Great America Six Flags, Illinois
From LoveToKnow Themeparks
Great America Six Flags, Illinois is located in Gurnee, approximately half way between Chicago and Milwaukee. The park first opened in 1967 and became part of the Six Flags family in 1984. It is the only major theme park in the Chicago area—so expect long lines when you visit.
Rides
Great America Six Flags, Illinois is organized into eight theme areas: Yankee Harbor, Southwest Territory, County Fair, Hometown Square, Mardi Gras, Carousel Plaza, Wiggles World, and Orleans Place. Each theme is designed to represent an area of America or an aspect of American life.
Thrill Rides
There are many thrill rides to choose from at Great America. Popular attractions include:
- Superman: Ultimate Flight. This flying coaster is the same ride as the one found at Six Flags Over Georgia.
- Batman: The Ride. This steel inverted coaster opened in 1992.
- Iron Wolf. This steel stand-up coaster was the highest and quickest stand-up coaster when it opened in 1990.
- Raging Bull. This steel beast charges along at greater than 70 miles per hour.
- Vertical Velocity. Experience zero to 70 miles per hour in less than 4 seconds on this coaster.
Moderate Rides
When you are ready for a break from the thrill rides, Great American has many moderate rides to pick from, including:
- Viper. This wooden roller coaster is similar to the Coney Island Cyclone.
- Revolution. The swing pendulum starts off easy, but near the end it provides some good screaming.
- Logger’s Run. Prepare to get wet on this fun log ride.
- Space Shuttle America. On the outside it looks like a space shuttle. On the inside you’ll experience a trip to the moon.
Shows
No trip to Six Flag’s is complete without watching a show or two. Fortunately, Great America has many for you to choose from. Entertainment includes:
- Marvin the Martian in the 3rd Dimension. Put on 3D glasses and watch Marvin the Martian and Daffy Duck on the huge 96 by 72 foot screen.
- Bugs Bunny’s Starlight Spectacular. This parade starts in Hometown Square with a pre-show, and ends in Mardi Gras.
- Operation SpyGirl. This stunt show is made by the creator of the FOX TV show 24.
- Spirit of America. Each morning as the park opens, join Bugs, Daffy and the rest of the Looney Tunes gang as they sing the Star Spangled Banner.
For Kids
Even though there is an emphasis on the big thrill rides, Great America hasn’t forgot about rides that kids are sure to enjoy. A few of your choices include:
- S.S. Feathersword Play Ship. Kids get to climb all over this replica pirate ship.
- Dorothy’s Rosy Tea Cups. Though designed for kids, you can still get a thrill spinning on this ride.
- Big Red Planes. Move the airplane up and down as you fly in circles.
Dining
No trip to Six Flags is complete without eating some good food. You’ll find the typical park food, such as cotton candy, popcorn and hot dogs. If you are looking for a nicer meal, stop by one of these places instead:
- Papa John’s. The same great pizza that you like to have delivered can be ordered right in the park.
- Aunt Martha’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant. Enjoy a fried chicken meal that comes with all the side items you’d expect to find.
- Mooseburger Lodge. You don’t have to settle for what’s on the menu here, as you are able to build your own hamburger.
Great America Six Flags, Illinois Tickets
A general admission adult ticket purchased at the gate is $55. For children under 54 inches tall, the price is only $30. Children three and under are free. Parking is $15.
You can save money or take advantage of special offers by buying your tickets online. For example, an adult general admission ticket is only $40 when purchased online. For more information, visit the tickets page at Great America.
Contact Information
For additional information about the Great America Six Flags, Illinois park, visit the official website. You can also call the park toll free at 1-847-249-2133 or write:
Six Flags Great America
542 N Route 21
Gurnee, IL 60031
Learn More
This page has been accessed 2,209 times. This page was last modified 14:00, 26 May 2008.
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