Mooresville

The racing fun begins with exploring downtown, where the celebration of the region’s rich racing history begins. Take a walk among the legends on the North Carolina Auto Racing Walk of Fame. Sidewalk markers honor the members of the North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame, who represent some of the most influential and well-known names in NASCAR. Richard Petty, Dale Earnhardt, Junior Johnson and many more are commemorated with markers.

The North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame on Knob Hill Road includes a museum, art gallery, visitor center and gift shop. The history, growth and evolution of the motorsports industry is showcased here, where more than 35 race cars represent all types of auto racing, from stock cars to drag racing. Displays of memorabilia throughout the museum and a chance to relive racing’s greatest moments in the Goodyear Mini-Theater bring the stories of racing, and its most prominent stars, to life.

Nearby, the Memory Lane Motorsports & Historical Automotive Museum features the world’s largest private collection of retired NASCAR and vintage race cars on display. These one-of-a-kind items include a large collection of antique toys, pedal cars, bicycles, gas pumps, movie cars, tractors and vintage motorcycles. It even has what is known as the largest collection of racing Go-Karts in the world. It is only open on Thursdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. So plan to visit here first.

For an up-close experience with racing’s current stars and latest technology, there are two attractions not to be missed. JR Motorsports is a 66,000-square-foot facility owned by Dale Earnhardt, Jr. that offers free shop tours. Visitors can also tour the “Dale Jr. Fan Experience” room that chronicles the life and racing career of Dale Earnhardt, Jr. and shop JR Nation, a retail store with more than 500 items exclusive to Dale Earnhardt Jr.

Team Penske is Penske Racing’s state-of-the-art facility which houses its NASCAR teams as well as the Indy Car and ALMS teams. Fans can view the NASCAR race shop through the viewing windows and then move upstairs to the 330-foot fan walk to view the race shop, where employees prepare the race cars. Fans may even catch a view of their favorite driver as he walks through the shop.

Mooresville also has options for those who want to take on some racing action for themselves. Trackhouse Motorplex is open to the public and offers racing on a .7-mile track built by industry professionals. Kart drivers relish the thrill of reaching speeds up to 55 miles per hour on the only outdoor rental karting track in North Carolina. Modeled after a famous and historic kart track in Parma, Italy, Trackhouse Motorplex gives a nod to racing history while writing its own. (All drivers must be 16+ years old with a valid driver’s license.) Drivers can also experience an adrenaline rush at the nation’s largest indoor kart track, The PIT Indoor Kart Racing. This 100,000-square-foot facility features karts that sit only an inch off the track and are capable of speeds up to 40 miles per hour. Visitors can also have a blast at the PIT’s arcade, mini-golf, laser tag and more.

Taking in a race is also an option here. Mooresville Motorsports Complex is a drag racing motorsports venue and is home to weekly test and tune sessions. Touted as a family-oriented, fun attraction, this is North Carolina’s longest running drag strip facility.

Leisurely Sidetrack

Nearby is the Lake Norman State Park. Enjoy beautiful views of Lake Norman, the state’s largest man-made lake, as you hike or mountain bike on the 30.5 miles of nature trails. Boat rentals have been expanded to include stand up paddle boards and kayaks.

Where to stay

Mooresville’s lodging options make any stay comfortable and worry-free. Familiar regional and national brands offer options for everyone. A convenient choice is Aloft Mooresville pairs comfort with sleek design, modern style and technology. Only  a few minutes from Lake Norman, it is also close to several popular restaurants and unique attractions. It has an enticing social scene at the Remix lounge where scheduled live music often awaits. Signature craft cocktails and tasty bites top off the evening. Winter savings packages are currently being offered. See more at https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/cltll-aloft-mooresville/overview/