Much-loved theme park closes after 50 years | World | News
A beloved theme park has announced it will close after 50 years. Locals shared their favorite memories of the theme park, which closed its doors for the last time last Sunday. Located in Bowie, Maryland, Six Flags America first opened in 1974 and became known as the “exciting capital of DC.” However, the company is restructuring, which means big changes are occurring, such as the closure of this park and the adjacent water park.
Following its last day of operations, the park’s Instagram account shared an Instagram post: “Thank you to 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 in May that Six Flags America would close in 2025. It also announced that it would close Hurricane Harbor.
“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 for the company’s long-term growth plan,” Six Flags President and CEO Richard A. Zimmerman said in a press release at the time.
He added: “Having examined a range of options, we believe marketing the property for redevelopment will provide the highest value and return on investment. We expect strong interest in the property and will continue to strategically pursue portfolio optimization opportunities as we work to unlock the full value of our portfolio.”
More than 70 full-time staff at the now-closed amusement park will receive benefits and severance pay, the company said.
This isn’t all bad news for Six Flags fans in the US. In September, Six Flags Over Texas confirmed it would open 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 would be an investor in Six Flags Entertainment. he said at the time: “I’m 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 a chance I can’t pass up.”
