Travel
List of 5 Must-Visit Amusement Parks in South Carolina
Dec
South Carolina, with its charming cities, beautiful coastlines, and rich history, is also home to some of the most exciting amusement parks in South Carolina. What makes South Carolina a perfect destination for amusement park lovers is its combination of Southern hospitality, gorgeous scenery, and the thrill of some fantastic rides and activities. Let’s explore the best amusement parks in South Carolina with Teeholic!
1. Carowinds in Charlotte: A Thrill-Seeker’s Dream
The Ultimate Amusement Park Experience
Carowinds, located in Charlotte, North Carolina, just over the border from South Carolina, is one of the most well-known amusement parks in South Carolina and the entire region. Known for its thrilling roller coasters, family-friendly rides, and seasonal events, Carowinds offers visitors a one-of-a-kind experience. With more than 60 rides and attractions, there is no shortage of fun.
The park is home to several iconic rides, including Fury 325, the world’s tallest and fastest giga coaster, which reaches speeds of 95 mph and has an impressive 325-foot drop. Intimidator, a high-speed roller coaster inspired by NASCAR, is another must-ride, with its steep drops and fast twists. For families with younger children, Carowinds offers attractions like the Peanuts’ Playhouse, Rip Roarin’ Rapids, and the classic Carousel.
Carowinds also features a seasonal water park called Boomerang Bay, where guests can enjoy water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers, perfect for cooling off during the hot summer months.
Top Attractions & Best Time to Visit
Make sure to ride Fury 325, the park’s iconic coaster that offers breathtaking views and high-speed thrills. Intimidator is another must-ride, especially for adrenaline junkies who love steep drops. For families, don’t miss Peanuts’ Playhouse for a gentler experience with the kids.
The best time to visit Carowinds is during spring or fall, when the weather is mild, and the crowds are thinner. These off-peak seasons give you a chance to enjoy the attractions without the long wait times that peak summer months often bring.
2. Myrtle Beach Pavilion Amusement Park: A Classic Coastal Park
Myrtle Beach Pavilion Amusement Park: Fun at the Beach
Although it is no longer open as a full-time amusement park, Myrtle Beach Pavilion was once a staple of Myrtle Beach’s entertainment scene, offering exciting rides, games, and live shows with a beautiful view of the coastline. While the park itself has closed, the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade remains a major tourist attraction, with rides, arcades, and plenty of games that offer visitors a traditional amusement park experience right on the beach.
The area is home to The SkyWheel, one of the tallest Ferris wheels in the United States, where visitors can get a stunning view of the Atlantic Ocean. Along with the SkyWheel, visitors can enjoy the beach, arcades, and local shops that make the area one of South Carolina’s most popular seaside destinations. The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk offers the charm of a classic amusement park with a refreshing ocean breeze.
Top Attractions & Best Time to Visit
The SkyWheel is a must-see, offering fantastic views of Myrtle Beach and beyond. The arcades and carnival games are perfect for families and kids, while the beachfront rides are ideal for a relaxed experience.
The best time to visit is during late spring to early fall, especially if you want to take full advantage of the beach and outdoor attractions. For fewer crowds, late spring or early fall is ideal, as these times offer pleasant weather without the high-season crowds.
3. Frankie’s Fun Park in North Charleston: Family-Friendly Fun in Charleston
Frankie’s Fun Park: Indoor and Outdoor Adventure
For a more laid-back, family-friendly experience, Frankie’s Fun Park in North Charleston is one of the top amusement parks in South Carolina. This park offers a great mix of indoor and outdoor activities, making it perfect for a day of fun in any weather. The park has a wide variety of attractions, including go-kart racing, mini-golf, bumper boats, laser tag, and arcade games.
If you’re looking for some excitement, Frankie’s Fun Park also features a roller coaster, which offers a mild thrill that younger children will enjoy, along with a variety of family rides like the Swing Ride and Bumper Cars. The laser tag arena is a favorite among families and groups, providing a fun and competitive experience.
Top Attractions & Best Time to Visit
Make sure to check out the Go-Karts for some friendly racing action, and don’t miss the Mini-Golf for a more relaxed outdoor activity. The Laser Tag Arena is another must-see, providing hours of fun for the whole family.
The best time to visit Frankie’s Fun Park is during the spring or fall, when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are manageable. This will allow you to enjoy both the indoor and outdoor attractions without long wait times.
4. Wild Water & Wheels in Surfside Beach: A Perfect Waterpark Getaway
Wild Water & Wheels: Thrills, Water Slides, and More
Located in Surfside Beach, Wild Water & Wheels is one of the best amusement parks in South Carolina for water park fun and classic rides. This park features a wide variety of water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools, making it the perfect spot to cool off during the hot summer months. Whether you’re looking for high-speed thrills or a more relaxed experience, Wild Water & Wheels has something for everyone.
The park is home to water slides like the Aqua Loop, a high-speed slide that shoots riders through a near-vertical loop, and Wahoo Racer, a competitive slide where you can race against your friends. For those looking to take it easy, the Lazy River and Wave Pool are perfect for relaxation. Additionally, the park features mini-golf and classic amusement rides like the Ferris Wheel and Kiddie Rides.
Top Attractions & Best Time to Visit
Make sure to ride Aqua Loop, one of the most thrilling water slides in the park, and Wahoo Racer for a competitive race. For a more relaxed experience, enjoy the Lazy River or take a ride on the Ferris Wheel.
The best time to visit Wild Water & Wheels is during summer, when all the water slides and attractions are in full operation. However, for fewer crowds, visit in early summer or late summer, when school is back in session and the park is less crowded.
5. South Carolina State Fair in Columbia: Classic Fair Fun
South Carolina State Fair: Classic Amusement Park Rides and Games
The South Carolina State Fair, held annually in Columbia, is a highlight for visitors looking for classic fair rides, carnival games, and local food vendors. Though not a year-round amusement park, the South Carolina State Fair offers an experience that’s as exciting as any permanent amusement park. From roller coasters to funhouses and ferris wheels, this annual fair offers a nostalgic, family-friendly atmosphere.
The fair features a variety of classic rides like the Tilt-a-Whirl, Ferris Wheel, and Bumper Cars, as well as games and exhibitions showcasing local agriculture and crafts. It’s a fun event for all ages, especially during its seasonal festivities like Halloween and Christmas, where it becomes even more magical with lights, themed events, and entertainment.
Top Attractions & Best Time to Visit
Don’t miss the Tilt-a-Whirl for a classic, dizzying ride and the Ferris Wheel for stunning views of Columbia. Be sure to check out the live shows, games, and exhibitions during the fair as well.
The South Carolina State Fair typically takes place in October, so visiting during this time will give you the full experience. However, visiting during the spring months will allow you to enjoy a more relaxed, quiet visit before peak season.
Show Your South Carolina Adventure with Teeholic’s Apparel
Before experiencing the best amusement parks in South Carolina, why not take along a piece of the fun with Teeholic’s American States Collection? Featuring stylish and comfortable tees that showcase South Carolina’s iconic landmarks, Teeholic’s collection lets you carry a part of your adventure with you wherever you go.
Wear your South Carolina pride and relive the excitement of your amusement park experiences with Teeholic’s trendy apparel!
Final Thoughts: Unforgettable Fun at South Carolina’s Amusement Parks
South Carolina’s amusement parks offer an exciting variety of experiences for visitors of all ages, from the high-speed thrills at Carowinds to the relaxing water slides at Wild Water & Wheels. Whether you’re seeking a classic fair experience at the South Carolina State Fair, a family day of fun at Frankie’s Fun Park, or a mix of roller coasters and water fun at Valleyfair, South Carolina provides endless entertainment opportunities.
So, pack your bags, grab your Teeholic tee, and get ready to experience the adventure of a lifetime at the best amusement parks in South Carolina. The Palmetto State awaits!
