Looking for something fun to do with the family this weekend? Each Thursday, LKNConnect selects three memorable adventures around Lake Norman—from seasonal experiences and signature attractions to community traditions and hidden gems.
Whether you’re entertaining young children, spending time with visiting grandchildren or simply ready to get everyone out of the house, we’ve done the searching so you can concentrate on making memories.
These weekly selections are just the beginning. For even more ideas, explore the comprehensive LKNConnect Family Activities Guide, featuring parks, farms, playgrounds, museums, attractions and family-friendly destinations throughout the Lake Norman area.
Address: 15100 Mooresville Road, Mooresville, NC 28115
Phone: (704) 663-5100
Hours: Monday–Saturday, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; Sunday, noon–5:00 p.m.
Website: thelazy5ranch.com
Lazy 5 Ranch is one of the Lake Norman area’s signature family attractions. Few outings create the excitement of seeing giraffes, zebras, antelope and hundreds of other animals just outside your vehicle. It’s entertaining for children, parents and grandparents—and memorable enough to become a family tradition.
Animal lovers, families with children of all ages, visiting grandchildren, birthday outings and anyone looking for an unforgettable half-day adventure.
Travel through the ranch’s 3½-mile safari in your own vehicle or take a guided horse-drawn wagon ride through the animal park. Feed is available, allowing families to enjoy close encounters with animals from around the world.
Weekend wagon rides are offered on a first-come, first-served basis from 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Saturday and noon–4:00 p.m. Sunday.
Lazy 5 Ranch accepts cash or North Carolina checks only—no debit or credit cards. Plan to arrive at least one hour before closing so you have enough time to enjoy the complete experience. Pets and service animals are not permitted inside the ranch.
Flower-Picking Entrance: 1213 Oakridge Farm Highway, Mooresville, NC 28115
Main Farm Address: 1261 Oakridge Farm Highway, Mooresville, NC 28115
Phone: (704) 664-1450
Hours: Available through reserved time slots
Website: carriganfarms.com
Carrigan Farms has taken a traditional family trip to the farm and given it a colorful summer twist. Its Pick-Your-Own Flower Experience offers families a relaxing outdoor adventure—and everyone leaves with flowers they selected themselves.
The summer field is currently in bloom. Because Carrigan Farms planted more than 20 varieties that reach their peak at different times, the appearance of the field changes throughout the season.
Parents and children, mothers and daughters, grandparents and grandchildren, flower lovers, amateur photographers and families looking for a beautiful seasonal experience that isn’t physically demanding.
Stroll through rows of sunflowers, zinnias, cosmos, celosia, marigolds, gomphrena and cascading amaranth. Carrigan Farms provides a souvenir flower cup, water and cutting shears. You choose the flowers you love, fill your cup and take your bouquet home.
Most visits take approximately 30–45 minutes. Morning sessions offer cooler temperatures and especially fresh blooms, while evening sessions provide beautiful golden-hour light for family photographs.
Available times may include 9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 2:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., depending on availability.
Families interested in making a full day of it can also check availability for an open-swim session at Carrigan Farms’ natural quarry. Quarry swimming requires a separate reservation.
Advance reservations are required for summer flower picking, and weekend sessions can sell out. Wear comfortable shoes suitable for grass and soil, and bring sunscreen and a hat—the flower field is not shaded. Sessions may be affected by weather, so check with the farm before leaving home.
Address: 120 South Main Street, Davidson, NC 28036
Location: Next to Davidson Town Hall, between Main and Jackson streets
Phone: (617) 304-8409
Hours: Saturday, 9:00 a.m.–noon
Website: davidsonfarmersmarket.org
This adventure is about more than visiting a farmers market. It combines breakfast, a leisurely downtown stroll, local shopping and the welcoming atmosphere that makes Davidson one of the Lake Norman area’s most charming communities.
It’s an easygoing Saturday morning that families can enjoy at their own pace.
Families who prefer a relaxed morning, visiting relatives, parents with children, grandparents, local-food enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys shopping small and exploring a walkable downtown.
Begin with breakfast or coffee at one of Davidson’s downtown restaurants or cafés. Afterward, stroll along Main Street, browse the locally owned shops or walk through the nearby Davidson College campus.
When the market’s Big Red Bell rings at 9:00 a.m., explore a collection of local produce, flowers, meats, baked goods, prepared foods, specialty products and handcrafted items. The market frequently adds music, demonstrations and seasonal activities to the Saturday-morning experience.
The Davidson Farmers Market operates rain or shine and accepts cash, credit cards and SNAP. Specialty products can sell out, so arrive early if there is something particular you hope to find.
The market is outdoors, public restrooms are available inside Davidson Town Hall and pets are not permitted within the market area.
This weekend’s selections give families three completely different ways to enjoy time together:
Whatever you choose, the most important part is getting out, spending time together and creating a memory that lasts beyond the weekend.
These are only three of the many family experiences waiting to be discovered around Lake Norman.
Explore the comprehensive LKNConnect Family Activities Guide for our growing collection of parks, farms, museums, playgrounds, attractions and seasonal destinations throughout Cornelius, Davidson, Denver, Huntersville, Mooresville, Troutman and the surrounding Lake Norman communities.
Then return every Thursday as LKNConnect spotlights three new Family Adventures for the coming weekend.
Hours, prices and availability may change. Reservations are strongly recommended when offered. Please confirm current information directly with each destination before leaving home.
Our Comprehensive Family Activities Guide begins below and is organized by town, making it easy to discover parks, playgrounds, museums, farms, educational attractions, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly destinations throughout the Lake Norman region.
Explore family activities in:
Whether you’re planning a quick afternoon outing or an entire weekend adventure, you’ll find outstanding family experiences waiting in every Lake Norman community.
Our LKNConnect Weekend Editor’s Picks™ highlight just a few of the experiences we think are especially worth your time this weekend. But they’re only the beginning.
Below you’ll find our Complete Guide to Family Activities Around Lake Norman—a comprehensive listing of festivals, concerts, community events, outdoor adventures, museums, parks, attractions, and family-friendly activities taking place throughout the region.
Whether you’re planning a full weekend itinerary or simply looking for one more great idea, we hope this guide helps you discover something new and make the most of your time around Lake Norman.
