Six Flags Great America (SFGAm) Discussion Thread

^thanks for the suggestion and that link. Very helpful!

I am a huge log flume fan and was excited that they have two separate flumes. Sad to see Loggers Run is down for the count but at least all the coasters are running.

One last question, is there any way Flash Pass is valid during Coasters After Dark? I am assuming no and will find out one way or another but I am curious.

^thanks for the suggestion and that link. Very helpful!

 

I am a huge log flume fan and was excited that they have two separate flumes. Sad to see Loggers Run is down for the count but at least all the coasters are running.

 

 

One last question, is there any way Flash Pass is valid during Coasters After Dark? I am assuming no and will find out one way or another but I am curious.

It is not valid... And yes, expect things to stay quite busy... It's a case where there isn't much else open so people all end up on the coasters and it makes for a long night... Things will somewhat thin out as the event goes on, but it won't be walk-on's most likely...

I'm guessing water park expansion. Perhaps a clone of the water coaster that went to SFFT last year.

That would be my guess. It's right next to the water park, and from what I can tell that site seems to be about the right size to fit one of those water coasters. It looks bigger than what you would need to fit something like what Six Flags St Louis has received. Plus I'm figuring Great America is a higher-tier park than St Louis.

A huge fight broke out at CAD last night, causing the event to shut down 45 minutes early.

https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/police-break-up-large-disturbance-at-six-flags-485748001.html

2 videos:

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[fbvideonew]https://www.facebook.com/1294890587227426/videos/1689925911057223/[/fbvideonew]

What really kills me is Six Flags has to be aware they attract (market to) this crowd... the "acting out" crowd I call 'em. Situations like this have happened at so many of their parks. Time for a change of game plan on who you market to, perhaps? Start with a good stiff raise in the price of season passes. Also, having "season pass ride nights" where the capacity is so pathetically low - that can't help.

Everyone is responsible for their own behavior, but Six Flags asks for it when cheap season passes, horrible operations, horrible food operations; poorly managed lines to everything: the parking lot, the metal detectors, the ticket center, the main gate, etc.. Add to that generally clueless employees who seem to have had no training at anything and have zero people skills (good people, but they have no role models/training), and it's a recipe for disaster. My words may not be perfect, perhaps someone can explain it better.

I hate to constantly compare to the other big thrill park chain, Cedar Fair, but they don't have these problems at the same level as Six Flags does.

What really kills me is Six Flags has to be aware they attract (market to) this crowd... the "acting out" crowd I call 'em. Situations like this have happened at so many of their parks. Time for a change of game plan on who you market to, perhaps? Start with a good stiff raise in the price of season passes. Also, having "season pass ride nights" where the capacity is so pathetically low - that can't help.

 

Everyone is responsible for their own behavior, but Six Flags asks for it when cheap season passes, horrible operations, horrible food operations; poorly managed lines to everything: the parking lot, the metal detectors, the ticket center, the main gate, etc.. Add to that generally clueless employees who seem to have had no training at anything and have zero people skills (good people, but they have no role models/training), and it's a recipe for disaster. My words may not be perfect, perhaps someone can explain it better.

 

I hate to constantly compare to the other big thrill park chain, Cedar Fair, but they don't have these problems at the same level as Six Flags does.

What really kills me is Six Flags has to be aware they attract (market to) this crowd... the "acting out" crowd I call 'em. Situations like this have happened at so many of their parks. Time for a change of game plan on who you market to, perhaps? Start with a good stiff raise in the price of season passes. Also, having "season pass ride nights" where the capacity is so pathetically low - that can't help.

 

Everyone is responsible for their own behavior, but Six Flags asks for it when cheap season passes, horrible operations, horrible food operations; poorly managed lines to everything: the parking lot, the metal detectors, the ticket center, the main gate, etc.. Add to that generally clueless employees who seem to have had no training at anything and have zero people skills (good people, but they have no role models/training), and it's a recipe for disaster. My words may not be perfect, perhaps someone can explain it better.

 

I hate to constantly compare to the other big thrill park chain, Cedar Fair, but they don't have these problems at the same level as Six Flags does.

It looked like security showed up. I don't care what type of buisness you have, you cannot control the actions of the public.

I witnessed a browl in the parking lot first hand at cedarpoint last october. Happens more than you think. Look....

https://youtu.be/7sb78mBRXE8

http://www.fox2detroit.com/news/263303550-video

The point is, it can happen at any park including Disney.

Also remember where this park is. It's pretty close to Chicago, which isn't exactly known for being the most civilized city out there (to put it nicely). That probably factors in more than price does.

^Like any major city in the U.S., Chicago has its bad parts of town (that you would have no reason to be in). It is a world class city with a ton of culture, sports, and entertainment. Most of the city is actually very civilized and upscale. Ever been there? If not, you should go!

These hoodlums, if not from Chicago, were more than likely from Waukegan or North Chicago, which are the suburbs just east and southeast of Gurnee.

^Agreed. People who get into trouble come from anywhere, including the affluent "North Shore" of Chicagland (Northbrook, Glenview, etc.). I stick by my theory that the park (and SF as a whole) tends to cater to the more badass*/act-out types, and would benefit greatly by changing their game plan.

*badass being used here as another term for "acting-out." Not true badasses

^Like any major city in the U.S., Chicago has its bad parts of town (that you would have no reason to be in). It is a world class city with a ton of culture, sports, and entertainment. Most of the city is actually very civilized and upscale. Ever been there? If not, you should go!

 

These hoodlums, if not from Chicago, were more than likely from Waukegan or North Chicago, which are the suburbs just east and southeast of Gurnee.

I'm looking forward to my trip this summer, I'm actually spending a full day in Chicago and a day at SFGAm. I should've clarified that the general target area for this park in particular includes a few more problem areas than an average park, not necessarily the city as a whole but certain areas around the park and the city that have built up a less-than-stellar reputation.

I also agree that SF as a chain does attract a more rowdy crowd than other chains, but I think it would take a lot of evolution over many years to change that reputation in each local area. The price increase and new membership tier system may be a step towards that, but we'll see. I'd be all for a more professional-feeling Six Flags in the future.

^Agreed, you get it. Six Flags has built a generally aggravating atmosphere over the years. From stupidly long entrance and exit walks to and from single rides, to all the stuff we generally talk about.

Will Koch used to go on about how if you treat your guests with respect - including respecting their time - they will generally appreciate being there. Six Flags seems to do whatever they can to get the most people in the gate, simply. Very low training standards, etc.

The ironic thing, personally, is that I think Great America is the best in the chain. I love my home park! But it has so many issues.

^Agreed, you get it. Six Flags has built a generally aggravating atmosphere over the years. From stupidly long entrance and exit walks to and from single rides, to all the stuff we generally talk about.

 

Will Koch used to go on about how if you treat your guests with respect - including respecting their time - they will generally appreciate being there. Six Flags seems to do whatever they can to get the most people in the gate, simply. Very low training standards, etc.

 

The ironic thing, personally, is that I think Great America is the best in the chain. I love my home park! But it has so many issues.

I'm not sure what issues you have had in the past at six flags, but we go to both cedar fair and six flags parks every year and have not had any major issues.

I'm not sure what you are talking about when you say "long exit walks". They are just as long as Disney or Busch. I can think of quite a few at cedar fair parks that are crazy long as well. (The bat and racer 76 come right to mind) If you are referring to having to walk thrue a gift shop, then you don't get good buisness. All park chains are doing that now.

As far as employee training, I have had good and bad experiences at "all" park chains. Not more at one than the other. The last six flags park we went to, I had one of the best experiences by an employee from a theme park I have ever had. So good in fact, that I paid a visit to guest relations to let them know how great the employee was.

I'm not sure what you mean by "aggravating atmosphere" either.

I really don't get where all the hate comes from for six flags parks.

I can list a bunch of things about each park chain that bugs me, but I don't go into a park looking for negatives. I go to have a good time.

As far as giving away the gate and inviting in trouble, I disagree with that as well. Most of those people that come thru the gates, are going to spend money in the park. Games, food, souviniers..ect. It's all about location as mentioned already.

Look at knobles for example. Free admission, free parking, no major problems. But it's in a rural location away from a major city.

It's funny how you mention that sfga is your home park and it has a lot of issues, because I feel the same about my home park of cedar point. I think it's because we tend to go to our home parks on a daily bases, and we notice a lot more than an average park goer that visits once a year.

I'm not sure what issues you have had in the past at six flags, but we go to both cedar fair and six flags parks every year and have not had any major issues.

This.

SFGAM has been in the news a few times regarding violence etc; I don't hear as many reports from other Six Flags parks, so I don't think violence can be attributed to Six Flags business plan but more the location of some of their parks.

Seems that Exclusive Fight Time in Gurnee is gaining traction.

I'm not sure what issues you have had in the past at six flags, but we go to both cedar fair and six flags parks every year and have not had any major issues.

It was just my observations and experiences working at both CF and SF parks and visiting them since the 80s. I'm glad you have had better visits at Six Flags parks than I have.

Doesn't seem as major but apparently another fight broke out today According to someone in the comments, it caused Mardi Gras Hangover to be e-stopped and the queue to be evacuated

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1634575566659899/permalink/1700697410047714/

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"The ironic thing, personally, is that I think Great America is the best in the chain." You are entitled to your opinions- I disagree. Let me also say I have seen fights at Disney and Universal. Cedar Point has the advantage of being a fair distance from a Major City. Most SF parks are in a suburb of a major city and that can lead to all types of issues. SFGAM is not the best in the chain. It is a fine Park however. Some people just have to play the "Cedar Point" is better game. Fine- Believe what you want. I see all types of people at all types of Parks- I travel much, visit many Parks and have worked at a park for 8 years. People are just People and People generally have "issues".

I have been to theme parks and amusement parks all over and even worked in one but I never see this kind of nonsense no matter where I am. Yet SFGAm seems to always have these types of issues. It just reminds me why Chicago had never been very high on my list of cities to visit. I wouldn't want to bring my family to this park onowing there's a chance a fight or even a brawl could break out. And yes that could happen anywhere but I don't ever see it so heavily publicized like it is here or so common. But I guess even the inner city needs a vacation once in awhile.

"The ironic thing, personally, is that I think Great America is the best in the chain." You are entitled to your opinions- I disagree. Let me also say I have seen fights at Disney and Universal. Cedar Point has the advantage of being a fair distance from a Major City. Most SF parks are in a suburb of a major city and that can lead to all types of issues. SFGAM is not the best in the chain. It is a fine Park however. Some people just have to play the "Cedar Point" is better game. Fine- Believe what you want. I see all types of people at all types of Parks- I travel much, visit many Parks and have worked at a park for 8 years. People are just People and People generally have "issues".

I agree 100%

I have been to theme parks and amusement parks all over and even worked in one but I never see this kind of nonsense no matter where I am. Yet SFGAm seems to always have these types of issues. It just reminds me why Chicago had never been very high on my list of cities to visit. I wouldn't want to bring my family to this park onowing there's a chance a fight or even a brawl could break out. And yes that could happen anywhere but I don't ever see it so heavily publicized like it is here or so common. But I guess even the inner city needs a vacation once in awhile.

It's only publicized so much because of the anti six flags people enjoy this kind of thing, and bring more attention to it.

As far as not bringing your family there because of fear of a fight, you better not leave the house then. I have seen numerous fights at cedarpoint as well...including a brawl in the parking lot. Better not bring your family to cp then either.

I have brought my family to six flags great America a dozen times, and have NEVER witnessed a fight or anything remotely crazy enough to worry me in the least.

I think attendance probably has the highest impact, probably about at the same level as location. The only days where my home park (SFFT) feels like shenanigans could happen (and they do sometimes, but almost exclusively on these days) are on those weekends and holidays where everyone and their dog shows up to the park.

More people = more people who are likely to cause something

More people = more crowded = more desperate to skip a line and in doing so cause trouble because long lines are frustrating

More crowded = easier to get away with stupid stuff because the employee/visitor ratio is lower

Regardless of other people's behavior, I am still excited to be visiting this park and the city of Chicago for the first time next week!

I have been to theme parks and amusement parks all over and even worked in one but I never see this kind of nonsense no matter where I am. Yet SFGAm seems to always have these types of issues. It just reminds me why Chicago had never been very high on my list of cities to visit. I wouldn't want to bring my family to this park onowing there's a chance a fight or even a brawl could break out. And yes that could happen anywhere but I don't ever see it so heavily publicized like it is here or so common. But I guess even the inner city needs a vacation once in awhile.

If it makes you feel any better, I am as old as the park, have been going to it since I was born, go a lot, since we live only 15 minutes away, and I have never witnessed or been party to any violence. Same with Chicago. Don’t buy into the media portrayal of Chicago. The bad stories, like I said earlier, are all from parts of the city you would not visit as a tourist. Name me a major city in the U.S. that does not have those areas. The Chicago area has some of the wealthiest communities in the entire U.S. Generally, we are friendly people with good midwestern values. We are not all bad!

I am very concerned about these recent events at our park though, because I never used to hear about these in the past. We take our kids there too, and I would hate for them to be caught in the middle of anything like this as innocent bystanders.

Some people just have to play the "Cedar Point" is better game.

Not a game for me, just a personal opinion (as I stated originally). It's not about CP being better (personally, I think some SF parks including Great America have better coasters, all-around), it's just my opinion that CF's operations (for everything) is MUCH better. Just an opinion. I totally respect and understand yours.

I could see how it seems like a game... just as it seems strange to me when people accuse others of playing the "CP is better game," when that is not actually happening. The "CP is better game" does indeed happen quite a bit, but not in every discussion.

Thank you for the explanation of fights occurring elsewhere. I wasn't aware they happened that much, and agree with you that people are going to be people no matter where they go. Remembering the awful time a friend and I had at KD in 2011. I thought I needed a security escort to our car! Bad times.

(Related - my friends used to joke that CP was the "world's largest collection of mediocre rides in the world." Just a semi-joke, very subjective, etc. We all love CP too.)

Quick question for those who count SFGam as your home park. I'm traveling up this weekend with a group of friends with families. We all have season passes (STL is our home park).

I thought i remember that SFGam handles their opening a little different that SFStl. The park is listed to open at 10:30, but don't they let you in before that, and that lines begin forming in front of each ride ahead of time? Is that still happening?

I'm advising our friends that we want to arrive in the parking lot around 9:30am, but they think i'm crazy.

Thoughts?

Quick question for those who count SFGam as your home park. I'm traveling up this weekend with a group of friends with families. We all have season passes (STL is our home park).

 

I thought i remember that SFGam handles their opening a little different that SFStl. The park is listed to open at 10:30, but don't they let you in before that, and that lines begin forming in front of each ride ahead of time? Is that still happening?

 

I'm advising our friends that we want to arrive in the parking lot around 9:30am, but they think i'm crazy.

 

Thoughts?

They open the gates at 10:30, no earlier. They don't let you queue for the rides ahead of that. It's a little different than other parks.