Over the years, I have driven past Mooresville, North Carolina, countless times on my way to Orlando, Florida. I had always wondered what it was like there. Now, I don’t have to wonder about that anymore. Lovingly titled “Race City USA” for its connections to NASCAR, this town has so much to offer to a variety of tastes and preferences.
In an effort to make sure everyone is able to enjoy Mooresville to its full extent, I will share what my experience was like as an autistic person, while also offering tips and tricks to make sure others with sensory needs are able to enjoy each location.
Main St. Antiques & Design Gallery
Main St. Antiques & Design Gallery is one of my favorite places I visited in Mooresville! I have a big place in my heart for antique stores, and boy oh boy has this become a must-do if I get the privilege to visit the area again. One of the things that impressed me is the size of this place. At a whopping 102,000 square feet with over 500 booths, this place is huge! If you can’t find something fitting of your interests, then you’re probably not really looking.
I would personally recommend the vintage toy booth near the entrance if you’re looking for a nostalgia trip. It was fun to see toys and games from when I was little that had not been thought about in years!
As a tip: Pace yourself. When I tell you this place is big, I mean it is big! Each booth can be packed to the brim with items, and it can be overwhelming to take it all in, especially on a short time limit. So take as much time to mosey as you possibly can, take a break if you need to, and happy hunting!
Liberty Park
Liberty Park earned a NC Main Street Award for Best Outdoor Space Improvement back in 2023, and frankly, it shows why everywhere you look! For the little ones, there is a three-tiered playground with tons of places to climb, crawl, and just have a ton of fun, which I’m totally not jealous that I didn’t have anything like this when growing up. For the older kids, there is a covered basketball court complete with lights for night games.
My favorite aspect of the park is the round, light-up swings surrounding the park’s stage area. There are also pickleball courts and a swimming pool if that’s more your speed!
My tip: Going during the week will help with crowd control if you get uncomfortable around lots of people. However, there is a lot of space to get away if it does end up being busy on the day of your trip.
JR Motorsports Tour
We can’t discuss Racing City USA without also talking about the race shop of Dale Earnhardt Jr. Visitors are able to sign up for behind the scenes tours where you’ll be able to view championship cars at every stage of production, catch the real crews working, and maybe even spot a piece of racing history! This is definitely a must-do for racing fans, but you don’t need to be one to find the process of constructing these high-speed cars fascinating.
A tip: If you’re sensitive to sounds, I would highly recommend bringing your choice of ear protection. The tools and machinery used in the shop can be pretty loud. There’s also a chance of seeing a blow torch be used in one area of the shop, so also keep that in mind if flashing lights aren’t your thing.
Carrigan Farms Quarry
If you’re visiting Mooresville on a hot day, then might I suggest cooling off with a visit to the one-of-a-kind swimming hole at Carrigan Farms. An old granite quarry was transformed into a beloved swimming spot by a natural spring. And the best part, you don’t even have doggy paddle if you don’t want to. Before you’re allowed to swim in the quarry, a swim test has to be passed because of its depth. If they don’t think you’re a strong enough swimmer, you get a vest to help you float. However, if all you want is to float around, you can skip the test and go straight to the flotation vest!
The area surrounding the quarry is full of beautiful scenery, making it a popular place for events and weddings.
Here’s a tip: The quarry can get pretty popular during hot days, so be prepared to see crowds. Luckily, there is lots of room to spread out around the swimming area, including a shaded pavilion full of tables to hang out at. There is also a method of crowd control done by Carrigan Farms through time slots. With that in mind, try to go during the week and remember to get your time slot ahead of time.
Mooresville Arts
I always love being able to support local artists and being able to visit the nonprofit, Mooresville Arts. Not only is the art beautiful, but the pieces are displayed within the historic Mooresville Train Depot. There are a variety of media on display, from mosaics to photographs; there is something for every taste. Exhibitions are changed frequently, as well, giving the opportunity to revisit to see something new!
As an organization, Mooresville Arts holds a diverse range of programs. Yes, there are art exhibitions, but they also host educational classes open to all ages, events, and workshops. If these interest you, be sure to visit their website to check what will be available during the time of your visit.
Tip: Visiting during the week is definitely the time to go. I went on a Friday afternoon, and it was perfectly peaceful to walk amongst all the art, even with a class of youngsters doing art in the other room. However, it can vary depending on the time of year and the current goings-on. So be sure to check the current events on their site before you go.
Island Vibe Charter Sunset Dessert Cruise
Through Island Vibe Charter, you can spend two hours aboard the Island Castaway on Lake Norman for sunset views, music, dessert, and fun! The guide and captain are very knowledgeable about the area, including its famous NASCAR residents. The boat has a bar seating area and offers guests standard drinks, like water, but you are also welcome to bring your own alcoholic beverages! Be aware that hard liquor is not permitted due to being prohibited on North Carolina waterway.
My tip: Unless you book the whole boat for your party, it is likely another party will be joining you on your sunset cruise. Also, once you’re on the boat, there are no breaks until the end of your cruise, so be sure to bring what you think you’ll need for the next two hours. I’d recommend bringing ear protection, your favorite fidget if you use them, and getting a quiet corner on the boat to spend a nice leisurely time with your friends or loved ones.