Here’s When Six Flags America Will Close in Maryland

Six Flags America, a beloved amusement park located in Bowie, Maryland, will shut its gates for good on November 2, marking the end of a more than 50-year legacy. The closure comes as the region faces a broader shift in its identity as an entertainment destination.

The nearly 500-acre site that houses Six Flags and the Hurricane Harbor water park will be sold for redevelopment. The company cited its long-term business outlook in the decision to close and divest from the Maryland property.

“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,” said Richard Zimmerman, the president and CEO of Six Flags, in the announcement.

Why Is Six Flags America Closing?

The Six Flags CEO said reviewed multiple options were reviewed before deciding to put the property on the market.

“After reviewing a number of options, we believe that marketing the property for redevelopment will generate the highest value and return on investment,” Zimmerman added.

The closure is not expected to substantially affect the company’s financial outlook for the year, the Six Flags statement said.

The park originally opened in 1974 as a wildlife preserve and was rebranded in 1999 as Six Flags America.

Acting Prince George’s County Executive Tara Jackson told radio station WTOP that the county is “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.”

Just weeks before the Six Flags announcement, plans accelerated for the NFL’s Washington Commanders to return to Washington, D.C, leaving behind Northwest Stadium in Landover—only a few miles from Six Flags America. The team has been playing in Maryland for nearly 30 years.

When Is Six Flags America’s Closing Date?

The final day of operations for Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor will be November 2. Visitors holding season passes or day tickets will be able to use them through the end of the season.

The parks currently employ about 70 full-time associates. “We are grateful to our park associates who work hard to create lifelong memories for our guests, and Six Flags is committed to supporting all impacted associates through the closure process at the end of this year,” Zimmerman said in the statement.

Once the Maryland locations close, Six Flags will continue to operate 40 parks and resorts across North America.