Searching for something fun to do while the kids are out of school this summer? Look no further than Charlotte’s own amusement park: Carowinds. Carowinds Amusement Park has been welcoming visitors through its gates since opening back in 1973. You can find Carowinds off of Interstate 77 at the NC/SC border. Carowinds is perfect for a day of family fun, home to roller coasters, thrill rides, and attractions made just for kids. Carowinds even has a sprawling waterpark called Carolina Harbor where you can cool off on those hot summer days.
What can I look forward to at Carowinds Amusement Park?
For an exciting adrenaline rush, make your way to the Thrill Zone. This section of the park is home to rides like the Ripcord, Drop Tower, Scream Weaver, and the Slingshot. You’ll also find Fury 325, one of the park’s most daring rollercoasters. It is the longest steel coaster in North America at over 1.25 miles, and reaches speeds up to 95 mph.
Of course, there’s no shortage of great rollercoasters to ride during your day at Carowinds. The Nighthawk, the Vortex, and the Flying Cobras are just a few of the 13 coasters you can ride. For more family-friendly rides, hit up the Carolina Skytower, Rip Roarin’ Rapids, the Scrambler, Do-Si-Do, and the Yo-Yo.
Kids have a place to call their own at Carowinds known as Planet Snoopy. Kids’ rides include the Flying Ace Balloon Race, Peanuts Pirates, Lucy’s Crabbie Cabbie, Woodstock Gliders, and Snoopy’s Junction. You might even catch a Peanuts character or two walking around to meet.
Cool off at Carolina Harbor! The kids will love playing at Seaside Splashworks, a massive play structure with water guns, slides, jets, and a 423-gallon tipping bucket. If you’d rather relax and take a breather, float down the lazy river at Coastal Currents. Still looking for a little excitement? Check out Storm Surge, where you’ll race down 495 feet of twists and turn down four colossal waterslides.
Carowinds is home to more than just fun rides, of course. There are plenty of shows around the park guaranteed to keep you entertained. There are musical performances for all ages, from bluegrass acts like The Ramblers to an interactive dance party with the Peanuts gang! Grab a bite to eat and take a breather while watching some of these fun performances.
Speaking of food, there is certainly no shortage of good eats at Carowinds. Favorites like funnel cakes, Auntie Anne’s pretzels, Chick Fil A, Cinnabon, Sweet Frog’s, and Dippin Dots are great for a light bite. If you’re looking for a serious meal, head over to one of the excellent restaurants in Carowinds like Burrito Café, Chickie & Pete’s Sports Grill, Harmony Hall Marketplace, and the old school Juke Box Diner.
Events are held at the park throughout the year!
There are plenty of exciting and unique special events at Carowinds all year long. From an incredible 4th of July Fireworks show to the fun and festive Grand Carnivale. Dazzling performers, colorful parades, street parties, and exceptional food vendors are just a few of the attractions that await you at Carowinds spectacular special events.
After an exciting day at Carowinds, skip the basic chain hotels and big-city commotion of Charlotte by choosing Davidson, North Carolina for your getaway. There are plenty of fun attractions for the whole family in this charming college town, just off the shores of Lake Norman. For the best lodging in town, come stay with us at Davidson Village Inn. We’re located right across the street from Davidson College, and within walking distance of the best shopping and dining on Main Street. What are you waiting for? Come and experience a Davidson getaway today!
