Six Flags America closes for good after 50 years of family fun in Maryland

The iconic amusement park Six Flags America, along with its Hurricane Harbor water park, officially closed its doors on Sunday, November 2, 2025, putting an end to half a century of operation. The company confirmed that the closure is part of a restructuring and debt reduction plan following its merger with Cedar Fair in 2024.

Originally opened in 1974 as The Wildlife Preserve, a drive-through safari, the park evolved over the decades to become one of the most popular entertainment destinations on the East Coast. In 1999 it became part of the Six Flags chain, offering more than 100 rides, roller coasters, shows and water slides.

"Thank you, Six Flags America fans, for 50 years of family fun. We will always treasure the memories created together," posted the park on its social media following its last day of operations.

According to the company, about 70 full-time employees received compensation and benefits following the closure. Although the fate of the attractions has not yet been decided, Six Flags Entertainment Corporation indicated that they could be relocated to other parks or sold to outside operators.

The CEO Richard A. Zimmerman explained in a statement that the decision is in response to a "strategic review" of the company's assets: "We believe that marketing the property for redevelopment will generate the greatest value and return on investment," he said.

The closing comes in a year of major changes for the brand, which faces financial losses in excess of $100 million and Zimmerman's upcoming departure at the end of 2025. Despite the challenges, Six Flags maintains more than 20 active parks in the United States, Canada and Mexico.