Published on
October 31, 2025
Today, October 31, 2025, marks the closing day of the 2025 season at Six Flags Great America and Hurricane Harbor in Gurnee, Illinois. Since reopening on April 19, the park has welcomed countless visitors from across the Midwest, wrapping up months of fun, adventure, and unforgettable memories. With Halloween festivities filling the air and the final fireworks set to light up the night sky, the season ends on a high note for thrill-seekers and families alike.
Over the past several months, guests have come to enjoy more than just rides. They experienced a lively mix of entertainment, dining, and themed celebrations that turned every visit into a full-day adventure. The park stood out not only as a thrill destination but also as a family getaway where both kids and adults could find their kind of fun.
Two Parks, One Destination for Endless Fun
Six Flags Great America and Hurricane Harbor together created one of the most complete amusement experiences in the Midwest. Perfectly situated between Chicago and Milwaukee, the destination attracted visitors from both cities and beyond. With 18 roller coasters, a sprawling 20-acre water park, and 11 themed areas, guests had no shortage of things to explore.
Each themed zone offered something unique, from high-speed rides to gentle attractions perfect for younger guests. The park’s three dedicated children’s areas became favorites for families, providing safe and fun spaces for younger thrill-seekers. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement all season long, with live entertainment, character meet-and-greets, and nightly parades adding even more energy to the park experience.
Visitors could also indulge in a wide range of dining choices—from classic carnival snacks to hearty meals representing local and global flavors. Whether enjoying a cone of ice cream on a hot summer afternoon or relaxing with a meal after a water ride, the food was as much a part of the adventure as the attractions themselves.
The Highlight of 2025: Wrath of Rakshasa
The crown jewel of the 2025 season was the much-anticipated debut of the Wrath of Rakshasa, a dive coaster that pushed the limits of thrill engineering. Rising 180 feet into the sky, it quickly became the talk of the park and a must-ride for coaster enthusiasts.
This new addition earned attention as the world’s steepest and most inverted dive coaster, giving riders an experience like no other. The ride plunged at a breathtaking 96-degree drop—beyond vertical—sending thrill-seekers into a dizzying descent of 171 feet. Along the way, it twisted through five inversions and hit speeds of nearly 67 miles per hour, delivering an adrenaline rush that left guests breathless and eager to ride again.
Themed around the mythical Rakshasa, the attraction offered more than just physical thrills. Its storyline invited riders into an atmosphere of suspense and mystery, where the sense of an ancient force lurking in the shadows made every turn feel more intense. With 3,239 feet of track, the coaster combined speed, height, and storytelling in a way that defined the park’s 2025 season.
A Season Filled With Family Memories
Beyond the high-speed thrills, the season was packed with entertainment that appealed to all ages. The park’s 20-acre Hurricane Harbor water park offered a refreshing escape during the warmer months, featuring water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools that drew families looking to cool off and relax.
Spectacular live shows kept visitors entertained throughout the day, while nighttime parades and fireworks transformed the park into a glowing celebration under the stars. Parents watched as kids met their favorite characters, danced along to music, and shared their first roller coaster rides. Each visit became a memory worth keeping.
As summer faded into fall, the park embraced the season with themed events, special performances, and festive decorations. Guests enjoyed the blend of spooky fun and excitement that made October a favorite time to visit. The mix of bright lights, laughter, and the sounds of coasters roaring through the night captured everything fans love about Six Flags Great America.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As the 2025 season comes to an end, excitement already builds for what’s next. Parkgoers are eager to see what new experiences will arrive when the gates reopen next spring. Six Flags Great America has built a reputation for innovation, and each season brings new attractions that keep guests coming back.
The success of Wrath of Rakshasa sets a high standard for the future, proving the park’s commitment to delivering one-of-a-kind thrills. Families can expect new shows, improved dining, and more immersive experiences in 2026. For locals and tourists alike, Six Flags Great America remains a top Midwest destination for excitement, relaxation, and adventure all in one place.
As the lights go out tonight and the rides slow to a stop, the memories of the 2025 season will stay bright. From daring drops to smiling faces, Six Flags Great America has once again proven why it’s a beloved part of Illinois’ entertainment landscape.
