Carowinds Theme Park,
Charlotte, NC

Carowinds Theme Park, Charlotte, NC

One of the first places you should consider visiting once you have the keys to your hire car from Charlotte Airport, is Carowinds Theme Park, where excitement and adventure await at every turn. Nestled in the heart of the Queen city, Carowinds offers an unforgettable experience for thrill seekers and family members of all ages looking for a wild day out.

Since opening its gates in 1973, Carowinds has become a beloved destination for millions of visitors. Here are a few fun facts to share during your visit:

• Carowinds sits on the border of North and South Carolina, with several attractions crossing state lines. You can even straddle the boundary line for a unique photo opportunity!
• The theme park was originally envisioned as a large scale resort, complete with hotels, shopping centres, and golf courses. While the full vision was never realised, Carowinds remains a popular entertainment destination.
• The park's name is a combination of "Carolinas" and "winds," signifying the unity of the two states and the prevailing winds that brought people together at the park.

Roller Coasters:

Carowinds is home to an incredible lineup of roller coasters, each providing its own unique thrill. Whether you're a seasoned coaster enthusiast or a first time rider, you’ll want to take a look at a some of their must try attractions:

• Fury 325: As the tallest and fastest giga coaster in the world, Fury 325 reaches speeds of up to 95 mph and stands at a staggering 325 feet tall. Experience the exhilaration of this award winning ride as it weaves and swoops through its 6,602 feet of track.
• Intimidator: Named in honour of racing legend Dale Earnhardt, the Intimidator boasts a 232 foot drop, eight high speed turns, and speeds of up to 75 mph. Feel the rush of this NASCAR inspired roller coaster as it races around the track.
• Afterburn: This heart pounding inverted roller coaster will have you soaring through six stomach churning inversions, including a vertical loop, zero g roll, and batwing. Prepare for an unforgettable flight aboard Afterburn.
• Copperhead Strike: Carowinds' first double launch coaster sends riders on a wild journey through a series of tight turns, rapid ascents, and thrilling inversions. Experience the venomous bite of Copperhead Strike.

Places to Eat and Drink:

With a diverse array of dining options, Carowinds has something to satisfy every craving. Here are a few popular spots to refuel between rides:

• Harmony Hall Marketplace: This food court style eatery offers a wide variety of options, including pizza, burgers, salads, and barbecue. Enjoy a meal in the air conditioned dining area while being entertained by live shows on the indoor stage
• Blue Ridge Country Kitchen: For a taste of Southern comfort food, head to Blue Ridge Country Kitchen. Here, you'll find mouthwatering rotisserie chicken, country style ribs, and an assortment of delicious sides.
• Chickie's & Pete's: This Philadelphia based sports bar is famous for its crab fries, buffalo chicken, and cheesesteaks. Grab a drink and catch the latest game on one of the many TVs.

Carowinds offers an unforgettable day of thrills and excitement, with plenty of mouth watering dining options to choose from. To get from Charlotte International Airport to Carowinds in your hire car is as easy as taking the Billy Graham Pkwy and I-77 S/US-21 S to Carowinds Blvd in York County, then take exit 90 from I-77 S/US-21 S, then take Avenue of the Carolinas to your destination.