Carowinds Season Pass | Simply Explained

by Theme Park Center

In this page we'll go over what a Carowinds season pass is, the differences between the various season passes, what perks they offer, how you can pay for it, and even the upgrades that you can make.

carowinds season pass rides

Table of Contents

    What is a Season Pass

    A season pass allows a pass holder to visit the park an unlimited number of times throughout the 'season' in a year, on all days that are open to the public.

    carowinds gold pass

    These passes offer benefits including early access to Carolina Harbor water park, access to special events, and discounts, which we will all cover later.

    You'll notice that it is called a 'Season Pass' rather than an 'Annual Pass' and that's because Carowinds is not open year-round.

    Types of Passes & Benefits

    There are two types of Season Passes at Kings Island, known as the Gold and Platinum pass.

    carowinds platinum pass

    Pass Differences

    The main difference is the Gold Pass only allows you access to Carowinds, while the Platinum Pass allows you access to ALL Cedar Fair parks for the season.

    Pricing-wise, the Platinum pass is more expensive than the Gold pass.

    Gold Pass

    • Renewing Passholders Get 1 Free Bring-A-Friend Ticket*
    • Easy Payment Plan
    • Pass Perks Rewards
    • Unlimited Visits to Carowinds in 2021 & 2022
    • Unlimited Visits to Carolina Harbor Water Park in 2021 & 2022
    • Exclusive Ride Times on Select Rides
    • 10% off of Food & Merchandise
    • Early Ride Time on Select Attractions
    • Early Access to Carolina Harbor
    • Exclusive Events and Promotions
    • Bring-A-Friend Discounts
    • Discounts at OnSite Hotel & Campground
    • Admission to Scarowinds
    • Admission to Winterfest
    • Free Parking for the Season

    Platinum Pass

    • Everything that a Gold Pass offers + access to ALL Cedar Fair parks for the entire season

    Easy Pay Plan

    The Easy Pay Plan is a payment plan that you can follow to pay for your season passes in multiple payments.

    kings island checkout

    This allows you to have the flexibility to split up your payment over several months, rather than paying it all at once.

    You'll have an initial payment, and for the next 11 months, you'll pay a fixed amount every month.

    How it Works

    1. Select which season pass you want to purchase
    2. Input your billing information
    3. Upload a picture of yourself for your season pass or opt to take a picture at the park
    4. Check out

    Paying in Full

    If you're not interested in splitting up the payments, you're also able to pay for your season pass all at once.

    pay in full

    How to Get My Season Pass

    Purchase directly from the Carowinds Official site.

    When Should I Get a Season Pass

    If you're planning on visiting the park at least 2 times in a season, a season pass may be a good option for you. You'll receive countless perks, and save plenty of money along the way.

    carowinds fun

    A Gold Pass in particular, pays for itself in under 2 visits.

    Additionally, the free parking along with access to Carolina Harbor, and special events, such Scarowinds and Winterfest, will allow you access to these limited time events.

    When Should I Not Get a Season Pass

    If you're only planning on visiting the park once for the entire season, it most likely will not be worth the investment.

    Season passes normally make sense for guests that will visit the park several times in a season.

    Season Pass Upgrades

    During checkout, you will be given an option to upgrade your pass with a variety of options (that will also last for the entire season) including:

    kings island season pass drink plan

    • All Season Dining
    • All Season Pass Drink Plan
    • All Season Drink Bottle
    • All Season FunPix

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Are Carowinds Season Passes Worth it?

    Season passes are absolutely worth it, especially if you're planning on visiting the park twice in a season. In two visits, the pass will basically pay for itself, and you'll receive dozens of amazing benefits as well.

    Do Carowinds Tickets Include the Waterpark?

    Yes, Carowinds tickets do include access to Carolina Harbor. For single day admission tickets, you'll want to double check to ensure that you have access, and for season passes, access to the water park is always included.

    Does the Gold Pass Include Food?

    The Gold pass doesn't include food, but it does offer Gold pass member discounts for food and drinks. It is normally around 10% off on select food, drinks and merchandise.

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