Carowinds Season Pass: Everything You Need to Know
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.
What is a Season Pass
A Carowinds Season Oass 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.
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 three types of Season Passes at Carowinds:
- Silver Pass
- Gold Pass
- Platinum Pass
Pass Differences
The Silver Pass is designed for visitors whose main priority is being able to visit the park consistently.
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 the most expensive pass.
Silver Pass
- Free General Parking
- Unlimited Summer & Waterpark Visits
- Unlimited Fall Daytime Visits
- 10% Food & Merchandise Discounts
- Bring-A-Friend Discount Tickets
- Pass Perks Rewards
Gold Pass
- Renewing Passholders Get 1 Free Bring-A-Friend Ticket+
- Free General Parking
- Unlimited Summer & Waterpark Visits
- Unlimited Fall Daytime Visits
- 10% Food & Merchandise Discounts
- Bring-A-Friend Discount Tickets
- Pass Perks Rewards
- Unlimited WinterFest Visits
- Eligible for 2 Pre-K Passes
- Early Entry to Park and Waterpark
- Admission to Scarowinds
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.
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
- Select which season pass you want to purchase
- Input your billing information
- Upload a picture of yourself for your season pass or opt to take a picture at the park
- 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.
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.
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:
- 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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