UPDATE: Six Flags Great America announced after this article was published that it was delaying the opening of the DC Universe rides. See below for updated information. An earlier version of this article also misstated the opening date for the park, which is set for Friday.
While Six Flags Great America opens this weekend, a new superhero-themed area set to premiere to the public won't be available just yet.
The Gurnee theme park joined forces with Warner Bros. Consumer Products to launch a series of reimagined attractions based on the DC Comics, but those are now slated to open "later this spring."
Still, the park says it will kick off its 2022 season Friday with "the largest array of improvements in over 15 years." That includes new dining options and amenities, in addition to the new part of the park.
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"As we kick off the 2022 season, our focus is on improving the guest experience through technology, park enhancements and innovation,” Park President John Krajnak said in a statement. “As the Midwest’s premier family entertainment destination, we’re laser-focused on providing incredible guest service in a beautiful, modern and state-of-the art environment.”
As for the DC Universe, further details on timing weren't immediately released.
Across three rides, iconic heroes and villains will place themselves at the center of the park’s rebranding.
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The U-shaped ride formerly known as Vertical Velocity will now be called The Flash: Vertical Velocity. Yankee Clipper, the long-time, log flume water coaster that opened in 1976, will now be known as Aquaman Splashdown, and the Whirligig coaster that sent riders swirling around will become DC Super-Villains Swing.
Yankee Harbor already had housed two rides based on the famed comics, Batman: The Ride and The Joker Free-Fly Coaster.
DC themes also will ring throughout the new dining and shopping experiences at the park. Named after superhero Steel, Steelworks Pub will feature a beer garden and a fresh menu of treats.
Visitors will be able head to Batman’s hometown of Gotham City for various snacks, too. Sweet treats will be served by Captain Cold Ice Cream, which pays tribute to the Flash comics villain.
On top of the new section, the park plans to open Hurricane Harbor on May 28. The separate-entry water park is home to the 86-feet Tsunami Surge, which stands as the world’s tallest water coaster. The ride debuted last year.
Tickets to Six Flags can be purchased here, and tickets to Hurricane Harbor can be purchased here.
