South Carolina, a state renowned for its rich history, stunning coastline, and vibrant culture, also offers a delightful array of amusement parks and family entertainment centers. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker craving the adrenaline rush of a towering roller coaster or simply seeking a fun-filled day with the family, South Carolina has something to offer everyone. This guide explores the major and minor amusement parks in and around South Carolina, providing a glimpse into the thrills and excitement that await.
Myrtle Beach: The Epicenter of Amusement
Myrtle Beach, the jewel of the Grand Strand, is undoubtedly the epicenter of amusement and entertainment in South Carolina. This bustling coastal city boasts a collection of parks, each with its unique charm and attractions.
Broadway Grand Prix in Myrtle Beach
Broadway Grand Prix is a haven for racing enthusiasts and families alike. This family entertainment center is centered around go-karts, offering an impressive selection of seven distinct tracks. From the challenging slick track to the professional-grade track and the high-bank oval, there’s a course to suit every skill level and preference.
Beyond the go-karts, Broadway Grand Prix offers a variety of other attractions to keep visitors entertained for hours. Challenge your friends to a round of mini-golf on one of the creatively designed courses, bump and jostle in the bumper cars, or test your climbing skills on the towering rock-climbing wall. An expansive arcade filled with classic and modern games provides even more opportunities for fun and friendly competition.
For younger children, Broadway Grand Prix features a dedicated Kiddie Land area with gentle rides such as a miniature carousel, a pint-sized Ferris wheel, and a charming train that meanders through the park.
Family Kingdom in Myrtle Beach
Step back in time at Family Kingdom, one of the few remaining traditional seaside amusement parks in the United States. This classic park exudes a nostalgic charm, reminiscent of a bygone era of family vacations and boardwalk thrills.
The park’s centerpiece is Swamp Fox, a magnificent wooden roller coaster that delivers a thrilling ride with plenty of airtime and classic coaster thrills. Beyond the iconic coaster, Family Kingdom offers a diverse collection of rides and attractions. Experience the exhilarating freefall of Sling Shot, a 100-foot drop tower, or take a refreshing plunge down the log flume. Bumper cars provide classic amusement, while Pistolero Roundup, an interactive dark ride, lets you test your shooting skills in a Wild West-themed adventure.
Funplex in Myrtle Beach
The Funplex in Myrtle Beach is a newer addition to the city’s entertainment scene. This compact amusement park offers a concentrated dose of thrills and excitement with its seven family-friendly rides.
One of the park’s standout attractions is a unique roller coaster featuring "hamster wheel" cars that spin vertically as they navigate the track. This innovative design adds an extra layer of excitement and disorientation to the ride experience (those prone to motion sickness may want to consider carefully before riding). Other attractions include a drop tower that provides a thrilling vertical plunge and spinning rides that will leave you dizzy with delight. To complete the experience, Funplex also offers a walk-up bar and restaurant, providing a convenient place to grab a bite or relax with a refreshing drink.
O.D. Pavilion Amusement Park in North Myrtle Beach
O.D. Pavilion Amusement Park, located in North Myrtle Beach, offers a more traditional carnival-style experience. This small park features portable rides such as the classic Tilt-A-Whirl, a towering Ferris wheel that offers panoramic views of the coastline, and a thrilling tall slide.
The "O.D." in the park’s name stands for Ocean Drive, the bustling thoroughfare that runs alongside the Grand Strand. The "Pavilion" part of the name pays homage to the beloved Myrtle Beach Pavilion, a historic seaside park that was a fixture of the city’s entertainment scene from 1948 to 2006.
Pavilion Park in Myrtle Beach
Pavilion Park, located at Broadway at the Beach, serves as a loving tribute to the now-defunct Myrtle Beach Pavilion. This charming park captures the spirit and nostalgia of its predecessor, offering a mix of classic rides and modern attractions.
A handful of rides, including the historic carousel and band organ, were salvaged from the closed Myrtle Beach Pavilion and lovingly restored for Pavilion Park. These vintage attractions add a touch of history and charm to the park’s atmosphere. Other attractions include a large Ferris wheel, whimsical tea cups, and a thrilling Wave Swinger.
Beyond Myrtle Beach: Other Amusement Options
While Myrtle Beach is the undisputed hub of amusement in South Carolina, there are other options to explore throughout the state.
Pedroland (South of the Border) in Dillon
Pedroland, located at the iconic South of the Border roadside attraction in Dillon, is a quirky and unforgettable destination for travelers along I-95. The billboards begin their teasing hundreds of miles in advance, building anticipation for this unique landmark.
More than just an amusement park, Pedroland is a sprawling complex that includes a truck stop, numerous gift shops, restaurants, and other diversions. Among the eclectic mix of attractions, you’ll find a few rides, including a Ferris wheel and bumper cars.
Tilt Studio in Florence
Tilt Studio, located within the Magnolia Mall in Florence, offers an indoor family entertainment experience. The center features unique bumper cars with the ability to spin or flip passengers upside down, adding an extra layer of excitement to the classic ride.
Other attractions include bowling, black light mini-golf, a laser tag arena, a laser maze, and an Indy 500 driving simulator. Tilt Studio also offers a party room for birthdays and special events, making it a popular destination for celebrations.
Carowinds: A Border-Crossing Thrill
While technically located in Charlotte, North Carolina, Carowinds deserves a prominent mention on this list due to its unique location. The state line between North and South Carolina runs directly through the center of the park, making it a truly bi-state amusement destination.
Carowinds is a massive park packed with thrilling roller coasters, including the record-breaking Fury 325, a giga-coaster that climbs 325 feet and reaches speeds of 95 mph. The park is also home to Intimidator, a hypercoaster inspired by the legendary NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt. Admission to Carowinds includes access to Carolina Harbor, a sprawling water park with slides, pools, and other aquatic attractions.
Gone But Not Forgotten: Hard Rock Park and Freestyle Music Park
A brief mention must be made of two ambitious theme parks that once graced the Myrtle Beach landscape but have since closed their doors. Hard Rock Park, based on the iconic Hard Rock Cafe brand, operated for a single season in 2008. The park featured impressive coasters and rides themed to rock music, including the Moody Blues-inspired dark ride, Nights in White Satin – The Trip. After closing, the park was rebranded as Freestyle Music Park, which operated for one season in 2009 before also closing.
South Carolina: Your Destination for Amusement and Thrills
Looking for Coasters and Fun in South Carolina? South Carolina offers a diverse range of amusement parks and family entertainment centers to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re seeking the adrenaline rush of a towering roller coaster, the nostalgia of a classic seaside park, or the quirky charm of a roadside attraction, South Carolina has something to offer everyone. So, pack your bags, gather your family and friends, and get ready for a memorable adventure filled with coasters, thrills, and endless fun in the Palmetto State. Looking for Coasters and Fun in South Carolina? is an easy and satisfying experience when you get to see South Carolina’s amusement parks.
The state offers a variety of options, from classic seaside parks to modern entertainment centers. So, start planning your trip and get ready to experience the thrills and excitement of South Carolina’s amusement scene.
