atrium Health Ballpark, home of the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers, a Minor League Baseball team. Even if you’re not a huge baseball fan, this is one of the best experiences in town. Why it’s fun:
  • Affordable tickets—great for families and groups
  • Fun promotions, theme nights, and fireworks shows
  • Kids’ play areas so little ones can burn off energy
The stadium feels modern and cozy at the same time. On a warm evening, with the lights on and a hot dog in hand, it’s that classic American ballgame vibe. Personal note: If you like ballpark snacks, go hungry. Minor league games tend to have creative food options and craft beer that you might not expect in a small city.

3. Relax at Village Park & Ride the Train Carousel

If you’re traveling with kids—or you just like a peaceful park—Village Park is one of the best things to do in Kannapolis. Here you’ll find:
  • A scenic walking trail
  • Playgrounds
  • A splash pad in warmer months
  • A charming rotary‑style train and a classic carousel
During the summer, the park often hosts:
  • Outdoor concerts
  • Special events
  • Holiday light displays in winter (check the schedule)
It’s the kind of place where you can spread out a blanket, let the kids run around, and spend a few easy hours without spending much money.

4. Learn & Play at the NC Research Campus & Downtown Green Spaces

Kannapolis is home to the North Carolina Research Campus, a unique hub focused on nutrition, health, and biotechnology. While it’s mainly a working campus, it also adds a surprising twist to the town—beautiful grounds and interesting public spaces. What to do nearby:
  • Walk around the campus and admire the architecture
  • Enjoy the landscaped lawns and fountains
  • Use the walking paths that connect downtown and the ballpark area
You don’t have to be a science buff to enjoy it. Think of it as a well‑kept, open‑air extension of downtown Kannapolis. If you like to walk, jog, or just wander, the area around the campus and downtown is flat, easy, and very walkable—perfect for getting in a few steps before dinner.

5. Explore Racing History at Charlotte Motor Speedway

Just a short drive—around 15 to 20 minutes—south of Kannapolis in Concord is one of the most famous race tracks in the country: Charlotte Motor Speedway. Even if you’re not a hardcore NASCAR fan, this place is worth checking out. Things you can do:
  • Catch a NASCAR race or special event
  • Take a guided tour of the track
  • See the infield, garages, and victory lane
Race days are loud, exciting, and full of energy. On non‑race days, tours give you a behind‑the‑scenes look at how everything works. Standing near the track, it’s easy to imagine the roar of engines flying by at well over 150 miles per hour. Tip: If you’re visiting around May or October, check the schedule for big races and events—you might be able to plan your trip around something special.

6. Visit Hendrick Motorsports & Other Racing Shops

North Carolina is a heartland of NASCAR, and Cabarrus County is full of race shops and team facilities. If you enjoy cars, engines, or just seeing how things work, this is a fun side of the area to explore. One of the best known is Hendrick Motorsports in nearby Concord. You can:
  • Walk through the team museum and gift shop
  • See cars from past seasons
  • Check out trophies and racing memorabilia
Other race shops in the broader Charlotte region also offer visitor centers and viewing areas where you can watch crews working behind glass windows. If you’ve ever watched a race on TV and wondered what goes on in the garage, this is your chance to see it up close.

7. Shop & Dine at Concord Mills

About 15 minutes from Kannapolis, Concord Mills is one of the largest shopping destinations in North Carolina. It’s a big, loop‑style indoor mall, so it’s a good option on rainy or hot days. Inside, you’ll find:
  • Outlet and brand‑name stores
  • Family‑friendly restaurants
  • Entertainment like an aquarium and movie theater (check current tenants)
You can easily spend half a day here:
  • Shop for deals
  • Let the kids explore the interactive attractions
  • Grab a meal and people‑watch
If you’re staying in Kannapolis for a few days, Concord Mills is a convenient spot to pick up anything you forgot to pack—from sneakers to phone chargers.

8. Get Outside at Local Parks, Greenways & Lake Fisher

If you enjoy being outdoors, Kannapolis and Cabarrus County offer several ways to stretch your legs and enjoy some fresh air. Lake Fisher, just outside Kannapolis, is known for:
  • Fishing (with proper permits)
  • Peaceful views
  • A calm, quiet feel away from traffic
Around town and in nearby Concord, you’ll also find:
  • Greenways and walking trails
  • Neighborhood parks with playgrounds and picnic tables
  • Shaded areas that are great for a casual stroll
If you’re used to busy city life, the slower pace here can feel like a deep breath. Pack some snacks, grab a simple picnic lunch, and enjoy a low‑stress afternoon outside.

9. Visit Historic Downtown Concord

Just down the road from Kannapolis, downtown Concord adds another layer of local flavor to your Cabarrus County visit. Why it’s worth the short drive:
  • Historic buildings and a traditional Southern courthouse square
  • Local boutiques and antique shops
  • Independent cafes, bakeries, and restaurants
You can spend a relaxed morning wandering the streets, popping into shops, and grabbing coffee. Compared to bigger cities, parking is usually easier, and the pace is slower. If you like exploring small downtowns, pairing Kannapolis + Concord in one trip gives you two different but complementary vibes.

10. Enjoy Local Events, Festivals & Live Music

One of the best things about smaller cities like Kannapolis is the sense of community. Throughout the year, the city and county host a variety of events and festivals. Depending on when you visit, you might find:
  • Summer concerts at Village Park or downtown Kannapolis
  • Holiday parades and light displays
  • Food truck rallies and seasonal festivals
  • Local markets with crafts and produce
Many of these events are free or very affordable, which makes them great for families or larger groups. They’re also one of the easiest ways to get a feel for the real local culture beyond tourist attractions. Pro tip: Before your trip, check the City of Kannapolis and Cabarrus County tourism websites or social media pages for an up‑to‑date events calendar.

Planning Your Visit to Kannapolis, North Carolina

If you’re coming from out of town, here are a few quick tips:
  • Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures and plenty of outdoor events.
  • Getting around: A car is the easiest way to reach all these attractions in Kannapolis and Concord.
  • Trip length: A weekend is enough to see the highlights, but 3–4 days lets you explore at a slower pace.
Kannapolis may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of North Carolina travel, but that’s part of its charm. It’s relaxed, affordable, and full of small surprises—from minor league baseball and local music history to NASCAR roots and quiet lakes.

What Would You Do in Kannapolis?

Have you visited Kannapolis or anywhere else in Cabarrus County?
  • Which spots did you enjoy the most?
  • Did I miss a favorite local restaurant, park, or event?
I’d love to hear your ideas and experiences. Drop a comment below and share your tips for fun things to do in and around Kannapolis, North Carolina. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with a friend or family member who’s planning a trip through the Charlotte area—sometimes the best travel memories come from the towns you weren’t expecting to love.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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