Six Flags Great Adventure
Six Flags Great Adventure, located in Jackson, New Jersey, is one of the largest and most iconic amusement parks in the United States. It’s home to record-breaking roller coasters, a massive drive-through safari, and a wide variety of family attractions and seasonal events. Just an hour from New York City and Philadelphia, it’s a top destination for East Coast thrill seekers.
History & Background
The park opened in 1974 and was originally designed as a combination theme park and animal preserve. Six Flags acquired it in 1977, and over the years, it’s grown into one of the chain’s flagship properties. It’s famous for hosting Kingda Ka, the tallest roller coaster in the world, and its 350-acre safari park, one of the largest drive-through animal attractions in North America.
Ticket Prices & Packages
Daily ticket prices typically range from $50 to $80, with lower prices available online in advance.
You can also purchase:
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Season Passes and Memberships
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Flash Pass (skip-the-line access)
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Parking and Dining Plans
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Safari-only tickets or combo admission
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
The park is open seasonally from spring through December, including Halloween and holiday events.
Typical hours: 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM, extended on peak days and during summer.
Best times to visit:
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Weekdays in May or September
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Early June, before schools let out
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Mid-October for Halloween events
Avoid weekends during Fright Fest and major holidays for shorter wait times.
Top Rides & Attractions
Kingda Ka – The world’s tallest coaster, launching riders 456 feet into the air
El Toro – Intense wooden coaster known for insane airtime
Nitro – Smooth, hypercoaster with great views and high speed
Jersey Devil Coaster – Longest single-rail coaster in the world
Batman: The Ride – Classic inverted coaster with tight loops
Green Lantern – Stand-up coaster with multiple inversions
Superman: Ultimate Flight – Soar headfirst through swooping curves
Zumanjaro: Drop of Doom – One of the tallest drop towers on Earth
Skull Mountain – Indoor coaster with spooky theming and fun turns
Wild Safari Drive-Thru Adventure
Included with admission or available as a separate ticket, this 350-acre safari features over 1,200 animals from six continents. Guests drive their own cars past elephants, giraffes, lions, rhinos, and more. Open seasonally and great for families.
Family & Kids Rides
Bugaboo, Harley Quinn Crazy Train, Skyway, and Big Wheel offer fun for all ages.
Adventure Alley and Safari Kids areas include pint-sized attractions and gentle coasters perfect for younger guests.
Dining Options
Best of the West – Ribs, chicken, and American BBQ
Mama Flora’s Cucina – Pasta, pizza, and Italian favorites
Johnny Rockets – Burgers and shakes in a retro diner setting
Chop Six – Asian bowls and stir-fry
Snack stands and food carts offer churros, funnel cakes, and other theme park staples
Dining Passes and All-Day Drink Bottles are available for frequent guests and multi-day visits.
Hotels & Accommodation
While the park doesn’t have its own hotel, there are several nearby options in Jackson, Freehold, and East Windsor:
Hampton Inn East Windsor – Family-friendly with breakfast included
Radisson Hotel Freehold – Mid-range option 15 minutes away
Days Inn by Wyndham – Budget choice close to the park
Some offer park ticket bundles or shuttles during peak season.
Getting There & Parking
Address: 1 Six Flags Blvd, Jackson, NJ 08527
Easily accessed from the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95) and Garden State Parkway. About 60–75 minutes from NYC or Philly.
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General Parking: $35
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Preferred Parking: $50
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Accessible parking is available near the entrance
Drive-thru Safari has its own entrance, but shares the main lot.
Tips for Visiting Six Flags Great Adventure
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Get to Kingda Ka or El Toro first — both draw long lines early
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Safari is best done early in the day to avoid car backups and see active animals
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Flash Pass is a great value on weekends or during Fright Fest
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Check weather forecasts — many rides close during rain or wind
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Use the Six Flags app for wait times, mobile food ordering, and navigation