Destinations Category, Illinois

Six Flags Great America: Ultimate Guide to Rides, Attractions & Tips

For thrill-seekers and family fun lovers, Six Flags Great America in Gurnee, Illinois, is the premier amusement park in the Midwest. Home to record-breaking roller coasters, exciting water rides, and live entertainment, this park offers something for everyone.

1. Best Roller Coasters at Six Flags Great America

If you love high-speed thrills and adrenaline-pumping drops, these are the must-ride roller coasters at Six Flags Great America:

Goliath

  • Holds the record as the tallest, steepest, and fastest wooden roller coaster in the world.
  • Features a 180-foot drop at 85 degrees and reaches speeds of 72 mph.

Raging Bull

  • The tallest, fastest, and longest steel coaster in the park.
  • Includes a 208-foot first drop and speeds of over 73 mph.

Maxx Force

  • Fastest launch coaster in North America, accelerating from 0 to 78 mph in 2 seconds.
  • Features the world’s fastest inversion.

X-Flight

  • A wing coaster where riders experience an open-air flying sensation.
  • Includes an exhilarating zero-G roll and near-miss elements.

For more adventure parks, check out our Navy Pier & Chicago Riverwalk Guide.

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2. Family-Friendly Attractions

Not into extreme coasters? Six Flags has plenty of family-friendly rides and entertainment:

JUSTICE LEAGUE: Battle for Metropolis

  • A 4D interactive dark ride where you battle alongside superheroes.
  • Features 3D graphics, motion seats, and laser blasters.

Columbia Carousel

  • A two-story carousel, one of the tallest in the world.
  • Perfect for families and those who enjoy a classic amusement park ride.

Camp Cartoon

  • A kid-friendly area featuring Scooby-Doo, Yogi Bear, and Looney Tunes characters.
  • Includes gentle rides, play areas, and live character meet-and-greets.

For more family-friendly activities in Illinois, visit our Millennium Park Travel Guide.

3. Hurricane Harbor: Water Park Fun

During the summer, visitors can cool off at Hurricane Harbor, a massive water park with thrilling slides and wave pools.

Top Water Rides:

  • Tsunami Surge – The world’s tallest water coaster, featuring drops and high-speed turns.
  • Bahama Blast – A multi-person raft ride with unexpected twists.
  • Hurricane Bay – A million-gallon wave pool, perfect for relaxing.

4. Best Times to Visit Six Flags Great America

  • Spring (April – June): Fewer crowds and mild temperatures.
  • Summer (June – August): Peak season with long lines but the best entertainment.
  • Fright Fest (September – October): Halloween-themed events and haunted attractions.
  • Holiday in the Park (November – December): Christmas lights, festive shows, and winter fun.

5. Dining Options at Six Flags

Enjoy delicious food between rides at these top park eateries:

  • Macho Nacho – Fresh tacos, nachos, and burritos.
  • JB’s Smokehouse BBQ – Ribs, pulled pork, and classic barbecue.
  • Capone’s Kitchen – Chicago-style deep-dish pizza and Italian favorites.
  • Cold Stone Creamery – Perfect for a refreshing ice cream treat.

For more great Illinois dining options, check out our Chicago Food Guide.

6. Tips for Visiting Six Flags Great America

  • Arrive early to hit popular rides before crowds build.
  • Use the Six Flags app to check wait times and plan your ride strategy.
  • Consider a Flash Pass to skip long lines on busy days.
  • Stay hydrated and take breaks in shaded areas.
  • Check for special deals on tickets and meal plans online before visiting.

7. Where to Stay Near Six Flags Great America

If you’re making it a weekend trip, here are some nearby hotels:

  • Great Wolf Lodge Illinois – Includes an indoor water park.
  • Hampton Inn Gurnee – Affordable and less than 5 minutes from the park.
  • SpringHill Suites by Marriott – Spacious suites perfect for families.

For more places to stay in Illinois, check out our Illinois Outdoor Lodging Guide.

8. How to Get to Six Flags Great America

Located in Gurnee, Illinois, the park is easily accessible:

  • By Car: Located off I-94, about 45 minutes from Chicago.
  • By Train: Take the Metra to Waukegan Station, then a short ride to the park.
  • By Bus: Some tour companies offer shuttle services from Chicago.

Final Thoughts

Six Flags Great America is the ultimate amusement park destination in Illinois, offering world-class roller coasters, family attractions, and seasonal events. Whether you’re soaring through the sky on Goliath or splashing down at Hurricane Harbor, this park guarantees an unforgettable day of fun.

Plan your visit today and experience the thrills of Six Flags Great America!

For more Illinois adventures, check out our Cahokia Mounds Guide and Route 66 Road Trip Guide.

 

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