A Complete List of Must-Visit Amusement Parks in North Carolina

North Carolina is a fantastic destination for adventure lovers and families who enjoy fun activities. Home to some of the best Amusement Parks in North Carolina, the state offers thrilling roller coasters, fast water slides, interactive attractions, and immersive themed experiences. Whether seeking heart-racing excitement or a relaxing day with loved ones, these parks provide something special for every visitor. This guide takes you through the top parks, showcasing their best rides, attractions, and unique features.

1. Carowinds

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Carowinds (@carowinds)

• Location: Carowinds is an amusement park located in Charlotte, North Carolina, USA, with portions extending into Fort Mill, South Carolina.
• Entry Fees: Starting at $39.99 (Admission prices vary based on age, date, and promotions. It’s recommended to check Carowinds’ official website for the most current pricing.)
• Best for: Thrill-seekers, families, and water park enthusiasts.

Carowinds is a big amusement park in North Carolina, covering 407 acres and stretching across the North Carolina-South Carolina border. It opened in 1973 and has become a top place for fun, offering exciting roller coasters, family-friendly rides, live entertainment, and a huge water park. The park has some of the most thrilling rides in the Southeast and includes Camp Snoopy, a special area designed for young children.

Top Attractions at Carowinds

• Fury 325: A 325-foot-tall giga coaster reaching speeds up to 95 mph, renowned as one of the world’s tallest and fastest roller coasters.
• Carolina Harbor: A 27-acre water park featuring multiple water slides, wave pools, and children’s play areas, included with park admission.
• Copperhead Strike: A double-launch coaster with five inversions, offering a thrilling experience for coaster enthusiasts.
• Snoopy’s Racing Railway: An upcoming family-friendly launched roller coaster set to debut in 2025, themed around the beloved Peanuts character, Snoopy.
• Aeronautica Landing: A newly themed area featuring rides like Air Racers and Gear Spin, celebrating the Carolinas’ aviation history.

2. Tweetsie Railroad

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Tweetsie Railroad – Family Friendly Wild West Theme Park (@tweetsierr)

• Location: 300 Tweetsie Railroad Lane, Blowing Rock, North Carolina, USA.
• Entry Fees: $60 for adults, $40 for children (Ages 3-12), and Children under 3 is Free.
• Best for: Families and train enthusiasts seeking a blend of Wild West adventure and historic steam locomotive experiences.

Tweetsie Railroad is a family-oriented Wild West theme park that has been entertaining visitors since 1957. It stands out among Amusement Parks in North Carolina with its historic narrow-gauge steam locomotive, offering a scenic ride through the Appalachian countryside. Along with the train ride, guests can enjoy live shows, amusement rides, gem mining, and interactive experiences that bring the cowboy era to life. Seasonal events, like Tweetsie Christmas, add to the fun with festive train rides and holiday-themed activities.

Top Attractions at Tweetsie Railroad

• Historic Steam Train Ride: Embark on a scenic three-mile journey aboard an authentic steam locomotive, experiencing the essence of the Old West.
• Live Entertainment: Enjoy daily Wild West-themed shows, including stunt performances and musical acts that captivate audiences of all ages.
• Amusement Rides: From thrilling rides like the Free Fall to classic attractions like the Carousel, there’s something for everyone.
• Deer Park Zoo: Interact with a variety of animals in the petting zoo, offering hands-on experiences for children and adults alike.
• Seasonal Events: Participate in special events such as the Ghost Train Halloween Festival and Tweetsie Christmas, which transform the park with festive decorations and themed activities

3. Frankie’s Fun Park

• Location: Charlotte, Raleigh, and Greenville, NC
• Entry Fees: Admission to Frankie’s Fun Park is free; guests pay per attraction. Prices vary by location and activity. For example, at the Raleigh location, mini-golf costs $10 per person, while go-kart rides range from $8 to $9, depending on the track. Laser tag is priced at $9 per session. It’s advisable to check the specific location’s website for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing.
• Best for: Families, groups of friends, and individuals seeking a fun-filled day with diverse entertainment options.

Frankie’s Fun Park Adventure Landing, one of the well-known amusement parks in North Carolina, has a mix of indoor and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy go-kart tracks, mini-golf, laser tag, bumper cars, and large arcades. Some parks also have extra attractions like water parks, ropes courses, and ninja obstacle challenges. Dining options are available, making these parks a great choice for birthday parties, corporate events, or a fun day out.

Top Attractions at Frankie’s Fun Park

• Go-Karting: Multiple tracks cater to different skill levels, from rookie tracks for beginners to more challenging courses for experienced drivers.
• Mini Golf: Enjoy intricately designed courses suitable for all ages, providing a fun and competitive experience.
• Laser Tag: Engage in thrilling battles in themed arenas equipped with the latest technology.
• Arcade: A vast selection of games, from classic arcade favorites to the latest video game titles, offering fun for everyone.
• Bumper Cars: Experience a modern twist on a classic ride with LED-illuminated bumper cars in an exciting arena.

4. Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster (@wildernessrunalpinecoaster)

• Location: 3265 Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk, NC 28604, USA
• Entry Fees:
  • Adults (14+): Single ride: $16, Three-ride bundle: $35
  • Youth (7-13): Single ride: $13, Three-ride bundle: $29
  • Children (3-6): Single ride: $5, Three-ride bundle: $12
• Best for: Families, thrill-seekers, and adventure enthusiasts of all ages

The Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster, established in 2020, is North Carolina’s first alpine coaster, nestled in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains near Banner Elk. As a standout attraction among Amusement Parks in North Carolina, this gravity-powered ride spans 2,390 feet, featuring exhilarating twists, turns, and three 360-degree loops, all set against picturesque forested landscapes.

Riders can control their speed using a manual brake system, reaching up to 27 mph, allowing for a personalized experience. Operating year-round, the coaster offers thrills in various weather conditions, including rain and snow.

Top Attractions at Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster

• Alpine Coaster Ride: Experience the thrill of North Carolina’s inaugural alpine coaster, navigating through dynamic loops and curves with self-regulated speed control.
• Adventure Course: Engage in a climbing course featuring 28 obstacles across three difficulty levels—easy, intermediate, and hard—catering to various age groups, including a dedicated section for children aged 2-5.
• Gift and Pie Shops: After your adventure, explore the on-site gift shop offering souvenirs and locally crafted items, and indulge in sweet treats at the pie shop located downstairs.

5. Highlands Outpost

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Highlands Outpost (@highlandsoutpost)

• Location: 7420 Dillard Road, Scaly Mountain, NC 28775
• Entry Fees: Entry fees vary depending on the activity and season. For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, it’s recommended to visit the official website or contact the center directly.
• Best for: Families, adventure enthusiasts, and groups seeking year-round outdoor recreational activities.

Located between Sky Valley, Georgia, and Highlands, North Carolina, the Highlands Outpost offers fun activities for all ages. Visitors can go snow tubing in winter and try summer tubing during warmer months. The center also has trout fishing, gem mining, ice skating, and the “Scaly Mountain Screamer,” a thrilling mountain coaster added in late 2021. With a restaurant and a gift shop on-site, it is a great place for families, reunions, and corporate events.

Top Attractions at Highlands outpost

• Scaly Mountain Screamer: A thrilling mountain coaster offering an adrenaline-pumping ride through scenic landscapes.
• Snow Tubing: Experience the excitement of snow tubing during the winter season, with slopes suitable for various age groups.
• Ice Skating: Enjoy gliding on the ice at the outdoor rink, available during colder months.
• Summer Tubing: Slide down the slopes on specially designed summer tubing lanes, providing fun without the snow.
• Trout Fishing: Try your hand at fishing in the stocked trout pond, a relaxing activity for all ages.
• Gem Mining: Discover hidden treasures by panning for gems, an educational and entertaining activity for families.

6. Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jungle Rapids (@junglerapids)

• Location: 5320 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, North Carolina, 28403
• Entry Fees:
  • Water Park Admission:
    • Above 48″ tall: $49.00
    • Below 48″ tall: $37.00
    • Seniors: $37.00
    • Children 2 and under: Free with a paying adult
  • Combination Packages:
    • “All In” Package: $60.00 (All-day water park access, 2 activities, 2 slices of pizza, and a 16 oz. drink)
    • “Best Buy” Package: $55.00 (Water park access with 2 activities, choices include Jungle Golf, Go-Karts, and Laser Tag)
  • Dry Activities:
    • Prices range from $3.99 to $9.99 per activity.
• Best for: Families and individuals seeking a diverse range of entertainment options, including water attractions, arcade games, and outdoor activities.

Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park, one of the most popular amusement parks in North Carolina, has many attractions for all ages. The water park features exciting slides, a lazy river, and a splash area for kids. Those who prefer dry activities can enjoy go-kart racing, an 18-hole mini-golf course, laser tag, an indoor climbing wall, and a large arcade. The park also has the Big Splash Café, which offers a variety of food and drinks.

Top Attractions at Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park

• Water Park: Features multiple water slides, a lazy river, and a dedicated kiddie splash area for children aged 8 and under.
• Go-Karts: Offers an exciting racing experience on a well-designed track suitable for both adults and children.
• Jungle Golf: An 18-hole mini-golf course set amidst lush landscapes and challenging obstacles.
• Laser Tag: A thrilling indoor laser tag arena designed for team-based fun.
• Arcade: A vast selection of classic and modern arcade games catering to all age groups.
• Kids Jungle: An indoor playground equipped with a ball pit and various play structures, ideal for younger children.
• Rock Climbing Wall: Provides a safe and exciting climbing experience for both novices and seasoned climbers.

7. Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe (@wetnwildep)

• Location: 3910 South Holden Road, Greensboro, NC 27406
• Entry Fees:
  • General Admission: $59.99 for individuals over 48 inches tall.
  • Child Admission: $44.99 for individuals under 48 inches tall.
  • Senior Admission: $44.99 for guests aged 62 and above.
  • Children aged 2 and under receive free admission.
• Best for: Families, thrill-seekers, and individuals of all ages looking for a variety of water attractions.

Wet’n Wild Emerald Pointe, located in Wilmington, is one of the most popular amusement parks in North Carolina and offers attractions for all ages. The water park features exciting slides, a lazy river, and a splash area for kids. Those who prefer dry activities can enjoy go-kart racing, an 18-hole mini-golf course, laser tag, an indoor climbing wall, and a large arcade. The park also has the Big Splash Café, which offers a variety of food and drinks. Splash Island and Happy Harbor. With exciting rides and peaceful spots, it is a great place for both fun and relaxation.

Top Attractions at Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe

• Daredevil Drop: A 76-foot-tall body slide, one of the tallest free-fall slides in the country, offering an exhilarating near-vertical plunge.
• Bombs Away: A thrilling ride starting from an enclosed launch capsule with a trapdoor, leading to either a vertical drop or an enclosed looping slide.
• Dr. Von Dark’s Tunnel of Terror: An enclosed water slide that sends riders through dark twists and turns.
• Thunder Bay: A two-million-gallon wave pool generating 84-foot-wide tsunami-like waves, simulating an ocean experience.
• Lazee River: A gentle, flowing river perfect for relaxing as you float along its winding path.
• Dragon’s Den: A giant bowl tube ride where riders experience high-speed circular motion before exiting into a splash pool.
• Happy Harbor: A 6,400 square-foot play area designed for young children, with water depths no more than 9 inches.

8. Great Wolf Lodge

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Great Wolf Lodge (@greatwolflodge)

Location: 10175 Weddington Rd, Concord, NC 28027, USA
Entry Fees: Water park access is included with an overnight stay. Day passes are also available starting at around $50 per person (prices vary by season and promotions).
Best for: Families with kids, year-round fun, and indoor water adventures.

Great Wolf Lodge one of North Carolina’s most popular amusement parks in North Carolina, is a top family destination located near Charlotte Motor Speedway. It’s not just an indoor water park but a full adventure resort. Families can enjoy the massive indoor water park, themed hotel rooms, kids’ activities, and dining all under one roof. The year-round access makes it especially attractive in colder months when outdoor parks are closed.

Top Attractions at Great Wolf Lodge

• Indoor Water Park: Over 80,000 square feet of water attractions, including wave pools, giant slides, and splash zones.
• MagiQuest Adventure Game: A live-action interactive game where kids use wands to complete quests throughout the resort.
• Howlin’ Tornado: A thrilling multi-person raft ride with steep drops and twists.
• Fort Mackenzie: A four-story interactive water treehouse with a tipping bucket that dumps 1,000 gallons of water.
• Activities & Entertainment: Evening story times, arcade, ropes course, bowling, and more for families to enjoy.

9. Lake Hickory Haunts (Seasonal)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Lake Hickory Haunts (@lakehickoryhaunts)

Location: 520 Carolina Ave, Hickory, NC 28601
Entry Fees: General admission starts around $30, with VIP and fast pass upgrades available. Prices vary by season.
Best for: Teens, adults, and thrill-seekers looking for Halloween fun.

Lake Hickory Haunts is a seasonal amusement attraction and one of the most thrilling amusement parks in North Carolina. Ranked among the top haunted attractions in the state, it’s set around a lakeside location and combines haunted trails, themed scare zones, and immersive entertainment for those who love spooky adventures.

Top Attractions at Lake Hickory Haunts

• Haunted Attractions: Multiple themed haunts such as Nightmare Factory, Shipwrecked, and Slaughterhouse.
• Haunted Trails: Scenic but terrifying wooded trails with live actors and special effects.
• Lake-Side Haunt: Unique setting with fog machines, eerie lighting, and lakefront scares.
• Seasonal Shows: Interactive Halloween shows and horror-themed performances.

Why Visit Amusement Parks in North Carolina?

North Carolina is home to a diverse range of amusement parks that offer something for everyone. Some have fast roller coasters, while others have exciting water slides or themed attractions. These parks help the state’s tourism industry and give families affordable ways to enjoy their day. Many have food courts, gift shops, and interactive exhibits, making them perfect for a full day of fun. The state’s mild weather allows visitors to enjoy these parks all year. Locals and travelers looking for adventure can visit Amusement Parks in North Carolina for exciting moments and lasting memories.

Final Thoughts

Amusement Parks in North Carolina have something for everyone, offering exciting rides, water attractions, and fun activities for all ages. Some parks have thrilling roller coasters, while others feature relaxing water slides and family-friendly rides.

Many parks also host special events and seasonal festivals, making them great places to visit throughout the year. Those who love high-speed rides will find plenty of excitement, while others can enjoy themed adventures or water attractions. No matter which park you choose, a day full of fun and adventure is waiting!

FAQ’s