Amusement parks in the Charlotte area are plentiful and diverse. Families can plan a fun day of thrills on any budget. As part of a Huffington Post series on family-fun parks, here is our guide to all the key information visitors need to know about Charlotte area amusement parks.
Carowinds
is the premier amusement park in North Carolina. Straddling North and South Carolina, this park has it all, from gut-wrenching roller coasters to Planet Snoopy, a 12-acre Peanuts-themed children's area. After a long day of perusing the rides, visitors can cool off by visiting Boomerang Bay, a 20-acre water park included in the admission price to Carowinds.
The Intimidator
named the
at Carowinds one of the Best New Attractions of 2010. Other popular rides include
and
. Lines for these attractions tend to be lengthy, but move quickly. Thunder Road can run two trains simultaneously.
Family Activities
The park also offers a variety of live shows and family activities. There is also a water park and arcade on site, ensuring visitors will never have a boring moment.
Dine-in Or Walk Up
Carowinds offers four dine-in restaurants and a large number of walk-up, fast-food establishments. Visitors will find restaurants specific to Carowinds as well as a number of chain stores such as Chick-fil-A and Cinnabon.
Safety Record
has compiled a listing of several reported incidents and safety issues that occurred between 1998 and 2009, but of the six incidents listed, only two are verified.
Address: 14523 Carowinds Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28273Phone: 704-588-2600Hours: The park is generally open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekends. Times do vary, however, and visitors should check the operating schedule for their specific dates of travel.Price: Ages 3 to 61 and 48 inches or taller in shoes, $52.99 ($41.99 online). Ages 3 to 61 and under 48 inches tall in shoes or age 62 and older, $25.99 ($24.99 online). Two-day admission ages 3 to 61 and 48 inches or taller in shoes $56.99. Ages 2 and under are free.
Dan Nicholas Park
Dan Nicholas Park is a wonderful destination for a family day-cation, especially for those with small children. Enjoy paddle-boats on the lake, a train ride, a spin on the carousel or looking at bald eagles and bears in the wildlife center.
Carousel And Petting Zoo
The beautiful
is reminiscent of times past and the wildlife center is a great way for children to get a close-up view of wild animals. The petting zoo is also a great place for children to view farm animals up close.
Splash Park
Dan Nicholas Park also boasts a small splash park, large playgrounds, a mini golf course, a small train and multiple fishing areas.
Concessions
There is a concession area inside the park that offers refreshments and snacks. There are also many picnic areas and shelters for those who wish to bring their own food.
Safety Record
Our research revealed no notable news reports of accidents or safety issues at Dan Nicholas Park.
Address: 6800 Bringle Ferry Road, Salisbury, NC 28146Phone: 866-767-2757Hours: January, February, November and December, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; March, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; April through June, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; July and August, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.; September and October, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.Price: There is no charge to enter the park, but individual attractions may cost a small fee.
Other Noteworthy Parks Near Charlotte
What's your favorite amusement park in Charlotte?
Check out more AMUSEMENT PARKS.
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