The Impending Closure of Great America Park: A Historic Farewell
The beloved Great America amusement park, a staple since 1976, is slated to close its gates in October 2027, marking the end of a 51-year legacy. The over-100-acre park, originally opened by the Marriott Corporation as Marriott’s Great America, faces this fate due to shifting business priorities, as noted by park officials. As of 12:11 PM +01, Wednesday, June 25, 2025, this blog explores the reasons behind the closure, the park’s history, and the implications of its parent company’s recent decisions, offering a poignant look at a fading era.
A Park on the Margins
Park spokesperson Witherow highlighted the park’s low ranking in profit margins, signaling its vulnerability. “Those are two parks that are very low on the ranking of margins,” Witherow added, pointing to financial pressures driving the decision. The closure is set for post-Halloween 2027, allowing one final season of thrills before the park shuts down permanently, leaving behind decades of memories for visitors.
A Journey Through Ownership Changes
Great America’s story began in 1976 under the Marriott Corporation, which transformed the site into a family-friendly destination. In 2024, its parent company, Cedar Fair, merged with Six Flags in an $8 billion deal, reshaping the amusement park landscape. Two years prior, in 2022, Cedar Fair sold the 112 acres of land beneath the park to Prologis, a real estate and logistics giant, for $310 million. The company then leased back the land for a term of six to 11 years, with plans to close the park at the lease’s end, originally set for June 30, 2028, with an option to extend to 2033.
The Decision to Close Without Extension
Despite the extension option, Cedar Fair has not announced plans to prolong the lease, solidifying the 2027 closure date. This move reflects a strategic pivot toward real estate development over amusement operations. In a June 2022 press release, then Cedar Fair president and CEO Richard A. Zimmerman explained, “We chose Prologis as our partner because of their deep ties in the Bay Area and their reputation for working closely with local communities on large developments.” This partnership underscores the shift from roller coasters to logistics hubs, a change that has sparked mixed reactions among fans and locals.
Implications for the Community and Visitors
The closure ends an iconic chapter, with the park’s land likely repurposed for Prologis’s supply chain projects. This transition raises concerns about losing a cultural landmark, though it may bring economic benefits through new jobs. The final years, especially the 2027 Halloween season, are expected to draw nostalgic crowds, making it a bittersweet farewell to a beloved destination.
Frequently Asked Questions About Great America’s Closure
Why Is Great America Closing in 2027?
The closure stems from low profit margins, as noted by spokesperson Witherow, and a strategic decision by Cedar Fair after selling the 112-acre land to Prologis for $310 million in 2022. The lease-back agreement, set to end in 2028 with a possible 2033 extension, will not be extended, leading to the park’s shutdown after the 2027 Halloween season.
What Is the History of Great America Park?
Great America opened in 1976 under the Marriott Corporation as Marriott’s Great America, growing into a popular amusement park. In 2024, Cedar Fair merged with Six Flags in an $8 billion deal, and in 2022, it sold the land to Prologis, setting the stage for its eventual closure after over five decades of operation.
How Will the Land Be Used After Closure?
The 112 acres are expected to be developed by Prologis for supply chain and logistics purposes, leveraging their expertise in the Bay Area. This shift from amusement to commercial use was part of the 2022 land sale agreement, though specific plans remain pending official announcements.
Can the Closure Be Prevented?
Unless Cedar Fair opts to extend the lease to 2033—a decision not currently planned—the closure appears inevitable. Community campaigns or financial incentives might influence a reversal, but no such efforts have gained traction as of June 2025.
What Happens to the 2027 Season?
The 2027 season, culminating in the Halloween event, will be the park’s last. It’s likely to feature special promotions and nostalgic celebrations, drawing fans for a final visit before the October 2027 closure.
How Has the Community Reacted to the News?
Reactions are mixed, with fans expressing sadness over losing a cultural icon, while some locals see potential economic gains from Prologis’s development. Social media, including X posts in 2025, reflects nostalgia and calls for preservation, though support for change is also evident.
What Were the Terms of the Land Sale to Prologis?
Cedar Fair sold the land for $310 million in 2022, leasing it back for six to 11 years, with the initial term ending June 30, 2028, and an option to extend to 2033. The lack of an extension announcement confirms the 2027 closure plan.
How Will This Affect Employment at Great America?
The closure will likely end jobs for seasonal and full-time staff, numbering in the hundreds. However, Prologis’s development could create new logistics-related positions, though the transition’s impact on current employees remains unclear.
Why Did Cedar Fair Choose Prologis as a Partner?
Cedar Fair selected Prologis for their strong Bay Area presence and community collaboration reputation, as stated by CEO Richard A. Zimmerman in 2022. This partnership aligns with a shift toward real estate profitability over amusement park operations.
What Can Visitors Do Before the Closure?
Visitors should plan trips for 2025-2027, especially the final 2027 season, to enjoy rides and events. Booking early and supporting local initiatives to document the park’s history are recommended to cherish its legacy.