by Debby Dyess

Created on: March 10, 2009

We've changed the clocks, prepared for spring break and know that summer is just around the corner. Time to begin planning your vacation. Whether a week-or-longer bash or a long weekend away from home, planning ahead makes all the difference between a vacation your family remembers for years, or tries to forget as quickly as possible. For a summer the family will talk about for years, take a look at Kings Dominion Amusement Park. Located in Doswell, Virginia, a mere 20 miles from Richmond, this park offers 400 acres of heart-pounding thrill rides, a water park, incredible shows and events and a special section of the park for small children.

Rides

Recently rated Virginia's most exciting theme park, Kings Dominion boasts the finest and best rides on the entire East Coast. With 14 roller coasters, there's no end to the screams, gut-wrenching twists and turns and loop-the-loops that die-hard thrill buff can experience. Coasters include:

Dominator: This 4,210-foot steel coaster is the longest floorless roller coaster in the world. Hurtle at speeds of up to 65 mph through loops, rolls and corkscrews.

The Backlot Stunt Coaster: Slip into the seat of a Hollywood stunt driver. Sit behind the wheel of your very own stunt car for a 1,960 foot race, straight from a movie set. With six different 'scenes', you'll race police cars, through a parking garage, sewer tunnel and subway stairs and find yourself at the climax - crashing through a billboard into an aqueduct! But don't worry, like any good Hollywood thriller, you'll miss the massive explosion ... by a hair's breadth!

Volcano: The Blast Coaster: Ready for more movie fun? Think 'Journey to the Center of the Earth'! Dodge in and out of tunnels full of molten lave in one of the world's fastest suspended coasters. Then shoot over 100 feet, straight out of the top of the volcano!

The Crypt: Archeological expeditions can be full of danger and adventure, especially when they're done at Kings Dominion! Pass through the jungle, full of ruins and signs of failed expeditions, on to a huge stone alter. The adventure begins there, with a flight 60-foot above the ground, head dangling as you're tossed, upside-down, across fire, water geysers and steam.

Hope you like native drums ....

If those coasters don't float your boat, try the other ten located on the park. You're sure to find one that meets your expectations, increases your pulse rate and tears the scream from your throat!

If you're looking for a ride the whole family can enjoy, Kings

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