I have been receiving a lot of emails asking for ways to stay cool and have fun during the summer sun. Suggestions for pools and water parks are what everyone is seeking information on to beat the heat. A trip to the water park is always a win! Six Flags America is the closest theme park with a full water park included with the price of admission for Southern Maryland families. I put together this article to provide a guide to summer fun at Six Flags America. (Article updated for 2023 season June 3, 2023.)
TIMING IS EVERYTHING
BEST DAY TO PLAY AND WHERE TO PLAY
Once there, be sure to check out these sections of the water park… One of the newer attractions is the Wahoo River! It is so much fun! Enjoy a lazy laid back ride around the river with your feet up. Another family attraction is the wave pool. Buccaneer beach and Splash Water Falls are two awesome places to hang out if you have kids multiple ages.
SAFETY FIRST
BYO SUPPLIES & TIPS
- Sunscreen- It’s best to have sunscreen on hand since it should be reapplied about every hour. I do recommend skipping the itty bitty tiny whiny bikini and wearing a rash guard. This way if you for get to apply no gets burned. Plus, if you buy brightly colored rash guards your little one can be seen from a mile away and easier to identify from the crowd.
- Waterproof phone case- I always put my phone in a water proof case and than keep it on person around my neck. The park has contactless paying options. My season pass and card are all stored on the phone. This way I don’t have to worry about anything important getting lost or walked off with.
- Water bottles- Hydration on hot days is important and reusable water bottles are permitted. I like to bring water bottles with handles so I can hang them from the stroller.
- Additional things I personally like to have- sunglasses, goggles and favorite puddle jumpers for comfort. While the park provides a variety of life vests; it’s nice to have one that fits just right and is yours.
- Bringing a towels and a change of clothing are optional. Since I have a stroller I just load it up with everything else. If you need to pack lite; you can always leave the towel and dry clothing in the car and change in your vehicle once you are done at the park.
- Another item to consider for babies and small children are extra swim diapers and pool shoes. The pool deck can get very hot so have swim shoes on can help from burning the bottom of their feet.
- I’m a boy mom and often fly solo. It’s nice that I can take my entire crew into the individual family bathrooms. The Hurricane Harbor Family bathrooms are located on the back side of the restrooms building next to Splash Water Falls.
MEAL PLANNING
VIVA LA FIESTA
ADD CERTIFIED
As an accredited Certified Autism Center™, Six Flags America will provide:
- Trained, helpful, front-line team members equipped to better assist autistic guests and those with other sensory sensitivities to help them enjoy their time at the park;
- A sensory guide for every attraction that provides insight into how the attraction or ride may be affected by each of the five senses to make it easier for individuals and families to plan activities that align with their needs;
- Low sensory areas to allow guests with sensory sensitivities to take a break and relax in a less stimulating environment;
- An updated Accessibility Guide will be available online on the park’s accessibility page and Guest Services area; and
- Park-wide implementation of the IBCCES Accessibility Card program. This is a free online program with mobile app option for guests to use when requesting assistance or accommodations at any of the Six Flags parks. To learn more about the program visit accessibilitycard.org.
Six Flags America will now offer Sensory Sensitive Days on May 7, June 14 & 28, July 12 & 26 and August 9 & 23. These days will be open to all guests with reduced environmental triggers throughout the park.
- No park audio. sound and music where possible;
- Signage highlighting surprise sounds and experiences;
- Free noise canceling ear plugs upon request; and
- Additional low sensory locations identified throughout the park.
BEYOND SUMMER FUN
PARK INFORMATION
Location: 13710 Central Ave, Bowie, MD 20721
Hours: Vary Open most days 11AM-7PM
***I want to thank Six Flags for inviting The Playful Parent for a fun day at the park. The Playful Parent is not paid to write articles. All pictures and information presented are my own unbiased opinion. It is an honor to share tips and suggestions to help make vacationing fun and easy for families. For more information on travel and guides for other attractions check out The Playful Parents Indoor/Outdoor Guide . ***