BOWIE, Md. — Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (NYSE: FUN) announced on May 1, 2025, that Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor in Bowie, Maryland, will permanently close after the 2025 operating season, concluding over five decades of entertainment on the 500-acre site. The property will be marketed for redevelopment, with CBRE engaged to oversee the sale, as part of the company’s portfolio optimization program. The park’s final operating day is set for November 2, 2025.
“As part of our comprehensive review of our park portfolio, we have determined that Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor are not a strategic fit with the company’s long-term growth plan,” said Six Flags President and CEO Richard A. Zimmerman. “After reviewing a number of options, we believe that marketing the property for redevelopment will generate the highest value and return on investment. We anticipate strong interest in the property and will continue to strategically pursue portfolio optimization opportunities as we work to unlock the full value of our portfolio.”
The closure affects approximately 70 full-time associates, with severance and benefits promised to eligible employees. “This was a difficult decision, and we recognize the impact it will have on our Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor park associates and guests,” Zimmerman said. “We are grateful to our park associates who work hard to create lifelong memories for our guests, and Six Flags is committed to supporting all impacted associates through the closure process at the end of this year. Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor have been an important part of the local community, and this final season will be an opportunity to celebrate the decades of fun that guests have enjoyed at the property.”
All 2025 season passes and tickets will be honored through the final day. The closure, following a 2024 merger with Cedar Fair Entertainment, is not expected to materially impact Six Flags’ financial results in 2025, with the stock price (NYSE: FUN) at $35.205 on May 2, 2025 [realtime financial data]. The decision aligns with a broader strategy to divest underperforming assets, as reported by The Washington Post.
History of the Site
The Bowie site, located in Prince George’s County, has a rich history dating back to 1971, when Irish brothers Frank and William Stephenson, with Texas billionaire Ross Perot, formed C.T. Industries to establish a wildlife park. Initially named The Largo Wildlife Preserve, it opened in 1974 as a drive-through safari, featuring animals like elephants and giraffes across 280 acres. ABC television operated the park but sold it in 1976 due to financial losses.
In 1978, Jim Fowler of “Wild Kingdom” acquired the park, reopening it in 1979 with a train tour, playground, and petting zoo. Despite efforts, it closed again in 1980. Local businessmen invested $11 million to transform it into Wild World, which opened on June 26, 1982, as a theme park with rides, waterslides, and a reduced safari. The park evolved, adding attractions like a wave pool and roller coasters, but struggled with attendance.
Premier Parks acquired Wild World in 1992, renaming it Adventure World. After purchasing Six Flags in 1998, it was rebranded Six Flags America in 1999, introducing major rides like Superman: Ride of Steel in 2000 and Batwing in 2001. The water park, originally Paradise Island, became Hurricane Harbor in 2005, with additions like the RipQurl Blaster in 2023. The park’s colonial-themed Main Street and attractions like The Wild One, a wooden coaster from 1917, became iconic.
Community Impact and Future
The closure, described as “the end of an era” by council member Krystal Oriadha, impacts local jobs and tourism. Acting County Executive Tara Jackson expressed sadness, noting the park’s role in the county’s identity and economy, and pledged a community-focused redevelopment process. The site’s prime location has sparked interest in mixed-use development, though zoning restricts housing.
Six Flags America’s final season, with Hurricane Harbor reopening May 24, will feature events like Fright Fest and Juneteenth celebrations. As Prince George’s County navigates this loss alongside the Washington Commanders’ planned departure, leaders aim to reimagine the site for economic growth and recreation.
