Six Flags America closed its gates permanently on November 2, 2025. The iconic 131-acre Maryland park in Bowie shut down after 51 years of operation. The amusement park operated 100+ rides, shows, and roller coasters. Hurricane Harbor water park also closed permanently.
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🔥 Quick Facts:
- Park operated as Wild World (1974), then Adventure World, finally Six Flags America (1999-2025)
- Closure announced May 1, 2025; final day was Sunday, November 2, 2025
- Property being marketed for redevelopment; about 70 full-time employees affected
- Six Flags California’s Great America will also close by end of 2027
- Park served families in the Washington, D.C. region for over five decades
What Happened: End of an Era in Maryland
Six Flags America welcomed its final guests on Sunday, November 2, 2025. The Maryland amusement park permanently closed after 51 years of continuous operation. The company announced the closure back in May 2025.
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Six Flags Entertainment Corporation decided to sell the property for redevelopment. CEO Richard A. Zimmerman stated the company believes marketing the property generates higher value.
“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 plans.”
The 500-acre Bowie property first opened in 1974 as a drive-thru safari called The Wildlife Preserve. It became Wild World and later Adventure World before Six Flags took over in 1999. Thrill-seekers visited for nostalgia and classic rides.
Why This Matters: Lost Community Gathering Place
Six Flags America wasn’t just an amusement park. It was a cherished destination for Washington D.C. region families for five decades. Generations visited the same rides year after year. The closure represents the end of a beloved community tradition.
The park’s closing reflects Six Flags’ financial struggles. The company reported a net loss exceeding $100 million in Q2 2025. Six Flags Entertainment Corporation merged with Cedar Fair in July 2024, creating significant organizational challenges.
Local employees suffered real consequences. About 70 full-time staff members lost their jobs. The company offered severance and benefits packages to eligible workers. The closure impacts surrounding businesses that relied on park traffic.
You may have visited as a kid. The park meant different things to different families. Iconic rides like The Wild One wooden coaster defined childhoods across Maryland.
Park Details and Timeline
Six Flags America operated multiple iconic attractions across its 131 acres. The park featured roller coasters, family rides, water park amenities, and live entertainment.
| Timeline | Details |
|---|---|
| 1974 | Opened as Largo Wildlife Preserve |
| 1974-1991 | Operated as Wild World and Adventure World |
| 1999 | Became Six Flags America |
| May 1, 2025 | Closure announced to public |
| Sept. 6, 2025 | Hurricane Harbor permanently closed |
| Nov. 2, 2025 | Final day of operations; park closed forever |
The park’s 100+ attractions included thrill rides and family-friendly options. Beloved coasters like The Wild One and Firebird attracted coaster enthusiasts nationwide.
What’s Next for Six Flags and the Property
The 500-acre Bowie site is now being marketed for redevelopment. Six Flags seeks investment offers to maximize property value. Developers may consider residential, commercial, or mixed-use projects.
Ride disposition remains undecided. Six Flags said relocation to other parks or sale to competing operators are possible options. Iconic attractions may find new homes elsewhere.
- Property status: Listed for development and redevelopment opportunities
- Six Flags’ portfolio: Company operates 20+ parks across North America
- Financial outlook: CEO stepping down; company restructuring ongoing
- Other closures: Six Flags California’s Great America closing by 2027
- Future investments: Travis Kelce joined investor group to strengthen brand
Will Six Flags Survive These Major Changes?
Six Flags Entertainment faces significant challenges ahead. The company’s merger with Cedar Fair created organizational complexity. Financial losses mount despite owning 20+ major amusement parks.
CEO Richard A. Zimmerman announced plans to step down by year-end 2025. The company is restructuring operations to improve profitability and reduce debt.
Recently, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce joined an investor group. He called himself a lifelong Six Flags fan committed to reviving the brand. This investment suggests confidence in the company’s future.
Multiple park closures indicate strategic portfolio optimization. Six Flags determines which properties maximize shareholder value. Maryland’s Six Flags America fell short of that standard.
What will happen to other struggling Six Flags parks? The company’s next moves will reshape American amusement park landscape significantly.
Sources
- People.com – Six Flags America Officially Closes After 50 Years
- Entertainment Weekly – Six Flags America Permanently Closes
- NBC News – An Economic Roller Coaster Sends Six Flags America Off the Tracks
Daniel Harris is a specialist journalist focused on the crossroads of breaking news, extraordinary history, and enduring legends. With a background in historical research and storytelling, he blends timely reporting with timeless narratives, making complex events and ancient myths resonate with today’s readers. Daniel’s work often uncovers surprising links between present-day headlines and legendary tales, offering unique perspectives that captivate diverse audiences. Beyond reporting, he is passionate about preserving oral traditions and exploring how extraordinary stories continue to shape culture and identity.