Virginia is home to many theme parks and water parks, perfect for a fun-filled vacation. From the family-friendly Busch Gardens Williamsburg to the thrilling roller coasters of Kings Dominion, there’s something for everyone in Virginia.
If you’re looking for some wet and wild fun, head to one of the state’s many water parks. Splashdown Beach is a great option for families, while Water Country USA is perfect for thrill-seekers. So pack your swimsuit and get ready for a summer full of excitement!
1. Go-Karts Plus: Williamsburg Outdoor Entertainment Center
Go-Karts Plus has grown from a simple two-track park to a very popular, diversified amusement facility in the more than 25 years since it first opened its doors on the old site of the Great American Waterslide.
The first park, which was established during the construction of the previous water slide 40 years ago, lay on four acres of land and had only two go-kart tracks, Bumper Boats, Kiddieland, a tiny arcade, and a miniature golf course.
Go-Karts Plus now spans eight acres and includes four go-kart tracks, as well as Bumper Cars, Blaster Boats, the Python Pit Kiddie Coaster, the DISK’O’ thrill ride from Italy, an expanded arcade, and the new Gold Rush Mini Golf course, which includes an authentic western wagon, water tower, and mine shaft.
2. Kings Dominion: Doswell Outdoor Theme Park
Kings Dominion is a 400-acre park that opened on May 30, 1975. It features over 60 rides, shows, and attractions including 13 roller coasters and a 20-acre water park. The park is owned and operated by Cedar Fair Entertainment Company.
In 2018, Kings Dominion was ranked the seventh-best amusement park in the United States by TripAdvisor users.
Some of the most popular rides at Kings Dominion include:
- The Intimidator 305: A 305-foot-tall steel roller coaster that reaches speeds of up to 90 mph. Intimidator 305, which was introduced in 2010, reaches a height of 305 feet, descends at an incredible 85 degrees, and accelerates to face-melting speeds. The coaster is themed after racing great Dale Earnhardt (nicknamed “The Intimidator”) and is all about extreme speed and high G-forces.
- The Dominator: A 208-foot-tall steel looping roller coaster that reaches speeds of up to 65 mph. The Dominator is one of the tallest and fastest coasters at Kings Dominion. It features seven loops, including a double loop and a cobra roll, as well as extreme G-forces.
- The Grizzly: A wooden roller coaster that reaches speeds of up to 50 mph. The Grizzly is a classic wooden coaster that takes riders on a thrilling journey through the woods. The coaster reaches heights of up to 100 feet and speeds of up to 50 mph, making it one of the tallest and fastest wooden coasters in the world.
3. Compass Entertainment Complex: Irvington Indoor and Outdoor Entertainment Center
The Compass Entertainment Complex is a family-friendly entertainment center located in Irvington, Virginia. The complex features both indoor and outdoor activities, perfect for a day of fun rain or shine.
Indoor attractions include the Laser Maze Challenge, an interactive laser maze game that tests your agility and speed; the Virtual Reality Experience, where you can choose from a variety of virtual reality games; and the Arcade, where you can play classic arcade games like Pac-Man and Donkey Kong.
Outdoor attractions include the Go-Kart Track, where you can race your friends; the Batting Cages, where you can practice your swing; and the Mini Golf Course, a 18-hole course with a pirate theme.
4. Dinosaur Land: White Post Outdoor Attraction
Dinosaur Land is a outdoor attraction park located in White Post, Virginia. The park is home to over 50 life-size dinosaurs, as well as a museum, gift shop, and cafe.
Dinosaur Land first opened its doors in 1958 and has been one of the most popular tourist destinations in Virginia ever since. The park is known for its life-size dinosaurs, as well as its interactive exhibits and educational programs.
Some of the most popular dinosaurs at Dinosaur Land include:
- Tyrannosaurus Rex: The king of the dinosaurs. The Tyrannosaurus Rex was one of the largest and most fearsome predators to ever walk the earth.
- Stegosaurus: A herbivore with a large, spiked tail. The Stegosaurus was one of the most popular dinosaurs at Dinosaur Land.
- Triceratops: A herbivore with three horns on its head. The Triceratops was one of the most recognizable dinosaurs.
- Pterodactyl: A flying reptile with a wingspan of up to 40 feet. The Pterodactyl was one of the most popular dinosaurs at Dinosaur Land.
Dinosaur Land is a great destination for families and dinosaur lovers of all ages.
5. Fun Land: Fredericksburg Outdoor Entertainment Center
Fun Land is a outdoor entertainment center located in Fredericksburg, Virginia. The park is home to over 30 rides and attractions, perfect for a day of fun.
Some of the most popular rides at Fun Land include the carousel, Ferris wheel, bumper cars, and swings. The park also features an arcade with classic games like Pac-Man and Donkey Kong, as well as a variety of food options.
Fun Land is the perfect destination for families and groups looking for a day of fun. Whether you’re young or old, there’s something for everyone at Fun Land.
6. Atlantis Waterpark in Centerville: Outdoor Park
Atlantis Waterpark is a outdoor park located in Centerville, Virginia. The park is home to over 20 rides and attractions, perfect for a day of fun in the sun. Atlantis’ waterslides include a 230-foot open slide and a thrilling 170-foot trip in full darkness on the closed slide. A huge main pool with a play island with mini slides provides plenty of splashing and swimming area for everyone.
The spectacular dumping bucket and play feature is the focus of the waterpark, with covered slides, open slides, water cannons, sprayers, and more all set against the stream of our big dumping bucket! A baby pool and a sand play area are also available.
Of course, your day would be incomplete without food, beverages, and other amenities. All of your favorites are available at Neptune’s Reef. Enjoy a delicious meal while sitting outside under the enormous shade umbrellas.
7. Great Waves: Alexandria Outdoor Water Park
Great Waves is a outdoor water park located in Alexandria, Virginia. The park is home to over 20 rides and attractions, perfect for a day of fun in the sun. Great Waves’ waterslides include the thrilling “Scorpion Slide” and the family-friendly “Pirate’s Plunge.” A huge main pool with a play island provides plenty of splashing and swimming area for everyone.
The park also features a variety of food options, including pizza, hamburgers, hot dogs, and ice cream. Great Waves is the perfect destination for families and groups looking for a day of fun in the sun.
Virginia is home to a variety of theme parks that are perfect for a fun-filled vacation. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping roller coaster or a relaxing day at the water park, Virginia has something for everyone. So pack your bags and head to Virginia for a vacation you’ll never forget!
