As the heat of summer gives way to crisp mornings and golden afternoons, LKN’s Fall scene comes alive with no shortage of outdoor activities and fun local spots! No portable fan needed. Whether you are seeking solo adventures, picnic spots or need fun ideas for date nights and family outings, here’s a curated guide to the best parks, trails, and upcoming events!
🎪 Festivals & Arts
Carolina Renaissance Festival (Huntersville)
Dates: Saturdays & Sundays, October 4 – November 23, 2025
Hours: 9:30 am – 5:30 pm (rain or shine)
Location: 16445 Poplar Tent Rd, Huntersville, NC 📍
Tickets & Info: carolina.renfestinfo.com
Cain Center for the Arts (Cornelius, NC)
A local anchor for live music, theater, tributes, and rotating art shows.
Website: cainarts.org
Current & upcoming shows:
• One Irish Rover: Van Morrison Tribute — Thu, Oct 9 (doors 6:00 pm, show 7:00 pm)
• Jim Florentine — Fri, Oct 10 (doors 6:30 pm / show 7:30 pm)
• How Sweet It Is: James Taylor Tribute — Fri, Oct 17 (doors 6:30 / show 7:30)
• Philip Sayce — Sat, Oct 18, 7:30 pm
• Charlotte Symphony Orchestra — Sun, Oct 19 (doors 3:00 / show 4:00)
• Big Bad Voodoo Daddy — Fri, Oct 24
• Tell Me Lies: The Fleetwood Mac Experience — Sat, Oct 25
🌲 Greenways, Parks, and Outdoor Activities
Charlotte Douglas Airport Overlook
Believe it or not, this makes a fun and memorable date-night or family outing. You get runway and airfield views (perfect for plane watchers), aviation-themed play areas, picnic benches, and educational displays. Open daily 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. (free).
📍Google Maps
Bailey Road Park (Cornelius)
NEW Pickleball complex open Sept 27, 2025 · NEW Tennis complex opens Oct 21, 2025
Facility: 10 new pickleball courts + 12 tennis courts, all lighted
📍Google Maps
McDowell Creek Greenway
This 3.1-mile paved trail links Birkdale Village in Huntersville and Robbins Park in Cornelius, passing near Westmoreland Athletic Complex and Magnolia Estates. Easy terrain, great for walking, biking, or a relaxed jog.
McDowell Creek Trailhead
Antiquity Greenway
A shorter but useful connector (~0.8 miles) from downtown Cornelius into the Rocky River Greenway in Davidson — perfect for a casual stroll or scenic ride.
Antiquity Greenway Trailhead
Caldwell Station Creek Greenway
A Brand NEW 2.6-mile multiuse trail that winds through woods and wetlands, connecting Bailey Road Park and Glen Oak Green Parks, and eventually toward Huntersville.
Caldwell Station Creek Info & Trail Map
Robbins Park Trails
Nestled in Cornelius, this nature preserve offers ~4.7 miles of trails, wooded surroundings, and serene breaks from traffic.
Robbins Park Info
Jetton Park Trail
A 1.5-mile path right along the shoreline of Lake Norman, with scenic lake views, a playground, shelter, and tennis courts nearby.
Jetton Park Info
Make the most of this beautiful season and get outside to enjoy all that North Charlotte and Lake Norman have to offer!