A beloved theme park has announced its closure after 50 years. Locals have shared their favourite memories of the theme park as it shut its gates for the final time this past Sunday. Six Flags America in Bowie, Maryland, first opened in 1974 and became known as the “thrill capital of D.C.”. However, the company is restructuring, which means big changes, such as the closure of this park and its adjoining waterpark, have occurred.
Following its final day of operations, the Instagram account for the park shared in an Instagram post: “Thank you, Six Flags America fans, for 50 years of family fun. We will always cherish the memories made together.” Some of the iconic rides at this Maryland theme park included The Superman: Ride of Steel, famous for its 200-foot drop. The property, which spans an impressive 500 acres, will now be marketed for redevelopment.
This comes after the company announced back in May that Six Flags America would eventually close in 2025. It also announced that it would shut down Hurricane Harbor.
Six Flags President & CEO Richard A. Zimmerman said in a press release at the time: “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.”
He added: “After reviewing a number of options, we believe that marketing the property for redevelopment will generate the highest value and return on investment. We anticipate strong interest in the property and will continue to strategically pursue portfolio optimisation opportunities as we work to unlock the full value of our portfolio.”
The company has said that the more than 70 full-time staff at the now-closed amusement park would receive benefits and severance.
It is not all bad news for Six Flags fans in the US. In September, Six Flags Over Texas confirmed it will be opening a brand-new, record-breaking roller coaster next year.
Last month, Travis Kelce, who recently got engaged to pop star Taylor Swift, announced that he was becoming an investor in Six Flags Entertainment. he said at the time: “I am a lifelong Six Flags fan and grew up going to these parks with my family and friends. The chance to help make Six Flags special for the next generation is one I couldn’t pass up.”