The Sale of Seven Six Flags Parks
The iconic Six Flags amusement park empire is set to undergo a significant transformation as it prepares to sell off seven of its parks. This move comes as the company grapples with financial challenges and dissatisfaction among its investors. The sale, which has been announced at a cost of $331 million, aims to streamline the company’s portfolio and strengthen its financial position.
Six Flags CEO John Reilly emphasized that this transaction will allow the company to operate with greater clarity and discipline. He noted that while these decisions are never taken lightly, they are necessary for the company’s future success. The sale follows previous closures of two major theme parks in California and Maryland, as well as internal struggles with activist investors who have criticized the company’s leadership.
The parks being sold span from upstate New York to Kansas City, and together they attracted approximately 4.5 million guests in 2025. All parks will maintain their regular schedules until the end of this year, and season passes will remain valid through the 2026 season. After that, their future will be managed by Missouri-based real estate investment company EPR Properties and its operating partners.
Impact on Individual Parks
Six Flags Great Escape in Queensbury, New York
Originally known as Storyland when it opened in 1954, the Six Flags Great Escape holds a special place in American history as one of the country’s oldest continuously operating theme parks. However, the park has faced challenges in recent years, including low attendance and outdated attractions. The impact of President Donald Trump’s trade war with Canada also affected the park, as many Canadian visitors chose not to visit U.S. attractions.
Under new management, the park may see improvements. It will be operated by Enchanted Parks, and the name is expected to remain unchanged until 2026. In the long term, there are indications that the park may receive a new name, as suggested by trademark filings for “Enchanted Parks Great Escape Lodge.”
Six Flags St. Louis in Missouri
Initially not part of the sale, Six Flags St. Louis is considered a “crown jewel” by Enchanted Parks. The company plans to invest in upgrades and improve the visitor experience. The park will be renamed Mid-America in homage to its original name of Six Flags Over Mid-America. Enchanted’s CEO, James Harhi, expressed confidence in the park’s potential and plans for future development.
La Ronde in Montreal, Canada
La Ronde, Quebec’s largest amusement park, will be managed by Canadian amusement park magnate Kieran Burke. He has a personal connection to the park, having attended Expo 67 as a child. Burke is committed to preserving the park’s traditions and local identity. No major changes are planned, and the focus will be on ensuring a smooth transition and continued development.
Schlitterbahn Waterpark in Galveston, Texas
Schlitterbahn Galveston, a relatively new park, has changed ownership multiple times. Under the new management, no significant changes are expected in the 2026 season. The park will remain a waterpark, with improvements focused on food offerings and customer experience. There are indications that the park may be renamed Enchanted Parks Galveston in the future.
Michigan’s Adventure in Muskegon, Michigan
Michigan’s Adventure, the state’s largest amusement park, is set to be fully managed by Enchanted Parks. The company aims to learn from its consumers and employees to improve the guest experience. The park’s name is expected to change to Enchanted Parks Michigan Adventure, based on trademark filings.
Valleyfair in Minneapolis, Minnesota
Valleyfair, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, is another former Cedar Fair property. The sale is not expected to significantly impact the guest experience, with the goal of ensuring a seamless experience for visitors.
Worlds of Fun in Kansas City, Missouri
With EPR Properties based nearby in Kansas City, there is hope that Worlds of Fun will receive special attention. The park, along with its attached water park Oceans of Fun, will remain under the same names. The sale includes no changes to seasonal hiring, and union agreements will remain in place.
Conclusion
The sale of these seven parks marks a significant shift for Six Flags and its future operations. While the immediate impact on guests is minimal, the long-term changes could bring new opportunities for improvement and growth. As the new owners take over, the focus will be on maintaining the legacy of these parks while ensuring a positive experience for visitors.
