Six Flags will reopen rides at Vallejo park

Attractions such as Kong, Medusa, Cobra, The Joker idle since March 2020

The sound of rumbling roller coasters and bumping bumper buggies soon will be heard in Vallejo again.

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom on Thursday announced that it will go back to operating its full complement of rides in early April — with COVID-19 safety measures in place.

The theme park that proudly claims to be the “Thrill Capital of Northern California” will have a special preview for members and season pass holders April 1-2, and then will welcome the general public April 3.

“Californians are ready to visit their favorite Six Flags theme park and have some fun,” said Bonnie Weber, senior vice president of park operations, in a statement. “Last year, we set the standard for operating our parks safely and entertained nearly 7 million guests in adherence to government and CDC health guidelines. We will follow those same stringent guidelines as we reopen our rides and attractions in our California parks.”

“We are very excited to be able to offer our full selection of rides and attractions for the first time in over a year,” added Six Flags Discovery Kingdom Park President Janine Durette. “Six Flags creates wonderful memories through the incredible experiences we provide guests of all ages. We are excited to welcome more guests to the park and to bring back more of our dedicated team members.”

Like other amusement parks, Discovery Kingdom completely suspended operations in March of last year to help slow the spread of the coronavirus. In July of 2020, the park reopened with an animals-only Marine World Experience as its 40-plus rides remained silent.

But now parkgoers again will be able to take on Kong, Medusa, Cobra, The Joker and more.

Discovery Kingdom officials said the rides will be operated in accordance with state, county and local government guidelines. That includes reduced attendance levels as dictated via the park’s online reservation system. Park guests must be California residents, and guests over the age of 2 are required to wear face masks. (Masks will be available at the front gate for any guest without one).

Discovery Kingdom reopening dates are subject to change based on local, state and federal guidelines related to COVID-19.

Hurricane Harbor Concord, also operated by Six Flags, is expected to open at a future date based on current state guidance.

To make park reservations and learn more about its COVID-19 safety features and requirements, go to sixflags.com/ discoverykingdom.