DC Area Theme Park News: Kings Dominion and Busch Gardens Williamsburg Turn 50; Six Flags America Closing

Are you brave enough to conquer Rapterra? Photo credit: © Kings Dominion 2025

Looking to catch some thrills at an amusement park this summer? You're in luck: there's a lot going on at the DC area's theme parks. Both Kings Dominion in Doswell, VA and Busch Gardens Williamsburg turn 50 this year and have opened new roller coasters. Kings Dominion is also celebrating its anniversary all summer long with a Golden Summerbration featuring new entertainment, food, and merchandise.

Six Flags America in Bowie, MD is marking a different kind of milestone—it's officially closing after this summer. You have until November 2, 2025 to visit one last time with your family.

Check out our Washington, DC Theme Parks and Water Parks Guide for more info on the area's fun amusement parks, including our guide to visiting Busch Gardens Williamsburg with kids

Guide to Making Art (and a Mess) in Atlanta

The Splatter Studio lets kids create art AND get messy at every visit. Photo courtesy of The Splatter Studio

In our family, true creativity comes with corresponding inspiration (otherwise known as the inevitable mess). So why not embrace messy art? There are lots of great Atlanta art spots that not only manage colorful messes, they encourage them! This article is for all the little artists and creative kids in Atlanta who love showing off their creations...on canvas, paper, or even their own clothes. Take a look at our favorite Atlanta attractions that celebrate messy inspiration.

Scott's Pointe is Long Island's New Adventure HQ with All-Ages Fun Inside and Out

Catch the endless waves at Scott's Pointe's indoor surf simulator.

Scott's Pointe in Calverton is the ultimate destination for thrill-seekers, water lovers, and outdoor adventurers. This sprawling East End indoor-outdoor adventure park is fully operational after decades in the making and it was absolutely worth the wait. 

From tiny tots to teens, and yes, even fun-loving grown-ups, there's something for everyone here. So grab your swimsuits, your sense of adventure, and the whole crew—Scott’s Pointe is calling!

Be sure to check out our Guide to Amusement Parks and Water Parks on Long Island for more cool places to make a splash. And get outside and experience other adventures with our Outdoor Activities Guide.

Inflatable Water Parks in New Jersey for Wet and Wild Summer Fun

The Totally Tubular Aqua Park offers 8,500 square feet of fun in Ocean City. Photo courtesy of Totally Tubular

Inflatable water parks with floating obstacle courses are the latest summertime craze, popping up in lakes and bays in New Jersey. These installations are a mix of obstacle courses and bouncy houses on the water—and they're incredibly fun, especially for older kids.

Find more ways to beat the heat in our Garden State Guide to Beaches and Lakes. And check out our Ultimate New Jersey Kids Summer Vacation Guide for tons of other dog-day activities.

Trendy NYC Experiences Kids Absolutely Love

Grab the cutest cotton candy in NYC at Fluffy Algodón. Photo courtesy of Fluffy NYC

New York City is seemingly always bursting with exciting, new things to do, and these new, trendy NYC kids' experiences are guaranteed to keep your crew cool, curious, and completely entertained. Whether your child has a sweet tooth, craves sushi, or loves being creative, NYC has rolled out a fresh lineup of trendy experiences tailor-made for family fun.

We’ve rounded up 14 of the hottest new spots around the city that are turning heads (and filling social media feeds) with their innovative designs, interactive elements, and one-of-a-kind fun. So grab your kids and sense of adventure—these are the trendy destinations NYC kids won’t stop talking about. We've got even more new-to-NYC experiences and destinations in our NYC Kids' Guide to News and Openings.

Best Beaches for Toddlers Near Orlando

With calm waters and soft sand, there are many beaches near Orlando ideal for toddlers to play safely. Photo courtesy Visit St. Pete/Clearwater

Orlando families may not live right on the coast, but luckily, some of Florida’s most family-friendly, toddler beaches are just a short drive away. If you're planning a beach day with a baby or toddler in tow, the key is finding beaches that are clean, safe, and easy to navigate with little ones. We’ve found eight beaches for toddlers that check all of these boxes! Pack your sand toys, snacks, and sunscreen—here are the best toddler beaches near Orlando.

24 Things To Do with Kids in Redondo Beach

Get out on the water or go under the water. Photo courtesy of Redondo Beach Glass Bottom Boat Rides.

Redondo Beach is a sunny seaside gem offering a wealth of family-friendly fun. It may even feel like a vacation within a staycation. This South Bay favorite locale is perfect for a day with kids. It's more laid-back and less busy than, say, Santa Monica if you want to enjoy a day at the ocean without crowds and tourists. 

From sandy beaches and the kid-favorite Seaside Lagoon to a dinosaur museum, playgrounds, and glass-bottom boat rides, there is no shortage of ways to play, explore, and make lasting memories. Whether your family loves nature, adventure, or laid-back coastal vibes, Redondo Beach offers something for every little explorer. 

For more coastal gems in Los Angeles, explore Palos Verdes with Kids, discover things to do in Manhattan Beach with kids, and browse our Beach Guide to Los Angeles and Orange County

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