Hanover’s Perspective
Kings Dominion to Launch New Coaster in 2025
Kings Dominion, central Virginia’s beloved amusement park located in Hanover County, has announced the arrival of Rapterra as part of the park’s 50th anniversary season in 2025. Standing at 145 feet tall and stretching 3,086 feet long, this incredible new attraction is the world’s tallest and longest launched wing coaster, and promises an unforgettable experience filled with heights, speed and exhilarating maneuvers for all park-goers.
Rapterra, inspired by the powerful Jungle Hawk, offers riders the sensation of flight. The adventure begins with a powerful launch, accelerating passengers to 65 miles per hour in just four seconds before ascending to its zenith over the Jungle X-Pedition midway. The ride then plummets into a dive loop, and navigates a series of thrilling aerial maneuvers, including an S-turn, a wing slide, a flat spin, an airtime hill, and a 360-degree raptor roll. The 89-second ride totals three inversions before a smooth return to the station.
“We are excited to unveil Rapterra, the must-do ride of 2025, at Kings Dominion,” said Bridgette Bywater, vice president and general manager of Kings Dominion. “This extraordinary addition promises new thrills for our guests, making it the perfect centerpiece for our 50th anniversary celebration and reaffirming why Kings Dominion is the ultimate destination for unforgettable memories and exhilarating excitement.”
Rapterra’s winged coaster design positions riders on either side of the track, offering an immersive, floorless experience that simulates flying. The basalt grey support columns and patina green track create loops, twists and rolls, ensuring a thrilling adventure from start to finish.
Construction of Rapterra is already in progress, with completion expected this fall. The coaster will officially open in 2025, coinciding with Kings Dominion’s milestone 50th anniversary celebration. More information on the 50th anniversary celebration will be shared at a later date.
Kings Dominion, a 400-acre amusement park located in Doswell, VA off I-95, is home to more than 60 rides, shows and attractions, including 13 world-class roller coasters and Soak City, a top-rated 20-acre waterpark. Kings Dominion is owned and operated by Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, the largest and most diverse amusement park operator in North America.
Visit Kings Dominion’s website at www.kingsdominion.com.