Carowinds brings big coasters and family fun to Charlotte

Spring break is around the corner, and summer isn't far behind — for families around Charlotte, that means one thing: it's time to get out and make some memories.

What you need to know: Carowinds is open for 10 days straight from April 3–12, with everything from world-class coasters to a limited-time horror experience.

• Plus, get free access to more parks — and free parking — with a free upgrade to a Gold Pass during the Carowinds' Spring Sale.

Why it's important: That timing isn't random — it's designed to match school schedules across Charlotte and nearby areas, making it easier for families to plan a full day or more of fun.

The plan: The largest theme park in the Carolinas has more than 60 world-class rides, live entertainment, a water park and homey Carolina cuisine.

🎢 For the thrill seekers

Carowinds boasts a 14-coaster collection that includes some heavy-hitters.

• Fury 325 is a standout giga coaster that's one of the world's tallest and fastest at 95 mph.
• Intimidator delivers a 211-foot drop and major floaty airtime on seven steep hills.
• Afterburn embodies the gravity-defying maneuvers and high-flying speeds of a fighter jet, with tons of action and unpredictable inversions.

💀 For the horror fans

Take your spring break thrills to the next level with The Conjuring: Beyond Fear, a high-intensity interactive experience running April 3-11.

• Step through iconic scenes from New Line Cinema's "The Conjuring" cinematic universe.
• Each moment is brought to life with immersive effects, screen-to-scream environments and chilling challenges across a more than 20-minute experience.
• Parental discretion is strongly encouraged — and the experience isn't recommended for guests under 13.

☀️For the whole family

Explore Camp Snoopy's two brand-new rides, get a panoramic view of the Carolinas from the top of the 262-foot Carolina Skytower (one of the park's original attractions), or catch a special event with the whole family during spring break.

• April 3–6 | Easter Egg Hunt
  Guests under 12 can hunt the park for easter eggs near Camp Snoopy over the holiday weekend during these 10–11:30am sessions.
• April 4–12 (select dates) | Cornhole Tournament
  Pair up and compete head-to-head for the Carowinds Cornhole Championship.

• April 11, 1 pm | World Record Attempt
  Help Carowinds set a surprise world record from anywhere in the park — listen for loudspeaker announcements.

🍴For fueling the crew

Choose from classic theme park favorites — yes, including funnel cakes — or go off the beaten track at Carowinds and explore:

• Terminal A, which honors the history of Carolina aviation through its high-end, exclusive sky club theme and offers craft beer for guests 21+.
• Chickie's & Pete's Sports Grill, a staple since the '70s whose chain ESPN voted the No. 1 Sports Bar in North America.
• Burrito Café, where you can snag made-to-order jumbo burritos and bowls.
• Sharky's Grille, home to theme-park favorites like burgers, dogs, tenders and fries.

💰Take note: For the best value, take advantage of the Spring Sale event through April 12 and snag the free upgrade to a Gold Pass for the price of a Silver pass ($89).

• A Gold Pass gets you access to more Six Flags parks, including Dorney Park and Six Flags Great Adventure — plus, free parking at all locations.

Make your plans today.