Charlotte, NC

This summer, there are going to be thousands of youngsters who’ll quickly become bored if they don’t have something exciting to do. One of the most fun-filled places to quench their activity thirst is the 105-acre water and amusement world of Carowinds, which straddles the state line just southwest of Charlotte. Since opening in 1973, it’s satisfied millions of visitors with a wide assortment of rides (including thrilling roller-coasters), live shows, concerts starring top artists, water activities, games and more.

With the ambience of an old-time county fair (in fact, they have an attraction area with that name), it draws visitors from around the world as a pleasant alternative to the “daily grind” — especially during hot summer days, when kids are on vacation from their schools.

The Park is easy to find: One you’re in town, just get on Interstate 77 South and take the ramp off Exit 90. Then simply turn right onto the ramp leading to Carowinds Blvd.

Another favorite among kids and parents alike is the Zuma Fun Station, an activity-filled wonderland near Pineville (only about a mile south of Charlotte on Highway 521). Formerly known as Celebration Station, it’s chock-full of batting cages, bumper boats, go-karts, kiddie rides, video games — just about everything you’d need to pacify even the squirmiest of children! And, parents, it’s easy on the wallet (and feet), so you can breathe easy! This is one park that you’ll wanna visit frequently during the summer!

A perennial attraction is the magnificent Freedom Park, a 98-acre picture of serenity close to downtown Charlotte. Along with some of the most beautiful terrain the city has to offer, the park has four baseball fields, a number of batting cages, tennis, basketball and volleyball courts, picnic shelters, an indoor shelter, concession stands, a hiking trail, an amphitheatre and, of course, a play ground.. There’s even a 1920s steam locomotive stationed near the playground that kids can explore. For those who enjoy relaxing behind a fishing pole, the lake’s open and well-stocked.

Not only does this historic (and free) attraction lure walkers, bikers, skateboarders, inline wheelers and, yes, pet enthusiasts who want to take Fido on a peaceful stroll; it also hosts the annual Festival In The Park, a wonderful display of sights and sounds as the best of local artists display their work amidst Freedom Park’s tranquil setting. Music abounds with performances from up-and-coming singers and finely-tuned orchestral groups alike. The event is a “must-see” for anyone visiting the area in September.

There’s so much more that can be enjoyed in and around Charlotte during the summer, and this particular post can’t really capture them all in the space provided: Kings Mountain State Park (the area of a pivotal Revolutionary War battle); Discovery Place (a hands-on adventure through the world of science); James K. Polk Park (in Pineville; the birthplace of the 11th President of the United States); and, of course, the wonderful malls (including multi-leveled Carolina Place).

And, if that’s not enough, there are fantastic events constantly scheduled at the Bank of America Stadium, an amazing Raptor Center full of winged wonders and feathered friends (located in Huntersville, just north of Charlotte) and, of course, Lowe’s Motor Speedway — home of NASCAR.

So make this summer a memorable — and fun-filled — one by taking in some of our favorite fun spots! You need the break from the everyday routine, anyway, right? Charlotte’s the one spot that honestly says: Give us a little of your free time, and we’ll give you an exciting world you’ll never forget!