Six Flags America Closes Permanently, Ending 51-Year Maryland Legacy

Six Flags America has shut its gates for good. The iconic Maryland amusement park closed permanently on November 2, 2025. This ends a 51-year run for the beloved regional attraction.

The closure impacts the entire Washington D.C. metropolitan area. Generations of families visited the park for summer thrills and traditions.

Behind the Sudden Closure Decision

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation announced the closure back in May. The decision was part of a larger strategic portfolio review. According to Reuters, the company determined the park was not a strategic fit for long-term growth.

CEO Richard A. Zimmerman confirmed the property would be marketed for redevelopment. He stated this approach generates higher value than continuing park operations. The move follows the company’s merger with Cedar Fair in July 2024.

Approximately 70 full-time employees were affected by the shutdown. The company offered severance packages to eligible workers. Local businesses that relied on park traffic also face economic challenges.

Community Reacts to Lost Landmark

The park’s closure represents more than lost roller coasters. It marks the end of a community gathering place that spanned five decades. Many residents shared emotional farewells on social media platforms.

Former visitors recalled childhood memories made on classic rides like The Wild One wooden coaster. The park first opened as Wild World in 1974 before becoming Adventure World and finally Six Flags America in 1999.

Park enthusiasts traveled for final visits during the last operating weekend. Many expressed disappointment that future generations won’t experience the same local amusement destination.

The permanent closure of Six Flags America leaves a significant void in Maryland’s entertainment landscape and signals ongoing changes within the amusement park industry.

Thought you’d like to know-

When did Six Flags America officially close?

The park operated for the final time on November 2, 2025. The closure was announced six months earlier in May 2025.

What will happen to the property now?

Six Flags is marketing the 500-acre Bowie site for redevelopment. The land may be converted to residential or commercial use.

How many people lost their jobs?

Approximately 70 full-time employees were affected by the closure. The company provided severance packages to eligible staff members.

What will happen to the roller coasters?

Six Flags may relocate popular rides to other parks or sell them. The company hasn’t announced specific plans for attraction distribution yet.

Are other Six Flags parks closing too?

Six Flags California’s Great America is scheduled to close by 2027. The company is evaluating its entire park portfolio for strategic fit.