Six Flags America in Bowie, Maryland, permanently closed on November 2, 2025. The closure also affected Hurricane Harbor, the water park next door. If you were planning a visit, you’ll need to choose another amusement park.
This guide explains why Six Flags America closed, clears up confusion with Six Flags Great America in Illinois, and highlights alternative theme parks for visitors travelling around Maryland and Washington, DC.
Is Six Flags America Closed?
Yes. Six Flags America permanently closed after its 2025 operating season, with November 2, 2025, confirmed as its final operating day. Hurricane Harbor closed at the same time.
Six Flags Entertainment Corporation announced the decision on May 1, 2025. The company confirmed that both parks would close and that the approximately 500-acre property would be marketed for redevelopment.
The announcement ended Six Flags America’s run as a major regional amusement park in Maryland. Its rides, attractions, and water park are no longer available to visitors.
Read the official closure announcement for the company’s original statement.
Why Did Six Flags America Close?
Six Flags Entertainment Corporation said the closure followed a review of its park portfolio. The company determined that Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor did not fit its long-term growth plans.
The decision was part of a broader portfolio optimization strategy. The company also announced that the property would be marketed for redevelopment.
Although the announcement outlined plans for the site, its current redevelopment status should be checked against recent local government or property records before making claims about what will be built there.
For former visitors, the important point is straightforward: the closure was a business decision, and the park is no longer an option for a day trip.
Six Flags America vs. Six Flags Great America
The similar names can cause confusion, especially for travellers searching for tickets or park hours.
| Park | Location | Status |
| Six Flags America | Bowie, Maryland | Permanently closed November 2, 2025 |
| Six Flags Great America | Gurnee, Illinois | Separate park; check its official calendar before travelling |
| Six Flags Magic Mountain | Valencia, California | Separate park; check its official calendar before travelling |
Six Flags America and Six Flags Great America are different parks. The closure in Maryland does not mean that the park in Gurnee, Illinois, has closed.
There is also a separate attraction called California’s Great America in Santa Clara, California. It should not be confused with Six Flags Great America in Illinois or Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia.
If your original destination was Great America in Illinois, check the official Six Flags Great America website for current operating dates, tickets, and attraction information.
Where to Go Instead of Six Flags America
If you wanted a theme park day around Maryland or Washington, DC, there are several alternatives to consider. Your best choice will depend on how far you’re willing to travel, the type of rides you enjoy, and the date of your visit.
1. Kings Dominion — Doswell, Virginia
Kings Dominion is an amusement park in Doswell, Virginia, with roller coasters, family rides, and seasonal attractions. It is an option for visitors willing to travel south from the Maryland and DC area.
Before setting off, check the official operating calendar for your chosen date. Opening days and hours can vary by season.
- Best for: Roller coasters, family attractions, and a full theme park day
- Location: Doswell, Virginia
- Official website: Kings Dominion
2. Hersheypark — Hershey, Pennsylvania
Hersheypark combines roller coasters, family rides, seasonal events, and attractions connected to Hershey’s chocolate theme. It is worth considering for families and thrill-seekers planning a longer day trip.
The park operates on a seasonal schedule, so check its calendar before booking transport or accommodation.
- Best for: Roller coasters, family rides, and seasonal experiences
- Location: Hershey, Pennsylvania
- Official website: Hersheypark
3. Six Flags Great Adventure — Jackson, New Jersey
If you specifically want another Six Flags-branded amusement park, consider Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, New Jersey. It offers major roller coasters and family rides, along with a separate safari attraction.
The Maryland closure does not mean this New Jersey park has closed. However, operating dates and individual attractions can change, so check the park’s official website before planning your visit.
- Best for: Thrill rides, roller coasters, and a larger amusement park experience
- Location: Jackson, New Jersey
- Official website: Six Flags Great Adventure
Which Alternative Should You Choose?
Choose Kings Dominion or Hersheypark if you want a regional theme park option, or consider Six Flags Great Adventure if you specifically want another Six Flags park.
These are alternatives to investigate rather than a guaranteed ranking of the closest parks. Compare driving times from your starting point, ticket prices, and operating dates before making a decision.
Planning a US Trip? Stay Connected With an eSIM
If you’re travelling to another amusement park or exploring several US destinations, mobile data can help you navigate, check park hours, access digital tickets, and arrange transport.
An Airhub US eSIM lets compatible devices connect through a travel data plan without installing a physical SIM card. Available plans and features vary, so check the details before purchasing.
Before you travel:
- Browse Airhub eSIM plans.
- Check whether your phone supports eSIM using the Airhub compatibility checker.
- Follow the provider’s eSIM compatibility and setup guidance.
- Confirm your plan’s coverage, validity, data allowance, and activation instructions.
Installing your eSIM before departure can help you prepare while you have access to reliable Wi-Fi.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Six Flags America permanently closed?
Yes. Six Flags America in Bowie, Maryland, permanently closed after the 2025 season. November 2, 2025, was its final operating day.
2. Did Hurricane Harbor close too?
Yes. Hurricane Harbor, the water park beside Six Flags America, closed at the end of the same 2025 season.
3. Why did Six Flags America close?
Six Flags Entertainment Corporation said the parks did not fit its long-term growth plans following a review of its portfolio. The company announced that the property would be marketed for redevelopment.
4. Can I still use a Six Flags America ticket?
No. The park has closed, so tickets cannot be used to enter Six Flags America. If you have an old ticket or pass and want to know whether any alternative benefits apply, contact Six Flags directly and check the terms of your specific purchase.
5. Is Six Flags Great America in Illinois still open?
Six Flags Great America is a separate park in Gurnee, Illinois. Check its official website for the latest operating calendar, ticket availability, and attraction updates before visiting.
6. What is the closest alternative to Six Flags America?
Kings Dominion in Doswell, Virginia, and Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania, are two regional options worth comparing. The best choice depends on your starting point, driving time, preferred attractions, and the date you plan to visit.
7. Is Six Flags Magic Mountain the same as California’s Great America?
No. Six Flags Magic Mountain is in Valencia, California, while California’s Great America is in Santa Clara. They are separate amusement parks with different locations and operating information.
8. How can I stay connected during a US theme park trip?
A travel eSIM can provide mobile data for maps, digital tickets, transport apps, and messaging, provided your phone is compatible and the plan covers your destination. Check the plan’s details and your device’s compatibility before buying.
Final Thoughts
Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor are permanently closed, so visitors can no longer plan a day at either park. The closure followed Six Flags Entertainment Corporation’s review of its long-term park portfolio.
If you were hoping for a theme park trip around Maryland or Washington, DC, consider alternatives such as Kings Dominion, Hersheypark, or Six Flags Great Adventure. Check official operating calendars before travelling, and choose the park that best matches your route and interests.
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