The following is a Press Release from Six Flags Great America:
Six Flags Great America Opens for the 2011 Season
Opening Weekend Dedicated to the 30th Anniversary of American Eagle
Gurnee, Ill. – Six Flags Great America kicks off the 2011 season with a trip down memory lane. The theme park celebrates 30 thrilling years of American Eagle, the iconic racing wooden coaster. The anniversary is marked with a special Opening Day ceremony and discounted admission. In honor of the year the coaster opened, fans of American Eagle can purchase a $19.81 ticket online good for Opening Weekend, May 7th and 8th.
American Eagle is the tallest, fastest and longest racing wooden roller coaster in the world. Built in 1981, it features a 147ft drop, is 4,650 feet in length, travels at 66 mph and spans an area of 237,000 feet, nearly 5 football fields back-to-back. American Eagle has delivered over 45 million thrilling rides to families since it was built in 1981 and is home to "Tiny" the famous 200 lb spider that makes her return to the side of America Eagle every Fright Fest.
Six Flags Great America is located between Chicago and Milwaukee and offers fun for the entire family with 14 heart-pounding roller coasters, a FREE water park, spectacular shows and three children's themed areas. New in 2011 – the Best Water Park in the Nation…Just Got Bigger! Splash into four more acres of fun in the all-new Riptide Bay at Hurricane Harbor now boasting more slides and attractions than any other water park in the state! Features include 5 new daring slides, a double Surf Rider, massive lagoon, luxury cabanas, gift shop and new snack bar. Riptide Bay at Hurricane Harbor opens Memorial Day weekend. Best of all, it's FREE with your season pass or park admission.