Entertainment and leisure nearby Speedway

Charlotte Motor Speedway is the centerpiece of race weekend, but the surrounding Concord and Charlotte area has plenty to offer beyond the track. From family activities to nightlife, outdoor escapes, and cultural highlights, there’s something for every fan looking to make the most of their trip.

Concord Downtown

Concord’s historic downtown is only a short drive from the Speedway and blends small-town charm with modern Southern hospitality. Visitors will find antique shops, boutiques, local cafés, and a growing arts scene. The downtown core often hosts live music, festivals, and fan events on race weekends.

Highlights include:

• Cabarrus Arts Council & Galleries – Rotating exhibitions and live performances in a restored courthouse.
• Union Street Market – A mix of local vendors, shops, and eateries.
• Live music & breweries – Small venues and taprooms that keep the evenings lively.

Family-friendly attractions

Families traveling for race weekend will find plenty of options nearby to keep younger fans entertained.

• SEA LIFE Aquarium (Concord Mills) – Interactive exhibits and underwater tunnels showcasing sharks, rays, and tropical fish.
• Great Wolf Lodge – A massive indoor water park and family resort located right next to the Speedway.
• Frank Liske Park – Paddleboats, playgrounds, mini golf, and trails for a relaxing afternoon outdoors.

Outdoor & scenic escapes

North Carolina’s Piedmont region is full of natural beauty, and Concord is a gateway to outdoor fun.

• Lake Norman – Just north of Charlotte, it’s perfect for boating, fishing, and lakeside dining.
• Reed Gold Mine – A state historic site where America’s first gold was discovered; visitors can pan for gold and explore trails.
• Morrow Mountain State Park – A peaceful escape with hiking, horseback riding, and views over the Uwharrie Mountains.

Food & nightlife

From classic Southern barbecue to farm-to-table dining, Concord and Charlotte have plenty of options to satisfy race fans.

• Downtown Concord – Home to Southern comfort food spots, breweries, and barbecue joints.
• Charlotte’s South End – Known for its craft breweries, lively nightlife, and trendy eateries.
• Uptown Charlotte – Offers everything from upscale dining to sports bars filled with race-day energy.

Charlotte

If you’ve got time away from the track, Charlotte offers several cultural highlights just 20 minutes from the Speedway.

• NASCAR Hall of Fame – A must-see for fans, featuring exhibits, simulators, and historic cars.
• Mint Museum – North Carolina’s oldest art museum, with collections spanning from European classics to modern works.
• Discovery Place Science – A hands-on science museum great for families.

Day trips

If you’re extending your stay, the region offers great excursions within an hour’s drive.

• Uwharrie National Forest (1 hour) – Hiking, camping, and off-road trails.
• Winston-Salem (1 hour 15 minutes) – Known for the Old Salem historic district and a growing craft beer scene.
• Lake Wylie (45 minutes) – Another popular lake getaway on the NC/SC border.