April 12, 2023
There are so many ways you can experience the area that won’t break the bank. Head to community parks to soak in the natural beauty. Stroll charming main streets and visit heritage sites that reveal the area’s rich history and the reverence locals have for their hometowns.
Here’s a sampling of free activities to enjoy in Cabarrus County.
Fresh Air Everywhere
The Carolina Thread Trail weaves together trails, greenways and blueways throughout North and South Carolina. Cabarrus County’s segments of this winding network feature plenty of places to launch a canoe, hike into the woods and enjoy the scenery. For another spot to ride the trails, mountain bikers take note: Brown Mill Mountain Bike Trail near Downtown Concord is one of the area’s most popular places to set off into the countryside on two wheels.
There are even more ways to enjoy the area’s natural beauty. Frank Liske Park in Concord offers a disc golf course, horseshoe pits, fitness and nature trails and much more. Village Park in Kannapolis is the go-to gathering spot for free events and concerts in the outdoor amphitheater. The open-air excitement continues at Harrisburg Park — which hosts the annual Rock the ‘Burg concert series and Movies in the Park — and at Rob Wallace Park in Midland where playgrounds, picnic areas and multi-use trails add up to a perfect day outdoors.
Admire Downtown Art & Architecture
Experience the area’s hometown spirit by strolling the colorful main streets of each Cabarrus County community. Start your adventure on Union Street in Concord, where the 1876 Cabarrus County Courthouse stands watch over the historic business district. Inside, see local art at The Galleries and explore history preserved at The Concord Museum. From there, continue walking through Downtown Concord to view more beautiful architecture of buildings that house quaint shops and local restaurants. Venture off to admire homes that date back to the 1800s and spot vibrant public art along the way — including a mural that stands as a tribute to Cabarrus County’s favorite band, The Avett Brothers.
You’ll find other photo ops that capture hometown pride in the Kannapolis West Avenue District, a walkable arts and entertainment hub. The former textile mill town preserves its village atmosphere with repurposed buildings alongside restored icons such as the Gem Theatre. This single-screen beauty dates back to the 1930s and offers affordable tickets and concessions. In the Mt. Pleasant Historic District, nostalgia seeps into every shop and eatery notched into historic buildings and there’s no charge to explore exhibits inside the Eastern Cabarrus Historical Society Museum. Continue the embrace of Cabarrus County’s culture in Harrisburg and Midland, where all paths lead to public gathering spaces that invite visitors to join the party.
Only in Cabarrus Activities
More attractions throughout the county share their collections and experiences at no cost and these won’t be found anywhere else. At Reed Gold Mine in Midland, explore the site of the first documented gold find in the U.S., where admission is free. Here, you and the kids can stretch your legs on three miles of trails that lead to archeological sites throughout the historic mining grounds, and guided tours and gold panning (April-October) are available for a minimal fee.
At the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame in Kannapolis, learn about artists with local roots such as country legends Charlie Daniels and Randy Travis and jazz pioneers Max Roach and John Coltrane. The Hall of Fame shares space with Curb Museum, which features a collection that chronicles one man’s passion for music and motorsports. Together, the two museums present an astonishing collection of North Carolina’s musical heritage.
NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt Sr. grew up in Kannapolis. Today, race fans can visit to view the iconic sculpture of The Intimidator, then head out to discover even more racing history inside NASCAR Race Shops. Stewart-Haas Racing, Hendrick Motorsports, Trackhouse Racing and RFK Racing all welcome visitors at no charge.
Get Up to Speed
Cabarrus County is also home to many free, fun-filled special events! Subscribe to the Explore Cabarrus newsletter for updates on what’s happening around the area.
