Tired of forgetting to do that SignUp Genius for your pool spot?! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been late to that party! Have no fear, we’ve come up with a few “outside of the box” ideas that will motivate you to get out and have some summer fun with your fam!
First up…
SouthTown Wake Park for the Bigs:
PhotoCreds: SouthTown Wake Park Facebook
SouthTown Wake Park has been the talk of the teen scene in South Charlotte. It’s such a good option to get outside safely and enjoy some Carolina sunshine while trying out some new tricks. SouthTown Wake Park has two custom lakes providing the ultimate experience for riders of all skill levels. The Get Started Lake is equipped with a beginner System 2.0 helping first-time riders to quick success! Riders on the main lake will enjoy practicing their skills on a full size cable and Unit Parktech features.
Cost: $35 and up for 2 hours or more
Hours: Open Daily from 12-8p
Location: 255 East Rambo Road, Rock Hill, SC 29730
Phone: 803-324-3020
SouthTown/Union Aqua Park for the Littles:
Photo Creds: SouthTown Wake Park Facebook
This inflatable obstacle course is perfect for ages 7 and up and 48 inches tall and is sure to add some fun to your summer.
Cost: $15/45 minutes
Hours: Open Daily from 12-8p
Location: 255 East Rambo Road, Rock Hill, SC 29730
Phone: 803-324-3020
Smarty Tip: Online Pre-booking is advised to guarantee your space. Walk-ups are welcome as space allows. Please arrive 15 minutes before your session. All participants must have completed an online waiver. Ages 7 and up
U.S. National Whitewater Center
PhotoCreds: U.S. National Whitewater Center Facebook
Team CSP loves the U.S. National Whitewater Center for all kinds of fun activities including whitewater rafting, whitewater kayaking, flatwater kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, ziplines, adventure ropes courses, mountain biking, and more. Most activities require a pass, but for mountain biking and hiking, you just pay $6/day for parking.
Cost: $49/child (9 & under), $59/adult. Single activity passes start at $25.
Hours: 9a-7p
Location: 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28214
Phone: 704.391.3900
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The Quarry at Carrigan Farms
The Quarry is a Team Smarty favorite because it really feels like you’re on vacation yet it’s a pretty quick drive from just about anywhere in the QC. Located just outside Charlotte in Mooresville, The Quarry is fed by an underground spring and rimmed in rock that rises to 70 feet – it’s absolutely stunning. The water is emerald green and blue with gray granite cliffs and a white, sandy beach – it’s perfect for a family picnic and swimming on a hot Carolina day. For full details on planning your visit, click here.
Cost: $15 per person Mon-Fri and $20 per person on weekends and holidays
Hours: Monday – Friday 10a-3p (reservations are required, they often sell out). Friday – Sunday 4-9p, some Wednesdays
Location: 1213 Oak Ridge Farm Hwy
Mooresville, NC 28115
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Whitewater Rafting with High Mountain Expeditions
Plan a full or half day rafting adventure with our friends at High Mountain Expeditions – your entire family will have a blast! With trips on the Watauga River and Nolichucky River, you’ll find the perfect rapids for your comfort level. Click here for all of our Smarty tips in planning your trip.
Cost: $85/person for full day trip; $65/adult and $55/kids for half day trip
Location: Boone & Banner Elk
Ages: 9 & up for full day trips; 3 & up for half day trips
Follow High Mountain Expeditions:
Reservations can be made online or over the phone (828) 266-RAFT.
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New River Tubing & Kayaking with High Mountain Expeditions
Tubing on the New River (just outside of Boone) is the perfect way to relax on a hot summer afternoon. The New River is one of the oldest and most prestigious rivers in the world. It flows north, from its headwaters in North Carolina into West Virginia and beyond. High Mountain Expeditions offers the unique opportunity to float this pure, clear, free flowing river. Water temperatures are inviting and offer a reprieve from the hot summer sun. Learn more about tubing here and kayaking/canoeing here. Find full details here when planning your trip.
Cost: $20/person + $10/cooler (might be fun to pack some libations:-)
Location: Boone, NC
Ages: All ages
Follow High Mountain Expeditions:
Reservations can be made online or over the phone (828) 266-RAFT.
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