Second Thoughts: Six Flags Entertainment Corporation Decides to Keep Six Flags America Open, Hurricane Harbor to Close After 2025 Season
In a surprising turn of events, Six Flags Entertainment Corporation has reversed its previously rumored decision to close Six Flags America, the Maryland-based amusement park that has operated since 1974. While the theme park will remain open, its adjacent water park, Hurricane Harbor, is now confirmed to be shutting down after the 2025 season.
This decision comes after months of speculation and concern from park-goers, employees, and the local community. While Six Flags never officially announced a closure, industry watchers and leaked internal discussions had hinted at the possibility of the park’s permanent closure as part of the company’s broader restructuring strategy.
However, after reviewing market conditions, guest feedback, and operational priorities, Six Flags Entertainment Corporation has chosen to keep Six Flags America open for the foreseeable future. In a statement released earlier this week, the company expressed its renewed commitment to the Maryland location.
A Mixed Bag of News
“We have carefully considered the strategic importance of Six Flags America and its role in our portfolio,” said Selim Bassoul, CEO of Six Flags Entertainment Corporation. “While we’ve made the difficult decision to close Hurricane Harbor at the end of the 2025 season, we believe Six Flags America has significant potential for continued growth, and we are excited to invest in its future.”
The decision to shut down Hurricane Harbor, which opened in 1999, marks a bittersweet moment for fans of the water park. Over the years, it has served as a popular summer destination, offering slides, wave pools, and family-friendly attractions. Although no detailed reason has been given for its closure, industry experts speculate that rising maintenance costs, shifting attendance trends, and long-term redevelopment plans may have played a role.
Community and Employee Reaction
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions from the community. Local businesses that rely on seasonal traffic generated by both parks have welcomed the continuation of Six Flags America’s operation, though they express concern about the impact of the water park’s closure on summer tourism.
“We’re relieved the amusement park is staying,” said Tanya Delgado, owner of a nearby restaurant in Prince George’s County.
“But losing Hurricane Harbor could mean fewer families making a full day or weekend out of visiting. That could affect everyone in the area.”
Employees at the park are facing uncertainty as well. While jobs related to the theme park will remain, seasonal positions tied to the water park could be eliminated.
Six Flags has not yet detailed whether affected employees will be offered reassignment or compensation.
Strategic Repositioning
The closure of Hurricane Harbor comes amid broader changes at Six Flags, which recently merged with Cedar Fair to form a combined company aiming to optimize operations, eliminate redundancies, and boost profitability.
Some analysts believe this consolidation is likely influencing decisions about which properties and attractions are sustainable long-term.
“Closing smaller or less profitable units like Hurricane Harbor at Six Flags America allows the company to concentrate on its most productive assets,” said Rebecca Langley, a theme park industry analyst. “It’s part of a common post-merger realignment strategy.”
Langley added that by keeping Six Flags America open, the company maintains a strategic presence in the mid-Atlantic region, which remains a valuable market for family entertainment.
A Look Toward the Future
As the 2025 season approaches, park officials are expected to launch farewell events and promotions for Hurricane Harbor, encouraging fans to enjoy one final summer at the water park. Meanwhile, Six Flags America is poised to receive modest updates and potential new investments aimed at enhancing the guest experience.
“We want to reassure our loyal guests and season pass holders that we are not going anywhere,” said park spokesperson Melissa Andrews. “We are looking forward to unveiling new surprises in 2026 and beyond.”
For now, the future of Six Flags America seems secure, even as its beloved water companion prepares to make its final splash. The park’s survival amid changing corporate priorities and market pressures speaks to its enduring appeal and the strong community support that helped influence the company’s change of heart.
Six Flags America’s reprieve is a reminder that public input and local relevance still matter in corporate decision-making. While the loss of Hurricane Harbor will undoubtedly be felt, the continued operation of the theme park offers a silver liningand a renewed opportunity to reimagine its future as a year-round destination for thrills, nostalgia, and regional pride.