As the region’s amusement parks open with enhanced health and safety measures in place, they are also debuting new thrill rides, cool attractions and tasty food offerings.
Six Flags America
Already home to 10 heart-pounding roller coasters and the Hurricane Harbor waterpark, Six Flags America, which opened its 2021 season on March 6, is now introducing its all-new Harley Quinn Spinsanity, the DMV’S tallest and fastest pendulum ride. It is designed to take 40 riders 15 stories in the air and reach speeds of 70 miles per hour as the ride swings back and forth while rotating counterclockwise. This epic ride completes a two-year renovation of the park’s Gotham City region that included last year’s opening of an all-new retail store and Steelworks Pub.
King’s Dominion
King’s Dominion was closed in 2020 but will open its main park for the 2021 season on May 22, marking its 46th birthday. It will then open its Soak City waterpark — with a new section — on June 19. Called Coconut Shores, the new section features Lighthouse Landing, an interactive multi-level aqua play structure; Sand Dune Lagoon, a 24” deep mini wave pool with 1-foot-tall waves; and Beach Street. a new dining experience with live music where guests are able to indulge in delicious hot and ready delights from three different food trucks.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg
Cited as one of the most anticipated roller coasters of 2021 by USA Today, Pantheon is scheduled to makes its debut later this year at Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Once active, it will be the world’s fastest multi-launch coaster and feature two inversions, four launches, five air-time hills, a 95° drop, a height of 180 feet, and a record-breaking top speed of 73 mph. The all-new coaster incorporates five mighty gods including Pluto, Mercury, Jupiter, Minerva, and Neptune, with an aspect of the track themed to their respective powers.
Hersheypark
The centerpiece of Hersheypark’s new Chocolatetown region is Candymonium, an out-and-back-style hyber coaster by Bolliger & Mabillard that has a 4,636-foot long track and spans seven acres. The park’s tallest, fastest, and longest coaster ride opened in the middle of the park’s 2020 season, and it is now celebrating its first full season aside three new culinary experiences: Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor, Sweeterie Confectionary Kitchen, and The Chocolatier Restaurant.
