7 Reasons to Live Around Lake Norman, NC

Lake Norman may not have an exciting name like, say, “The Lake of Shining Waters.” But it remains an attractive place to live in North Carolina. Not far from the hustle and bustle of Charlotte, you can enjoy waterfront living in Lake Norman, NC.

Duke Energy constructed the state’s largest man-made body of water between 1959 and 1964 as part of its Cowans Ford Dam build. With a shoreline of 520 miles, Lake Norman borders four different North Carolina counties — Catawba, Iredell, Lincoln, and Mecklenburg. The massive lake, which can accommodate 3.4 trillion gallons of water, is located just 18 miles north of Charlotte, NC.

But those are all the facts. Beyond this data, there are many more good reasons to live around Lake Norman.

#1 Water, Wonderful Water

Lake Norman is 34 miles long and offers lots of room for boating, fishing and other water activities. Anglers are encouraged to catch and release record-winning catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, striped bass, and yellow and white perch. The visitors’ bureau hosts several annual national fishing tournaments and promises “the fish bite all year round.”

If you’re not one to tell tall tales — “it was this big!” — you may instead enjoy sailing or power boating on the waters of Lake Norman. There is no horsepower or speed limit on Lake Norman, so you’ll see bass boats and pontoons too, alongside kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards.

#2 Beach Beauty

Along with the many fishing piers and boating docks on Lake Norman you can find some beautiful beaches too. You don’t have to drive the hours to the best Carolinas sands:

• Ramsey Creek Park is a 43.7 acre waterfront park also offering picnic shelters, scenic nature trails and a dog park.
• Jetton Park is a smaller park with more of an “island feel.”
• Lake Norman State Park camping lets you combine hiking and biking trails, fishing and boating, with a 125-yard-long swim beach and bathhouse complex.

#3 Lake Norman Weather

Lake Norman weather promises four distinct seasons. Summer is, of course, a peak time to be at the Lake. But, the fall is a lovely time of year with foliage in colorful swing. Plus, winters aren’t too harsh. Come Spring you’ll be able to enjoy a waterfront park stroll amongst budding cherry blossom trees.

#4 Waterfront Dining

Eating out is a pleasure, but there’s always something added to the experience when you can eat al fresco with views of the Lake:

• Hello, Sailor is a casual restaurant with tiki bar and waterfront patio and a menu overseen by Chef Craig Deihl, a two-time James Beard Award finalist for Best Chef in the Southeast.
• The North Harbor Club offers dock-and-dine service or diners can settle on the patio for a creative menu of fresh ingredients.
• The Port City Club has an enclosed porch, so you can enjoy sunset views of the Lake year-round.

#5 Family Fun

Family fun tops the lists of Lake Norman Things to Do. You can explore science, history, or learn about birds easily:

• Discovery Place Kids-Huntersville is an outpost of the science and imagination center for kids.
• The Latta Plantation features living history exhibits, charming landmarks and 16 miles of hiking and nature trails.
• Carolina Raptor Center lets kids learn about eagles, vultures, owls and see over 30 species of birds up close. 

#6 Arts and Culture 

You don’t need to drive into Charlotte to get your fix of arts, culture or entertainment (though you easily can). The Lake Norman region features art galleries, community theatre, a Comedy Zone, performing and visual arts centers.

Davidson hosts April is for the Arts and summer Concerts on its Village Green. Or nearby you can enjoy Loch Norman Highland games in April or the Carolina Renaissance Festival in October and November each year.

#7 Markets & Motorsports

These don’t often go together, but this odd pairing is a good indicator of the variety of other options you can enjoying living around Lake Norman. This area is rich in local produce, and you’ll find restaurants such as Kindred, Fork, or 131 Main love the fresh ingredients or you can shop for you own at a local market. The Lake Norman region is also starting to bubble with craft breweries and wineries.

Then, on the other end of the spectrum, there’s NASCAR. Huntersville is home to Joe Gibbs Racing and less than 20 miles from the Speedway.

Really, Lake Norman can’t be pigeonholed as one particular type of place. You’ll have to explore it for yourself!

If you’re looking to build a home in the Carolinas, Lake Norman, NC should be on your “to visit” map. Saussy Burbank is an award-winning new home builder and developer in the Charlotte area. Learn more today!