Carowinds Tickets in Charlotte, NC

Where is Carowinds located?

Carowinds is located adjacent to Interstate 77 near the North and South Carolina border at 14523 Carowinds Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28273.

How much is parking at Carowinds?

Single-day parking is $35 per vehicle and Preferred Parking is $45 per vehicle per day. A limited number of accessible parking spaces are available near the Front Gate on a first-come, first-served basis. Carowinds no longer accepts cash at the toll gates.

Does Carowinds offer a non-rider admission ticket?

No, Carowinds has one admission price for all guests. In addition to rides, the park features live shows, performers, shops, restaurants, and the Carolina Harbor water park (included with admission).

How old does my child need to be for an admission ticket?

Children 3 and older require a Carowinds ticket; children 2 and under are admitted free.

Are Fast Lane tickets included with my general admission?

No, Fast Lane passes are sold separately and let you bypass the regular lines on select rides.

What happens if it rains at Carowinds?

If it rains, some rides and attractions may close temporarily or the park may close early during severe weather. Indoor venues stay open when possible, and rides reopen as soon as it's safe. Carowinds does not offer rainchecks or refunds.

Can you bring food into Carowinds?

No. Outside food or drinks are not allowed, and bags are searched on entry. Grilling in the parking lot is prohibited. Carowinds offers over 30 dining options inside the park. Guests with medical or special dietary needs can request exceptions at Guest Services near the Front Gate.

Can you leave Carowinds and come back?

Yes. Same-day re-entry is allowed with a hand stamp from the exit gate before you leave. Re-entry is not permitted during SCarowinds events.

Are pets allowed in the park?

No pets are allowed in the park except for service animals.

What should I bring?

Guests should limit the number of items taken into the park, and are encouraged to leave loose articles with a non-rider or place them in a locker. Outside food and beverages are not allowed inside the park.

Are there places in the park to store my belongings?

Lockers are available to rent inside the park at the North Gate and South Gate entrances, the Thrill Zone next to Fury 325, Blue Ridge Junction next to Copperhead Strike, and at Carolina Harbor Waterpark (at Surf Club Harbor and Tidal Wave Bay). Rentals vary in size and prices differ among locker locations.

What is the park's dress code?

Yes. Lockers are available for rent at the North and South Gate entrances, Thrill Zone (next to Fury 325), Blue Ridge Junction (next to Copperhead Strike), and Carolina Harbor (at Surf Club Harbor and Tidal Wave Bay). Sizes and prices vary by location.

What does my Carowinds ticket include?

Carowinds tickets include admission to Carowinds amusement park as well as free park admission to Carolina Harbor Waterpark (seasonal). Tickets are not valid for SCarowinds, separately ticketed events, concerts or park buyouts, unless otherwise indicated.

Where can I find information on rider requirements (height, weight, etc)?

Ride restrictions will be posted at the entrance to each ride inside the park.

Can I bring cameras, GoPros, or cell phones on rides?

You can bring cameras, GoPros, and cell phones into the park, but they are not permitted on rides. Secure all loose items in lockers or with a non-rider before boarding.

Is smoking permitted in the park?

No. Smoking of any kind, including e-cigarettes and vapes, is not allowed inside Carowinds. A designated smoking area is located outside the North Gate.

What should I expect at Carowinds' security screening?

All guests pass through metal detectors and bag inspections before entry. Weapons, sharp objects, and other prohibited items are not allowed. The park uses uniformed and plainclothes officers, video surveillance, and a strict zero-tolerance policy for fighting or harassment, which may result in ejection or arrest.

What if I lose something while at the park?

Secure all loose items before boarding rides. If you lose something, visit Guest Services near the North Gate before leaving or submit a report online. Items lost on rides may be retrieved after the park closes. Unclaimed items are held for two weeks. Carowinds is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged property.

Are wheelchairs and strollers available for rent?

Yes. Rentals are located next to Guest Services at the North Gate. Advance online reservations are recommended. A valid photo ID (such as a driver's license, state ID, military ID, or season pass) is required to rent a manual or electric wheelchair.

Where can I find information for guests with disabilities at Carowinds?

A guide is available at Guest Services, located near the North Gate, for guests with disabilities. The guide is designed to help those with disabilities make the most of their visit and provide information on ride safety, group and individual discounts, and parking options.

Does Carowinds sell alcohol?

Yes. Beer, wine, and cocktails are sold at select restaurants and kiosks throughout the park, including the Carolina Harbor Shore Club. Valid photo ID is required.

What is Carowinds' alcohol policy?

Guests must be 21 or older to purchase or consume alcohol, and a valid photo ID is required. Alcohol must be consumed in designated areas, and outside alcoholic beverages are not permitted.

Can minors visit Carowinds without an adult?

Guests age 15 or younger must be accompanied by a chaperone age 21 or older after 4:00 p.m. daily (earlier at the park's discretion). The chaperone must show valid photo ID, stay in the park during the visit, and may accompany up to 10 minors. Guests 16 or older may be asked for photo ID to verify age. Unaccompanied minors under 16 during chaperone policy hours may be removed from the park.