23 Best Theme Parks in Virginia
Ready for some Virginia-style thrills? Theme parks here deliver high-speed coasters and family fun – there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive in!
Busch Gardens Williamsburg has a European twist. It’s got great food and rides, but be prepared for crowds. The star attraction is definitely Griffon, a dive coaster with a crazy-steep first drop.
Want a hint about how steep?
Picture a building twenty stories high. That’s the plunge you’ll take!
Insider tip: To beat the longest lines on Griffon, try riding during one of the park’s live shows. Most folks will be watching the performance, not queuing for the coaster!
Kings Dominion
Kings Dominion: it’s loud, it’s crowded, and the food isn’t going to win any awards. But hey, if you’re here for thrills, they deliver! This park has over 60 rides, including some seriously wild coasters. Want to test your limits? This is the place.
| Location | Doswell, Virginia |
|---|---|
| Cost Range | $$ |
| Main Attractions | Carousel, Roller Coasters, Waterpark, Live Shows |
| Website | kingsdominion.com |
| Map | Kings Dominion Map |
Kings Dominion also boasts a huge water park – perfect for cooling off on hot Virginia days. Shows and events pop up year-round, and they go all-out for their Halloween Haunt (expect serious scares in the fall!).
Insider Tip: Check the show schedule the moment you arrive. Sometimes you can snag a good seat for the later shows while everyone else is in line for ride
Busch Gardens Williamsburg
Busch Gardens Williamsburg has a little something for everyone. Thrilling roller coasters? Check. Animal encounters? You bet. This European-themed park even has some surprisingly good food!
| Location | Williamsburg, Virginia |
|---|---|
| Cost Range | $$ |
| Main Attractions | Griffon, Loch Ness Monster, Verbolten, Wolf and Eagle exhibits |
| Website | buschgardens.com/williamsburg |
| Map | Busch Gardens Williamsburg Map |
Don’t expect cutting-edge tech here. Busch Gardens Williamsburg is more about classic thrills and charming atmosphere. Families with kids will love the mix of rides and animal areas. And hey, the landscaping is gorgeous, especially in spring!
Summer is peak season, so expect crowds, but the weather’s great for their shows. Howl-O-Scream in the fall is super popular, while Christmastime offers a whole different vibe with tons of lights.
Insider Tip: The train that circles the park isn’t just for getting around. It offers fantastic views of the animal areas you can’t get anywhere else!
Motor World
Motor World in Virginia Beach is all about good old-fashioned fun. Go-karts, mini-golf, arcade games – they’ve got the classics covered. It’s a blast for families, groups of friends, anyone looking to let loose and get competitive.
| Location | Virginia Beach, Virginia |
|---|---|
| Cost Range | $$ |
| Main Attractions | Go-kart circuits, Mini-Golf Courses, Arcade games |
| Website | vbmotorworld.com |
| Map | Motor World Map |
Don’t expect a super high-tech experience here – Motor World thrives on pure, simple thrills. The go-kart tracks are the stars, especially if you love a little speed.
Late spring and early summer are perfect for visiting – warm weather but smaller crowds. If you can handle the heat, summer nights are great too. The place stays open late, so you can race under the lights!
Insider Tip: The go-kart tracks get slick after rain. If you see wet pavement, wait a bit. You’ll get much better traction once things dry out!
Atlantic Fun Park
Atlantic Fun Park is your classic boardwalk experience at Virginia Beach. Rides, games, food that’s probably not good for you…it’s got it all! Perfect stop if you’re craving that oceanfront amusement park energy.
| Location | Virginia Beach, Virginia |
|---|---|
| Cost Range | $$ |
| Main Attractions | Gravitron, Ferris Wheel, Giant Slide, Family Go-Karts, Water Race |
| Website | atlanticfunpark.com |
| Map | Atlantic Fun Park Map |
Don’t expect high-tech thrills here – think old-school Ferris wheel and spinning rides that might make you lose your lunch (in the best way possible). Great for families since there’s something for every age and energy level.
Summer is the prime time, especially if you want beach time too. But be warned: the crowds can be intense!
Insider Tip: If you see locals hitting this park, it’s probably a cloudy beach day. They know the sun will come back out, and the lines will be WAY shorter!
Water Country USA
Water Country USA in Williamsburg is the place to beat the Virginia heat! Slides, wave pool, lazy river – they’ve got all the water park staples. It’s a solid pick for families, with zones for the littles and serious thrills for older kids (and adults!).
| Location | Williamsburg, Virginia |
| Cost Range | $$ |
| Main Attractions | Jet Scream, Surfer’s Bay, Adventure Isle, Lazy River, Vanish Point, Wave Pool |
| Website | watercountryusa.com |
| Map | Water Country USA Map |
Let’s be honest, this park isn’t about cutting-edge attractions. The slides are fun, but they aren’t groundbreaking. Mid-summer is peak season, so get ready for crowds, especially on weekends.
Insider Tip: The park layout is a bit confusing. Grab a map when you enter, or you’ll waste time wandering around lost!
SplashDown Waterpark
SplashDown Waterpark in Manassas is your classic local waterpark. Slides, splash pads, and a place to cool off – perfect for a hot Virginia summer day. It’s got that familiar water park energy, especially good for families with younger kids.
| Location | Manassas, Virginia |
|---|---|
| Cost Range | $$ |
| Main Attractions | Lily Pad Walk, Cannon Ball Slides, Tropical Twister Water Slides, Big Kahuna Beach, Splash Island, 770-foot Lazy River. |
| Website | splashdownwaterpark.com |
| Map | SplashDown Waterpark Map |
Don’t come expecting mind-blowing rides. This place is all about simple, splashy fun. If you love huge thrill slides, you might be a little underwhelmed.
Early and late summer offer the shortest lines. Visiting on a weekday is even better if you want to avoid a crowd.
Insider Tip: Bring your own water shoes. Those walkways get HOT, and nobody wants burnt feet ruining their day!
Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg
Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg is like stepping into a kid’s dream world. Imagine a massive indoor water park attached to a hotel! Add in an arcade, a magical scavenger hunt thing, and you’ve got the recipe for kid heaven. Perfect for families with younger kids who love non-stop action.
| Location | Williamsburg, Virginia |
|---|---|
| Cost Range | $$$ |
| Main Attractions | Indoor Waterpark, Adventure Park, MagiQuest, Bowling, Mini Golf |
| Website | greatwolf.com/williamsburg |
| Map | Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg Map |
Be warned – this isn’t a place for quiet relaxation. It’s designed for maximum kid energy! If you cringe at noise and crowds, you might want to reconsider.
Want to avoid the worst of the chaos? Go on a weekday or outside of summer and holidays.
Insider Tip: They have story time and other free activities tucked in between the splashy stuff. Check the schedule – it can be a good way to give everyone a little break.
Pirate’s Cove Waterpark
Pirate’s Cove Waterpark in Lorton is a lifesaver on those hot Virginia summer days! Slides, a splash zone for the little ones, even some pirate decorations to set the mood – it’s perfect for family fun.
| Location | Lorton, Virginia |
|---|---|
| Cost Range | $$ |
| Main Attractions | Lagoon Style Pool, Two Giant Water Slides, Spraying Palm Tree, Dumpling Bucket, Zero Depth Entry Pool, Pirate’s Cove Café. |
| Website | novaparks.com/waterparks/pirates-cove-waterpark |
| Map | Pirate’s Cove Waterpark Map |
This is a smaller water park, so don’t expect a ton of crazy rides. The focus is on classic water park thrills that most kids will love.
Weekends, especially in the middle of summer, can get super crowded. If you have the flexibility, visit on a weekday for a more chill experience.
Insider Tip: Pack your own lunch and snacks! The food here is typical theme park fare – pricey and not great. You can save some money by bringing your own cooler.
Ocean Dunes Waterpark
Ocean Dunes Waterpark in Arlington is your neighborhood spot for water fun! It’s got slides for bigger kids, a splash area for the littles, and a pool for everyone to chill out in. Perfect if you need to escape the Virginia heat and don’t want to drive hours to a giant water park.
| Location | Arlington, Virginia |
|---|---|
| Cost Range | $$ |
| Main Attractions | 500-gallon dumping bucket, water slides, spray fountains, swimming pool |
| Website | novaparks.com/waterparks/ocean-dunes-waterpark |
| Map | Ocean Dunes Waterpark Map |
This place isn’t fancy – it’s about those classic water park good times. Don’t expect cutting-edge attractions, but if you want some slides and splashin’ around, it delivers.
Weekends can get packed, especially in the middle of summer. Try to go on a weekday for less of a crowd.
Insider Tip: They have a shaded picnic area. Pack a lunch and save some money on park food!
Maui Jack’s Waterpark
Maui Jack’s Waterpark on Chincoteague Island is all about simple water park fun! Slides, a lazy river, splash pad for the little ones – it’s perfect if you’re vacationing on the island and need a way to keep the kids entertained.
| Location | Chincoteague Island, Virginia |
|---|---|
| Cost Range | $$ |
| Main Attractions | Kona Slopes, Maui Wowie, Lil’ Tikis Splash Zone, Hang Ten Harbor |
| Website | mauijacks.com |
| Map | Maui Jack’s Waterpark Map |
This isn’t a huge park with the latest, greatest rides. It’s more about those classic water park memories that families love to make.
Summer weekends can be super crowded. Visit on a weekday if you want more space to spread out.
Insider Tip: Rent a cabana if you can snag one! They offer a shady spot to take a break from the sun.
Ready to splash the day away with your crew? Maui Jack’s is the place to be!
Waterworks Waterpark
Waterworks Waterpark in Dale City is a solid option for some Virginia water fun. They’ve got slides, a splash area, and some spots to relax in the shade. Think classic water park vibes!
| Location | Dale City, Virginia |
|---|---|
| Cost Range | $$ |
| Main Attractions | Children’s Area, Circular Slide, Speed Slide, Lily Pad Walk, Leisure Pool |
| Website | https://waterworkswaterpark.com |
| Map | Waterworks Waterpark Map |
Don’t expect a sprawling park overflowing with crazy rides. This place is all about simple waterpark fun, especially good for families with young kids.
Summer weekends get REALLY crowded. If you can, visit on a weekday instead for a much calmer experience.
Insider Tip: The big enclosed slides have the longest lines. Try riding them first thing in the morning or later in the afternoon when the crowds start to thin out.
Atlantis Waterpark at Bull Run
Atlantis Waterpark at Bull Run in Centreville offers classic waterpark thrills. Think big slides, a pool, and plenty of places to soak up the sun. It’s a good choice for families looking for a way to cool off on a hot Virginia day.
| Location | Centreville, Virginia |
|---|---|
| Cost Range | $$ |
| Main Attractions | Large pool areas, Spectacular water slides, Splash pad, Play area for toddlers |
| Website | novaparks.com/waterparks/atlantis-waterpark |
| Map | Atlantis Waterpark at Bull Run Map |
Don’t expect a cutting-edge park with tons of crazy rides. Atlantis is more about that summer fun vibe than super intense thrills.
Weekends here get seriously packed. Visit on a weekday for a more chill experience.
Insider Tip: The lines for the tube slides get crazy long. If you don’t mind skipping the tube, the body slides are usually much faster
Soak City Waterpark
Ever heard of Soak City Waterpark in Doswell? It’s part of the Kings Dominion theme park and has a ton of slides, a big wave pool, and even a lazy river. Perfect if you’re looking for classic water park thrills.
| Location | Doswell, Virginia |
|---|---|
| Cost Range | $$ |
| Main Attractions | Baja Bends, Hurricane Heights, Paradise Plunge, Tornado, Zoom Flume, Big Wave Bay, Splash Island |
| Website | kingsdominion.com/play/soak-city |
| Map | Soak City Waterpark Map |
They’ve got rides for serious adrenaline junkies and a splash zone for the little ones, so it’s a good family spot. Just be warned: this place gets PACKED on summer weekends.
Weekdays are way less crowded if you want more space to spread out.
Insider Tip: The inner tube slides always have the longest lines. Hit the body slides first and you might be able to ride twice before the tube slide queue even moves!
Ocean Breeze
Ocean Breeze Waterpark in Virginia Beach is where the water park action is. Prepare for slides, waves, and plenty of screaming kids (and excited adults, let’s be real). Perfect if you’re ready to ditch the beach towel and get soaked!
| Location | Virginia Beach, Virginia |
|---|---|
| Cost Range | $$ |
| Main Attractions | AquaTwist, Runaway Bay, Neptunes Revenge, Hook’s Lagoon, Adventure River |
| Website | oceanbreezewaterpark.com |
| Map | Ocean Breeze Map |
This isn’t a fancy park with mind-blowing rides. It’s about that old-school water park energy that hits the spot on a hot summer day.
Weekends are a total zoo. Arrive insanely early or go on a weekday if you hate crowds.
Insider Tip: They sell waterproof phone cases in the gift shop. Worth grabbing one so you can snap pics on the slides without worrying about your phone!
Dinosaur Land
Dinosaur Land in White Post, Virginia, is a step back in time! It’s got giant dinosaur statues, a fossil dig area for kids, and a quirky gift shop. If you love roadside attractions or have little ones obsessed with dinos, this place is worth a stop.
| Location | White Post, Virginia |
|---|---|
| Cost Range | $ |
| Main Attractions | Life-Sized Dinosaurs, Giant King Cobra, Giant Shark, Photo-Ops, Souvenir Shop |
| Website | dinosaurland.com |
| Map | Dinosaur Land Map |
It’s definitely not a fancy theme park – think old-school vibes and simple fun. Perfect for families who’d rather explore a dinosaur forest than wait hours in line for expensive rides.
Visit in spring or fall for the best weather. Summers get hot, and there’s not much shade around the dinosaurs.
Insider Tip: Check out their website or social media before you go! They sometimes have special events like nighttime flashlight tours.
Volcano Island Waterpark
Volcano Island Waterpark in Sterling is a small but fun spot for a waterpark day. It’s got some slides, a lazy river, and a good splash area for little kids. Perfect for families looking to keep cool on a hot Virginia day.
| Location | Sterling, Virginia |
|---|---|
| Cost Range | $$ |
| Main Attractions | Paradise Plunge, Thunder Lizard Slide, Polynesian Monsoon, Kona Kooler Adventure River, Oasis Lap Pool |
| Website | novaparks.com/waterparks/volcano-island-waterpark |
| Map | Volcano Island Waterpark Map |
Don’t expect a sprawling park with crazy rides. Volcano Island is more about relaxed waterpark fun than super high thrills.
Weekends here get crowded, especially in the middle of summer. For the shortest lines, plan a visit on a weekday instead.
Insider Tip: The water in the splash pad area stays warmer than the pools, which is great for little ones who get cold easily!
Great Waves Waterpark
Great Waves Waterpark in Alexandria is your classic summer fun spot! Slides, a wave pool, and even a splash pad for the little ones – it’s perfect if you need a way to escape the Virginia heat with the whole family.
| Location | Alexandria, Virginia |
|---|---|
| Cost Range | $$ |
| Main Attractions | Wave Pool, Paradise Play, Minnow Bay, Cannonball Slides, Lagoon |
| Website | novaparks.com/waterparks/great-waves-waterpark |
| Map | Great Waves Waterpark Map |
This park isn’t about the latest and greatest attractions. It’s more about those fun summer memories that families love to make. If that’s what you’re after, Great Waves won’t disappoint.
Summer weekends get swamped, especially in the middle of the day. Visit on a weekday for more space to spread out, or just be prepared to share the pool!
Insider Tip: Rent a cabana if you can snag one! They offer a shady spot to take a break from the sun and are worth it for big groups.
Cobblestones Water Park
Cobblestones Water Park in Glen Allen is a great spot for family fun! They’ve got slides, a lazy river, splash areas for kids, and even mini-golf if you need a break from the water. Perfect for a hot Virginia summer day.
| Location | Glen Allen, Virginia |
|---|---|
| Cost Range | $$ |
| Main Attractions | Kids ‘N Kastle, Drift’N River, SplashDown, Lil’ Splash, Miniature Golf |
| Website | cobblestonespark.com |
| Map | Cobblestones Water Park Map |
Don’t expect cutting-edge rides. This park is about classic water fun, perfect for families with a mix of ages.
Summer weekends get REALLY crowded. If you can, visit on a weekday for a much more chill experience.
Insider Tip: The big enclosed slides have the longest lines. The open-air slides are just as fun and the wait is a lot shorter!
Massanutten Indoor WaterPark
Massanutten Indoor WaterPark is perfect for when you want those waterpark vibes without the sunburn! They’ve got slides, a wave pool, a kiddie area, even a hot tub for grown-ups to relax. It’s a great spot for families or anyone who wants some water fun on a rainy day.
| Location | Massanutten, Virginia |
|---|---|
| Cost Range | $$ |
| Main Attractions | Blue Ridge Rapids, Melting Mogul, Avalanche, Massanutten Meltdown, Frolicking Frog Slide, Splash-a-Nutten |
| Website | massresort.com/play/waterpark/ |
| Map | Massanutten Indoor WaterPark Map |
Let’s be honest – this isn’t a giant, cutting-edge park. It’s all about having a good time indoors, which can be a lifesaver in Virginia’s unpredictable weather!
Weekends and holidays get packed. For the shortest lines, try visiting on a weekday or outside of prime vacation times.
Insider Tip: The kiddie area tends to have the warmest water, which is great for little ones who get cold easily.
Splash Valley
Splash Valley Water Park in Roanoke is a classic summer spot. They’ve got a few water slides, a lazy river, and a big splash area for little kids. Perfect for when you need a way to beat the Virginia heat!
| Location | Roanoke, Virginia |
|---|---|
| Cost Range | $$ |
| Main Attractions | Leisure River, Double Tube Slide, Bowl Slide |
| Website | roanokecountyparks.com/192/Look-Inside |
| Map | Splash Valley Map |
Don’t expect a giant park filled with crazy rides. This place is more about relaxed waterpark fun for the whole family.
Summer weekends are packed with locals. If you can manage a weekday visit, you’ll have way more space to splash around.
Insider Tip: The big tube slides have the longest lines. If you don’t mind skipping the tube, the body slides are usually much faster!
Cameron Run Regional Park
Cameron Run Regional Park in Alexandria is the perfect place to ditch your plans and just have a classic summer day. Hit the mini-golf course (no judging your goofy shots here!), cool off at the waterpark, and spread out a picnic lunch.
| Location | Alexandria, Virginia |
|---|---|
| Cost Range | $$ |
| Main Attractions | Great Waves Waterpark, Miniature Golf, Batting Cages, Picnic Areas |
| Website | novaparks.com/parks/cameron-run-regional-park |
| Map | Cameron Run Regional Park Map |
Don’t expect a fancy park, this place is totally old-school. Think belly flops in the wave pool and goofy family photo ops by the mini-golf windmill!
Summer is prime time for the waterpark, but honestly, Cameron Run is fun year-round. Pack some hot cocoa and hit those batting cages in the winter!
Insider Tip: The waterslides close earlier than the rest of the waterpark. If you want to slide, don’t save it for the end of the day!
Fun Land of Fredericksburg
Forget fancy thrills – Fun Land of Fredericksburg is all about that good old-fashioned amusement park energy! They’ve got go-karts, mini-golf, a few rides that’ll make you giggle-scream, and a classic arcade full of blinking lights. Perfect for letting loose and making some silly memories.
| Location | Fredericksburg, Virginia |
|---|---|
| Cost Range | $$ |
| Main Attractions | Go-Karts, Mini-Golf, Laser Tag, Bumper Boats, Climbing Wall, Batting Cages, Arcade, Escape Room |
| Website | visitfunland.com/fredericksburg-home |
| Map | Fun Land of Fredericksburg Map |
Let’s be real, this place isn’t going to blow your mind with cutting-edge tech. But if you need a break from the serious stuff and want to race go-karts with your buddies or win a giant stuffed animal at the ring toss, Fun Land has your back.
Summer weekends get packed, so be prepared for a party atmosphere. Arrive early or visit on a weekday for a more chill experience.
Insider Tip: They sometimes have special deals on ride tickets, so check their website before you go!
Swaders Sports Park
Ready for some classic amusement park fun? Swaders Sports Park in Prince George is your spot! They’ve got go-karts, mini-golf, batting cages, a driving range, even an arcade. Perfect for families, groups of friends, or anyone who wants to let loose and play.
| Location | Prince George, Virginia |
| Cost Range | $$ |
| Main Attractions | Go-Karts, Mini-Golf, Batting Cages, Laser Tag, Driving Range |
| Website | swaders.com |
| Map | Swaders Sports Park Map |
Don’t expect a giant park filled with crazy rides. Swaders is more about that old-school fun vibe. They also have special events throughout the year like a haunted house at Halloween!
Summer is the best time for the outdoor stuff, but there’s always something to do here year-round.
Insider Tip: The go-kart tracks often have long lines. Try riding in the evening when the crowds have thinned out a bit.
