The Bankrupt Creation of Carowinds: One Carolina Man's Dream

Ойын-сауық

Join us on Expedition Carowinds to celebrate the park's 50th anniversary as we look back at the creation of the park, which stemmed from one man's dream. Inspired by Disneyland, the theme park located on a state border was not off to quite as smooth start as it would like.
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Credits -
www.carowinds.com
Uncle Walter Lee - • Carowinds - 1973
Park Rovers - • Carolina Skytower at C...
Matthew Mcswain - • Carowinds monorail
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Пікірлер: 503

  • @ExpeditionThemePark
    @ExpeditionThemePark Жыл бұрын

    First person to tag me in a picture of you wearing the new shirt to Carowinds wins! Get 10 percent off the new Expedition Carowinds shirt using code EXP10 - expeditionthemepark.creator-spring.com/listing/expedition-carowinds?product=2 Check out our new podcast here www.expeditionenthused.com

  • @racheljackson4428

    @racheljackson4428

    Жыл бұрын

    Wow 50 years of CaroWinds. they must do something special to celebrate.

  • @coreylineberry8557

    @coreylineberry8557

    Жыл бұрын

    @@racheljackson4428 They're making the park a year-round park (They're actually open today) and opening up a new area of the park, with restaurants and new rides.

  • @MAGGOT_VOMIT

    @MAGGOT_VOMIT

    Жыл бұрын

    Wonderful vid!! Can't wait till ya cover Carowinds during Halloween when it's called, SCAROWINDS!! That has been me and my wife's favorite time to go since the kids are now grown.

  • @MiggerPlease

    @MiggerPlease

    18 күн бұрын

    @@racheljackson4428I'm a big gay nigga ok lol

  • @jameshhenderson
    @jameshhenderson Жыл бұрын

    I was the “young boy” (mentioned at 10:41) who wrote Pat Hall 50 years ago asking to buy the first ticket. My daughters and I were invited to “cut the ribbon” last week for the 50th anniversary. Much has changed, and current ownership is making investments to keep it fun and relevant. The rollercoasters were great, even for a 61 year old.

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Hey Jim! That’s amazing I saw you went and cut the ribbon for the new land. Wish I could have mentioned that in the video but was just after. I was going to include your name but wasn’t sure if it would be appropriate to. I hope you are doing well. Would love to chat to you more if you have time! Sam@expeditionthemepark.com

  • @livermush

    @livermush

    Жыл бұрын

    Neat

  • @joutoob9

    @joutoob9

    Жыл бұрын

    hell ya that's awesome!!

  • @maxtirk7752

    @maxtirk7752

    8 ай бұрын

    🎉😊 i love this You deserve it!!!

  • @Cap-ku6ok
    @Cap-ku6ok Жыл бұрын

    This is by far the best telling of Carowind's history I have ever seen, and that is coming from a person who actually lived it from the planning stages until now. Thank you very much.

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much. I really appreciate it

  • @CardinalKaos

    @CardinalKaos

    Жыл бұрын

    The care this team/person puts into researching and producing these episodes js simply second to absolutely no one

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    @@CardinalKaos thank you! And it’s just me 😀

  • @CardinalKaos

    @CardinalKaos

    Жыл бұрын

    ​@@ExpeditionThemePark honestly that makes it all the more impressive

  • @coreym162

    @coreym162

    Жыл бұрын

    Exactly! The days of true capitalism. When people enjoyed making people's lives better above making a mere profit.

  • @April235E
    @April235E Жыл бұрын

    Park fans and Carolinians really felt it when Cedar Fair removed the beloved Thunder Road (and probably the log flumes just as much.) I love Carowinds history!

  • @coreylineberry8557
    @coreylineberry8557 Жыл бұрын

    As a former Carowinds employee who loved working there, I always love to hear more about Carowinds.

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Yesss

  • @MM-ux7kp

    @MM-ux7kp

    Жыл бұрын

    Your hard work at Carowinds meant a whole lot to me as a kid! All the people who worked and kept the park operating deserve credit for the amazing memories we created :D

  • @ryanstrong1167

    @ryanstrong1167

    Жыл бұрын

    BTW douche Corey. Carowinds fuuuuuckinh sucks. Sorry not sorry MAGIC MOINTAIN 🐐

  • @coreylineberry8557

    @coreylineberry8557

    4 ай бұрын

    ​@@MM-ux7kpOh, I worked there from 2018-2021. Not exactly a long time ago. But thank you!

  • @taylorstenhouse6168
    @taylorstenhouse6168 Жыл бұрын

    One of the theme park KZreadrs I watch FINALLY did a video on my local park, thank you so much!!!

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you! I love Carowinds

  • @ryanahr2267

    @ryanahr2267

    Жыл бұрын

    I always forget that there's a local park for the Carolinas. The first time I went was just a few years ago. 2017, maybe or 2018. Just a few months prior I went to Universal for the first time, so I wasn't terribly impressed with Carowinds. I feel like I need to revisit it, though.

  • @TimmehJay

    @TimmehJay

    Жыл бұрын

    Yes! What an unexpected surprise!

  • @DrewberTravels
    @DrewberTravels Жыл бұрын

    I went to Carowinds with family as a kid. First day was like any other theme park trip with family and waiting in line. At the end of the day my parents asked if I wanted to come back tomorrow with the second day pass while they went to the mall. I jumped on it and went when it opened that day. There was literally nobody there. I just ran from one ride to another and got right on the line everytime. At some point I ran into some other kid that was there alone and we hung out together for the day. Best amusement park memory every and I visited a lot of them as a kid.

  • @superd4611
    @superd4611 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you for doing this video. The original Carowinds was absolutely one of the best planned theme parks in existence. The overall Carolina theme tied everything together. It was a beautiful park full of water and interesting buildings and lots of things for everyone to do. This continue to exist through the Taft years. But then KECO came along And the park started seriously deteriorating because of their debtload. Then the park was absolutely devastated by paramount ownership. They ripped out every bit of Carolina charm from the park. Hardly any of the original park exist these days. They ripped out virtually every family, transportation ride, Theater, and almost all of the water. Cedar fair has done a wonderful job bringing Carolina theming and renovating the park. However. The park seriously lacks slow, moving family rides and entertainment venues. It’s still a thrill park aimed at teenagers instead of those with better incomes.

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks so much Doug

  • @ducatisti

    @ducatisti

    Жыл бұрын

    I agree that it's a thrill park, but I don't agree it's aimed at teenagers, plenty of older folks love big air and intensity. Case in point, the American Coaster Enthusiasts annual Coaster Con is being held there this summer, and although they do have some younger members they definitely skew much older than teens!

  • @williammurray8060

    @williammurray8060

    Жыл бұрын

    Too many gangsters now. Stay away

  • @mackpines
    @mackpines Жыл бұрын

    As someone who’s visited the park while visiting Charlotte, Carowinds is a great park to have in the area. One thing I’ve noticed is that Charlotte is devoid of a zoo or other amusements. Carowinds is a essential asset for the surrounding area.

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    That’s true!

  • @kevindavis900

    @kevindavis900

    Жыл бұрын

    Actually, the zoo story is more complex than you would think. NC is historically a very progressive state, indeed the home of the oldest public university in the US (UNC). In the mid-20th century, North Carolina decided to create a state-supported public zoo along with some aquariums and a state art museum. The NC Zoo - considered one of the best in the US, and the first to use naturalistic settings - is in Asheboro, a 60-90 minute drive from the three largest metro areas: Charlotte, the Triad (Greensboro/WS/HP) and the Triangle (Durham, Chapel Hill, Raleigh) and also close for Fayetteville and Sanford residents. The Uwharrie Mountains in which the zoo is set are some of the oldest in the world and make great settings for the Africa exhibits and others. I’m glad that instead of each metro trying to build their own zoo we have one awesome state zoo. That’s the kind of planning NC is known for.

  • @coreylineberry8557

    @coreylineberry8557

    4 ай бұрын

    ​@@kevindavis900One of the largest zoos in the world, too. Might take the crown as _the_ largest once the Australia and Asia pavilions open up.

  • @triton6127
    @triton6127 Жыл бұрын

    My favorite memory of Carowinds was in the 80's when I went to see Patti LaBelle in concert and Whoopi Goldberg sat a few rows in front of me. I didn't think it was her until I remembered they were filming The Color Purple nearby at the time.

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    That’s awesome!

  • @ChairmanChico
    @ChairmanChico Жыл бұрын

    Brother you have no idea how it warms my heart that my home park FINALLY has an ETP badge.

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    It’s finally time!

  • @tufab3494
    @tufab3494 Жыл бұрын

    Guys, I think it's safe to say that ETP is indeed back! After a 4 month break we already got 4 videos in the course of 2 months! Glad to see this! Big shoutout from Brazil my G, keep up the great work!

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    I am indeed! Thank you so much

  • @tufab3494

    @tufab3494

    Жыл бұрын

    @@ExpeditionThemePark I'm glad to hear that! And if you don't mind a suggestion, I think it would be very cool to go a different route and make a video on Monte Makaya - The record holder coaster that was cloned to build Colossus at Thorpe Park. It's Intamin's 10 inversion coaster prototype, which held the record for most inversions alongside Dragon Khan from 98 to 2002 (as a prototype it had 8 inversions, unlike Colossus which broke the record with 10), and surprinsilly it was built in Rio de Janeiro, here in Brazil! It is planned to reopen at Mirabilandia (not the italian one), in the state of Pernambuco, in the next 2 or 3 years. It would be very nice to see a 10 min long video about it, as it's been forgot and is almost unkown between the CE community. If you decide to make a video on it, you can contact the guys from HapFun Brasil who can help you with all the info needed!

  • @data-_-
    @data-_- Жыл бұрын

    since Carowinds is my home park (and I've been going since I was little) it always feels like I got a personal shoutout when someone says something about Carowinds in a video, let alone an entire video about it! I know know my way around Carowinds better than I do my house! lol

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    I hope you enjoy it!

  • @emilybenge_
    @emilybenge_ Жыл бұрын

    Oh my god its my Home Park!! I never thought I’d ever see Carowinds on the channel, this is so cool! Your videos are always so well done and I love looking at all the different rides and stories of these parks. Never have I clicked faster on a video.

  • @hopejordan2997

    @hopejordan2997

    Жыл бұрын

    My home park too!

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much. Hope you enjoy!

  • @marissam6595

    @marissam6595

    Жыл бұрын

    It’s mine too!! I’ve never been so excited! 🎉

  • @MrCamzdad

    @MrCamzdad

    Жыл бұрын

    Mine too

  • @williamgibson9291

    @williamgibson9291

    Жыл бұрын

    I worked there 9 seasons. My brother did 10 i think. So much has changed but i still love the park.

  • @kennedymcgovern5413
    @kennedymcgovern5413 Жыл бұрын

    Every kid that grew up in Carolina has a childhood story about standing on the state line at Carowinds and jumping from state to state. And it did continue to get better. By the time I moved here as a 10 year old in 1980, they had "White Lightning," which was a one loop coaster, and "The Carolina Cyclone" which had four loops. Hell, I am 53 and I almost want to go back this weekend!

  • @mindwarp42

    @mindwarp42

    9 ай бұрын

    It's not just kids who grew up in SC who have that memory. I grew up in NY, but half of my family is Southern, and I remember going to Carowinds as a teen visiting my mom in Rock Hill after my parents divorced and she moved back to SC. You better believe my sister and I had fun crossiing the state line.

  • @kennedymcgovern5413

    @kennedymcgovern5413

    9 ай бұрын

    @@mindwarp42 awesome, brother

  • @guardianofcreativity4860
    @guardianofcreativity4860 Жыл бұрын

    I’ve been watching these KZread theme park documentaries for years and it’s so exciting seeing my home park getting a video! I remember as a kid (and honestly still as an adult) we would jump back and forth over the state line in the park and put one foot on each side for fun.

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    It has to be done!

  • @Cris-em9tn

    @Cris-em9tn

    Жыл бұрын

    I’d totally do that too. I went on a road trip last year to move my best friend back home, so we went from LA to NY. I’m still grumpy I forgot about the Four Corners Monument. I, a 32 year old adult, wanted to run in a circle chanting which of the 4 states I was in each time I went around. Damn memory making me forget to go and embarrass myself.

  • @Uncle-Jay
    @Uncle-Jay2 ай бұрын

    The idea of an attached community is really cool. I'd love to live close to a place like that.

  • @Phostings1
    @Phostings1 Жыл бұрын

    Carowinds also host symphonic band competitions. I truly missed hanging out with my band mates, breaking into small groups, and walking around aimlessly just having fun without a care in the world. We would also run into seniors who choose Carowinds as their senior trip on the same day! We truly had a great time at carowinds. If you haven't been there, please do visit! We Carolinians are big on hospitality!

  • @megaascension2748
    @megaascension2748 Жыл бұрын

    Carowinds has a bunch of fun coasters. Fury 325 is one of the best coasters, if not the best, I've ever ridden. If you go in the summer, pack a bunch of sunscreen, the heat and humidity is like going to Disneyworld in the Summer, except you don't get as many afternoon thunderstorms.

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    I love fury!

  • @pproteinc
    @pproteinc Жыл бұрын

    I’m so stoked to see my homepark on this channel. I grew up there during the Hana Barba days. I remember the monorail, train and chairlift. Wish those were still around. Well maybe not the monorail. Family moved to NYC for a time and moved back to SC during the Paramount days. To my dismay I noticed all the water was almost gone and certain areas were gone like Smurf Island. Worked there from 99-07. Still love my park. I’m there almost everyday it’s opened. 😂

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    I love Carowinds!

  • @tybrady1935
    @tybrady1935 Жыл бұрын

    Kudos to Pat Hall for creating a theme park that brings lots of fun to many people!

  • @linnearyan7750
    @linnearyan7750 Жыл бұрын

    Carowinds was my first theme park; my family had annual passes in the late 90s. It was great to see you cover it's history!

  • @nielgregory108
    @nielgregory1082 күн бұрын

    Brings back lots of memories. I never knew about the western theme and now it makes sense with some of the left-over bits that they left. Hanna-Barbera Land was AWESOME as a kid. They had all kinds of HB characters roaming the park. I had been to Disney, and thought it was just too big. Carowinds was perfect!! You could do everything in one day. I was there in the late 70's as a kid and LOVED it. The Goldrusher is still my all time favorite coaster. It's not much really but the old wooden coaster will shake you out of your boots! REMEMBER, the very 1st gold rush in the US was in NC!! The other old coasters that are not there anymore are still my favorites, Thunder Road and White Lightning - Lightning strikes.......NOW!!!!

  • @alphie333
    @alphie333 Жыл бұрын

    Carowinds is soo charming and honestly massive! We spent a few days there a couple years ago and I’m itching to go back! Fury is one of my top 5 and copper head strike’s shed beats mystic Timbers any day of the week!

  • @jimprice9703
    @jimprice9703 Жыл бұрын

    What a trip down memory lane. I worked at Carowinds one summer in the early 80s. It was my first job after graduating college in Chapel Hill while I decided my next steps. It was more fun than work and I enjoyed it greatly. I made redwood signs in the Country section and remember Rocky Raccoon and Carol Lion well. Looking forward to what comes with 'to be continued'. I have a feeling you'll be covering the year I was there.😹

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    You might be right!

  • @obliograce3551
    @obliograce35516 ай бұрын

    Growing up in Virginia and vacationing in the Outer Banks every summer when school let out, later coming to love many places in North Carolina, I am both embarrassed and pleased to now be hearing about this place for the first time. Thank you.

  • @timfromnc645
    @timfromnc645 Жыл бұрын

    Loved your report on Carowinds - very comprehensive! As a Charlotte native worked there 3 summers in mid 70s. Had a blast. They would have beer parties for us - made so many friends from other schools. And the girls - so much fun! One friend that started working there when we were 16, stayed for 30 years.

  • @TimmehJay
    @TimmehJay Жыл бұрын

    I had a friend who ran all the arcades at Carowinds in the early 2000s. He was a 3rd party contractor and had access to the park in the off season so we used to head down there at night in the winter and ride around the park in his car, smoking a joint. Driving down the Wayne's World section was always the best part. Then he'd open up one of the arcades and we'd game the night away. Good times.

  • @GCJACK83
    @GCJACK83 Жыл бұрын

    Seeing this reminds me of one of the last times I saw one of my uncles before he passed away. He took me to Carowind's for the day, and it was a blast even during the late 1990s. I also recall there was an A&W Restaurant in there, and you could buy the glass mug you used as a souvenir. I still think of this specific uncle whenever I use my A&W mug.

  • @louannchipman1749
    @louannchipman174911 ай бұрын

    My Dee (Daddy) took me to Carowinds when I was little. Thunder Road had just been opened. I remember getting a little stuffed dog with an engineer hat on it - I think it was from playing some arcade games - and Dee bought me a pretty tissue paper flower that a "true Southern Belle" had made for me. It was such a magical experience and one I will never forget. We both rode the Goldrusher, the Oaken Bucket and drove the little cars around. Back when I was little, there were other options that were somewhat close to our home - Circle M Zoo near Stuart, VA, Dan River Queen in Meadows of Dan, VA and The Land of Oz near Banner Elk, VA - by far, Carowinds was the biggest and best, though. So happy we still have this landmark park! Even went to my first concert there - on my 14th birthday, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers were there performing and I still have the t-shirt to prove it - Damn the Torpedoes tour 1979 - 1980!

  • @jimmiles9144
    @jimmiles9144 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much for the research. The photos and pictures bring back many memories. I live in Columbia (1.5 hours away). First visit was 1974. It really changed around 77’. Also, they held concerts there. I saw Ray Stevens and Crystal Gale as a child in the amphitheater. Later, as a young man, I saw Depeche Mode! I never knew Mr Hall until your research. He’s now a great hero to this grown man child! Thank you

  • @karenstoddard8278

    @karenstoddard8278

    Жыл бұрын

    Those Palladium concerts were awesome! I saw The Bay City Rollers there when I was 14 😊 Frankie Valli, Rick Springfield, America. So many memories. I had season passes for our kids for years-still love that park ♥️. So happy to see this! I’d forgotten or never knew some of this history.

  • @ofclshn
    @ofclshn Жыл бұрын

    Working in rides leadership at Carowinds was the best job I’ve ever had. There’s a reason Cedar Fair has all but moved their HQ down the street.

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Love Carowinds!

  • @JCBro-yg8vd

    @JCBro-yg8vd

    Жыл бұрын

    Well, from what I've read in a book about Kings Island, this park was originally the flagship park of the Kings Entertainment parks, and that remained true until Cedar Fair took over. So Cedar Fair probably realized the previous owners were onto something prioritizing this park.

  • @robindeera8060
    @robindeera80604 ай бұрын

    As a fellow Carolinian this was great to watch !

  • @edwardc4453
    @edwardc4453 Жыл бұрын

    glad you're back! if you ever wanna go to carowinds i live just around the corner :D

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Can’t wait to go again soon!

  • @amymorand5723
    @amymorand5723 Жыл бұрын

    Love this video! As a Carowinds passholder for many years, I'd love to see more history of the park. I'm excited about celebrating 50 years!!

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks so much!

  • @coreyhiggins3475
    @coreyhiggins3475 Жыл бұрын

    I just have to say, that during the Pandemic I discovered channels dedicated to amusement parks and ride histories. I fell in love with them! Your channel has been the most balanced and consistent and it means so much to me you have added Carowinds to your expedition line up! Great work and what a fun podcast you two have as well!

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much as always Corey

  • @tfromcleveland3741
    @tfromcleveland3741 Жыл бұрын

    “The name is a combination of Carolina and Winds”. It’s deadpan humor like that that brings me back every time!

  • @KibuFox
    @KibuFox15 күн бұрын

    I attended St. Michaels school in Gastonia NC in the 80's. It was a yearly thing that the 7th and 8th grade classes (8th being high as the school went) would take a trip to Carowinds at the end of the school year. I was one of a group of kids who were partially responsible for the removal of the monorail ride. At the time, that ride went around a large part of the park, and out over the parking lot. One of my friends had smuggled in some paintballs from a paintball gun. As we went out over the parking lot, we started tossing these paintballs out of the open air monorail car, and left bright red and orange splotches all over the cars in the lot. At the time, people didn't really know how to clean that 'paint' up, so it put the park on the hook for it, causing them to promptly take the monorail out of service then, and then completely stop its use.

  • @scronx
    @scronx Жыл бұрын

    Very interesting, even inspiring -- in an expressive British accent no less. I live in South Carolina but have only ever heard the name of the park. It's a shame more innovators aren't thinking along such wholesome family-oriented lines. Love the idea of treating the Carolinas as an entity -- almost a country, which in a way they are.

  • @DavidKing-ut9wr
    @DavidKing-ut9wr Жыл бұрын

    My brother and I helped build Carowinds and I knew Pat Hall. Pat would walk around the area while work was going on and if he thought you were doing a good job he’d give you $20 bill or stick It in your shirt pocket. We had the train that circled the entire park that had to stay polished, we dug out for the riverboat after the center track had been laid, we painted Harmony Hall, we sandblasted the towers for the monorail and we all loved the baby elephant that they went and got for the petting zoo area. I remember it got out once through an unlatched gate and we had to get it corralled back. So very many other things we did that slips my memory but we had a good time working for Pat Hall.

  • @RollinBones
    @RollinBones Жыл бұрын

    As a theme park enthusiast whose first park was Carowinds, I'm excited that someone is finally doing some episodes on it.

  • @JJacobs803
    @JJacobs803 Жыл бұрын

    Carowinds is my home park. My family has been going there for generations. Always have a place in my heart. Planning a trip there soon

  • @brentmanhart1026
    @brentmanhart1026 Жыл бұрын

    Have you ever considered an Expedition Extinct on Boblo Island outside of Detroit? It was a park built entirely on an island that could only be reached by ferry. The park itself, from what I understand, was pretty run of the mill, but the isolated island aspect was pretty unique, from what I understand. It was such a huge part of the city’s legacy that I feel a fondness for it even though it closed before I was born.

  • @philduritza7717

    @philduritza7717

    Жыл бұрын

    I grew up visiting BobLo! You are right, the park was pretty meh particularly when compared to the way better Cedar Point which was a relatively short drive. The REAL reason you went to BobLo was to get to ride the BobLo boats to get there. They were awesome!

  • @FamousAtticusJS
    @FamousAtticusJS10 ай бұрын

    I loved going to Carowinds! I had family living in the area and we would visit every summer through the 90's, great times! Can't beat a park that has both amusement rides and a waterpark. Great insightful video!

  • @carouselofLaura
    @carouselofLaura Жыл бұрын

    I’m a huge nerd for amusement park history and with this park it’s basically in my “backyard” - I indulge in its history! Great video. Side note: I plan on taking my Mother here this summer to celebrate her 50th Birthday as well. (Yes, she still loves amusement parks, and has had consistent pass to her local Six Flags since I was 4. Her love for theme parks doesn’t change with age.) 😂

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Same for my mum! That’s the best

  • @astroguster5522
    @astroguster5522 Жыл бұрын

    My brother has a season pass and he took me one visit. We had an awesome time. I work at Disney in Orlando so to be able to actually enjoy a day at a theme park without crazy prices, overcomplicated parking and neverending lines was a pure delight.

  • @christiwright3604
    @christiwright3604 Жыл бұрын

    Carowinds will always be a staple for the area ❤ The success has been amazing!

  • @austinwilliams87
    @austinwilliams87 Жыл бұрын

    I never would’ve thought you’d do a video on my home park. Thank you so much! I can’t wait for part 2!

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    I love Carowinds!

  • @knicholsch
    @knicholsch Жыл бұрын

    I can’t believe how much it resembles Six Flags of Georgia. You can def tell the same creators were involved.

  • @SaltyNationalist
    @SaltyNationalist Жыл бұрын

    I remember working there one summer back in the 90s.. I worked in the Waterpark area, on some of the slides.. Good times, lol.. Beautiful people to work with and people just having fun..

  • @BeesandTeasStitching
    @BeesandTeasStitching Жыл бұрын

    I doubt you'll get to read this with all the other comments, but I live in South Carolina, and I remember as a kid going up to Carowinds, seeing the cartoon characters, and riding the rides. I always looked forward to summers because I knew that meant that maybe, just maybe, our parents would take my brother and I to Carowinds that year. And when they did, those are some of the best memories that I have. Thank you so much for making this video. I remember that commercial you played at the end as well. All the great memories!

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    I read all the comments! Thank you so much I really appreciate it. It’s a great park with an incredible history

  • @BeesandTeasStitching

    @BeesandTeasStitching

    Жыл бұрын

    @@ExpeditionThemePark I wasn't aware you read them all. That is awesome. I've been a long time watcher and subscriber, but I don't think I've ever commented. I'd love to see a video on the Six Flags over Georgia ride The Great American Scream Machine. That's the first roller coaster I ever rode (even if it is a tame wooden coaster) Your videos are the best :)

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    @@BeesandTeasStitching thank you! I plan to visit over Georgia soon and definitely will make a video about the park

  • @thefergyfilms
    @thefergyfilms Жыл бұрын

    This is one of your best videos. Earl Patterson Hall sounded like a wonderful man, forever thankful for his gift that keeps on giving- Carowinds!

  • @fms7293
    @fms7293Ай бұрын

    I’m sure you know this already but your videos are top tier! You deserve so many more subscribers. So much good info on your videos. Thank you so much for keeping me entertained and also teaching me so many new things about these parks! As a theme park enthusiast, I love your Chanel ! Keep up the hard work brother!

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Ай бұрын

    I appreciate that!

  • @hamletsprincess
    @hamletsprincess Жыл бұрын

    I was able to visit carowinds o 3/31/2023 and ride the gold rusher on its 50th birthday! It was amazing!

  • @OddOneOut665
    @OddOneOut665 Жыл бұрын

    For me, the Paramount years were one of its' best, and I'll gladly die on that hill...

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Iconic

  • @janicewright6375
    @janicewright6375 Жыл бұрын

    I was there the first year it opened. It has really changed over the years. The log flume ride was the best, but unfortunately it's gone now. Thank you Sam!

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    That’s awesome!

  • @janicewright6375

    @janicewright6375

    Жыл бұрын

    It just means I'm old. lol

  • @TK4052
    @TK4052 Жыл бұрын

    Having grown up 30 minutes from this park but not having been born until 1980, it's a real treat to learn more about its history. Very much looking forward to part 2 - the era that comes next will have lots to dive into, like when the park was acquired by Paramount and many of the rides converted to IPs owned by that company.

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    It’s gonna be exciting that’s for sure!

  • @ComradeMarlow
    @ComradeMarlow9 ай бұрын

    Pretty cool to see all the other people in the comments who grew up with the park. When I was a kid, it was a Paramount park, and had a bunch of Star Trek stuff, like klingons and ferengi wandering around. My first concert was there, I think, when I was like 2 or 3--Moody Blues.

  • @BrandonTWills
    @BrandonTWills Жыл бұрын

    Thunder Road, the Scooby Doo & the Dale Earnhardt roller coaster will always be my favorites.

  • @MusicGal672
    @MusicGal672 Жыл бұрын

    I always love learning about a theme park I haven’t heard of before! Makes me excited to go to more 🥰

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    It’s a great park! Changed a lot but some top quality rides

  • @ceciliafetters7622
    @ceciliafetters7622 Жыл бұрын

    My home park!! I never see anything about it on these channels. Thank you for telling its story!

  • @darkgreen9098
    @darkgreen9098 Жыл бұрын

    The cost of a dream, thank you and rest easy Mr. Hall.

  • @HangingwiththeCrazyCrew
    @HangingwiththeCrazyCrew Жыл бұрын

    Carowinds is our home park and it has been through many changes over the years and has such an interesting history! I really enjoyed this video, Thank You!!

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much! I can’t wait to get some food from your food truck btw

  • @hopejordan2997
    @hopejordan2997 Жыл бұрын

    My home park! So much nostalgia. Thanks for covering this one

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you for watching

  • @BarryGGould
    @BarryGGould Жыл бұрын

    i live 3 hrs away so i dont go as much as i would like but i do try to go at least once a yr. i love this park. fury 325 is awesome so is afterburn and copperhead strike so many fun rides. i was born and raised 40 from six flags great adventure even worked there for 7 yrs. so when i moved to nc i was like gotta check out the park here. its absolutely beautiful 😍

  • @savahbejin7511
    @savahbejin7511 Жыл бұрын

    Have visited several times with our daughter many years ago. Lots of fun at that time.

  • @wbnc66
    @wbnc66 Жыл бұрын

    My first theme park visit was to Carowinds, in the late 70s, I lived just up the road from Charlotte and we made a day trip to it. Thunder Road was my first ever roller coaster so yeah this place holds some great memories for me. In the middle of summer, it can be brutally hot. a little crowded on busy days, but it is not a bad day out...or at least it wasn't the last time I visited

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    That’s awesome!

  • @jacobciccolella5801
    @jacobciccolella5801 Жыл бұрын

    Agreed that this was superb! Looking forward to Episode 2!! 😃

  • @kiera_rdh6697
    @kiera_rdh6697 Жыл бұрын

    I’ll be visiting Carowinds for the first time soon, I love all of this history! Can’t wait for more parts to come!

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Hope you have a good time

  • @disneydarling7573
    @disneydarling7573 Жыл бұрын

    This is my home park. Carowinds is one of my favorite places in the entire world. It was hard not to sob during your video, the memories I’ve had here are some of the best of my life.

  • @nicholasestes4299
    @nicholasestes4299 Жыл бұрын

    Ive went to Carowinds since i was a child so about 30 years. Its awesome to see what it looked like years before i was born. I've never seen some of these videos of the original Carowinds. Very cool video!

  • @RichardinNC1
    @RichardinNC1 Жыл бұрын

    I’ve lived in Charlotte for 40 years. Sadly as an adult I’ve only been there 4 times if I recall correctly. The last 2 were for a charity walk and staying the day at a discount. The big problem is the admission fee of $55 now for summer season or $75 at the gate!

  • @jazzbo13
    @jazzbo13 Жыл бұрын

    9:57 Love that chuckle in your voice as if you couldn't believe what you were saying.

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Aha I forgot to redo it oops

  • @jazzbo13

    @jazzbo13

    Жыл бұрын

    @@ExpeditionThemePark Don’t change it. It was perfect!

  • @prowrestlingisart6742
    @prowrestlingisart6742 Жыл бұрын

    Always enjoy your videos. I learn something new each time. The research you put into them with the articles and film clips is impressive. Looking forward to the next one!

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks so much

  • @JayAlfordElementJMusic
    @JayAlfordElementJMusic Жыл бұрын

    As an NC native, seeing this really warms my heart. I've loved Carowinds ever since I was a kid (I'm 31 now, #90sBaby) and I still love it just as much now. Looking forward to seeing the next part!

  • @245lilman
    @245lilman Жыл бұрын

    Growing up here in North Carolina its great to see Carowinds on this channel always love going their

  • @chrisyoungblood1421
    @chrisyoungblood1421 Жыл бұрын

    Another fantastic episode Sam!! Thank you as always for the amazing content!

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks so much Chris

  • @skittlessunshine5518
    @skittlessunshine551811 ай бұрын

    My park!!! Can’t wait to watch this.

  • @cozyburrito686
    @cozyburrito686 Жыл бұрын

    These are just sooooo good! Wtg! I love this channel soo much! The deep dives just are so amazingly interesting!

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much

  • @kawaiitrash3604
    @kawaiitrash3604 Жыл бұрын

    I've been waiting for this one!

  • @eth39232
    @eth39232 Жыл бұрын

    My parents took me there in 1973 when I was 9, and I loved Carowinds the way it was then. I don't think I would care for it the way it is now with one roller coaster after another.

  • @charliehanscome6456
    @charliehanscome6456 Жыл бұрын

    I drove up and down the east coast my whole life and my Dad lives in myrtle Beach. I never heard of this place I’m 45.I’ll have to check it out someday. great video!

  • @weirsgarage
    @weirsgarage Жыл бұрын

    I live about 5 miles from this park now and can't wait to check it out.

  • @gordonwchas
    @gordonwchas Жыл бұрын

    Excellent as always. Only got to Carowinds once but loved it.

  • @sikkygames
    @sikkygames Жыл бұрын

    I need you to know that I appreciate these videos so much. The editing style and your voice are so soothing and I use them as ASMR to fall asleep to. Good job and thank you!

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Aha you are welcome! Thank you

  • @leahjacobs38
    @leahjacobs38 Жыл бұрын

    You and Super Enthused are actually 2 of my most favorite parks channels and 2 of my favorite channels period (full stop). I INSTANTLY click play when I see yall post and it's a highlight of my day!

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much!

  • @fantasticattractions
    @fantasticattractions Жыл бұрын

    Excellent video! Love hearing history of Carowinds!!

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much

  • @williamhilbert8324
    @williamhilbert8324 Жыл бұрын

    Grew up in Goldsboro NC that brings back memories

  • @mormor8871
    @mormor8871 Жыл бұрын

    I never thought I'd see the day a popular rollercoaster channel do a documentary on my local park!!!! My family has grown up with the Park sense it's first creation me seeing it rise from 2003-today and my mom growing up with it in the early days so it's so nice to see this;-;

  • @topherervin7731
    @topherervin7731 Жыл бұрын

    This was really cool. Brought back some many childhood memories!

  • @tripsplat
    @tripsplat Жыл бұрын

    i’m so excited for this series!! Carowinds is my old home park (but forever in my heart my true home park) and I’ve seen a small handful of its many eras. I can’t wait for part 2! I loved Thunder Road and was gutted when they retired that iconic coaster.

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you!

  • @timfromnc645

    @timfromnc645

    Жыл бұрын

    I worked on Thunder road 1977 summer in my overalls- country section. Loved it sad to see it go few years back

  • @TheMuni777
    @TheMuni777 Жыл бұрын

    That intro Carowinds song sounds just like the Carousel song from the Great America parks.

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    I love it!

  • @coastingalong
    @coastingalong Жыл бұрын

    i can tell this video took a long time to make. great job man. your work ethic is unmatched in the coaster community

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you

  • @adult-swam
    @adult-swam Жыл бұрын

    Grew up on Carowinds and Emerald Pointe visits with the family. Thanks for an informative video. ❤

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you.

  • @lynlyhickey
    @lynlyhickey Жыл бұрын

    My first job was on the Vortex!!! I love this park.

  • @loriharmon1474
    @loriharmon1474 Жыл бұрын

    My daughter work here during her senior year at high school back in 2008, every day at 10 when they opened they played their opening jingle.

  • @aaliyahmc6734
    @aaliyahmc6734 Жыл бұрын

    Wow I’m from Charlotte Nc I would’ve never thought I’d see a video on Carowinds. So cool…. 🙌🏽😄

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    I love Carowinds!

  • @bug5258
    @bug5258 Жыл бұрын

    Thanks, brother. I live 15 min from here and will always get season tickets.. great job and content.... been watching your for years... carowinds is where the Carolinas come to meet!!!

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    A great place to be! Thank you so much. I’m a big fan of Carowinds

  • @Anonymous99997
    @Anonymous99997 Жыл бұрын

    I went to summer camp around the corner from Carowinds and got to visit in those early days. It was very comparable to the Kings Dominion theme park close to where I live in Richmond, Va.

  • @redwolfcorprevamped8266
    @redwolfcorprevamped8266 Жыл бұрын

    Literally visiting Carowinds right now. Having a great time!

  • @ExpeditionThemePark

    @ExpeditionThemePark

    Жыл бұрын

    Ride Fury for me if you can!

  • @redwolfcorprevamped8266

    @redwolfcorprevamped8266

    Жыл бұрын

    @@ExpeditionThemePark Got 3 rides on it so far. Looking for 12 over two days.

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