Six Flags America in Bowie, Maryland has closed after 51 years of operation.
Originally opened in 1974 as a drive-through safari attraction, the park welcomed its final guests yesterday (2 November).
It wrote in an Instagram post: "Thank you, Six Flags America fans, for 50 years of family fun. We will always cherish the memories made together."
Plans to close Six Flags America and its Hurricane Harbor water park were announced in May of this year by Six Flags Entertainment Corporation.
The company said the property, which covers around 500 acres, would be marketed for redevelopment and was closing as part of Six Flags' ongoing portfolio review.
Six Flags president and CEO Richard Zimmerman, who is stepping down at the end of this year, said: "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.
“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.”
Six Flags America employed around 70 full-time workers. Six Flags said severance and other benefits would be given to all eligible employees.
The decision to close the property was "difficult", Zimmerman said, adding that Six Flags is aware of the impact it will have on both staff and guests.
"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," he said.
Images courtesy of Six Flags
