Welcome to Concord, North Carolina—a city where the roar of race engines is the local soundtrack and Southern charm is served up on every corner.
Nestled in the heart of Cabarrus County, Concord has exploded from a sleepy textile town into a world-class destination for speed, sports, and family fun. But don’t let its modern amenities fool you; this place still holds onto its rich history and that famous, down-home Carolina hospitality.
Get ready to have your expectations blown right out of the tailpipe. We’re about to dive into the absolute best this dynamic city has to offer.
From feeling the need for speed at iconic racetracks to discovering peaceful nature trails and incredible food, this list is your all-access pass.
Buckle up and get ready to explore the top things to do in Concord, North Carolina. Your adventure starts right now.
1. Charlotte Motor Speedway – Best Overall & For Adrenaline Junkies
You haven’t really been to Concord until you’ve felt the ground shake at the Charlotte Motor Speedway. This isn’t just a track; it’s a hallowed ground for NASCAR fans and an absolute must-do for anyone visiting the area.
The sheer scale of this place is mind-boggling. Whether you’re here for the legendary Coca-Cola 600, the banked turns during a thrilling NASCAR race, or just a behind-the-scenes tour, the energy is absolutely electric.
But the fun doesn’t stop on race day. You can experience the thrill for yourself with their Ride-Along program, where a professional driver takes you for the white-knuckle lap of your life.
They also host awesome events like the Christmas light spectacular, Speedway Christmas. It’s the undeniable heart of Concord’s racing soul and the top thing to do in Concord, NC for a reason. This is where memories are made at 180 miles per hour.
2. SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium – Best For Families & A Rainy Day
Dive into an underwater world without ever getting wet at the SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium. Located at the Concord Mills mall, this place is a total home run for families and anyone fascinated by the ocean’s wonders.
It’s an immersive journey from the North Carolina coast all the way to the deepest, most exotic reefs on the planet. The walk-through ocean tunnel is worth the price of admission alone.
You’ll literally have sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays swimming right over your head. The interactive touch pools are a huge hit with kids, letting them get hands-on with gentle sea stars and urchins.
The exhibits are engaging and educational, focusing on conservation in a way that’s fun and easy to understand. For a guaranteed good time that everyone will love, this is one of the best family-friendly attractions in Concord.
3. Frank Liske Park – Best For Nature Lovers & Budget Friendly
Need a breath of fresh air? Frank Liske Park is your go-to spot for escaping the city buzz without actually leaving town. This massive 238-acre park is a beautiful slice of Carolina nature, offering a ton of activities for little to no cost.
It’s the perfect place to unwind, have a picnic, and let the kids run wild. The centerpiece is a gorgeous 10-acre lake where you can fish (bring your own gear!) or just enjoy the peaceful view.
You can explore miles of walking trails, rent a paddleboat, or let the kids loose on one of the several awesome playgrounds. They even have community garden plots and a historical farmstead on site.
Best of all? It’s completely free to enter, making it the ultimate budget-friendly choice for things to do in Concord. Pack a lunch and spend a whole day soaking up the sun.
4. The NASCAR Hall of Fame – Best For Racing History Buffs
While technically just over the line in Charlotte, the NASCAR Hall of Fame is an essential pilgrimage for any race fan staying in Concord—it’s only a 15-minute drive away.
This stunning, high-tech facility is so much more than a museum; it’s a shrine to the drivers, crews, and moments that defined American stock car racing. You could easily spend a whole day here and not see everything.
Get up close to historic race cars, test your skills in racing simulators, and walk through incredible exhibits that tell the story of NASCAR from its bootlegging roots to its global fame.
The Glory Road exhibit alone, featuring a banked ramp of iconic cars, is breathtaking. It’s an interactive, hands-on celebration of speed that perfectly complements a visit to the nearby speedway. This is a core piece of any Concord itinerary.
5. Concord Mills – Best For Shopaholics & Indoor Fun
Ready for some retail therapy? Concord Mills is not your average mall; it’s a colossal shopping and entertainment destination with over 200 stores.
Think of it as an experience all its own. You’ll find everything from big-name outlet brands and unique specialty shops to massive entertainment venues like a huge arcade and a multiplex movie theater. It’s a one-stop shop for a fun day out, rain or shine.
But it’s more than just shopping. You can catch the latest blockbuster, challenge your family to a game of mini-golf, or enjoy a meal at one of the many eateries.
The energy is always buzzing, and you’re guaranteed to find a great deal. Whether you’re looking for a new outfit, a quirky gift, or just a cool place to walk around, finding your way around Concord Mills is a classic Concord thing to do.
6. Carolina Courts – Best For Sports Fans & Active Families
If you’ve got a sports-loving family, you have to check out Carolina Courts. This isn’t just a local gym; it’s a massive, state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor sports complex that hosts regional and national tournaments in basketball, volleyball, and more.
Even if you’re not there for a game, the sheer energy of young athletes giving their all is incredibly infectious.
Check their schedule online—you can often catch high-level youth tournaments for free or a small admission fee. It’s a fantastic way to spend an afternoon watching incredible future stars.
They also offer public open gym times and fitness classes. It showcases Concord’s commitment to sports and community, making it a unique and active stop on your tour of the city.
7. Historic Downtown Concord – Best For a Charming Stroll & Local Vibe
Step away from the big attractions and discover the heart and soul of the city in Historic Downtown Concord.
This isn’t a stuffy museum piece; it’s a vibrant, living neighborhood with beautifully preserved buildings housing independent boutiques, cozy coffee shops, and local restaurants. Taking a leisurely stroll here is like getting a warm, Southern hug.
You can pop into unique shops selling everything from handmade gifts to vintage finds. Grab a cup of coffee and a pastry and just watch the world go by from a sidewalk bench.
The area often hosts community events like concerts and festivals, so check the calendar before you go. Exploring downtown is one of the best ways to experience the authentic, friendly charm of Concord beyond the racetrack.
8. Great Wolf Lodge – Best For a Splash-Tastic Family Getaway
Looking for the ultimate splashtastic vacation spot? Great Wolf Lodge is a famous indoor water park resort that promises a non-stop good time for kids and kids-at-heart.
You don’t even have to be a hotel guest to enjoy the water park—day passes are available if they’re not sold out! The park is kept at a balmy 84 degrees year-round, making it the perfect escape no matter the weather outside.
We’re talking massive water slides, a giant tipping bucket, lazy rivers, and splash areas for every age group.
Beyond the water, there’s a massive arcade, mini-golf, a ropes course, and even a magical wand-playing adventure game that runs throughout the resort. It’s a full-blown experience that will have your family talking about it for years to come.
9. Dorton Park – Best For Playground Fun & Picnics
For a classic, simple park day, Dorton Park is a local favorite that delivers big time. The crown jewel here is the “Park-a-Mut,” a incredible, castle-themed playground that will ignite any child’s imagination.
It’s one of the largest and most creative play structures in the area, with ramps, towers, bridges, and slides galore. Your kids could play here for hours and still not want to leave.
The park also offers plenty of shady picnic spots, open fields for running around, and walking paths. It’s a well-maintained, safe, and super fun environment that perfectly captures the family-friendly spirit of Concord.
It’s the perfect spot for a low-key afternoon that doesn’t cost a dime but pays out in huge smiles and tired, happy kids.
10. The Bass Pro Shops at Concord Mills – Best For Outdoor Enthusiasts
Even if you’re not an angler or a hunter, the Bass Pro Shops at Concord Mills is an experience all its own. This isn’t just a store; it’s a tribute to the great outdoors, designed to feel like you’re walking through a rustic mountain lodge.
The sheer spectacle of it is worth a visit. We’re talking massive aquariums stocked with local fish, waterfalls, and wildlife displays so realistic you’ll do a double-take.
You can check out all the gear for your next adventure, get fishing tips from the pros, or even let the kids try their hand at the shooting gallery.
The smell of fresh popcorn, the stunning architecture, and the general sense of wonder make it a unique and entertaining stop. It’s easily one of the more unexpected and fun things to see in Concord.
11. Flight Experience – Best For a Unique & Thrilling Adventure
Ever dreamed of flying a Boeing 737? At Flight Experience, located right near the speedway, you can get behind the controls of a full-motion, professional-grade flight simulator.
This is the real deal—the same tech used to train actual pilots. It’s an absolutely unforgettable experience and a fantastic thing to do in Concord for anyone looking for something different and thrilling.
You can choose to take off from and land at famous airports around the world, all guided by a certified pilot instructor.
It’s a challenging, immersive, and incredibly cool activity for aspiring aviators, families, or anyone with a need for a unique adventure. It’s a memory you just can’t get anywhere else and a brilliant highlight for your trip.
12. Memorial Garden – Best For a Peaceful Moment & History
Tucked away in the heart of the city, the Memorial Garden is a serene and beautifully landscaped space dedicated to honoring local veterans.
It’s a place for quiet reflection, a peaceful walk, or simply enjoying the meticulously maintained gardens. The monuments and plaques tell powerful stories of service and sacrifice, offering a poignant counterpoint to the city’s high-octane attractions.
It’s a beautifully quiet spot to unwind and appreciate a different side of Concord’s community spirit. The garden is small but powerful, and it serves as a important reminder of the people who helped shape the nation.
Taking a few moments here is a respectful and moving way to round out your exploration of the city.
Conclusion
From the heart-pounding roar of the speedway to the quiet charm of its historic downtown, Concord, North Carolina, is a city that delivers excitement on every level.
It’s a place where world-class attractions meet Southern comfort, creating a vacation spot that truly has something for everyone. You’ve now got the inside track on the very best things to do, from hidden local gems to can’t-miss iconic experiences.
So what are you waiting for? The checkered flag is about to drop on your next great adventure. Start planning your trip, book your stay, and get ready to make some incredible memories in Concord. Your journey to the heart of NASCAR country and beyond starts now