Adrenaline & Zen is a wellness travel trend that pairs full-throttle activities with ultra-relaxing ones to intensify the experience. Add some zoom to your Zen with this trio of ways to get your thrills and chill in Cabarrus County, North Carolina. After all, there’s no better place to get your heart pounding than “Where Racing Lives!”
THRILL: Fasten your seatbelt and unleash your inner speed demon. Ride along experiences with NASCAR Racing Experience let you whip around legendary Charlotte Motor Speedway in a real race car. With a professional racing instructor in the driver’s seat, you can experience speeds upwards of 160 mph

CHILL: When the checkered flag drops, trade your race suit for a robe and enter a state of total tranquility. Á la carte services and a wide variety of packages at Spa Botanica will help you relax, rejuvenate and replenish your entire body. Staying at Embassy Suites? Send the rest of your crew to lounge around at the pool and settle in for a facial and massage.
THRILL: The superspeedway isn’t the only spot to experience triple digit speeds. Plan to visit during one of the NHRA events that take place in the spring and fall right across the street at the four-lane zMAX Dragway.

CHILL: Slow down with scenic views just minutes from these high-intensity bursts of horsepower. Head out to Midland to indulge in locally-made wine and a stroll through the grapevines at Rocky River Vineyards. Nearby, the Carolina Thread Trail offers the most serene trails to disconnect with world and be surrounded by the natural beauty of North Carolina.
THRILL: Rush down 11 waterslides with your pack! Plunge into fun at Great Wolf Lodge in Concord with the swift turns of the six-story slide, Howlin’ Tornado. Then, twist and dip through River Canyon Run and beat the clock with our favorite—Mountain Edge Raceway. The thrills continue outdoors at Howlers Peak high ropes course and inside at the immersive, 4-D Howly Wood XD Theater.

CHILL: Guests of Great Wolf Lodge can completely kick back under the same roof. Zone out beneath a cabana in the water park after high-flying fun. Then, enjoy an evening feast of family shareables and satisfying sweets at Lodge Wood Fired Grill. After a fantastic dinner, adults can even enjoy wine down service.
Where to Unwind
Find the perfect place to relax and recharge during your Adrenaline & Zen retreat at these Places to Stay in Cabarrus County, NC.