When theme parks from two rival companies are in such close proximity, you may think there could be some animosity and rivalry between the two. But Virginia’s two major theme parks, Busch Gardens Williamsburg (owned by SeaWorld Entertainment) and Kings Dominion (owned by Cedar Fair), only an hour apart from each other, are putting any of their possible differences aside this summer as the I-95/I-295/I-64 corridor between the two parks is being declared as the “Gateway to Family Thrills,” in celebration of both parks’ 40th anniversaries.
From battlefields to memorials and wineries to theme parks, the Richmond/Williamsburg corridor offers fun for all ages. The Richmond, VA Travel and Tourism website encourages travelers to “Take a daytrip and explore the area, ride a coaster, dine on delicious food, and experience Virginia’s thrilling theme park destination.”
Between the two parks, “The Gateway to Family Thrills” offers nearly 600 acres of rides, shows and attractions. Combined, Busch Gardens and Kings Dominion boast 21 roller coasters, including Tempesto, Busch Gardens’ thrilling new launch coaster. The area boasts three kid zones, highlighting more than 20 rides designed for families to enjoy together.Visitors can also beat the heat this summer with 63 acres of water parks, including the newly renovated Soak City at King’s Dominion and Water Country USA in Williamsburg, Virginia.
The parks will offer two discount ticket options to showcase this region of Virginia as a family-friendly theme park destination.
The Virginia Thrills Ticket is valid for one single-day admission each to Busch Gardens and Kings Dominion within seven consecutive days.
The Virginia Thrills Ticket Plus is valid for two single-day admissions to Busch Gardens and/or Water Country USA and two single-day admissions to Kings Dominion (which contains Soak City on the same ticket) within seven consecutive days.
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It will be interesting to see what impact this two park ticket has on the amusement industry. Will it make other companies rethink working with their theme park neighbors?
What do you think about the new Virginia Thrills ticket? Which other parks would you like to see work together? Let us know in the comments below!
This is very interesting to hear. Maybe I should look into a Virginia trip over summer. I wonder how this will go. Sounds like a win for the guest and a win for the park if the crowds buy in. But seriously to google maps to check out the drive time.
@Jeremy — It’s just a touch over an hour. Not bad at all. It’s very, very doable to do both parks in a 2 day stretch, even with travel time.