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Six Flags Gurnee previews new dive coaster, reports improved attendance after Sky Striker
Summary
John, speaking for Six Flags Gurnee, said the park recovered from a low in 2022 and had strong 2024 performance after adding Sky Striker; he previewed a new B&M dive coaster scheduled for 2025 and described front‑gate and guest-experience investments.
John, a Six Flags Gurnee representative, told the Village of Gurnee board on Feb. 24 that Six Flags’ attendance and revenue rebounded after a 2022 low and that new capital — notably Sky Striker in 2024 and a B&M dive coaster due in 2025 — has driven renewed guest interest.
John said Sky Striker, a large pendulum attraction that opened mid-June 2024, generated strong guest response, and he described Food & Beverage and Fright Fest changes that boosted revenue, including a renovated Windy City Sports Bar that generated about $1 million in revenue late in the 2024 season. He also said Halloween haunted-house partnerships (Saw, Stranger Things, Texas Chainsaw Massacre) increased haunted-house sales during Fright Fest.
“From that point on, it it I was 1 of those, and it didn't go well. It it got the best of me,” John said about Sky Striker, using a personal aside to describe the ride’s intensity while reporting strong guest reception overall.
John said Six Flags merged with Cedar Fair and that the expanded portfolio will increase buying power for park-specific retail and merchandising. He previewed a new dive coaster described as a B&M (Bolliger & Mabillard) model with a roughly 80-foot tower, five inversions and a 96‑degree drop. He said early indicators — season-pass sales, group sales and media engagement — point to higher interest for the 2025 season.
On safety and guest flow, John described front‑gate renovations completed in late 2024 that establish a secure perimeter and screening area, with metal detection and phased ticket-taking planned for future work. He also described hiring an executive chef and other food‑service investments aimed at improving guest experience.
Trustees thanked park leaders for partnership and discussed the park’s role in local identity and future events, including the park’s fiftieth‑anniversary planning expected in 2026.
