Planning a trip to Six Flags Great America in Chicago? Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for thrilling coaster rides or a family seeking fun attractions for all ages, you’re in for an adventure!
This guide will walk you through the park’s most popular rides, helping you to make the most of your visit.
The best part about Six Flags Great America is the variety. There’s truly something for everyone, from white-knuckle roller coasters to gentle kiddie rides.
Before you start mapping out your day, familiarize yourself with the ride names, types, and height requirements. This will ensure you’re prepared and can make the most of your time at the park. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore the thrilling world of Six Flags Great America!
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Welcome to Six Flags Great America
Located in Gurnee, Illinois, Six Flags Great America is a premier amusem*nt park that offers an array of attractions tailored to visitors of all ages and thrill levels. From the heart-pounding roller coasters to the gentle family rides, the park provides a diverse lineup of entertainment sure to create lasting memories for you and your loved ones.
As soon as you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the vibrant atmosphere and the sound of joyful screams echoing from different corners of the park. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker itching to experience the most intense rides or a parent looking to enjoy some quality time with your family, Six Flags Great America has something for everyone. Let’s dive into what makes this park stand out and help you make the most of your visit.
Thrill Rides at Great America Six Flags That Will Take Your Breath Away
Six Flags Great America Gurnee rides offera paradise for thrill-seekers, boasting an impressive lineup of some of the world’s most exhilarating rides.
Brace yourself for the heart-pounding experience of Goliath at Six Flags Great America, a record-breaking wooden roller coaster that takes you on a swift journey through steep hills and daring inversions. With a maximum speed of 72 mph and a 180-foot drop, the *height requirement is 48″ and isn’t for the faint of heart.
If you’re craving more adrenaline, look no further than Maxx Force. This launch coaster propels you from 0 to 78 mph in just under two seconds, featuring the world’s fastest inversion and the tallest double inversion at 175 feet. Riders must be at least 54 inches tall to experience this unforgettable surge of speed and loops that will leave you breathless.
Have you heard about the exhilarating Six Flags Great America new ride? For those seeking sky-high thrills, the new Sky Striker is a must-ride. This towering swing ride elevates passengers to a staggering height of 130 feet, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the park before spinning them in a dizzying circle. Riders must be at least 48 inches tall, making it an exhilarating yet accessible experience for many thrill-seekers.
Another crowd favorite is the Viper Six Flags Great America, a classic wooden roller coaster that takes you through a series of exhilarating drops and turns. This ride’s retro charm, combined with its thrilling speed, keeps riders coming back for more. Make sure you’re at least 48 inches tall to experience the thrill of Viper.
For fans of dizzying heights, the tower of terror that is Raging Bull Six Flags Great America offers spine-chilling thrills. Standing as the tallest, fastest, and longest coaster at the park, it reaches a height of 202 feet and speeds up to 73 mph. The ride’s signature steep drops and tight turns keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Note that riders must be at least 54 inches tall to brave this beast.
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X-Flight adds a twist to the traditional coaster experience with its wing coaster design, allowing you to ride on either side of the track with no floor beneath your feet. This disorienting flight takes you through five inversions, including a 360-degree roll, while you experience the sensation of flying. Riders must be at least 54 inches tall to ride.
Don’t miss out on the Vertical Velocity (V2), a suspended spiral coaster that shoots you straight up a 185-foot-tall tower. The ride quickly switches between forward and backward motions, creating a thrilling experience that keeps you guessing what’s next. Riders must be at least 54 inches tall to experience this attraction.
Shockwave Six Flags Great America, known for its intense loops and twists, is a classic for a reason. This steel coaster takes you through a series of seven inversions, making it a heart-pounding experience. Riders must be at least 54 inches tall to take on this electrifying ride.
Another must-ride is Batman: The Ride. It’s a classic inverted roller coaster that takes you through loops, corkscrews, and zero-gravity rolls, all while offering the immersive feeling of being Gotham City’s Dark Knight. The height requirement for this thrilling experience is 54 inches.
Last but certainly not least, the Joker Free Fly Coaster offers a unique 4-D experience where riders flip and somersault unpredictably along the track. This chaotic ride ensures no two experiences are the same, making it a perennial favorite among thrill-seekers. Riders must be at least 48 inches tall to enjoy this ride.
These rides are designed to challenge even the most daring riders and are a testament to Six Flags Great America’s commitment to delivering world-class thrills. Each ride offers a unique experience driven by top-notch engineering and an understanding of what makes your heart race.
*Do keep in mind that some rides may also have maximum height restrictions or combined height limits for tandem rides. Always check the posted signs at each ride for the most accurate and up-to-date requirements. This will help ensure a seamless visit with fewer disappointments and more fun!
Family Rides for All Ages
Six Flags Great America offers an impressive array of family rides that cater to visitors of all age groups, ensuring that everyone in your party can have a fantastic day out.
One of the most beloved family attractions is the Columbia Carousel. As one of the world’s largest carousels, it features two levels of beautifully crafted horses and seats, making it a picturesque ride that the entire family can enjoy. The height requirement for this ride is a minimum of 42 inches if unaccompanied, but guests under 42 inches can still ride with an adult.
If you’re looking for a bit more adventure without the extreme thrills, hop aboard the Whizzer. This classic, family-friendly roller coaster glides smoothly through the trees and features gentle curves and slopes. With a minimum height requirement of 42 inches if accompanied by an adult, this coaster is perfect for those seeking a mild thrill.
The Scenic Railway is another must-visit attraction. This leisurely train ride provides a relaxing tour around the park, offering scenic views and a chance to rest your feet. It’s an ideal way to see the park’s layout and decide your next destination. Children must be at least 36 inches tall to ride.
For a splash of fun, the Yankee Clipper and Logger’s Run offer water-based excitement that the whole family can appreciate. These log flume rides feature moderate drops and plenty of splashes, providing the perfect way to cool down on a hot day. Tiny tykes must be at least 36 inches tall to ride.
Don’t miss the Justice League: Battle for Metropolis, an interactive 4D dark ride. This ride allows families to team up as superheroes and battle villains in a thrilling, action-packed adventure. With its immersive special effects, this attraction is both fun and exhilarating for family members of all ages. The height requirement is 42 inches if accompanied by an adult.
For a unique twist, try out the Rue Le Dodge, a bumper car experience that promises laughter and light-hearted competition. This family-friendly ride is perfect for bringing out your inner child as you bump and race against each other. The height requirement for Rue Le Dodge is 42 inches to ride alone, or passengers can ride with an adult if they are under 42 inches.
These and many other family rides at Six Flags Great America ensure that everyone, regardless of age, can find something delightful and memorable to experience together.
Kiddie Rides for the Little Adventurers
Six Flags Great America hosts an array of kiddie rides carefully designed to cater to the littlest thrill seekers in your family. These rides are perfect for young adventurers who may not be quite ready for the larger attractions but still crave their own slice of excitement.
Little Dipper is a delightful kiddie coaster that introduces younger kids to the joy of roller coasters. With gentle dips and mild turns, it ensures a fun and safe first-time coaster experience. The ride’s cheerful design features track elements perfect for children who meet the 36-inch height requirement.
Another fantastic option is Spacely’s Sprocket Rockets. This family-friendly coaster whizzes around a playful course and is themed after the beloved character from “The Jetsons.” Kids will love the sensation of speed as they race along the track, which is designed with smaller hills and slower speeds suitable for youngsters. Riders must be at least 36 inches tall to enjoy this ride.
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For water lovers, Buccaneer Battle offers a splashing good time. Kids can board pirate ships and engage in an exhilarating water cannon battle with other riders and bystanders. The bright pirate-themed surroundings and the cooling splashes make it a favorite, especially on hot summer days! While there isn’t a specific height requirement for this ride, children do need to be accompanied by an adult if under 48 inches.
Young pilots will adore Red Baron, a whimsical airplane ride where they can control the elevation of their plane by maneuvering the joystick. It’s suitable for the mini aviators standing between 36 and 54 inches, making it inclusive for a wide range of ages.
Lastly, make sure you don’t miss the Camp Cartoon area, where beloved cartoon characters come to life in a series of fun rides and interactive experiences. This special section features attractions like the Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Jam and Elmer Fudd’s Weather Balloons, offering a delightful mix of slow spins and gentle heights for the youngest park-goers.
All these rides and more ensure that even the tiniest members of your family have a memorable day filled with laughter and adventure at Six Flags Great America.
Accessibility and Ride Accommodations
Six Flags Great America is committed to providing an enjoyable experience for all guests, including those with accessibility needs. The park offers a Guest Assistance Pass (GAP), which is designed to accommodate guests who may have difficulty waiting in line due to a disability. To obtain a GAP, visitors can visit Guest Relations upon entering the park.
The park’s team members are well-trained and ready to assist. Many rides have specific accommodations for guests with disabilities, ensuring everyone can enjoy their day. For instance, several attractions have transfer-accessible seats, allowing easier access, and the park provides a detailed Accessibility Guide outlining the specifics for each ride.
Moreover, Six Flags Great America features specific services like sign language interpretation for shows upon request, which should be arranged ahead of your visit. This service emphasizes their dedication to inclusivity and ensuring that everyone can partake in the fun.
For individuals with sensory sensitivities, the park offers designated quiet areas where guests can take a break from the excitement and noise. These areas are clearly marked on the park map, which you can receive at the entrance.
For those using wheelchairs or scooters, the park has numerous accessible pathways and ramps to ensure smooth navigation. Wheelchairs and Electric Convenience Vehicles (ECVs) are also available for rent at the entrance on a first-come, first-served basis.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
Visiting Six Flags Great America for the first time? We’ve got you covered with these handy tips to make your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Get There Early: Arriving early is key to maximizing your day. If you can, try to get to the park right when it opens. This will give you a head start on the most popular rides before the lines get too long. Early arrival also means better parking spots and a less hectic entry process.
Consider the Flash Pass: If you’re looking to make the most of your visit, consider investing in a Flash Pass. This convenient pass allows you to skip the long queues at many of the major attractions, saving you time and enhancing your overall experience. There are different levels of Flash Passes, so choose the one that best suits your plans.
Map Out Your Day: Upon arrival, grab a park map and create a rough schedule for your day. Prioritize your top ride picks and fit in showtimes, dining, and rest breaks. Remember, flexibility is key, as ride operations and wait times can change unexpectedly.
Take Advantage of Lockers: Traveling light is a good strategy. For those extra items you can’t carry, consider renting a locker. Lockers are available at various points throughout the park and provide a secure place to store your belongings.
Check Out Kid Play Areas: If you’re traveling with children, stops at Camp Snoopy and Planet Snoopy are a must. These areas offer a slew of family-friendly rides and playgrounds perfect for giving the little ones a break from the bigger thrills.
Prepare to Unleash With Six Flags Great America Rides
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker ready to dive into jaw-dropping coasters, a family looking for delightful shared experiences, or guiding the little ones through their first theme park adventure, Six Flags Great America promises a day teeming with excitement and memories.
Prepare for the trip of a lifetime with these insights and plan strategically to maximize your fun. We hope this guide sets you up for an extraordinary visit filled with unforgettable rides and laughter around every corner. The magic of Six Flags Great America awaits you!
We’d Love to Hear From You!
Do you have any tips or insights to share? Maybe you’d like to tell us about your favorite ride at Six Flags Great America? Leave us a comment below!
