Amusement Parks in NC: 11 Family-Friendly Places to Check Out

North Carolina offers a diverse range of top-rated amusement parks that cater to all ages and preferences. Whether you’re looking for thrilling roller coasters, family-friendly attractions, or water slides to cool off in the summer, there’s something for everyone. This guide covers 11 must-visit amusement parks in NC, ensuring you have all the details you need for a fun-filled adventure.

Major Amusement Parks in NC

Carowinds Amusement Park – Charlotte, NC

Carowinds, straddling the North and South Carolina border, is a premier amusement park known for its exhilarating roller coasters and family rides. Highlights include the Fury 325, one of the tallest and fastest giga coasters in the world, and the Carolina Cyclone. The park also features Carolina Harbor, a massive water park with slides, wave pools, and a lazy river. Seasonal events like SCarowinds (Halloween) and WinterFest add to the fun throughout the year. For more information on tickets and opening hours, visit the Carowinds website.

Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe – Greensboro, NC

Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe is one of the largest water parks in North Carolina, featuring a variety of slides, wave pools, and a lazy river. Popular attractions include the Daredevil Drop, one of the tallest water slides on the East Coast, and the Raging Rapids. The park offers something for all ages, including a children’s play area and family raft rides. Check the Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe website for operating hours and ticket information.

Great Wolf Lodge – Concord, NC

For year-round water fun, head to Great Wolf Lodge in Concord. This indoor water park resort boasts slides, splash zones, and additional activities like a ropes course and arcade. Attractions include the Howlin’ Tornado, a thrilling water slide, and Fort Mackenzie, a multi-level interactive water fort. The resort also offers themed suites and on-site dining, making it a perfect destination for a family getaway. Visit the Great Wolf Lodge website for more details.

H2OBX Waterpark – Powells Point, NC

H2OBX Waterpark offers a range of water attractions, from thrilling slides to relaxing wave pools. Located near the Outer Banks, it’s a perfect spot for a day of family fun in the sun. Highlights include the Queen Anne’s Revenge, a multi-person raft ride, and Teach’s Tides Adventure River, a lazy river with waves. The park also offers cabana rentals and dining options. For more information, visit the H2OBX Waterpark website.

Tweetsie Railroad – Blowing Rock, NC

Step back in time at Tweetsie Railroad, a Wild West-themed park where you can ride a historic steam train, enjoy live shows, and experience classic amusement rides. The park offers a unique blend of history and entertainment, with attractions such as the Mouse Mine Train and the Country Fair area with classic rides like the Ferris Wheel. Don’t miss the special events like the annual Ghost Train during Halloween. For more details, visit the Tweetsie Railroad website.

Family Fun Centers and Smaller Amusement Parks in NC

Frankie’s Fun Park – Raleigh and Huntersville, NC

Frankie’s Fun Park provides a variety of entertainment options, including go-karts, mini-golf, laser tag, bumper boats, and arcade games. Both locations offer attractions like the Road Course, a multi-level go-kart track, and the Spinning Coaster, a fun ride for all ages. Frankie’s is a great option for a day of family fun or a group outing. Check the Frankie’s Fun Park website for details on each location.

Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park – Wilmington, NC

Jungle Rapids offers a water park, go-karts, mini-golf, laser tag, and an arcade, ensuring there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy. The water park features slides like the Sidewinder and Volcano Express, while the dry attractions include an impressive go-kart track and a laser tag arena. Visit the Jungle Rapids website for more information.

Fantasy Lake Water Park – Hope Mills, NC

Fantasy Lake Water Park is a family-oriented destination with slides, paddle boats, and swimming areas, making it a great place for a day of water-based fun. The park features attractions like the Tarzan Swing, the Master Blaster, and numerous inflatable obstacles on the lake. It’s an ideal spot for families looking for a relaxed and enjoyable day out. For more details, visit the Fantasy Lake Water Park website.

Ghost Town in the Sky – Maggie Valley, NC

This unique amusement park is set on a mountain and features a Western theme with rides and live entertainment. Attractions include the Red Devil roller coaster and the Cliffhanger, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The park also hosts live Wild West shows and musical performances. Note that Ghost Town in the Sky has had intermittent operations, so check their website for the latest updates on opening hours and events.

Santa’s Land – Cherokee, NC

Santa’s Land brings the magic of Christmas to life with themed rides, a zoo, and seasonal attractions. Visitors can enjoy rides like the Rudicoaster and Santa’s Express Train, visit Santa’s Zoo, and meet Santa himself. It’s a charming destination that delights visitors of all ages, especially during the holiday season. For more information, visit the Santa’s Land website.

Speedway Fun Park – Ocean Isle Beach, NC

Speedway Fun Park offers go-karts, mini-golf, and arcade games. The park features multiple go-kart tracks, including options for younger children, and a challenging mini-golf course. It’s a great spot for a fun-filled afternoon or evening with family and friends. For more details, visit the Speedway Fun Park website.

Practical Information for Visitors

To maximize your visit, consider these tips:

Best Times to Go: Visit parks during off-peak hours or weekdays to avoid long lines.
Ticket Information: Look for seasonal passes and online discounts. Buying tickets in advance can save money and time.
Park Amenities: Check for on-site dining options, stroller rentals, and first aid services. Bring essentials like sunscreen, hats, and comfortable clothing.

Nearby Accommodations: Research nearby hotels and restaurants for a complete experience.

Amusement Parks in NC: Frequently Asked Questions

What are the operating hours for Carowinds?

Carowinds typically operates from late spring through early fall, with varying hours. They also open at different times of the year for seasonal events, such as SCarowinds around Halloween and Winterfest around Christmas.

Which amusement parks in NC are best for toddlers?

Great Wolf Lodge and Tweetsie Railroad both offer attractions suitable for young children. Also, Carowinds has an entire section of the park that is dedicated to younger kids, as well as toddler areas within the water park in Carowinds.

Are there any indoor amusement parks in NC?

Yes, Great Wolf Lodge in Concord is an indoor water park resort open year-round. Also, some of the smaller amusement centers, such as Frankies, offer indoor fun.