Theme Parks: Which is Right for Your Family?

The Washington Metro area has several theme parks to choose from for great summer fun. If you are in the Washington, D.C area then here are a few ideas for some great summer fun. There are several amusement parks in a short driving distance. King's Dominion, and Hershey Park are all in driving distance, to name a few. There is also lots of fun to be had at Bush Gardens Williamsburg, although it is a bit farther away. Lets get started planning your summer fun.

Kings Dominion is a 400-acre theme park with more than 40 rides, shows and attractions. King's Dominion also has "14 world-class roller coasters making it one of the largest coaster collections on the East Coast" according to park information. Kings Dominion also has two children's areas Nickelodeon™ Central and Kidzville. King's Dominion also has a 20-acre water park, WaterWorks, that's included with park admission. The prices for park admission is as follows: $39.95 for ages 3-61 and at least 48" high and $24.95 for ages 3-61 under 48" high and those 62 and older.

The 2007 season marks Kings Dominion's 32^nd year of operation. New in 2007, WaterWorks is expanding with three new exciting attractions. Beginning with Tidal Wave Bay, Kings Dominion is adding a second wave pool with 350,000 gallons of water fun. The new Tornado attraction extends 65 feet into the air and provides riders with a unique water experience that they will want to ride again and again. Finally, the addition is the Zoom Flume; it will give four rides the opportunity to ride together in the winding and tilting waterway.

Hershey Park is a 110-acre theme park with more than 60 rides, shows and attractions. This includes 10 roller coasters and 20 kiddie rides. Hershey Park is celebrating it's 100^th year this summer and in it's celebration is introducing a $21 million enhancement including the East Coast Waterworks, the largest water play structure in the world. Admission to Hershey Park also includes admission into ZooAmerica. This is an 11-acre walk through zoo dedicated to the Wildlife of North America. ZooAmerica is home to more than 200 animals from five regions of North America. Ticket prices for Hershey Park are as follows $45.95 for ages 9-54 and $26.95 for ages 3-8 and 55-69. Ages 2 and under are free.

Hershey is also a town of fun. You can visit the local Hershey Chocolate Plant and take a tour. You can also visit the Hershey Museum. There is also a lot of fun and great dining to be had at the Hotel Hershey and the Hershey Lodge. These two establishments have excellent chiefs that can do wonderful things with Hershey Chocolate.

Busch Garden Williamsburg also known as Busch Gardens Europe is divided into different countries all with their own thrilling rides. It also contains a magical kingdom for kids. Busch Gardens Williamsburg has won "most beautiful theme park" 16 consecutive years. There are more than 50 thrilling rides, attractions and shows in this theme park. Busch Gardens is also home to Water Country USA.

Water Country USA is the mid-Atlantic's largest family water park. It features state of the art attractions all set in a 1950's and 60's surf theme. Though the two parks are located next to each other their admissions are separate. Busch Garden tickets can be purchased for $54.95 for adults and $47.95 for ages 3-9. Water Country USA tickets are $38.95 for adults and $31.95 for ages 3-9. A combination tickets can be purchased for both parks for $69.95 for ages 3 and up and you may visit the two parks as much as you like for three consecutive days. For ten dollars more you can visit both parks as often as you wish for seven consecutive days.

If you are planning a vacation to an area theme park be sure to visit Associated Content Producer, Celeste Stewarts article on "Planning a Theme Park Visit". She gives excellent tips on ways to save your money and time when vacationing at theme parks. Another must read article is "Amusement Theme Park Safety Tips" by Content Producer V.C. Hiquera. Her article will help ensure that your trip remains a happy adventure and not one doomed for the hospital. If a theme park adventure is in your future you may want to consider other theme parks than those I have mentioned. Content Producer Abe has an interesting article titled, "Amusement Parks in New England."

Theme Parks can be fun and exciting for the whole family. Most theme parks cater to all ages. Adults have fantastic thrill rides while there is always a place for the little kiddies to enjoy themselves as well. Always be sure to be safe and enjoy your stay by following the tips that V.C. Hiquera has mentioned and following the rules of the theme park.