CONCORD CHARLOTTE

Things to Do in Concord Charlotte, NC

Known as the county seat of Cabarrus County, Concord is the largest city in the state of North Carolina. The city’s population  reached 107,697 in 2021.

Races at the Charlotte Motor Speedway

Located just outside the I-485 beltway in Concord, North Carolina, Charlotte Motor Speedway is the home of NASCAR racing. It is also a venue for driver training, kart racing, and other events. Charlotte Motor Speedway is one of the most popular racing venues in the country.

Charlotte Motor Speedway’s 2.28-mile road course features seventeen turns. The track has also been redesigned to allow for better passing opportunities.

The track has been host to various events, including a World Karting Association race, the Bank of America Roval 400, and the world premiere of the Pixar film Cars. The track has also been used as a venue for sports events, concerts, and festivals. Charlotte Motor Speedway has hosted more than three-dozen events for people of all ages.

The Charlotte Motor Speedway complex is located on nearly 2,000 acres and includes a 1.5-mile quad oval track and a 2.25-mile road course. In addition, Charlotte Motor Speedway has a 0.25-mile flat oval track and a drag strip.

Historic cotton mills

During the late nineteenth century, Concord, NC, served as the commercial base of the textile industry in Cabarrus County. By 1880, the town’s population doubled to 1,600. During this period, textile manufacturing grew dramatically, and many cotton mills operated in Concord.

In 1892, Cabarrus Cotton Mills was built alongside the railroad in Concord. The mill was located at the intersection of Corban Avenue and the railroad. The mill produced cotton yarns, as well as knitting yarns.

Cabarrus Cotton Mills operated independently until 1928. In 1928, the mill was incorporated into the Cannon Mills conglomerate. In 1939, it became known as the Stead-Miller Company. The railroad auxiliary track at the freight station was added. This second track was important for freight transfer and passenger travel.

The first African-American-owned textile mill in the nation was located in Concord. The mill was operated by Warren Clay Coleman. Coleman was a former Howard University student. He opened a store and persuaded other African-Americans to invest in the mill. Coleman was also respected by many whites.

Parks

Located off Georgia Avenue in SW Concord, this 24-acre gem provides an ample amount of fun for your buck. The park boasts a variety of amenities including a miniature golf course, a sand volleyball court, and an enviable array of dogs. Among the perks is a large open field for the kids to play ball.

The park also possesses some notable features including an indoor kitchen, an exercise room, and a climate-controlled restroom facility. The park also features an amphitheater with sound and a plethora of A/V capabilities. This is an ideal place to spend a summer afternoon, but be prepared to wait in line.

The park also possesses some notable feats of strength including a 10-acre stocked fishing lake. There are also a mini-golf course, a miniature golf course, and an 18-hole mini-golf course.

Hiking trails

Whether you are looking for a day hike, a weekend excursion or a longer trek, there are hiking trails in Concord Charlotte that you will enjoy. You can also visit one of the area’s many nature preserves. These trails offer incredible views and plenty of solitude. You can also visit a nearby national forest.

The Uwharrie National Forest is situated east of Charlotte and offers more than 50,000 acres of wooded land. The forest has warm summers, and mild winters. The trail in the forest is well marked, with several loop options. The trail is also popular with runners and mountain bikers.

The Catawba River Trail offers 31 miles of hiking along the Catawba River. The trail passes over Lake Norman State Park and Latta Plantation Preserve. It is a relatively flat trail, with a few gravel sections to prevent washing out.

Gardens

Whether you are a local or visiting for business or pleasure, the Charlotte area has some very impressive gardens. Some are free, while others cost money. All of them are well worth a visit. For example, the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is a veritable cornucopia of beauty. Located in the leafy suburb of Charlotte, the garden has an expansive variety of plants from which to choose.

The UNCC Charlotte Botanical Garden is an under-appreciated jewel of the Charlotte metroplex. In fact, you might be pleasantly surprised to find it is free on weekends. If you are a gardener on a budget, you will appreciate its low-maintenance credentials. Among its myriad plants, you’ll find the largest collection of orchids in the state. For the horticultural enthusiast, you’ll also find a large collection of succulents and other desert plants.