August 6, 2024
Back-to-school is approaching, but there are still so many fun ways to enjoy summer in Cabarrus County, North Carolina. From motorsports history to gold mining, here are three ideas to get you started.
Visit the Dale Earnhardt Tribute Plaza
In the heart of his hometown of Kannapolis, Dale Earnhardt’s friends, neighbors and fans celebrate the life and career of this NASCAR legend. At the Dale Earnhardt Tribute Plaza in downtown, the centerpiece attraction is a nine-foot, 900-pound bronze statue of Earnhardt. Also featured is a granite monument contributed by Earnhardt fans from Vermont and New York.
The Dale Earnhardt Tribute Plaza is one of many stops throughout Cabarrus County and the surrounding area where fans can learn about and celebrate the NASCAR Hall of Famer. To discover more locations that are significant to Earnhardt’s legacy, call or stop by the Cabarrus County Visitor Center.
Motorsports fans can also rev up their educational experience with Charlotte Motor Speedway’s STEAM program. The Monster Truck Mania STEAM special event coming up on Aug. 16 features educational themed activities just before The Dirt Track’s big Monster Truck Bash on Aug. 17, 2024.
Stroll Through Downtown Historic Districts
Grab some coffee or an ice cream cone and set out for a stroll through one for Cabarrus County’s historic downtown districts. A self-guided walking tour through each of these communities will take you back in time while enjoying all that these areas have to offer today.
Though downtown Kannapolis has recently been revitalized, the city’s history has been well preserved. In addition to Dale Earnhardt Plaza, take a walk through the West Avenue District to see two historic theaters (the Gem and Swanee) and make a stop at Veterans Park. For an indoor option, plan to visit the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame and Curb Museum to learn all about the state’s music and motorsports history.
In Mount Pleasant, walk along Main Street to find delicious meals inside storied buildings such as the former hosiery mill, now home to 73 & Main. Steps away, another history adventure awaits inside the Eastern Cabarrus Historical Society Museum.
In downtown Concord, see beautiful homes and landmarks that are an important part of North Carolina’s architectural legacy. Take a walk down Union Street, stop in the Historic Cabarrus County Courthouse, where you’ll find the Cabarrus Museum of History, and walk over to admire Memorial Garden. There are also plenty of independent restaurants and shops to enjoy along the way. A true local experience!
Take a Tour and Pan for Gold at Reed Gold Mine
Did you know the that America’s first documented discovery of gold happened right here in Cabarrus County? Today, Reed Gold Mine state historic site is the only underground gold mine in North Carolina open to the public.
Visit Reed Gold Mine to learn the story of a 12-year-old boy who found a 17-pound gold nugget in Little Meadow Creek, then see exhibits of historic mining equipment and enjoy walking trails. You can even pan for gold and explore restored portions of underground tunnels on a guided tour which is a great way to cool off during the hot summer months!
Explore More of the Outdoors
Fill your itinerary with fresh air and find even more things to do outside with these outdoor adventures.
