Six Flags America
Six Flags America is a full-scale theme park located in Bowie, Maryland, about 30 minutes from both Washington, D.C., and Baltimore. With heart-pounding roller coasters, a water park, and family-friendly entertainment, it’s a popular summer spot for locals and day-trippers looking for a theme park close to the capital.
History & Background
The park began as Wild World in 1974, initially focusing on wildlife exhibits and outdoor recreation. It shifted toward amusement rides in the late ’80s, rebranded as Adventure World, and was acquired by Six Flags in 1999. Since then, it has steadily grown to include signature Six Flags coasters, seasonal events like Fright Fest, and a full water park known as Hurricane Harbor.
Ticket Prices & Packages
General admission tickets typically range from $45 to $65, with better deals available online.
Season passes and Six Flags memberships include unlimited entry and parking, along with discounts on food and merchandise.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
Six Flags America runs from April through early January, with special events in fall and winter.
Typical hours are 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, though they may extend to 9:00 PM during summer and holidays.
The best times to visit are mid-May to mid-June and September weekdays when crowds are lighter. Fright Fest (October) and Holiday in the Park (December) are popular but can get busy on weekends.
Top Rides & Attractions
Thrill Rides
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SUPERMAN: Ride of Steel – Hypercoaster with airtime hills and big drops
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Batwing – Flying coaster with face-down action
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JOKER’s Jinx – Launch coaster through tangled track
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Firebird – Floorless coaster with loops and corkscrews
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Voodoo Drop – Tower ride with sudden free fall
Family & Kids
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The Great Race Antique Cars – Classic family driving attraction
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Flying Carousel – Elegant swing ride
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Ragin’ Cajun – Spinning coaster perfect for families
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Looney Tunes Movie Town – Kid-focused rides and character meet-and-greets
Hurricane Harbor Water Park (included with admission)
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Bonsai Pipelines – Body slide towers
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Bahama Blast – Raft ride for groups
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Castaway Cove – Water playground for younger kids
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Wave Pool and Lazy River – Perfect for relaxing between coaster runs
Getting There & Parking
Address: 13710 Central Ave, Bowie, MD 20721
Located off Central Avenue (MD-214), the park is easily accessed by car. There’s no direct Metro or MARC train service, so driving or ride-share is best.
Parking costs $30 per vehicle, with options for preferred and VIP parking.
Dining Options
Food choices range from classic amusement park eats to some local flavor.
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Gotham City Eatery – Cheesesteaks, chicken tenders, and burgers
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Hurricane Bay Tacos – Tex-Mex and build-your-own burritos
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Colonial Cupboard – BBQ sandwiches, mac and cheese, and cold drinks
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Snacks like funnel cakes, pretzels, and Dippin’ Dots are available throughout the park
Dining Passes and All-Day Dining Deals are available, allowing guests to grab meals at set intervals throughout the day.
Hotels & Accommodation
There are no hotels on-site, but plenty of options nearby in Bowie, Largo, and the greater D.C. area.
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Comfort Inn – Largo/Washington D.C. East – Affordable, 10 minutes away
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DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Largo – Higher-end, family-friendly
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Courtyard by Marriott Bowie – Clean and modern with good amenities
Many local hotels offer theme park packages, especially in summer.
Tips for Visiting
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Arrive early to hit SUPERMAN and Batwing before lines build
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Use the Six Flags app to track wait times and order food
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Lockers are available near water rides and at the front gate
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Bring sunscreen and water bottles — summers can be hot and humid
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Plan to stay for evening events during Fright Fest or Holiday in the Park
Useful Links