In Bowie, Maryland, the iconic Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor, beloved venues for entertainment and excitement, will bid farewell after over 25 years. These amusement and water parks, nestled in the Maryland suburbs near Washington, D.C., are set to shut their doors permanently at the close of the current season, announced Six Flags Entertainment Corporation.
The company, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, revealed plans to market the approximately 500-acre property in Bowie for redevelopment. According to Richard A. Zimmerman, President and CEO of Six Flags, the decision followed a comprehensive portfolio review. He emphasized that these parks do not align with the long-term growth objectives of the corporation. The park’s operations are scheduled to cease on November 2.
“Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor have played a significant role in the local community, serving as a source of entertainment for decades,” Zimmerman remarked. He encouraged visitors to participate in the final season’s celebrations as they reflect on the enjoyable experiences the parks have offered through the years.
The closure affects around 70 full-time employees. The corporation assured that eligible staff would receive severance packages and additional support during the transition.
Originally, the site hosted a wildlife preserve in the 1970s before evolving into an amusement park. In 1999, it emerged as Six Flags America, boasting a range of attractions, notably nine roller coasters, including The Wild One, one of the oldest wooden roller coasters in the United States.
Acting Prince George’s County Executive Tara H. Jackson expressed her sadness over the impending closure. She regarded Six Flags as a staple in the county, contributing significantly to family enjoyment and local economy. Jackson stated her commitment to collaborating with Six Flags and other stakeholders to ensure a redevelopment process that fosters job creation, economic growth, and benefits the community in the long run.