The manmade Lake Norman stretches north of Charlotte, weaving and snaking to create 520 miles of shoreline and a surface area of 50 square miles. Although it was originally formed by damming the Catawba River to generate power and provide drinking water for the Piedmont region, it has also generated its own tourist draw, and today is a popular spot for vacations and daytrips.
Within a half-hour drive of Charlotte, Lake Norman offers groups a wealth of boating, fishing and golfing as well as opportunities for hands-on exploration of history and nature. Since there’s plenty to keep groups interested for more than an afternoon, there are also 1,300 hotel rooms in the area.
Located just 30 minutes north of Charlotte, Queen’s Landing entertainment complex offers a wide range of lake activities. Groups might enjoy a chartered cruise on the paddlewheel riverboat replica Catawba Queen or the sleek, 90-foot yacht the Lady of the Lake; putt-putt golf or bumper cars in the amusement park; or relaxing in Jack’s Lakeside Grill or Jokers bar, which features dueling pianos. Banquet facilities are available for as many as 150.
The unique course at Verdict Ridge Golf and Country Club takes players on a cross-country tour of North Carolina in miniature. Holes fringed by pine trees evoke Pinehurst, while others are reminiscent of coastal areas with their wetlands and streams, and finally the green climbs to offer the height and views of the mountainous parts of the state. Located 25 miles from downtown Charlotte, Verdict Ridge can accommodate tournaments for groups as large as 120 and can host banquets and meetings as large as 135.
Historic Latta Plantation gives groups a chance to walk into history and see a circa-1800s cotton plantation and living farm. Sited within a 1,300-acre nature preserve, the plantation can host picnics and outdoor events of 350 or more. Latta Equestrian Center can provide hayrides or horse-drawn wagon rides around the plantation. Another way to see the plantation is via Segway; the revolutionary vehicles can be rented for guided three-hour tours. Nearby Carolina Raptor Center gives visitors a peek at fierce birds of prey housed in aviaries as they recuperate and prepare to reenter the wild, and offers a 30-person indoor meeting room and a 40-seat outdoor theater.
Boating is a popular pastime among Lake Norman communities, and the Peninsula Yacht Club boasts nearly 1,000 members. The club provides groups with a comfortable and relaxing environment, a nautical feel and water views. As many as 50 can meet or dine in its two meeting rooms: the Library and the Commodore’s Room. An extensive covered patio can be used for dancing or entertainment.
For More Info
Historic Latta Plantation 704.875.2312 www.lattaplantation.org
Peninsula Yacht Club 704.892.9858 www.peninsulayacht.com
Queen’s Landing 704.663.2628 www.queenslanding.com
Verdict Ridge 704.257.0100 www.verdictridge.com
