Six Flags Great America has officially kicked off its 2025 season—and it’s not just Wrath of Rakshasa, an all-new roller coaster, drawing attention. Just days before opening to the public, the Gurnee, Illinois theme park issued a park-wide policy update that’s already stirring up backlash among longtime fans.
On April 16, just ahead of opening day, Six Flags Great America and Hurricane Harbor Chicago shared a statement via Facebook announcing that the park would go smoke-free for the 2025 season. The post reads:
SMOKING POLICY
Six Flags Great America and Hurricane Harbor Chicago are committed to promoting a healthier, safer, and more welcoming environment where thrill-seekers of all ages come together to enjoy a one-of-a-kind park full of fun experiences.
To support this commitment, we are implementing a smoke-free policy inside our theme park and water park.
Smoking is not permitted inside the park, including e-cigarettes and vapes. A designated smoking area is available outside of the theme park’s ticket-taking entrance. Six Flags prohibits smoking marijuana at any time, even in designated smoking areas.
This immediate shift in policy took some guests by surprise, especially those who planned to return for opening weekend. Although Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort implemented similar smoking bans in 2019, many Six Flags fans argued that such policies are harder to follow in larger, more spread-out parks. Guests voiced concerns about accessibility, enforcement, and fairness.
“How ridiculous for an outdoor venue,” Lisa A. Kraus Lennon commented. “You have designated smoking areas that people use. Glad we didn’t get season tickets for this year.”
“I dont see why those tiny little smokers sections hidden by the bathrooms are that big of deal,” Chad Lee Peartree replied.
Some users warned that the change might backfire entirely.
“A little silly considering now people will most definitely try to light up and vape wherever they want trying to get away with it, whereas before they could go to an actual designated area where you could choose to avoid if you don’t smoke,” Lindsey Timony said. “Let’s not forget that the furthest point in the park from the entrance is also over a mile away, so good look getting people to actually go with that.”
“I don’t smoke, but I don’t like this,” Robbie Miller replied. “They should have a few designated areas off the path where it doesn’t affect anyone. Now people will just find little hiding spots, or smoke up the bathrooms.”
Still, others welcomed the change and called for stricter enforcement.
“Great, now enforce it strictly,” William Stoub wrote.
“Smart move,” said Edith Lopez Trejo. “The ‘designated areas’ did nothing to prevent the horrible smell from wafting throughout. Disgusting habit.”
Six Flags has not commented further, but guests can find the updated policy on the park’s official website.
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