Ultimate Guide to Six Flags America: Thrills near Washington, D.C.

Explore Six Flags America: A Thrilling Experience in Upper Marlboro, Maryland

Six Flags America, located in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, promises a day filled with excitement featuring over 100 rides, entertaining shows, and the largest water park in the Washington, D.C. area.

Introduction to Six Flags America

The amusement park boasts a variety of roller coasters like Wild One, Joker’s Jinx, and Superman Ride of Steel. Families will enjoy classic rides such as The Penguin’s Blizzard River, the traditional Tea Cups, and The Great Race. For younger visitors, Looney Tunes Movie Town offers a chance to meet beloved characters like Bugs Bunny.

Adjacent to the amusement park is Hurricane Harbor, which features one of the largest wave pools in the country, multiple water slides, a lazy river, and a splash pool. Admission to this water park is conveniently included with the Six Flags ticket price.

History of D.C. Area Six Flags America

This site originally opened as Wild World water park in 1982, later transitioning to Adventure World after its bankruptcy in 1990. In 1999, Six Flags America acquired the park, enhancing it with thrilling roller coasters and attractions themed around DC Comics characters such as Superman and The Joker.

Newest Attractions at Six Flags America

  • Maryland’s only floorless roller coaster, Firebird, debuted in summer 2019, featuring a nine-story drop and two upside-down inversions.
  • The Wahoo River at Hurricane Harbor was updated in 2018, now boasting a faster current and seven unique water action zones.
  • In 2017, the park introduced the Wonder Woman Lasso of Truth, a ride swinging visitors in a 98-foot circle at speeds of 40 miles per hour.
  • For the 2016 season, the SUPERMAN Ride of Steel coaster received a makeover, including new trains and the launch of the SUPERMAN Ride of Steel Virtual Reality Coaster.
  • Big Easy Speedway added a new fleet of vehicles for go-kart enthusiasts in 2016, alongside an update to Coyote Creek Crazy Cars.
  • Splashwater Falls made a splash in Hurricane Harbor in 2016, introducing a multi-level water attraction packed with slides and geysers.
  • Bourbon Street Fireball, a seven-story looping roller coaster, thrilled visitors upon its opening in 2015.
  • The Mardi Gras section saw a revitalization in 2014, with new rides, games, and dining options, highlighting the debut of Ragin’ Cajun coaster.

Address and Driving Directions

Six Flags America is conveniently located on Route 214, Central Avenue, approximately five miles from I-495 and only 30 minutes from downtown Washington, D.C.

  • Address: 13710 Central Avenue, Upper Marlboro, Maryland
  • Phone Numbers: (301) 249-1500 and (800) 491-4FUN
  • Website: www.sixflags.com
  • Directions from Washington DC: Take I-495 to exit 15A, then Central Avenue East. The park is about five miles from the exit on the left.
  • From Baltimore and Areas North: Take I-695 to Exit 4, I-97 South. Follow to Route 3 South, continuing to Route 301 South. Exit onto Route 214 West; the park is approximately three miles from there on the right.
  • From Virginia and Areas South: Take I-95 North towards Baltimore, exit 15A, then Central Avenue East. Six Flags America is five miles from the exit on the left.

Calendar and Operating Hours

Six Flags America commenced its 2019 season on March 25, operating daily during Spring Break until April 3. Afterward, the park opens on weekends in April and May, with daily operations resuming on Memorial Day weekend. Hurricane Harbor began its season on May 28, with variable hours throughout the summer. After Labor Day, the park continues weekend operations through October, along with special winter holiday hours.

Visiting Tips

  • Plan Ahead: Consider buying tickets in advance to avoid long lines at the entrance. A season pass can provide both time and cost savings.
  • Optimal Timing: Visit during weekdays when the park is typically less crowded than on weekends and holidays.
  • Arrive Early: To enjoy as many attractions as possible, begin with the most popular rides since lines tend to lengthen later in the day.
  • Engage in Special Events: Throughout the year, the park hosts numerous special events offering discounts and unique experiences, such as Fright Fest and National Funnel Cake Day.
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