When you and your kids need a break from all the history lessons Richmond has to offer, head about 25 miles north of the city to Kings Dominion. This 400-acre water and theme park wins praise from recent visitors for its manageable size and family-friendly attractions. Thrill-seekers particularly liked all the roller coasters here, especially the wooden Grizzly coaster, which takes riders through a dense forest. And another bonus: Entrance to the kid-friendly Soak City water park is included in your general admission fee.

The only complaint offered by recent visitors pertained to the high price of food. Though you can't bring outside food or drink into the park, there are several shaded picnic areas in the guest parking lot if you want to pack food or drinks to consume before entering the park. If you do plan to buy soft drinks or water inside the park, consider purchasing the souvenir bottle. Though the price may seem steep ($10.99), it'll get you free refills all day.

Kings Dominion is located in Doswell, Virginia, about a 30-minute drive north of downtown Richmond. Most of the facilities are open every day from Memorial Day weekend until Labor Day weekend starting at 10:30 a.m. until 10 p.m. The Soak City park opens at noon each day. Kings Dominion is also open a few days in April, on some weekends in early May and on weekends in October. General admission for both adults and children costs $55 per person if purchased online. If you wait to buy your tickets at the gate, you'll have to fork over $66 per person. Visit the park's official website for more information on pricing packages and special park hours.