5 Surprising Changes You Need to Know About the Six Flags and Cedar Fair Merger

If you haven’t heard already, Six Flags and Cedar Fair are merging into a single theme park powerhouse.  These two iconic amusement park companies will seal the deal sometime during the first half of 2024 (pending shareholder approval.) It’s pretty big news in the parks world, but what changes can group tour planners expect? Here are 5 surprising changes you need to know about the Six Flags and Cedar Fair merger.

About Cedar Fair

Cedar Fair is one of the largest regional amusement resort operators in the world.  It started in 1983 and is currently headquartered in Sandusky, Ohio along with one of its flagship parks, Cedar Point.

Cedar Fair owns 13 properties, including 11 amusement parks, 4 outdoor waterparks, resort accommodations, and luxury RV sites.  It counts popular group destinations like Knott’s Berry Farm, Carowinds, Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, King’s Island, and Kings Dominion in its holdings.

About Six Flags

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation is the world’s largest regional theme park company. Twenty-seven parks and waterparks are strategically positioned across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, making them great choices for groups.

5 Surprising Changes to Expect

1. A New Name

The new combined company will come together under the Six Flags name and operate 27 amusement parks, 15 waterparks, and 9 resort properties across 17 states in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

2. A New Headquarters

Its headquarters will be based in Charlotte, North Carolina, although a big part of its financial and administrative operations will remain in Sandusky.

3. Impressive Improvements

A slate of proposed improvements should make visitors very happy. These include:

• Park upgrades and expansions
• New rides and attractions
• More diverse food and beverage options
• Improved technology platform for a better guest experience and more efficiency in the parks

 4. No Closures 

Here’s more good news for group planners! The merger will bring together the entire portfolio of parks, but Six Flags isn’t planning any park closures.

5. Branding Stays

Better yet, there are no branding changes scheduled for any of the parks. Cedar Point will keep its name and title of “America’s Roller Coast,” and Knott’s Berry Farm will retain its 1880s Old West Boom Town as its central theme.

And let’s not forget – our favorite Peanuts, DC Comics, and Looney Tunes characters will remain integral to the fun and excitement of the parks!

5 Surprising Changes You Need to Know About the Six Flags and Cedar Fair Merger

In short, group tour planners will be pleasantly surprised by the lack of disruption in the planning process.  As the merger unfolds, we are optimistic that any changes will be for the better and make the visitor experience exceptional!

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