This VA Amusement Park Was Just Named Among Best In US

MARYLAND — If adrenalin-producing roller coasters and smile-inducing costumed characters are your idea of a fun family play date, one of the 20 best amusement parks in the country are close to home in Virginia, according to a recent U.S. News & World Report ranking.

The Virginia mention on The 20 Best Amusement Parks in the U.S. for 2025 is:

Kings Dominion Theme Park: Doswell

The park will open a new coaster called Rapterra in 2025, which will be the tallest and longest launched wing coaster in the world. Kings Dominion Theme Park boasts more than 60 rides, various live shows, a kids area and its own water park called Soak City. A Planet Snoopy area of the park keeps kids busy and entertained, and the 20-acre water park has waterslides, a wave pool, a lazy river and splash pads.

U.S. News said the amusement parks on the list can be affordable for families, especially when reservations are booked in advance. The parks are supported by a range of nearby lodging options including family-oriented hotels with pools to campgrounds.

Others on the list are:

• Six Flags Great Adventure: Jackson Township, New Jersey
• Walt Disney World Resort: Orlando, Florida
• Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: Tampa, Florida
• Universal Orlando Resort: Orlando, Florida
• Dollywood: Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
• Legoland Florida Resort: Winter Haven, Florida
• Six Flags Fiesta Texas: San Antonio, Texas
• Cedar Point: Sandusky, Ohio
• Silver Dollar City: Branson, Missouri
• Kings Island: Mason, Ohio
• Holiday World & Splashin' Safari: Santa Claus, Indiana
• Knott’s Berry Farm: Buena Park, California
• Six Flags Magic Mountain: Valencia, California
• Disneyland Park: Anaheim, California
• Universal Studios Hollywood: Universal City, California
• SeaWorld San Diego: San Diego, California