Sweet Summers, Dusting-of-Snow Winters
From the end of June through mid-August, you can expect the thermometer to stay somewhere in the 80s, but it may just get into the 90s. Either way, it's perfect tea-sipping weather. You'll also get plenty of humidity, especially during August and September. Most months see between 3 and 4 inches of rain, with early spring and mid-summer sometimes getting more. Believe it or not, you might even see a few inches of snow from the end of December through the end of March. But since the temperatures still average in the 40s, the snow won't last long.
High-Speed Racing and Tranquil Walks
The Charlotte Motor Speedway is well-known on the racing circuit. Despite the name, it actually is in Concord. You might catch a NASCAR race, dragsters or Bad Boy Buggies racing on a dirt track. Check out the interactive tide pools or the colorful clownfish at Sea Life Aquarium, where you can walk through the Underwater Ocean Tunnel and watch the blacktip reef sharks swim right over you. For a more serene setting and a bit of local history, take a walk through the Memorial Garden, which is owned by the First Presbyterian Church of Concord. You'll find buildings dating back to 1810, 200-year-old graves, and winding paths that lead past pretty waterfalls, mature oaks and flowerbeds. Frank Liske Park is a favorite kite-flying spot. You'll also find hiking trails, picnic shelters, a lake for paddle boating and an 18-hole mini-golf course.
Cabarrus County, Industry and Tourism
Concord is part of Cabarrus County, and its economy is mostly looked at on a county level. Construction and energy companies are moving into the area, providing new jobs. Tourism plays a big part in the economy, thanks in part to the high-profile Charlotte Motor Speedway.
Getting to and From Concord
If you are flying into Concord, you'll probably land at Charlotte-Douglas International Airport, which is about 30 miles away. Renting a car is a good idea, since there is a lot of driving involved when touring this part of North Carolina. If you're taking Amtrak or Greyhound, the closest station is in Kannapolis, about 4 miles from Concord. Hop on the Rider, the public bus system that serves both cities.
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