Six Flags America, home to the oldest roller coaster in the Six Flags portfolio, is set to close later this year. The company, Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, has decided that it doesn’t align with its long-term growth objectives anymore. The park and its water park counterpart, Hurricane Harbor, located in Bowie, Maryland, will officially close on November 2nd.
Richard Zimmerman, the President and CEO of Six Flags, stated that, after a thorough review of their park operations, it was clear that these two parks weren’t a good strategic fit anymore. They believe selling the property for redevelopment could create more value and investment returns.
The park is well-known for its wooden roller coaster, Wild One, which has a long history dating back to its opening in 1917 at Paragon Park in Hull, Massachusetts. Despite multiple updates throughout the years, this coaster still draws in thrill-seekers with its impressive 98-foot drop.
It’s currently uncertain what will happen to Wild One or the other rides as the closure date approaches. Six Flags employs around 70 full-time staff members at this location.
Eligible employees will be offered retirement benefits and other assistance when the park closes. Additionally, all season passes and tickets for the 2025 season will still be honored during the park’s final year.
It really is a bittersweet moment. On one hand, losing a community staple like this park is always tough. But on the other, maybe there’s a chance for something new and exciting in that space. There’s a lot of potential for redevelopment that could benefit both local residents and the wider community. Local leaders have expressed a desire to collaborate with the community on future plans, which could lead to something truly uplifting.
The announcement of Six Flags America’s closure comes shortly after news of the NFL’s Washington Commanders exploring options to leave Prince George’s County for a new stadium in Washington, DC.
