Six Flags Great Escape

89 Six Flags Drive, Queensbury, New York 12804, United States

Added on April 9, 2025

Operating season: May to October

Located in Queensbury, New York, just outside Lake George, The Great Escape is a charming, family-focused theme park owned by Six Flags. While it doesn’t lean into the extreme thrills of other Six Flags parks, it offers a relaxed, classic atmosphere with roller coasters, water rides, and the full-scale Hurricane Harbor water park, all nestled in the scenic Adirondacks.

History & Background

The park first opened in 1954 as Storytown USA, a nursery rhyme-themed park for young children. It became The Great Escape in 1983 and was acquired by Six Flags in 1996. Unlike other Six Flags parks, it maintains much of its vintage charm, with a strong focus on family rides, original character zones, and nostalgic attractions, while still offering enough thrill rides to appeal to teens and adults.

Ticket Prices & Packages

One-day tickets typically range from $40 to $65, depending on the season and available promotions.

Available packages include:

Season Passes and Memberships
Group ticket deals
Combo tickets with Hurricane Harbor (included with entry)
Dining and drink plan add-ons

Buy tickets here

Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit

The park operates seasonally from May through October, with Fright Fest in the fall.

Typical hours: 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM, extended during peak summer.

Best times to visit:

Weekdays in June or late August
Mid-September for lighter crowds and early fall colors
Early mornings during hot summer weekends

Top Rides & Attractions

Comet – Historic wooden coaster relocated from Canada, smooth and fast
Sasquatch – Twin tower ride with drop and launch towers
Alpine Bobsled – Trackless bobsled coaster (note: seasonal operation)
Canyon Blaster – Indoor mine train-style coaster
Flashback – Classic looping boomerang coaster
Sky Ride – Scenic aerial view across the park

Family & Kids Rides

Storytown Train – Historic ride from the original 1950s park
Frankie’s Mine Train – Junior coaster for kids ready for thrills
Marshal’s Stampede Bumper Cars – Timeless family fun
Alice in Wonderland Walkthrough – Vintage storybook path with animated scenes
Timbertown – Dedicated kids’ area with gentle rides and character theming

Hurricane Harbor Water Park

Included with admission, Hurricane Harbor at The Great Escape includes:

Captain Hook’s Adventure Lagoon – Interactive play zone
Splashwater Kingdom – Water slides, pools, and splash features
Alpine Freefalls – Body slide tower
Wave Pool and Lazy River – Relaxing and family-friendly
Tiny Tots Splash Town – For younger swimmers

Open seasonally from late May through early September.

Dining Options

Johnny Rockets – Burgers, fries, and shakes
Fried Dough Factory – Classic fair food with funnel cakes and more
Timbertown Café – Kid-friendly meals and shaded seating
Gatsby’s Grill – American classics like hot dogs, BBQ, and mac & cheese
Multiple snack carts and drink stands throughout the park

Dining Passes and drink bottles are available for day guests and passholders.

Hotels & Accommodation

While there are no on-site hotels, there are plenty of nearby options in the Lake George region, which is a popular vacation area:

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Lake George – Closest option, family-friendly
Six Flags Great Escape Lodge & Indoor Waterpark – Owned by Six Flags, across the street from the park
Holiday Inn Resort Lake George – Full-service and great for families
Comfort Suites Lake George – Reliable and affordable

Some hotels offer park packages and shuttle access during summer.

Getting There & Parking

Address: 1172 US-9, Queensbury, NY 12804
Located right off I-87, about 60 minutes north of Albany and minutes from Lake George Village.

General parking: $30
Preferred parking: $45
Drop-off/pickup area available near the entrance
Plenty of local accommodations offer free parking and walkability

Tips for Visiting

Ride Comet early — it’s the most popular ride in the park
Check for live entertainment and character shows during the day
Bring swimsuits for Hurricane Harbor — it’s included and worth the visit
Use the Six Flags app for park hours, wait times, and dining options
Fall Fright Fest is family-friendly by day, spooky at night — plan accordingly