Six Flags America park visitors will have to seek their thrills elsewhere.
The theme park announced on May 1 that it intends to close Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor in Bowie, Maryland, at the end of the 2025 season.
“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,” Six Flags President and CEO Richard A.
Zimmerman said in a press release. “After reviewing a number of options, we believe that marketing the property for redevelopment will generate the highest value and return on investment.”
The nearly 500-acre property will be offered for sale with the intention of redevelopment.
“This was a difficult decision, and we recognize the impact it will have on our Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor park associates and guests,” Zimmerman told reporters. “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.”
According to the company, the park currently employs approximately 70 full-time employees and will provide severance and benefits to those who qualify.
The park will honor season passholders until the end of the 2025 season. The park’s last day open to the public will be November 2, 2025.
Six Flags Entertainment Corporation told PEOPLE: “We have not yet determined what will happen to each ride or attraction after the park is closed but relocation to other Six Flags parks or selling to other amusement park operators are options that may be considered.”
Six Flags Entertainment Corporation operates more than 27 amusement parks, 15 water parks, and nine resorts across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The Six Flags America location first opened in 1974 as The Largo Wildlife Preserve, a drive-through safari experience, but was renamed Six Flags America in 1999.
