Frequently Asked Questions

The oldest operating roller coaster at the park is the Mine Train (1966).

Specifically, ride inspections at Six Flags over Texas begin long before the park opens, typically up to 4 hours beforehand. Each day, every ride is inspected and checked-off by mechanics. Wooden roller coasters have their entire track length walked to ensure the track is in good condition. On a yearly basis, rides go through extensive rehabilitation processes which include complete tear-downs and re-builds of trains and extensive inspection of track structures. Steel coasters inspections usually involve electromagnetic scanners that look for tiny, internal cracks due to fatigue while wooden coasters get equally scrutinous inspections from carpenters.

New rides are also thoroughly tested for safety, beginning long before any parts are actually manufactured. Computer simulations run a dynamic finite element analysis that not only determines the stress components will experience, but also the forces experienced by the rider. Once the rides are manufactured and built, rides cycle hundreds of times testing various safety systems. Dummies with accelerometers, similar to ones used in the automotive industry, are used to ensure the ride’s forces agree with the computer simulations. Only after the ride has passed exhaustive testing and cycling and certification will the public be allowed to ride.

In fact, Six Flags over Texas has only had two guest fatalities in over 50 years of operation. To ensure you stay safe during your visit (to any theme park, not just Six Flags over Texas), be sure and follow all safety precautions — most accidents on thrill rides and roller coasters occur due to rider negligence.

Although the park now operates year-round, Six Flags historically closed during January and February (known as the off-season) for considerable behind-the-scenes work to prepare for the upcoming season.

Rides are disassembled and thoroughly inspected and worn parts are replaced. Ride structures are inspected while roller coaster trains are taken apart and reconditioned for the upcoming season. Buildings are cleaned and occasionally re-painted, while landscaping is also re-done. A new employee career fair is also held with training performed a few weeks before the park opens.

Year-round operation no longer gives the park an opportunity to squeeze in ride maintenance while guests are absent, which simply means there will be ride downtime throughout the year to complete the work.

Plenty! Even if you don’t like roller coasters, Six Flags over Texas still offers dozens of other rides ranging in intensity from mild, family-friendly rides to more extreme thrills. Shows at the park can also be a major source of entertainment to non-riders. Interactive shows let guests steal the spotlight by singing karaoke or playing name-that-tune-style game shows. Shopping at the park can also provide plenty of entertainment. Sure there’s the standard souvenir shops, but stores like Indian Village and the Ole Woodcutter also sell customized or unique gifts. Midway games are scattered throughout the park, so if games of skill are your thing, try your hand at winning a prize.