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SNEAK PEEK: An inside look at Carowinds' newest attractions

By Greg Suskin, wsoctv.com
By Greg Suskin, wsoctv.com

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Channel 9 got a sneak peek Thursday at the newest attractions at Carowinds amusement park.

The equipment for the new rides arrived last month.

[Carowinds adding new kiddie rides in 2018]

The park is expanding its kids’ area, called "Camp Snoopy," and will feature six new rides.

The expansion includes rides such as the Kite-Eating Tree, Camp Bus, Trailblazers, Pig Pen's Mud Buddies, a tea-cup style ride called Woodstock Whirlybirds and an 8,000-square foot playground.

“It's fun,” said head of construction Steve Jackson. “It's a lot of fun, doing all this new stuff."

[CLICK HERE to learn more about park hours]

[PAST COVERAGE: Carowinds unveils four new rides, new themed area]

Carowinds is turning its attention from towering roller coasters to its smallest visitors.

"We've got the amazing Fury 325, we've got the huge water park, and now it's time to turn our focus to the young ones,” said Lisa Stryker, of Carowinds.

It's part of a $50 million investment by parent company Cedar Fair, which bought the park in 2006.

Four years ago, Carowinds officials announced the huge Fury 325 coaster; three years ago, a major expansion to the water park; and in 2016, a frightening new water slide.

Last year, the park added a county fair feel, bringing back the feel of a classic carnival.

Carowinds doesn't release attendance figures, but officials said crowds have grown with recent expansions.  Several sources reported that in 2015, the park topped 2 million visitors for the first time.

To draw young families in to try out the new rides, the park is unveiling the new Pre-K Pass, which gives kids age 3 to 5 years old free admission for the entire 2018 season.

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