Six Flags AstroWorld 🇺🇸

Located in Houston, Texas, between Kirby Drive and Fannin Street south of I-610, Six Flags AstroWorld was a seasonally operated amusement park designed to complement the nearby Astrodome. Originally developed by former mayor Roy Hofheinz as part of the Astrodomain, you would enter this historic attraction via a custom pedestrian viaduct spanning the I-610 freeway. Inside, you could experience famous thrills like the Texas Cyclone, a high-speed wooden roller coaster built in 1976 that was modeled after Coney Island's Cyclone.

You could also ride Thunder River, which opened in 1980 as the world's first successful river rapids ride, or brave loop coasters like Greezed Lightnin' and themed attractions such as Batman: The Escape. Beyond roller coasters, you could explore themed areas like Children's World and The Magical World of Marvel McFey, greeted by original mascots including Marvel McFey, Winston Wolf, and Beethoven Bear, before Looney Tunes characters joined the park later on. In 2002, the adjacent WaterWorld water park was added to the property.

Although Six Flags permanently closed and demolished the park following its final Fright Fest night in October 2005, AstroWorld remains a legendary chapter in American amusement park history.

What to see at Six Flags AstroWorld

• Ride the Texas Cyclone, a famous 1976 wooden coaster modeled after Coney Island's Cyclone.
• Experience Thunder River, which debuted in 1980 as the world's first successful river rapids ride.
• Meet classic park characters ranging from mascot Marvel McFey to Looney Tunes favorites.
• Cross the landmark pedestrian bridge spanning the I-610 freeway to enter the park.
• Enjoy adjacent water attractions at WaterWorld, which joined the park property in 2002.

Visiting tips

To glimpse a piece of park history today, you can see the original 1967 scale model of AstroWorld that was donated to the Houston Public Library.

How long: Full day · Best time: Fright Fest in October

How to get there & what’s nearby

Six Flags AstroWorld is easy to reach on Houston’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Houston Zoo. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Houston travel guide.