One of the best things about living in Mooresville is how close we are to so many great places in North Carolina. You can hop in the car and, within a couple of hours, be hiking in the mountains, riding roller coasters, or walking through cool museums. If you’re looking for ideas for your next adventure, here are 8 of my favorite day trips from Mooresville perfect for families, couples, or just getting out of town for the day.
Asheville, NC (About 2 hours away)
Asheville is a mountain town with a big personality. If you love art, music, or nature, this place has it all. The Blue Ridge Parkway offers stunning views, especially in the fall. You can visit the Biltmore Estate, the largest privately owned home in the U.S., or explore downtown Asheville with its local shops and street performers. There are also lots of great places to eat—don’t miss the local barbecue or craft doughnuts!
Carowinds (About 1 hour away)
If you’re into thrill rides and roller coasters, Carowinds is the place to be. It’s a huge amusement park right on the North Carolina–South Carolina border. They’ve got everything from kiddie rides to giant coasters like Fury 325. In the summer, the Carolina Harbor water park is a great way to cool off. It’s perfect for a full day of fun with friends or family, and it’s just an hour from Mooresville.
Winston-Salem, NC (About 1 hour and 15 minutes away)
Winston-Salem is full of history and charm. You can walk through Old Salem, a restored 18th-century town where you can see how people lived long ago. There are also art galleries, cool coffee shops, and places like the Reynolda House Museum, which mixes history and art. If you’re into learning something new while still enjoying a relaxing day, this is a great pick.
Boone, NC (About 2 hours away)
Boone is a fun mountain town that’s perfect any time of year. In the winter, people come for skiing and snowboarding. In the summer, there are hiking trails, rivers for tubing, and mountain views that go on forever. Check out the shops on King Street or visit Appalachian State University to feel the college-town vibe. Boone is also close to Grandfather Mountain and the Mile High Swinging Bridge- great spots for photos!
North Carolina Zoo (Asheboro) About 1 hour and 45 minutes away
Did you know the NC Zoo is the world’s largest natural habitat zoo? That means the animals have a lot of space to roam, and you get to see them in settings that feel like the wild. From elephants and lions to red wolves and polar bears, there’s so much to see. The zoo is spread out, so wear comfy shoes and be ready to walk. It’s a great day trip for families, and there are always special exhibits going on.
Raleigh, NC (About 2 hours away)
Raleigh is North Carolina’s capital and it’s packed with things to do. You can visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, which is awesome for kids and adults. There’s also the Museum of Art and plenty of parks if you want to enjoy the outdoors. Downtown Raleigh has a cool mix of old buildings and new spots to grab a bite or catch some live music. It’s the perfect mix of fun and culture, all in one place.
Blowing Rock, NC (About 2 hours away)
Blowing Rock feels like a storybook mountain town. The main street is lined with cute shops, restaurants, and ice cream stands. The views are beautiful, and there’s a nice park right in town. In the fall, the leaves are beautiful and in winter, nearby ski resorts open up. It’s a peaceful but fun place to spend the day. Blowing Rock offers the perfect mix of natural beauty and small-town hospitality.
Charlotte, NC (About 40 minutes away)
Okay, maybe this one doesn’t count as a “day trip” since it’s so close, but Charlotte has so much to offer, it deserves a spot on the list. You can catch a Panthers game, see a concert, or check out the NASCAR Hall of Fame. The Discovery Place Science museum is great for kids, and the U.S. National Whitewater Center is awesome for outdoor fun like ziplining, kayaking, and live music. Whether you’re going for a big event or just a day of exploring, there’s always something happening in Charlotte.
Mooresville, NC: A Great Place To Live
Living in Mooresville means you’re just a short drive from some of the best places in North Carolina. Whether you’re looking for mountain views, exciting roller coasters, or peaceful small towns, there’s something nearby for every kind of adventure.
As a local realtor, I don’t just help people find houses—I help them find a place to call home. And to me, part of “home” means having great places nearby to make memories with family and friends.
If you’re thinking of making a move to Mooresville or anywhere around Lake Norman, I’d love to help. And if you ever want more day trip ideas or local tips, just reach out, I’m always happy to share! Check out other Things To Do Around Lake Norman.
