Posted in Charlotte October 23, 2017 by

There’s An Adventure Park Hiding Near Charlotte And You Need To Visit

There’s only a month or so left of Charlotte’s beautiful fall weather before temperatures start dropping and the days become colder. Take advantage of these mild temperatures and squeeze in a few last days of fun in at Charlotte’s No. 1 Adventure Park – Carowinds. Carowinds has something for everyone, from the most thrilling roller coasters to theme park games and prizes.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Carowinds is a 398-acre amusement park located at the southernmost tip of Charlotte at the border of North Carolina and South Carolina.
Bill W. / Yelp
The park's motto is "Where the Carolina's come together," and Carowinds has been a huge draw for locals in both states since it opened in 1973.
With approximately 20 rollercoasters and thrill rides, Carowinds is the place to indulge the thrill seeker in you.
Carowinds/GoogleMaps
Each weekend during the summer and fall, the park is packed with families and individuals looking for a great time on some amazing rides.
The Nighthawk Coaster is the Carolina's first "flying coaster" and will have you twisting, turning, and plunging through the Carolina skies.
Carowinds/GoogleMaps
This coaster is not for the faint of heart! It stands 115 feet tall and reaching speeds of 51 miles per hour.
The Fury 325 is a Carowinds favorite, as it is North America's longest steel coaster and spans 1.25 miles, crossing over the state line.
Cipriano M./Yelp
An open-air coaster, riders will experience peak heights of 325 feet and drops as high as 81 degrees.
The Fury 325 is probably the park's most famous coaster and one that thrill seekers from all over make a special effort just to visit.
Brittany N./Yelp
If you are riding the Fury at night, you'll notice the tracks light up with a neon glow that creates a mind bending experience as you whiz through the night sky on the fastest ride of your life.
And don't worry, if you happen to be more of a water slide person, Carowinds has that too.
Vee H./Yelp
In the summers Carowinds' unique water park is packed with visitors enjoying water slides, wave pools, and splash rides.
If you are planning to spend the day at the water park, you can rent a VIP poolside cabana to enjoy while you are there.
Sanetra/Yelp
The water park at Carowinds is definitely a great attraction and something you and your family should check out next summer.
Don't be surprised if you come across Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and the rest of the Peanuts gang while visiting the theme park.
Carowinds/Facebook
As the official mascots of Carowinds, Snoopy, Charlie, and Lucy are often seen walking through the park ready to take pictures with adoring fans.
At Carowinds, you'll come across some of the most delicious amusement park treats.
Mary V./Yelp
These chili cheese fries may not be healthy, but they are delicious and the perfect snack after working up an appetite on all the rides.
This Carowinds special - a Gelato Panini - made USA Today's list for the "Coolest Ice Cream Sandwiches Across the Country."
Carowinds/Facebook
A famous dessert, this is a must-try at Carowinds. We promise you will love this sweet, melty mess.
In October, Carowinds transforms into Scarowinds at night, offering guests a unique amusement park experience geared specifically for Halloween.
Edgar M./Yelp
Scarowinds tickets are as low as $36 and allow admission into the park after dark to experience the thrills of your favorite rides combined with new terrifying attractions like haunted houses, haunted mazes, and more.
As you walk through the park, you'll see it transformed to the most scary scenes.
crystal t./Yelp
Walk through this creepy Blood Yard if you dare.
And watch out for creepy characters like this one hiding all over the park.
Edgar M./Yelp
Popping out from behind corners or grabbing you from behind, these spooky demons will most definitely give you a fright this Halloween.
All your favorite coasters are open and ready for some night time action.
Tonya P./Yelp
If you think dropping 80 feet during the day is a breeze, try it at night in the darkness - you'll barely be able to hold on!
This weekend, Scarowinds will host the Great Pumpkin Fest on October 28.
Kevin Dooley/Wikimedia Commons
A family-friendly event, the Great Pumpkin Fest will last from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and include a Halloween Costume Contest and tons of other Halloween events for the little ones.

Whether you are looking for amusement and thrills or a Halloween fright, Carowinds is a great place to spend a Saturday! Happy riding!