Iconic California Amusement Park to Shut Down After More Than 50 Years

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In this picture taken early on October 19, 2026, rides are seen stored in the grounds of an amusement park.

After more than 50 years in business, the historic Great America amusement park in Santa Clara, California, will permanently close in 2027.

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation released a press release on Friday, November 6, revealing the news of the amusement park’s closure, stating that its final season will “honor its legacy and celebrate the place it has held in the lives of so many guests through experiences in the park and stories shared across its digital and social channels.” The park’s final day of operation will be on Labor Day, September 6, 2027.

California’s Great America Amusement Park to Close in 2027

Families will have the majority of next year to still enjoy some of their favorite rides and activities at California’s Great America amusement park before it permanently closes on Labor Day.

According to a press release, the amusement park will have its Farewell Season “honoring more than 50 years of memories, traditions and iconic attractions,” starting in March and will conclude on September 6. “Throughout 2027, Bay Area guests will have a final opportunity to revisit favorite attractions, spend time with family and friends, and celebrate a destination that has been part of so many family outings, celebrations and milestones,” it continued.

Great America first opened in 1976 as part of the nation’s Bicentennial celebration, and has since welcomed tens of millions of parkgoers, the press release read.

Why is Great America Closing?

According to KQED, Great America’s closure was actually years in the making. In 2022, then-park owner Cedar Fair sold the 112-acre property to developer Prologis for $310 million, which agreed to lease the land back to the park so it could continue operating. The lease would run through 2028, with an option for a five-year extension.

However, Six Flags, which merged with Cedar Fair in 2024, decided not to extend the lease. According to People, the company had previously announced the closure of seven theme parks amid ongoing financial struggles. In a third-quarter earnings report, released on November 5, Six Flags reported a net loss of $366 million despite generating $1.7 billion in revenue, meaning its operating expenses exceeded the money it brought in.

It’s unclear what will take over the amusement park once it’s cleared of all its rides. However, KQED reported that it could potentially see logistics and warehouse space and data centers.

Santa Clara Councilmember and Mayor-elect Karen Hardy shared that she was “frustrated” with the news of the beloved park’s closure. She also expressed concern that the property would be turned into data centers, sharing that it’s the “last thing” residents want to see.