As Memorial Day Weekend approaches, theme parks within a short drive from Alexandria are preparing to kick off the summer season with new attractions, live entertainment, and seasonal promotions. From thrilling coasters to family-friendly fun, here’s what visitors can expect at three major amusement parks in the region.
Hersheypark: Pennsylvania’s Sweetest Destination Reopens May 22
Located approximately three hours from Alexandria, Hersheypark begins daily operations on May 22, offering a wide range of attractions for guests of all ages. The park is home to 15 roller coasters, the most in the Northeast, along with more than 20 kid-friendly rides and a sprawling 11-acre water park.
This summer features the debut of the Twizzlers Twisted Gravity Screamin’ Swing, set to become the tallest ride of its kind in the world. Additionally, longtime favorites such as the Kissing Tower, Lightning Racer, and Candymonium will mark milestone anniversaries in 2025.
Admission to Hersheypark includes access to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park, which can be entered via a bridge inside the park during posted hours. Special offers, including the Summer Fun Card—providing unlimited visits through September 7 for $99 plus taxes and fees—are currently available online.
Kings Dominion: Celebrating 50 Years with a ‘Golden Summerbration’
Just two hours from Alexandria, Kings Dominion in Doswell, Virginia, is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a summer-long event dubbed “A Golden Summerbration,” launching May 24.
The park will feature a variety of new live entertainment, including:
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Light the Night (starting May 24): A nightly visual spectacle lighting up International Street.
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Clown Band (starting May 24): A beloved returning act with interactive performances.
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Prism: 50 Years of FUN (June 13–July 6): A family-friendly laser show at Kings Dominion Theater.
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50 Years of FUN Street Party (starting June 13): A park-wide celebration with a new original theme song.
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Gazillion Bubble Show (July 12–August 3): A high-energy, bubble-filled performance showcasing stage magic and artistry.
The season promises enhanced park decor, limited-edition food and merchandise, and updated experiences throughout.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg: Launching ‘Summer of Wonder’ on June 14
Also about two hours from Alexandria, Busch Gardens Williamsburg will introduce its all-new “Summer of Wonder” celebration, running from June 14 to August 11.
Billed as a fusion of fine arts, food, music, and thrills, the event will transform the park’s European-themed villages with live art installations and murals by local artists. Visitors can enjoy Saturday night concerts from high-profile acts such as Flo Rida, Bret Michaels, and We the Kingdom.
The reimagined Loch Ness Monster® coaster—North America’s only interlocking-loop roller coaster—joins a lineup of ten thrill rides. Indoor entertainment options include Celtic Fyre® and American Jukebox: Summer Remix. Evenings wrap up with DJ sets at the Coke Studio Sound Stage and fireworks displays.
Guests can also sample limited-time summer menu items and enjoy special perks like free beer for members and 50-cent beers for all parkgoers (conditions apply).
With expanded entertainment, exciting new attractions, and seasonal promotions, these regional theme parks offer Alexandria residents and visitors ample options for summer adventure beginning Memorial Day Weekend.
