Hot Flashes: Things to Do in Lake Norman (When It’s 99 Degrees): Our July Recap
- Dana
- Aug 1
- 4 min read
If July were a cocktail, it’d be equal parts heatwave, humidity, and hot flashes. But even with 95% humidity, we managed to squeeze in some of the best things to do in Lake Norman—from shady trail walks and patriotic backyard fireworks to vineyard escapes, horse competitions, and a rogue lime-green plane flyover that nearly made us spill our drinks! Whether you're a fellow Lake Norman local or just looking for summer inspiration, here's how we sweated through July with laughter, cocktails, and one minor toe injury.
Sunset Cruise...with a Flyover!
Evening boat rides are our go-to in summer. One of those peaceful rides got a surprise adrenaline spike thanks to a lime green plane that buzzed the water--just feet above us. Heart-stopping? Yes. Awesome? Also yes. We love a dramatic flyover!
Fireworks & Freedom
The 4th of July never disappoints around here. Thanks to our fiercely patriotic friends and neighbors--each household determined to outdo the next--we were treated to a backyard fireworks show that would make a town mayor jealous. It’s become a tradition we don’t mess with: butts in Adirondack chairs by 7pm, cocktails in hand, and front-row seats to the best unofficial display on Lake Norman. No crowds, no parking lots--just community, color, and a whole lot of snap, crackle, BOOM!
Paloma: New Favorite Alert
We checked out Paloma in Mooresville, owned by the same folks behind Havana 33, which just so happens to be Dana’s absolute favorite lakefront restaurant. And let’s just say… they’ve done it again. With its bright, airy vibe, a cocktail menu that made us want one of everything, and shared bites like heirloom tomato & burrata, crab fritters, and saffron meatballs--Paloma has officially earned a spot in our Lake Norman Top 5--and climbing.
Wine Therapy, North Carolina Style
Napa who? We escaped the heat with vineyard visits to Midnight Magdalena, Dobbins Creek, and Dynamis Estate Wines. All within approximately one-hour drive from north Lake Norman, these vineyards provide a great escape. Cloud cover, rolling hills, and solid pours--that’s how we survive July!
21st Anniversary at Lake Lure
We returned to one of our all-time favorite spots, The Lodge at Lake Lure, to celebrate 21 years of us. We kicked things off with brunch overlooking Bald Mountain Golf Course, followed by an incredible dinner at the lodge's restaurant, Appalachia. Chris went for the Dry-Aged Duroc Pork Chop, while Dana opted for the Shrimp & Grits--both dishes were perfectly executed and absolutely delicious. What stood out most, though, was witnessing the incredible cleanup still underway from Hurricane Helene. Huge kudos to the local crews working nonstop--hauling silt, clearing debris, and literally reshaping parts of the lake. Some areas remain drained to aid the recovery, but the town’s spirit is very much alive. Local businesses are open, welcoming, and truly grateful for visitors. Supporting tourism here makes a real difference and we’re already planning our next trip.
Stumbled Into Horse Heaven
On our way back home from Lake Lure, we discovered Tryon International Equestrian Center--a 1,600-acre resort/horse competition facility with shops, restaurants, events, and yes...actual horses. Caught a competition and grabbed lunch. Think: Kentucky Derby meets resort living.
Green Escape at Mountain Creek
Even in the July heat, Mountain Creek Park in Sherrills Ford gave us shady trails, a break from the chaos, and a happy pup. It's still our favorite for clearing the mind, getting some fresh air, exercise and spotting tiny forest creatures.
Oh Hey, Buddy!
No summer month is complete without a surprise visit from our unofficial backyard roommate--a glossy black rat snake who never fails to test our reflexes, spike our anxiety, and stretch the limits of our scream decibel. But, we do appreciate the little guy and his efforts to keep our property free from rodents!
Fun fact: North Carolina's black rat snakes are non-venomous, excellent at pest control, and expert climbers…which is equal parts impressive and mildly terrifying.
Dana's Re-Piercing Rebellion
Fun fact: I didn’t know I needed: apparently, if you go too long without wearing earrings, your piercings can start to close up. Who knew earlobes held grudges? So off I went to reclaim my sparkle. Big thanks to Rowan Piercing in Birkdale Village—clean, professional, and the perfect mix of calm and confidence. A little pinch, a little bling, and I’m back in the shiny earring game.
The Toe Incident
Chris took a beating this month--courtesy of an intense game of real-deal, old-school handball (the kind played with a small rubber ball and a whole lot of grit). He’s been playing since college, but this round ended with a busted toe and a dramatic moment under the surgical lights…okay, fine, it was a minor procedure. But let the record show: he was injured in battle, not by backyard wimpy cornhole.
The Hunting Wives—Guilty Pleasure
We binged The Hunting Wives, most of which was filmed right here in the Lake Norman and Charlotte area. It’s Desperate Housewives but wayyyy raunchier--sprinkled with big hair, outlandish Texas accents, guns, glamour, and some seriously questionable decisions. It’s raunchy, over-the-top, and had us saying, “What did we just watch?!"
That’s a Wrap on July
We dodged the heat, got buzzed by a plane, found new favorite spots, and celebrated 21 years of marriage--all while still making time for clients and closings (in the AC, of course).
Have a favorite way to cool off and enjoy your summer time around Lake Norman? Tell us, we love new recommendations!
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