Cornelius is a beautiful lakeside destination full of great things to do. Whether you're a resident or just visiting the area, there is always something exciting to try. From restaurants, breweries, parks, shopping, or attractions, here are the top things to do in Cornelius!

View of Downtown Cornelius

 

Food & Drink

 

Restaurants

Cornelius is home to many local foodie favorites. If you're looking for waterfront dining, Hello, Sailor and Port City Club are for you. Hello, Sailor features chef-driven dishes like their spicy chicken sandwich or NC trout. Wash it down with one of their craft cocktails like the "bermuda hundred". Port City Club's classy yet casual atmosphere paired with delicious dishes like a lobster and shrimp roll or Pcc burger is sure to make a great dining experience.

131 Main offers classic American cuisine cooked over a Hickory wood fire grill that accentuates the flavors in every dish ranging from steak to seafood. If you love food, drinks AND music, BoatYard LKN is the perfect place to go. And if you have any kids, there's a nice play area for them to run off some energy while you catch up with some old friends. You're guaranteed to make some fun new memories here.

Waterman Fish Bar Food

Waterman Fish Bar

Hello Sailor Outdoor Patio

Hello, Sailor

The Harp & Crown is known for its cozy pub feel and traditional Irish and English cuisine with modern twists. If you're looking for some BBQ, Mac's Speedshop serves up delicious Carolina barbecue and even has live music, events and a dog-friendly patio so you can bring the whole family. New to the area, the Waterman Fish Bar has endless fresh seafood options, from oysters to different camp-inspired dishes like The Waterman’s Platter and the Fried Fish Sandwich. 

 

Breweries​

Cornelius has all the best spots to grab a drink with friends and enjoy great music and events.

View of the outside of the Public GroundsOld Town Public House

 

Shopping

 

Oak Street Mill Antiques

Retail sales of antiques and collectibles in a restored cotton mill.

The inside of the Oak Street Mill Antiques

 

Home, Heart, & Soul

Located in a landmark house in the historic east side of Cornelius, Home, Heart & Soul provides a unique and welcoming environment in which to explore a comprehensive collection of home décor and a lovingly curated selection of fine gifts for every occasion. 

View of the inside of the Home, Heart & Soul store

 

The Bungalow Market

Affordable, unique home items. Their styles include coastal, mid-century-modern, industrial, and bohemian with a mix of unique new furnishings, lighting and accessories

 

The inside of the Bungalow Market

Sweet Magnolia

Unique southern chic boutique with gifts, clothing, furniture & original art. Customers can choose from upscale clothing, shoes and accessories from many high-end designers; chic, stylish jewelry and scarves; as well as, eclectic furniture and art by local artists.

Mantels from Sweet Magnolia

 

Parks

 

Jetton Park

Jetton Park is a beautiful 104-acre lakefront park. It includes walking trails, picnic sites, tennis courts, gazebos, a sunning beach (no swimming), and a playground. 

Jetton Park Waterfront

Jetton Park Beach Area

Robbins Park

Robbins Park is perfect for some family-fun with its nature-themed playground, multi-purpose field, nearly one mile of paved walkways, a picnic shelter, and tennis courts with pickleball lines. 

Playground from Robbins ParkRobbins Park Playground

 

Ramsey Creek Park

Ramsey Creek Park is a 46-acre lakefront park that has a public swimming beach, boat launch area, a fishing pier, playground, picnic shelters, nature trails, and the Swaney Pointe Dog Park. The swimming beach is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day and park admission price varies.

For more information on pricing, hours, and rules check out our Ultimate Guide to Ramsey Creek Park blog. 

Fishing at Patriot Pier Ramsey Creek

Patriot Pier at Ramsey Creek Park

 

Attractions

 

LKN Mini Golf

Lake Norman Mini Golf is a family favorite spot that has something for everyone. They feature an 18-hole course, laser maze, rock climbing wall, and axe throwing. To finish off the perfect day, cool off with one of their delicious snowballs. Answer 2/4 of their trivia questions right and you'll also get a discount on your next round!

Lake Norman Mini Golf

LKN Mini Golf

 

Northern Regional Recreation Center

Inside of the aquatic area in Northern Regional Recreation CenterRec Center Family-friendly Pool

Now open, the Northern Regional Recreation Center is perfect for people of all ages. This brand new facility features a lap and leisure pool, state-of-the-art gym, workout programs, a family pool with a waterslide, and a multi-purpose indoor sports court. Outside there are nature trails, a play meadow, and an expansive venue space for festivals, concerts and community gatherings.

Monthly memberships start at $22 and vary by age and whether or not you live in the county. Daily admission is available to the public starting at $8. 

 

We hope you love trying out all that Cornelius has to offer. Be sure to share your Cornelius adventures with us on Facebook and Instagram @VisitLakeNorman and comment below!