Mooresville, North Carolina: 10 Fun Things To Do Nearby

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10 Fun Things To Do Near Mooresville, North Carolina (That Locals Actually Love)

If you’re planning a trip to Mooresville, North Carolina in Iredell County, you’re in for a surprise. This small Lake Norman town is known as “Race City USA,” but there’s a lot more to it than just NASCAR shops and engines. Whether you’re visiting from out of state, planning a weekend getaway from Charlotte, or just moved to the area, this easy guide walks you through 10 fun things to do in and around Mooresville. We’ll stick to simple language, local favorites, and spots that work for families, couples, and solo travelers.

1. Get Your Racing Fix at the NASCAR Shops & Race Shops

Mooresville isn’t called Race City USA for nothing. If you’re a motorsports fan, you could spend a whole day just touring race shops. Some popular team shops and racing spots to check out include:
  • JR Motorsports – Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s NASCAR Xfinity Series team shop.
  • Penske Racing South Facility (nearby in Concord/Huntersville area) – Worth the short drive for race fans.
  • Local performance shops and race-related museums around town.
Many of these shops have:
  • Glass viewing windows into the garage areas
  • Gift shops with gear, hats, and collectibles
  • Historical displays about NASCAR and racing legends
If you time it right, you might even see crews working on real cars. It’s like peeking behind the curtain of big-time racing.

2. Spend a Day on Lake Norman

Just a short drive from downtown Mooresville, Lake Norman is the largest man-made lake in North Carolina, with over 500 miles of shoreline. It’s one of the best things to do near Mooresville if you love the water. Popular activities on Lake Norman:
  • Rent a boat or pontoon for the day
  • Try paddleboarding or kayaking
  • Fish for bass, catfish, and crappie
  • Stop at lakeside restaurants that you can boat right up to
If you don’t own a boat, no problem. Several marinas and rental companies near Mooresville offer half-day and full-day rentals. On a sunny day, cruising the lake with a cold drink in hand feels like a mini vacation all by itself.

3. Visit Lazy 5 Ranch for a Drive-Through Safari

Looking for a family-friendly thing to do near Mooresville that isn’t racing related? Head out to the Lazy 5 Ranch in nearby Mooresville/Troutman area (still right in Iredell County). This is a drive-through safari park where you can see and feed animals from the comfort of your car or take a wagon ride. You’ll spot:
  • Giraffes
  • Zebras
  • Buffalo
  • Watusi cattle
  • Antelope and more
Kids usually love it when huge animals walk right up to the windows. Just be prepared for a little slobber on your car doors—it’s part of the fun.

4. Explore Downtown Mooresville’s Historic Main Street

If you enjoy small-town charm, Downtown Mooresville will hit the spot. Main Street is lined with older brick buildings, local shops, and some great places to eat. You can:
  • Grab coffee at a local café
  • Browse antique shops and boutiques
  • Check out local art galleries
  • Look for murals and historic signs
On certain weekends, downtown hosts events like car shows, food truck rallies, and seasonal festivals. It’s a nice place to slow down, stretch your legs, and feel what everyday life in Mooresville is really like.

5. Tour the North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame

If you want to understand why Mooresville is such a big name in the racing world, stop by the North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame. Here you’ll find:
  • Historic race cars
  • Memorabilia from famous drivers
  • Photos and stories from NASCAR’s early days
Even if you’re only a casual racing fan, it’s a fun way to spend an hour or two. And if you’re a die-hard fan, you’ll recognize plenty of names and cars. It’s also a good rainy-day activity when the weather won’t cooperate.

6. Cool Off at Lake Norman State Park

Just up the road in Troutman, still within Iredell County, you’ll find Lake Norman State Park. It’s one of the best outdoor things to do near Mooresville, especially if you like trails and nature. Things to do at Lake Norman State Park:
  • Swim at the designated swim area (usually open in warmer months)
  • Hike along easy to moderate trails through the woods
  • Mountain bike on well-marked single-track
  • Picnic with lake views
The hiking trails aren’t too tough, so they’re great for families or casual walkers. Pack some snacks, water, and maybe a hammock, and you’ve got a full, relaxed day by the lake.

7. Enjoy Local Breweries and Wineries

If you like to sample local drinks when you travel, Mooresville has a growing craft beer and wine scene. You’ll find:
  • Microbreweries with IPAs, lagers, and seasonal brews
  • Taprooms that host food trucks and live music
  • Nearby wineries in Iredell and surrounding counties
Some spots are family-friendly during the day, with outdoor seating, yard games, and relaxed vibes. It’s a good way to wind down after a day on Lake Norman or exploring Main Street. If you’re visiting on a weekend, check their social media—many places host trivia nights, concerts, or special release parties.

8. Hit the Go-Kart Tracks and Indoor Entertainment Centers

Love speed but not quite ready for a full race car? Mooresville and the surrounding Lake Norman area offer go-kart tracks and indoor fun centers that are perfect for all ages. Depending on where you go, you might find:
  • Fast indoor electric go-karts
  • Arcades and laser tag
  • Bowling and mini golf
  • VR games and climbing walls
These spots are great for:
  • Rainy days
  • Birthday parties
  • Group outings or team-building events
If you’re traveling with kids or teens, this can quickly become the highlight of the trip.

9. Visit Zootastic Park

Another animal-friendly thing to do near Mooresville is Zootastic Park, located in nearby Troutman, just a short drive up the road. Zootastic offers:
  • Walk-through zoo exhibits
  • Exotic animals such as tigers, lemurs, and monkeys
  • Seasonal events like drive-through holiday light shows
It’s smaller than a big city zoo, which can actually be a plus—you can see everything without feeling rushed. For families, it makes a nice half-day outing paired with lunch in Mooresville or a stop at Lake Norman State Park.

10. Catch a Local Event, Festival, or Farmers Market

One of the best ways to experience Mooresville like a local is to plan your visit around a community event. Depending on the time of year, you might find:
  • Downtown festivals with food trucks and live music
  • Classic car shows and cruise-ins
  • Holiday parades and tree lighting events
  • Farmers markets with fresh produce and local goods
Events like these give you a feel for the town’s personality. You can chat with locals, pick up handmade items, and try seasonal foods you won’t get at a chain restaurant. Before you visit, it’s worth checking online for “Mooresville NC events” or “Mooresville NC farmers market” to see what’s happening during your stay.

Tips for Planning Your Mooresville Getaway

To make the most of your time in and around Mooresville, keep these simple tips in mind:
  • Have a car – Many attractions, like Lake Norman and the safari parks, are easiest to reach by car.
  • Check hours ahead – Racing shops, museums, and parks may have seasonal hours or special closure days.
  • Pack for the weather – Summers can be hot and humid, winters are mild but can be chilly, especially near the water.
  • Book busy weekends early – Race weekends and holiday periods can fill hotels fast.
Think of Mooresville as a hub: from here, you can enjoy the lake, explore Iredell County, and even take day trips to Charlotte or the mountains if you want a longer North Carolina road trip.

Final Thoughts: Why Mooresville, NC Belongs on Your Travel List

Mooresville, North Carolina may not be as famous as Charlotte or Asheville, but that’s part of its charm. You get:
  • Big-time racing history without big-city traffic
  • Lake Norman fun with easy access and relaxed vibes
  • Family-friendly attractions like Lazy 5 Ranch and Zootastic Park
  • Small-town downtown with local shops and good food
Whether you’re here for NASCAR, nature, or a simple weekend escape, there are plenty of things to do near Mooresville to keep you busy—and relaxed.

What Did We Miss? Share Your Mooresville Favorites!

Have you visited Mooresville, NC or the Lake Norman area?
  • Do you have a favorite lakeside restaurant?
  • Is there a race shop or museum you think everyone should see?
  • Know a hidden hiking spot or local hangout?
Drop your tips and experiences in the comments so other travelers can discover them too. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with a friend who’s planning a trip to North Carolina or looking for a new weekend getaway.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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