The Doswell center point is around 3 miles west of Paramount’s Kings Dominion and 4 miles east of Scotchtown.
Doswell gets four distinct seasons: cold winter with some precipitation, gorgeous fall, hot summer, and a beautiful, but sometimes rainy, spring. The majority of Doswell's visitors flock to King's Dominion for its thrilling rides and summer fun in the water park. This park sees most traffic from Memorial Day through Labor Day, roughly coinciding with school vacation calendars. It's really the best time to visit if you're looking to ride roller coasters or cool off in its extensive water park.
If you're a military service member, you'll receive complimentary admission to King's Dominion on Fourth of July weekend. Every year, the impressive fireworks display makes battling the crowd worthwhile. You can still come to King's Dominion in the fall for the park's spooky Halloween haunt event. This maze of haunted houses and creepy character actors is an event that's best for teens and adults.
The holidays bring their own merriment at Meadow Event Park, with the Illuminate holiday light show. This drive-through experience takes place at the home of Secretariat, the world-renowned Triple Crown-winning thoroughbred, who was born at this horse farm turned event facility. You can visit any time of year to hear about the history of how Secretariat became a champion.
Families seeking to do some berry or peach picking should come in the late spring or early summer. However, before you make the drive, you should contact the farm to inquire and confirm details before hitting the road. Some farms also offer pumpkin picking in the fall. It's a good time to visit if you plan to attend the State Fair of Virginia, which takes place at the end of September through early October.
Civil War buffs and history lovers can visit Doswell any time of the year. If you want to see the Civil War era earthwork fortifications at North Anna Battlefield Park, they are more clearly visible in late fall and winter, after the leaves fall. However, the short hikes and informative trail markers can be enjoyed any time of the year, weather permitting.
For military service members, AAA members, and senior citizens, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Doswell (Kings Dominion) offers the most comprehensive discount packages in the Doswell area. This warm and welcoming hotel may have you thinking you are actually at home. Its cozy interior features oak paneling and warm tones of burgundy, sage green, and cream. Rooms feature microwaves and mini-fridges in most instances, along with coffeemakers. A convenience store near the customer service desk supplies any sundries you may have forgotten.
Entertainment doesn't end after your days out in Doswell. Once back at the hotel, the kids can watch cable programming or check in online with free Wi-Fi access. Better yet, take them down to the indoor pool to splash out the last of their energy before bedtime. This hotel is a solid choice that is great for families that want a low-key yet welcoming hotel right in Doswell.
If you're just staying the night and need a place to crash after a long day at King's Dominion, the Days Inn Doswell at the Park makes an excellent choice. This roadside hotel offers a complimentary theme park shuttle, so you don't have to worry about where you parked your car when you get there. The complimentary breakfast is another perk that extends your savings. Military members, senior citizens, and AAA members will all find great discounts on rooms here, above and beyond Days Inn Doswell's affordable hotel rates.
Visitors consistently rave about the Hampton Inn by Hilton Richmond-North/Ashland. This property is freshly renovated in a style that is contemporary but not overpowering. Guests love the comfy beds and the pool with lounge chairs. The complimentary breakfast also gets high marks for its fresh and plentiful selection, as do the hotel's customer service team members. The fitness center, though modest in size, features all the essential cardio machines along with a comprehensive set of free weights.
The Hampton Inn by Hilton-Richmond-North Ashland also has a policy of not accepting large groups expressly traveling for a bachelor/bachelorette party. This means that your stay will be very convenient to King's Dominion, but the party won't come home with you to the hotel. This quiet retreat appeals to families traveling with smaller children, as well as business travelers who need their rest.
La Quinta Inn & Suites Richmond – Kings Dominion is another solid value hotel option in the area. This hotel's suites are ideal for larger families, with their pull-out couches and dual beds. The serene indoor pool is elegantly laid out next to a spa tub, an amenity that you might not expect at a 2.5-star hotel. The hotel's complimentary shuttle bus will also get you around to local sites of interest.
The first thing to determine when you visit Doswell is your priorities. For thrill seekers, will you want to spend more than one day at King's Dominion? If you check online and at local stores near the park, you may find coupons for discounted entry. The thrills extend beyond King's Dominion to other unexpected local venues, like Dominion Raceway. Kids can ride go-carts on a real motorsport track at Dominion Raceway, and adults can enjoy concerts at its adjacent performance venue.
Planning a string of visits or “flights” at the local wineries and craft breweries in Doswell can save you money. Many of the wineries have joined together to offer a “passport,” which gives you discounted perks and tastings at various wineries. You'll save money if you plan ahead. Be sure to check each venue's schedule or call ahead to coincide your visit with any festivals or live music. Some wineries also close facilities for private events or weddings, so it is best to plan ahead.
After days of indulgence, you may wish to do something educational for the kids (or yourself). Don't overlook smaller sites in the area like North Anna Civil War battlefield and Scotchtown. The latter was the home of famous revolutionary orator Patrick Henry, famous for his “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death” speech, later going on to become Governor of Virginia in 1776. This plantation remains untouched in many ways, staged with artifacts from his life that can be seen on tour, along with historical reenactors.
From antiquing and history to thrilling adventure parks, Doswell, Virginia, is the destination you never knew you wanted to explore. Take the time to unwind with family on some thrilling rides, then take to the country for a great escape. Whatever you choose, Doswell has a hotel and entertainment for you.
Below are reviews of the city of Doswell, VA from an actual visitor's perspective.
We are here for a dog show. Like how close it is to the site.
I found the hotel to be very convenient and it was close to Ashland which was a very nice place to visit.
We love the food places and the mall.
Very quiet stay.
Doswell is close to the interstate and other towns.
Affordable restaurants, quiet, clean.
Visited Kings Dominion amusement park. The traffic on I95 is very BAD for miles. We were in traffic for over 2 hours each day.
The shopping centers near the hotel were fabulous.
Nice rooms and accommodations.
Nice hotel accommodations.
Kings Dominion is there.