There are many water parks close to Charlotte, North Carolina. This is a guide to four of the best local water parks in or near Charlotte, NC.
Rays Splash Planet
Ray is the mascot of this Charlotte, NC, favorite cool spot. Rays Splash Planet has partnered up with the county school system and is located in the Irwin Academic Center at 329 N. Irwin Ave in town. Check their website to see when they are open. Their hours vary quite a bit, especially on holidays.
Rays has a large indoor facility. It has a natural creek that runs across the perimeter, a fitness center, and many activities to keep the children busy. Voted number one in Charlotte by many, Rays Splash Planet is the place to keep your cool.
Great Wolf Lodge
The water park equivalent to the Grand Canyon is a reference that Great Wolf Lodge definitely lives up to. Located in Concord, NC this water park is a short 30 minute ride from Charlotte and one of a dozen located across the United States.
This wonderful place is a great water park and more with it’s 80,000 square feet facility. Many locals go there to ride the Howlin’ Tornado, race down the Mountain Edge Raceway, or slide down the River Canyon Run. This is just the beginning of all the fun your family can enjoy.
Boomerang Bay
Carowinds is where Boomerang Bay calls home. Carowinds is a large entertainment park that many locals carry a season pass and go to often. Located 15 minutes from downtown Charlotte on the North/South Carolina border.
Many families make a day at the park and include the water attractions as part of their overall entertainment. Carowinds is well known for the water park, great rides, and often provides local and national live entertainment with it’s several stage areas.
National Whitewater Center
Charlotte, NC is also the home to the US National Whitewater Center, or USNWC. There is much happening on this 500 acre Catawba River facility. Your family will be thrilled on the whitewater rafting trip, kayaking down the river, riding mountain bikes, or walking the trails. If that is not enough then there is live entertainment, rock climbing and a summer camp.
The park is located in the city limits at 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway. Check their online calendar for scheduled classes and events. Water activities are usually open daily from 10am to 9pm.
Conclusion
Charlotte definitely has no lack of places for families to have fun in the water. Children and adults can find no better way to enjoy hot summer days than at a water park. These four parks in or near Charlotte, NC will help you keep your cool and provide much entertainment for the entire family.
Other Articles by David Bryan Bolick:
Guide to Four Art Galleries in Hickory, North Carolina
A Guide to Antique Shops in Taylorsville, North Carolina
