After decades of thrills, California’s Great America could close after 2027 season

After entertaining generations with thrill rides, fireworks and treats, California’s Great America could be approaching its final chapter.

Six Flags chief financial officer Brian Witherow shared the news during the company’s Investor Day in May.

“Unless we decide to extend, and exercise one of our options to extend that lease, that park’s last year without that extension would be after the ’27 season,” Witherow said.

The lease is currently set to expire in 2028, but it could be extended for an additional five years through 2033.

Park officials emphasized that no final decision has been made.

“At this time, we are still in the planning stages and are working with city officials and engaging the community. Until we know more, we remain focused on the great season that’s already underway at the park and the events ahead,” a park spokesperson said in a statement to KTLA 5.

The potential closure stems from a 2022 land sale, when the former owner, Cedar Fair, sold the 112-acre property beneath the park to San Francisco logistics real estate firm Prologis for $310 million. 

Prologis has begun developing long-term plans for the land, though no immediate changes are expected, according to the San Francisco Chronicle.

“We’re focused on identifying and partnering with planning and design experts to help us create a master plan for the property,” spokesperson Jennifer Nelson previously told the Los Angeles Times.

California’s Great America opened in 1976 as Marriott’s Great America and has since become a theme park destination for residents and tourists in Northern California.

Despite news of a potential closure, California’s Great America is still looking ahead to upcoming events, including Star-Spangled Nights, presented by M&M’s, on July 4 and 5, and its Labor Day Weekend Celebration.