Copyright International Business Times
After more than half a century of rollercoaster rides, family days out and summer memories, Six Flags America in Bowie, Maryland has officially closed its gates for the last time. The park, which welcomed millions since opening in the 1970s, bid an emotional farewell on Sunday, November 2, marking the end of a beloved era for thrill-seekers across the region. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Six Flags shared a final message to its fans: 'We will always cherish the memories made together.' The tribute was accompanied by nostalgic photos showing smiling families, fireworks and the park's iconic coasters. The closure comes after Six Flags Entertainment Corporation confirmed that the Maryland property, covering more than 500 acres, no longer fits within its long-term growth strategy. The site will now be placed on the market for redevelopment, sparking speculation about what might take its place. As part of the process of winding down operations, the company has verified that about 70 full-time employees will receive severance and other benefits. The park has been open in some form since 1974, and this official shutdown marked the end of its history. The closure announcement was made in May 2025. One Last Ride for Thrill-Seekers On its final day, a steady stream of guests flocked through the gates for one last hurrah. Roller coasters such as the iconic Superman: Ride of Steel and the thrill launch coaster Joker's Jinx, which reached 0 to 60 mph in just over three seconds, took their final runs. Social media posts featured final rides, clearance sales of merchandise, and emotional farewells and throwbacks. Despite the imminent shutdown, the day proceeded as usual during the busiest time of year, with lines becoming longer for the more popular rides. 50 Years of Fun and Memories The history of Six Flags America spans more than 50 years of local entertainment and culture. Opening in July 1974 as The Wildlife Preserve, a drive-through safari attraction, the park began as a family-friendly escape where visitors could view exotic animals from their cars. By the late 1970s, it had transformed into Wild World, adding water rides, themed areas and live shows that made it a popular summer destination for families across Maryland, Washington DC and Virginia. The park joined the Six Flags family in 1999, rebranding as Six Flags America and embracing the high-octane thrill rides that became its trademark. Over the years, it built a loyal following with attractions such as Superman: Ride of Steel, one of the tallest and fastest coasters on the East Coast, and Batwing, a flying coaster that gave guests the sensation of soaring through the air. The park also featured The Wild One, a classic wooden roller coaster originally built in 1917 and carefully relocated from Massachusetts. It is hailed as one of the oldest coasters still in operation worldwide. Beyond its thrill rides, Six Flags America became known for its themed festivals, live entertainment and strong community ties. Annual events such as Fright Fest and Holiday in the Park became seasonal staples, while the water park section, Hurricane Harbor, gained popularity as a family destination during the summer months. For decades, the park proudly called itself the thrill capital of the DC region, blending nostalgia with modern excitement. However, a corporate review following the 2024 merger of Six Flags and Cedar Fair Entertainment Company concluded that the Bowie site was no longer strategic for future development. Even so, its legacy as a landmark of local leisure remains strong. Generations of families, teenagers and thrill-seekers found at Six Flags America the simple joy of escape and the thrill of shared adventure.
