After more than 25 years of providing thrilling rides and family fun, Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor, located in Bowie, Maryland, will close their doors for good at the end of this season. The 500-acre amusement complex, a staple in the Maryland suburbs of Washington, D.C., will be sold for redevelopment, Six Flags Entertainment Corporation announced Thursday.
In a statement, Richard A. Zimmerman, the President and CEO of Six Flags, explained that following a comprehensive review of its portfolio, the company determined that Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor no longer fit with its long-term growth strategy. This decision comes as part of the company’s broader restructuring efforts. The final day of operation for the park will be November 2, 2025.
“Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor have been an important part of the local community, and this final season will be an opportunity to celebrate the decades of fun that guests have enjoyed at the property,” Zimmerman said. For many in the region, the parks have been a beloved destination for entertainment, offering countless memories for families and visitors alike.
The closure marks the end of an era for both the park and the surrounding community. Opened in 1999, Six Flags America features a variety of rides and attractions, including nine roller coasters, one of which, The Wild One, is one of the oldest wooden roller coasters in the country. The park’s history dates back to the 1970s, when the site was originally home to a wildlife preserve before it was transformed into an amusement park.
For over two decades, the park has been a key local attraction, drawing visitors from across the region. With its mixture of high-speed rides, family-friendly attractions, and seasonal events, Six Flags America became a symbol of fun for many. But despite its popularity, Six Flags has decided to shift its focus, selling the land for future redevelopment.
The decision to close the park has been met with sadness from local officials, especially those who have seen Six Flags America grow from a modest attraction into a major part of the community’s identity. Acting Prince George’s County Executive Tara H. Jackson expressed her disappointment over the closure, noting that the park had been more than just an entertainment venue for the county.
“For decades, Six Flags has been more than just a theme park—it is a cherished part of our county’s identity, a source of joy for families, and a hub of economic activity,” Jackson said. “We are committed to working closely with Six Flags and other stakeholders to guide a thoughtful and inclusive redevelopment process that supports jobs, growth, and long-term community benefit.”
Beyond its role as a family entertainment hub, Six Flags America has also been a significant economic driver for the region, supporting dozens of local jobs and drawing tourism to the area. Local businesses, particularly those in the hospitality and service industries, have benefited from the influx of visitors, particularly during the summer months when the park is busiest.
The closure of Six Flags America will also impact its employees. Approximately 70 full-time associates are employed at the park, and while they will be provided with severance and other benefits, the closure nonetheless represents a difficult transition for those who have spent years working at the park.
As the park winds down its operations, there is a sense of nostalgia among both locals and frequent visitors. Many remember the excitement of the roller coasters, the joy of family outings, and the cherished moments spent in the park. For them, Six Flags America was more than just a place to ride thrill machines—it was a venue where memories were made and traditions were formed.
With the park’s closure, the future of the site remains uncertain. Six Flags has not yet disclosed any specific plans for the redevelopment of the land, but local officials have expressed a desire to see the site repurposed in a way that benefits the community. As the area looks toward the future, the redevelopment process will be key to determining how the park’s legacy will be remembered and what new opportunities will emerge for the region.
As the final days of Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor approach, many will reflect on the memories created within the park’s gates. For those who grew up visiting, the park represented an essential part of childhood. And while its closure marks the end of one chapter, it also opens the door to the next phase of life for both the land and the community.
While the closure is a difficult one for many, it is also a reminder of how communities evolve and how spaces meant for recreation can shift as companies and regions look toward future development. Whatever comes next for the site, the memories of laughter, excitement, and joy will likely remain in the hearts of those who enjoyed the thrills of Six Flags America over the years.
