by Judy Zabriskie

Created on: March 01, 2009   Last Updated: March 09, 2009

Kings Dominion has gone through many transitions, many owners, expansions and revisions but it is still as good as it ever was when it comes to good old fashioned family fun! Now owned by Cedar Point Properties (known for their roller coaster prowess) Kings Dominion is every bit as exciting a place as Cedar Point in Ohio (once known to be the king of roller coasters) and as much fun as Disney properties but without the price tag to go with it.

Located mid way between the northeast and the southern corridor of the United States, Kings Dominion has something for everyone at a price point that won't break the proverbial bank. For those with teenagers or "tweens" the number and caliber of roller coasters is outstanding. The thrill seekers will not be disappointed. For those less adventuresome there are plenty of the more traditional, less bone chilling rides and for the kiddies there is a place all their own complete with mini roller coasters and all the rides they could hope for.

As with Busch Gardens
and Disney properties, Kings Dominion is replete with cartoon and movie characters walking around the park, meeting and greeting and taking pictures with everyone and anyone. Shows abound throughout the park with amateur actors and singers doing quite a fine job of performing, keeping everyone interested and occupied and also allowing a "sit down and set a spell" for those tired feet after walking endlessly throughout the park. There are often named acts (for a fee) performing at the Amphitheater during the evenings, adding to the allure of the park. There is carnival food galore ranging from the usual hot dog/hamburger restaurants to vendors throughout the park. For those on a more stringent budget there is a picnic area attached to the park where you can bring your own food and relax a bit between rides.

Then there is the water park. During the hot summer months this is a blessing for all. There are wave pools, sandy beach, water slides, kiddy wading pools well just about everything one could want in a water park setting. The great part is that the water park is included in the ticket price for Kings Dominion. So when you get tired of riding the rides or just too hot and want to cool down or chill out there is the water park. Who could ask for anything more.

You really need not leave the area if staying a few days as there are motels and camp grounds attached to the park but should you wish to venture further north or south there are a plethora of establishments in which to stay the night, dine and relax.

This place is just good old family fun at a reasonable price in a time where taking a more pricey vacation might be out of the question but getting away from it all is still very much possible.

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