Six Flags America, located near Washington, D.C., is popular for rides inspired by Mardi Gras, as well as an entire section of the park dedicated to the annual celebration. Rides include Ragin Cajun, a spinning roller coaster, and the French Quarter Flyers, a tame roller coaster for youngsters to enjoy. There’s also the Bourbon Street Fireball, where riders are suspended upside-down before speeding through a series of loops. And don’t miss the upgraded “Superman Ride of Steel” coaster, which recently added a virtual-reality component to fully immerse you in the world of Metropolis.

There’s more fun to be had at Hurricane Harbor, the adjacent water park. There, families can enjoy THE PENGUIN’S BLIZZARD River, the world’s tallest spinning rapids ride, or Renegade Rapids, similar to whitewater rafting. New for 2016 is Splashwater Falls, an interactive water playground with hundreds of fun play options to keep kids entertained.

Hotels near Six Flags Great America include Hampton Inn Bowie. If you’re planning to stay in Washington, D.C., about 45 minutes away, consider one of our Family Vacation Critic Favorite Hotels in Washington, D.C.