Delaware
Six Flags closing 2 parks in Maryland. See amusement park alternatives near Delaware
Kingda Ka implodes to make way for new Six Flags ride
The world’s tallest and second-fastest roller coaster, Kingda Ka, has finally been torn down in a controlled implosion at Six Flags Great Adventure.
Six Flags will close two parks in a state bordering Delaware in this fall.
The amusement park company said Thursday that the almost 500-acre property in Prince Georges County, Maryland, approximately 15 miles east of Washington, D.C., will be sold for redevelopment. The property is the home of Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor.
“After reviewing a number of options, we believe that marketing the property for redevelopment will generate the highest value and return on investment,” Six Flags President & CEO Richard A. Zimmerman said in the announcement.
The final day for the parks will be Nov. 2 and season passes and tickets will be honored until the parks close.
Acting Prince George’s County executive Tara Jackson told radio station WTOP that the county is “committed to working closely with Six Flags and other stakeholders to guide a thoughtful and inclusive redevelopment process that supports jobs, growth and long-term community benefit.”
Park closures not anticipated to affect Six Flags’ bottom line
The parks employed approximately 70 full-time associates who will receive severance and benefits if they are eligible, the company 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,” Zimmerman said.
Six Flags said that it does not anticipate the closures will have a material impact on its financial results this year.
The company will operate 40 parks and resorts across North America following the closures.
Amusement parks near Delaware
With the closure of the Maryland amusement parks, thrill seekers in Delaware still have some options. Here are some alternatives from Six Flags parent company Cedar Fair:
Six Flags Great Adventure
Includes Six Flags, Savannah Sunset Resort & Spa, Hurricane Harbor and Wild Safari off Interstate 195 in Jackson, New Jersey.
Kings Dominion
The amusement park is location just off of Interstate 95 in Doswell, Virginia.
Dorney Park
About 60 miles north of Philadelphia, Dorney includes several rollercoasters and water park in Allentown, Pennsylvania.