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Get ready for an epic escapade in the city of Concord, North Carolina!
Located just 20 miles northeast of Charlotte, Concord benefits from its proximity to a major metropolitan area while maintaining its own unique charm.
The city is known for its strong connection to motorsports, as the home of the renowned Charlotte Motor Speedway.
There are also a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options in the area, including Concord Mills as well as parks and green spaces for family fun.
To help you plan your visit, our list of the top things to do in Concord NC will take you through some of the best activities and attractions.
So, whatever sparks your interest, get ready to indulge in the fun experiences this city has in store for you.
You may also like our ultimate North Carolina bucket list.
Or if you prefer to visit the state by its cities or towns, check our guide on things to do in Charlotte, Durham, Fayetteville, Raleigh, and Wilmington.
Fun Things to Do in Concord
In our guide on what to do in Concord, we’ll begin by highlighting the popular spots in the southern part of the city, followed by the downtown area, which is full of restaurants, shops, and more entertainment options.
Frank Liske Park
Enjoy a delightful adventure at one of the most beloved Concord attractions- Frank Liske Park (4001 Stough Rd).
Bring your kids to this beautiful park and let them enjoy a ride on the vintage carousel, surrounded by greenery and picnic areas.
Frank Liske Park provides a peaceful and family-friendly environment to enjoy outdoor activities, connect with nature, and create lasting memories.
Charlotte Motor Speedway
Feel the excitement of high-speed racing at the renowned Charlotte Motor Speedway (5555 Concord Pkwy S).
Witness thrilling NASCAR races or participate in exhilarating driving experiences.
This iconic racetrack is a must-visit for motorsports enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies alike.
Rocky River Golf Club
Play golf at Rocky River Golf Club (6900 Bruton Smith Blvd) when looking for stuff to do in Concord.
Tee off at this scenic golf course, designed by renowned architect Dan Maples, offering a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golf enthusiasts.
Great Wolf Lodge Water Park
Have a blast at Great Wolf Lodge Water Park (10175 Weddington Rd) which is at the top of the list of must-try stuff to do in Concord.
Make a splash at this indoor water park, featuring water slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and interactive play areas for kids of all ages.
Great Wolf Lodge Water Park offers an all-encompassing experience, where you can enjoy thrilling rides, relax in the water, and create unforgettable memories with your family and friends.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both, this indoor water park is sure to provide hours of excitement and fun for everyone.
iFly Indoor Skydiving
Spend some time at iFLY Indoor Skydiving Charlotte (Concord) (7840 Lyles Ln NW) and get your adrenaline pumping at this indoor skydiving facility.
It offers a unique and thrilling experience of indoor skydiving, allowing visitors to simulate the sensation of freefalling in a safe and controlled environment.
At iFLY Charlotte, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the thrill of skydiving without jumping out of an airplane.
There’s a vertical wind tunnel, which generates a powerful and steady upward airflow.
This airflow allows you to float on a cushion of air, giving you the sensation of flying.
iFLY Charlotte is fun for people of all ages and skill levels, from first-time flyers to experienced skydivers looking to refine their skills.
It’s a great activity for individuals, families, friends, or even corporate team-building events.
Concord Mills Mall
Concord Mills is a bustling shopping destination in Concord, NC, that offers a wide array of retail stores.
Explore over 200 stores at Concord Mills, including popular brands like Nike, Adidas, Gap, H&M, and more.
Whether you’re looking for fashion, electronics, home goods, or sporting equipment, you’re bound to find something that catches your eye.
There are also attractions in the area offering fun activities like escape rooms, kid-friendly fun, movies, and more.
The Escape Game Concord
If you’re looking for exciting things to do at Concord Mills Mall, test your problem-solving skills at The Escape Game Concord (8111 Concord Mills Boulevard #129B).
Gather a group of friends and challenge yourselves to an exciting escape room experience, where you’ll solve puzzles and unravel mysteries to escape within a set time limit.
Speedpark
Get ready for a world of racing excitement at the Speedpark.
This is one of the Concord Mills attractions offering family-friendly fun with go-kart tracks, monster truck rides, and even ice skating.
But the fun doesn’t stop there- challenge your friends to a game of miniature golf, experience the thrill of bungee jumping, conquer the giant spider web climb, or slide down the incredible 110-foot fun slide.
Haagen-Dazs
Haagen-Dazs (8111 Concord Mills Boulevard) offers a delightful selection of ice cream flavors, sundaes, milkshakes, and other frozen desserts.
Whether you’re in the mood for a classic scoop of vanilla or chocolate, or you want to try one of their unique and indulgent flavors like Cookies and Cream, Salted Caramel Truffle, or Dulce de Leche, Haagen-Dazs has something to satisfy every ice cream lover’s cravings.
AMC Concord Mills 25
Visit the AMC Concord Mills 24 cinema complex to enjoy the latest blockbuster movies on the big screen.
Grab some popcorn, sit back, and immerse yourself in the magic of cinema.
Dave & Buster’s
Play Arcade Games Enter Dave & Buster’s for an exciting arcade adventure.
Test your skills and try to win prizes at a wide range of arcade games, from classic favorites to cutting-edge virtual reality experiences.
The Salt Suite
Looking for some tranquil things to do near Concord Mills Mall?
Relax at The Salt Suite (9900 Poplar Tent Rd Suite 120), unwind, and rejuvenate with a session at this salt therapy spa, where you can experience the healing benefits of salt-infused air and enjoy a quiet atmosphere.
44 Mills Kitchen + Tap
44 Mills Kitchen + Tap (5425 Davidson Hwy) is a wonderful destination to experience a fusion of Southern comfort food and modern American cuisine.
This trendy restaurant features a variety of flavorful dishes and an extensive craft beer selection.
You can also enjoy classic Southern dishes like shrimp and grits, fried chicken, and smoked BBQ ribs, each prepared with a unique twist to elevate the flavors.
For those seeking lighter options, 44 Mills Kitchen + Tap offers fresh salads with locally sourced ingredients, as well as vegetarian and gluten-free choices.
Whether you’re dining with family, friends, or colleagues, the restaurant provides a warm and welcoming environment to enjoy delicious food and great company.
Wine Room at Afton Village
Dine and dance at the Wine Room at Afton Village (5401 Village Dr NW).
Enjoy an evening of fine dining, wine, and dancing at this elegant establishment, featuring a diverse menu and a lively atmosphere.
Stars and Strikes Family Entertainment Center
If you are on the lookout for entertaining things to do around Concord, you can head to Stars and Strikes Family Entertainment Center (545 Concord Pkwy N #40) to play bowling.
This place offers a family-friendly atmosphere and a variety of bowling lanes for all skill levels.
The Smoke Pit
The Smoke Pit (796 Concord Pkwy N) is the perfect destination when looking for places to visit in Concord.
Indulge in a wide variety of smoked meats, including succulent pulled pork, tender brisket, flavorful ribs, and juicy chicken.
The meats are slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in tender and smoky flavors that will satisfy your cravings.
Alongside the mouthwatering meats, The Smoke Pit offers a range of savory sides to complement your meal.
From classic options like mac and cheese, baked beans, and coleslaw to southern offerings like collard greens, cornbread, and fried okra, there’s something to please every palate.
The rustic and cozy interior creates a comfortable setting where you and your family can savor your BBQ feast.
Iron Axe Society
In case you are still wondering what to do in Concord, and you want something semi-adventurous, stop in at Iron Axe Society (325 McGill Ave NW Suite 130).
You can unleash your inner lumberjack and try your hand at axe throwing.
Iron Axe Society offers a thrilling and unique activity that provides a fun and competitive experience for individuals and groups.
Please note that it’s always a good idea to check their website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on availability, hours of operation, and any specific requirements or restrictions.
Cabarrus Brewing Company
Enjoy craft cocktails at Cabarrus Brewing Company (329 McGill Ave NW) and sip on creatively crafted beers and cocktails at this popular brewery, known for its vibrant atmosphere and selection of refreshing libations.
Gianni’s Trattoria
Dive into authentic Italian cuisine at Gianni’s Trattoria (16 Union St S), known for its flavorful food.
Whether you’re craving classic Italian pasta, authentic wood-fired pizza, or homemade desserts, Gianni’s Trattoria is a go-to destination for a taste of Italy in Concord, NC.
With its inviting atmosphere, flavorful dishes, and attentive service, Gianni’s Trattoria promises a delightful dining experience for Italian food enthusiasts as well as anyone seeking a delicious and satisfying meal.
Kodiak Cocktail Bar & Music Lounge
Catch live music at the Kodiak Cocktail Bar & Music Lounge (42 Union St S).
Enjoy a night of live music and delectable cuisine at this charming bistro, known for its cozy ambiance and talented local performers.
Visiting Kodiak Cocktail Bar & Music Lounge in Concord, NC, offers an opportunity to indulge in a memorable dining experience.
With its unique ambiance, diverse menu, and attentive service, the bistro provides a delightful setting to enjoy a delicious meal, whether it’s a romantic dinner, a gathering with loved ones, or a special occasion.
Havana Carolina Café
Havana Carolina Café (9 Union St S) Transport your taste buds to Cuba at this vibrant café, serving up authentic Cuban dishes, including flavorful sandwiches, empanadas, and tropical drinks.
J.W. (Mickey) McGee Park
If you’re looking for more family-friendly places to go in Concord, head to J.W. (Mickey) McGee Park (219 Corban Ave SE).
Let your little ones burn off some energy at this community playground, equipped with slides, swings, climbing structures, and open spaces for outdoor fun.
Cabarrus Arena and Events Center
Attend a concert at the Cabarrus Arena and Events Center (4751 NC-49).
Check out the event schedule at this multi-purpose venue, which hosts concerts, live performances, and various shows throughout the year.
The Cabarrus Arena and Events Center offers state-of-the-art facilities designed to accommodate large-scale concerts, live performances, and various shows.
Final Thoughts
We hope that our curated list of attractions and activities in Concord has served as a helpful resource for your next trip.
Feel free to share your experiences or other recommendations in the comments below.
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