Inside Carowinds' new swim-up bar

Paul Metto's Boathouse Bar opened 2 weeks ago — what's it like?

The following article appeared in the June 4, 2025, edition of The Charlotte Ledger, an e-newsletter with smart and original local news for Charlotte. We offer free and paid subscription plans. More info here.

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Review: Carowinds’ new adults-only pool bar has beachy vibes and a laid-back clientele spanning generations; be patient on service and brace for the walk to the bathroom

The towering waterslides are within eyeshot, but Paul Metto’s Boathouse Bar is a rare kid-free zone within the Carolina Harbor waterpark at Carowinds. (Photo by Caroline Willingham)

by Caroline Willingham

Tucked behind the towering water slides and the overstimulating soundtrack of screaming children, Carowinds has carved out an unexpected oasis: a swim-up bar designed for grown-ups looking to escape the theme park chaos.

Paul Metto’s Boathouse Bar, which opened two weeks ago, is part of the 27-acre Carolina Harbor waterpark. There, child-free adults can wade into waist-deep water, perch on submerged seats and sip frozen cocktails without ever leaving the pool. With laid-back music and tropical drinks, the atmosphere leans more resort than rollercoaster — and that seems to be the point.

On a recent Saturday, it felt like a dot of calm in a map of high-energy activity.

Here’s the lowdown on the scene: