California's Great America in Santa Clara has officially announced that 2027 will be its final season of operation. The theme park, which has been a local landmark since opening in 1976, is set to close its doors on September 6, 2027. This decision follows the expiration of the land lease in June 2028, which Six Flags has confirmed will not be renewed.
Dave Vosejpka, the park's manager, released a statement reflecting on the venue's long history. He noted that for more than five decades, the park has served as a central gathering place for the community, creating family traditions and providing a backdrop for countless memories. Vosejpka described the upcoming farewell season as a chance for generations of Bay Area residents to return, spend time with loved ones, and revisit the attractions that made the park such a meaningful part of the region.
The uncertainty surrounding the park's future began after its previous owner, Cedar Fair, sold the land on which the park sits. In 2022, the San Francisco-based real estate company Prologi purchased the property for $310 million. As part of this transaction, Prologi leased the property back to Cedar Fair, with the lease originally set to expire in June 2028. The agreement included a potential option to renew for an additional five years.
Cedar Fair later completed a merger with the North Carolina-based amusement park company Six Flags in 2024. During Six Flags Entertainment Corporation's Investor Day in 2025, former Chief Financial Officer Brian Witherow addressed the financial performance of the Santa Clara location. He indicated that the park was achieving very low profits. Witherow stated that unless the company decided to extend and exercise its option to renew the lease, the park's last year without that extension would be following the 2027 season.
For the past 50 years, Great America has been a beloved destination for various social and school events. It has been a popular choice for end-of-year parties, summer outings, birthday celebrations, and company days. The park's entrance is marked by the signature two-story Carousel Columbia, which is described as a timeless classic. The merry-go-round stands more than 100 feet high next to a pond featuring shooting fountains.
The park offers more than 50 rides, catering to a wide range of thrill levels. Attractions include the towering wooden roller coaster Gold Striker and the child-friendly Planet Snoopy. Additionally, the venue features the South Bay Shores water park and a variety of dining options for guests.
Beyond its rides, the park is known for its entertainment offerings. The Redwood Amphitheater has hosted numerous high-profile musical acts, particularly during the 1980s and 1990s. According to Concert Archives, the stage has featured performances by Reba McEntire, Kool & the Gang, New Edition, New Kids on the Block, REO Speedwagon, Rick Astley, Sir Mix-A-Lot, Daryl Hall & John Oates, Christina Aguilera, and Fleetwood Mac.
As the park prepares for its final season, it is offering visitors special passes. The Gold and Prestige Passes provide unlimited visits to Great America, free parking, and admission to other Six Flags parks in the region, including Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo. This final offering allows guests to maximize their experience before the park closes permanently.
The announcement marks the end of an era for the Santa Clara community, which has relied on the park as a central hub for leisure and entertainment for over half a century. The decision to close stems from the complex ownership and leasing history that began with the sale of the property to Prologi and the subsequent merger with Six Flags.
With the lease set to expire in 2028 and no renewal planned, the 2027 season will serve as a farewell for the park's iconic rides, food, and live music. Residents and visitors alike will have one last opportunity to enjoy the attractions that have defined summer in the South Bay for decades.
