Published July 18, 2023
Cornelius City Guide - What to Do, Eat, Drink & Experience

When it comes to Cornelius must-visit spots, you'll see that its offerings are spread over a wide area.
However, that doesn't mean it lacks in any of the Lake Norman charm you know and love!
Cornelius not only has a charming Downtown (don't blink, you'll miss it!), but it's also home to some favorite waterfront eateries, restaurants that would please any foodie, and those local spots that give you that lake-living vibe.
Check out our favorite Cornelius spots below, and know that there are many other restaurants, bars, shops, etc.
that this in-demand city offers, but we only included the very best for you to enjoy!
Do:
- Cain Center for the Arts (Coming Soon!)
- Bells Box Collective
- BoatYard
- The Range at Lake Norman
- Urban Air Adventure Park
- LKN Minigolf
- Jetton Park
Eat:
- Brunch: Barrel and Fork (Only on Sundays)
- Farm to Table Dinner: Barrel and Fork
- Mexican: Ositos Tacos and Tortas
- Sushi: Cool Fish
- Burgers: Crafty Burg'r
- Steak: Peninsula Prime
- If there's a game on: Cork and Cask
- Best New Hot Spot: The Waterman Fish Bar
- Best Overall: 131 Main
- If you want to be on the water: Hello, Sailor
Dessert:
- Carolina Cones (Only open seasonly)
- Bakery 28
- Sweet Cakes Bakery
- Andy's Frozen Custard
- Pelican's SnoBalls (Only open seasonly)
- Bruster's Ice Cream
Adult Drinks:
- Barley Market
- Thigs Cocktail Bar
- Old Town Public House
- Cork and Cask
- D9 Brewing Company
- Eleven Lakes Brewing Company
- Ass Clown Brewing Company
- Lost World's Brewing Company
- Cornelius Draft House and Bottle Shop
- Carbonation Craft Beer and Wine Shop
Caffeinated Drinks:
Shop:
- Oak Street Mill Antiques
- Avalilly's Boutique
- FlareTrade Consign
- Sweet Magnolia
- Home Heart and Soul
- Luna's at the Lake

Are you one of those that needs help with a plan? We've got you covered, choose your plan below!
- Fun for the whole family!
- Start at Urban Air Adventure Park where the kiddos can burn off some energy
- Grab the fam and head over to Ositos Tacos and Tortas for some delicious eats, and bonus - they're super fast too!
- End the evening at Pelican's SnoBalls a kid pleaser for sure!
Date Night:
- These options have atmospheres conducive to connecting and enjoying time with your better half!
- Start with a romantic and instagram worthy cocktail at the trendy and chic Thigs Cocktail Bar
- Head to Barrel and Fork for a romantic dinner inside their quaint restaurant
- Wrap it up with all of your favorite ice cream flavors from your childhood at Carolina Cones
- Then end the evening with a night cap at Barley Market (if you're lucky, they'll have live music too!)
Friend Outing:
- How about a progressive dinner and bar crawl? All of these options are conducive for a group, offering both food and beverage!
- We'll call this outing the "Cornelius Seafood Trifecta"
- Start with delicious apps, drinks and a sunset water view at Hello, Sailor
- Next head to Cool Fish to order sushi rolls and sides to pass!
- End the evening at The Waterman Fish Bar with fun boat themed drinks, raw oysters, and a lively atmosphere
- If your group is still out for a good time - head over to BoatYard for live music and late night fun!
For other suggestions or questions, don't hesitate to contact us today!
(704) 800-6641 - info@elevateREpros.com

