Six Flags America Closes Permanently After Five Decades
What To Know
- Six Flags America in Bowie, Maryland, has permanently closed after 50 years of operation.
- The closure has prompted an outpouring of nostalgia and disappointment from fans.
- Six Flags’ leadership cited a strategic review as the reason for the closure and plans to market the property for redevelopment.
Six Flags America has closed permanently after five decades.
On Sunday, November 2, the theme park in Bowie, Maryland, shared a message via Instagram after its final day of operation. “Thank you, Six Flags America fans, for 50 years of family fun,” the post read. “We will always cherish the memories made together. 💙.”
The park originally opened in 1974 as a drive-through animal experience called The Wildlife Preserve. In 1998, Six Flags acquired the property, then called Adventure World; it rebranded as Six Flags America in 1999.
Over the next 26 years, some of the most popular rides included Superman Ride of Steel, Firebird, Wild One, Joker’s Jinx, Roar, Batwing, and many others.
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In the comments of the Instagram post, many Six Flags America fans lamented the end of an era, with one writing, “Noooo I can’t believe it’s over 😢😢.”
Another shared, “Man, I’m gonna miss this park. So sad it’s closing we’re gonna miss u SixFlags America!!! Rip. 😢 😢.”
Someone else echoed, “This park didn’t need to be closed down. An absolute disgrace.”
Meanwhile, yet another Instagram user wrote, “I’m gonna miss you guys so much :( The inner child in me is so deeply saddened. Nothing will beat the nostalgic memories I’ve made here with my family and friends. Six Flags America will always have a special spot in my heart and soul.”
Others advocated for the preservation of one ride in particular, a roller coaster named Wild One. The 108-year-old wooden coaster was relocated to Six Flags America in 1986 from Paragon Park in Massachusetts, Entertainment Weekly reported.
One fan commented, “Currently in line for my final ride on Wild One, which I think should totally be saved 😉 Thank you for my four fun visits!!”
A second Instagram user wrote, “Save the Wild One and Mind Eraser plzz,” as a third agreed, “RIP, SAVE THE WILD ONE!
In May, Six Flags America announced its plans to close in November 2025.
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“As part of our comprehensive review of our park portfolio, we have determined that Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor are not a strategic fit with the company’s long-term growth plan,” Richard A. Zimmerman, Six Flags president and CEO, said in a news release.
Zimmerman noted Six Flags’ plans to market the property for redevelopment, sharing, “This was a difficult decision, and we recognize the impact it will have on our Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor park associates and guests.”
He added, “We are grateful to our park associates who work hard to create lifelong memories for our guests, and Six Flags is committed to supporting all impacted associates through the closure process at the end of this year.”