Six Flags Great America

The basics

A must-visit Chicagoland destination since 1976, the larger-than-life Six Flags Great America represents the best of the all-American amusement park tradition. Whether you go for gravity-defying roller coasters or prefer less boundary-pushing rides, Six Flags has it all. Highlights range from the new Sky Striker high-flying ride to the 40-year-old American Eagle wooden coaster, from family-friendly carousels up to the vertigo-inducing Giant Drop.

To make the most of your visit—and guarantee your entry on particularly crowded days—book your tickets in advance online. If you plan to make Six Flags Great America a regular family outing, it’s also worth investing in season passes, which offer a range of cost-saving benefits (including unlimited park entry as well as parking and food discounts).

Things to know before you go

• To skip the longest lines and also enjoy parking and food discounts, choose from a range of one-day add-ons.

• Members of the military, veterans, and first responders receive discounted park entry.

• No outside food is permitted, but dozens of restaurants and eateries are scattered across the park, offering everything from barbecue to tacos.

• For themed apparel and all manner of souvenirs, head to one of the park’s dozen gift shops.

• Six Flags Great America can be very hot and sunny during the summer—be sure to bring protective hats and sunscreen with you.

• The theme park only accepts card payments, although it makes cash-to-card machines available.

• Disabled visitors should apply for an IBCCES Individual Accessibility Card online and present this to Guest Services upon arrival for accommodations.

How to get there

Six Flags Great America is located at 1 Great America Pkwy in Gurnee, Illinois, roughly 45 miles north of Chicago and 50 miles south of Milwaukee. If traveling by train, take the Metra to Waukegan Station; buses or taxis can link you to the park from there. Otherwise, arriving by car via I-94 is the fastest and most direct way to visit.

When to get there

Six Flags Great America has varied opening hours and days throughout its spring to autumn annual season—be sure to research its calendar online in advance of your visit. Summer is when the park is at its most crowded; book admission well in advance. And the park is particularly festive from mid-September to October when Halloween and Oktoberfest events offer all manner of special performances and activities.

Get wet at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor

Six Flags Great America’s sibling park, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor is a hugely popular family destination during the summer season. Home to lagoons and lazy rivers, surf pools, and family-friendly paddling areas, the water park also boasts an array of high-octane waterslides—including Tsunami Surge, the tallest water coaster in the world at 86 feet (26 meters).