Six Flags Over Georgia in Atlanta: The Local’s Guide to Rides, Tickets, and Tips

If you hear people in Atlanta say “Six Flags Atlanta,” they’re almost always talking about Six Flags Over Georgia, the major theme park just west of the city. Whether you live in the metro area or you’re planning a visit, this guide covers how to get there, what to expect, how to save time and money, and how to make the most of your day.

Where “Six Flags Atlanta” Actually Is

Official name: Six Flags Over Georgia
Address: 275 Riverside Parkway, Austell, GA 30168
Distance from downtown Atlanta: About 10–15 miles west, depending on where you start

Although it’s technically in Austell, most locals consider it part of the greater Atlanta experience. It’s right off I‑20, which makes it fairly easy to reach from Midtown, Downtown, Buckhead, and Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

Getting to Six Flags Over Georgia from Around Atlanta

By Car

Driving is the most common way for Atlanta locals and visitors to get to Six Flags.

Basic driving directions from central Atlanta:

• Get on I‑20 West
• Take Exit 46 (Six Flags Parkway / Riverside Parkway)
• Follow the signs directly into the park entrance

Parking:
The park normally offers several parking options (general and closer lots). Expect a separate parking fee, which you pay at the gate or via the park’s official channels before you go.

Local driving tips:

• Traffic on I‑20 West can be heavy in the morning and around evening rush hour.
• On busy weekends, expect slowdowns near the Six Flags exit.
• If you can, aim to arrive before opening to avoid lines at the parking booths.

By Public Transit (MARTA + Bus/Ride)

There is no MARTA rail station right at the park, but you have a couple of options:

1. MARTA Rail + CobbLinc or RideShare

   • Take MARTA rail to a Westside station (like Five Points → transfer to the Blue Line toward Hamilton E. Holmes).
   • From there, many visitors take a rideshare (Lyft/Uber) directly to Six Flags.
   • CobbLinc and other suburban systems sometimes run seasonal or route‑based service toward Six Flags; check current schedules before relying on this.

2. Shuttles / Group Transportation

   • Some hotels and group tour companies in the metro area offer seasonal shuttles to Six Flags Over Georgia. These change over time, so confirm directly with the provider.

If you don’t want to drive, the most predictable option is usually MARTA rail + rideshare from a westside station.

When Six Flags Over Georgia Is Open

Six Flags Over Georgia operates on a seasonal schedule that usually includes:

• Spring: Weekends and some weekdays (often around spring break periods)
• Summer: Daily or near‑daily operation
• Fall: Weekends and select weekdays, with special events like Fright Fest
• Winter: Limited days for holiday‑themed events (varies year to year)

Because exact opening days and hours change seasonally:

• Check the official park calendar for the current schedule.
• Atlanta’s weather can influence operations, especially for water attractions.

Tickets, Passes, and Saving Money

Types of tickets you’re likely to see

While specific names and details can change, visitors usually choose from:

• Single‑day tickets – One‑day general admission
• Season passes or memberships – Good if you plan multiple visits
• Group tickets – For schools, churches, and organizations
• Special event tickets – For certain seasonal events (sometimes included with regular admission, sometimes separate)

Tips for Atlanta locals and frequent visitors

If you live in or near Atlanta and think you’ll go at least 2–3 times in a year, a season pass or recurring membership can be more cost‑effective than separate one‑day tickets. These often come with:

• Free or discounted parking
• Discounted food or merchandise
• Bring‑a‑friend days (varies by year)

Always compare:

• Price of one visit + parking versus
• Season pass/membership + parking benefits

Major Rides and Attractions to Know

Six Flags Over Georgia is known for its roller coasters and thrill rides, but it also has family attractions, kids’ areas, and seasonal water fun.

Big Thrill Coasters and Rides

Names and lineups can evolve, but you can generally expect:

• High‑intensity roller coasters with big drops, speed, and inversions
• Laid‑back family coasters with milder thrills
• Drop towers, spinning rides, and pendulum‑style attractions

If you’re coming from Atlanta with a group that includes both thrill‑seekers and more cautious riders, you’ll want to separate your must‑rides into:

• “Must‑do thrill rides” – For coaster fans
• “Everyone together” rides – Milder coasters and classic rides
• “I’ll sit this one out” rides – For those who prefer to skip intense attractions

Family and Kids’ Areas

Families from across metro Atlanta often head to:

• Designated kids’ zones with smaller rides and character‑themed attractions
• Family‑friendly shows when running
• Moderate rides that parents and children can ride together

These areas are popular with visitors from:

• Cobb County, Douglas County, Fulton County
• Nearby suburbs like Smyrna, Mableton, Austell, and Lithia Springs

Water Attractions and Six Flags White Water

Within Six Flags Over Georgia, you’ll find water rides that help with Atlanta’s hot, humid summers—log flume‑style rides, splash attractions, and occasionally seasonal water features.

Atlanta also has a separate water park:

• Six Flags White Water
  250 Cobb Parkway N, Marietta, GA 30062

White Water is its own park in Marietta, about 20–25 minutes north of central Atlanta, with water slides, wave pools, and kids’ splash areas. Tickets and passes may cover one or both parks depending on the specific offer.

Food, Drinks, and Dining Tips

Inside the park, you’ll find:

• Quick‑service restaurants – Burgers, pizza, chicken, tacos, etc.
• Snacks and treats – Funnel cakes, ice cream, popcorn, cotton candy
• Beverage stands – Sodas, bottled water, frozen drinks

Common patterns:

• Prices inside the park are typically higher than normal Atlanta restaurants.
• On hot days, lines for drinks and ice cream get very long mid‑afternoon.

To manage time and budget:

• Eat a light meal before you arrive in Atlanta or at home.
• Consider having one main meal in the park and supplement with snacks.
• Refill programs for drinks are often available if you plan to stay all day.

Outside the park, along Thornton Road, Riverside Parkway, and I‑20, you’ll find:

• Fast food chains
• Casual sit‑down restaurants
• Gas stations and convenience stores for quick snacks and drinks

Planning Your Day: Crowd and Weather Strategies

When to Go from an Atlanta Local Perspective

In metro Atlanta, crowds at Six Flags Over Georgia tend to peak:

• Summer weekends
• Holiday weekends (Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day)
• School breaks (spring break and some three‑day weekends)
• Fall evenings during special events like Fright Fest

If you’re flexible:

• Target weekdays in late spring or early fall.
• On weekends, arrive before opening and go straight to your top ride.

Atlanta Weather Considerations

Atlanta weather can be:

• Hot and humid in summer – Highs often in the upper 80s to 90s°F
• Unpredictable thunderstorms – Especially summer afternoons
• Mild but variable in spring and fall

Practical tips:

• In summer, plan your big outdoor coasters early in the day.
• Take mid‑afternoon breaks in shaded or indoor areas.
• Always have a rain plan—some rides may close temporarily in heavy rain or lightning.

Safety, Height Requirements, and Accessibility

Height Requirements

Almost all major rides have posted height requirements. For families from Atlanta with young children:

• Check ride requirements as soon as you enter the park.
• Measure your child at home and again inside the park if needed.
• Plan a mix of:
  • Rides they can do with you
  • Play areas or shows during time when older kids ride bigger coasters

Accessibility and Guest Services

Six Flags Over Georgia offers services to help guests with disabilities or special needs, which can include:

• Accessibility passes or programs for certain medical or mobility needs
• Wheelchair and stroller rentals
• Assistance at Guest Relations near the park entrance

If you or someone in your group has specific needs:

• Visit Guest Relations soon after entering.
• Ask about current policies for:
  • Boarding procedures
  • Wait time accommodations
  • Accessible entrances and paths

Policies can change, so it’s best to check current information on the park’s official channels before your visit.

Lodging Near Six Flags Over Georgia

If you’re traveling from outside metro Atlanta or planning a staycation:

Hotels Near the Park

You’ll find multiple hotels and motels near:

• Six Flags Parkway / Riverside Parkway
• Thornton Road and nearby I‑20 exits

These are convenient if you want:

• A short drive to the park
• To take a mid‑day break at your hotel

Staying Elsewhere in Atlanta

Many visitors prefer to stay in:

• Downtown Atlanta – Walkable to attractions like the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca‑Cola, and State Farm Arena; you can then drive to Six Flags for a dedicated park day.
• Midtown Atlanta – Easy MARTA access, lots of dining options, and a more central base if you’re exploring the city.
• Cumberland/Galleria area – Near Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta; convenient for combining a Braves game and a Six Flags visit.

When planning, factor in:

• Traffic along I‑20 and I‑285
• Parking costs at hotels (especially Downtown and Midtown)

Six Flags Over Georgia vs. Other Atlanta Attractions

For someone building an Atlanta itinerary, Six Flags Over Georgia is often balanced with other major attractions like:

• Georgia Aquarium (Downtown)
• Zoo Atlanta (Grant Park)
• Atlanta Botanical Garden (Midtown)
• World of Coca‑Cola (Downtown)
• Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta (Cumberland)

If you have:

• One full day – You can dedicate it entirely to Six Flags Over Georgia.
• Two or more days – You might do:
  • One day for Six Flags Over Georgia
  • Another day for Downtown/Midtown sights

Keep in mind: Six Flags is a high‑energy, full‑day experience. Many visitors avoid penciling in intense evening activities after a full park day, especially with young kids.

Quick Reference: Six Flags Over Georgia at a Glance

Practical Checklist Before You Go

Use this quick list to prep from anywhere in Atlanta or nearby suburbs:

• ✅ Check operating hours for your specific date
• ✅ Buy tickets or passes ahead of time if possible
• ✅ Decide on parking (pay in advance if available)
• ✅ Map out driving route via I‑20 and aim to arrive early
• ✅ Look at height requirements if visiting with kids
• ✅ Pack comfortable clothes and shoes, sunscreen, and a plan for heat or rain
• ✅ Decide whether you’ll eat mostly inside the park or nearby in Austell/Atlanta

With a bit of planning, Six Flags Over Georgia can be a highlight of your time in Atlanta—whether you’re a long‑time local looking for a day of thrills or a visitor fitting a major theme park into your city trip.