wild safari six flags hours

Six Flags Wild Safari Drive-Thru Adventure: An Interactive Zoo Experience You Won’t Want To Miss

All the animals at Six Flags Wild Safari Drive-Thru

Here’s what to know about the Drive-Thru before you go

Six flags wild safari drive-thru is only part of the park, about author.

Melanie Bodner has always had a love for writing, but now she has a new love…being a mom. Before having her kids, Melanie was no stranger to writing or working with children. She wrote for a local newspaper as a reporter and taught English and Dance in a public school. Now Melanie enjoys spending time with her kids, doing yoga, writing and decorating her home. Check out her Instagram @burlapbythebeach.

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Key Information

The Wild Safari Drive-Thru Adventure is once again a self-drive attraction at an extra charge (although free to Six Flags Members and Six Flags Great Adventure and Hurricane Harbor New Jersey pass holders). Drivers go on safari through the 350acre park with its 1,200 animals from six continents including elephants, rhinos, tigers, giraffes and lions.  The drive takes between 1 and 3 hours depending on the pace of the driver.

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Six Flags Safari

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Six Flags Safari - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Wild Safari Drive-Thru to Open at Six Flags Great Adventure

While the theme park and waterpark remain closed, Six Flags Great Adventure is opening its Wild Safari Drive-Thru for guests to enjoy from the comfort of their own cars, complete with an advance reservation system.

The drive-thru safari is something I remember doing with my family when I was a kid, and it’s a great option for families looking for something to do, especially while we wait for things to return somewhat to normal.

Wild Safari Drive-Thru

From 1974 to 2012, the Safari experience at Six Flags Great Adventure was a self-guided tour that allowed guests to drive their own cars through exhibit after exhibit of animals. I can remember the thrill of seeing animals right through my window when I was a kid and even seeing baboons jump on top of cars!

In 2013, the safari was changed to the Safari Off Road Adventure. It became an attraction inside the theme park that guests rode through on an open-air truck with a tour guide, with a stop at Camp Aventura for up-close encounters and a zip line. Some of the animal exhibits, like the baboons, were fenced in for this experience.

Now, with the need for social-distancing, the drive-thru aspect is back, just using the same road and exhibits from the past 7 years. That means this new version of the Wild Safari Drive-Thru won’t have any baboons jumping on cars. That’s probably disappointing for kids and reassuring for the parents. Camp Aventura will not be open as part of the drive-thru safari., but should reopen when the attraction eventually goes back to being the Safari Off Road Adventure.

Wild Safari Drive-Thru Hours and Pricing

Starting May 30, 2020, the Wild Safari Drive-Thru Adventure will operate daily from 9am to 4pm (weather permitting). Reservations will need to be made in advance, and no guests will be allowed to enter without a reservation. The safari takes about an hour to experience and Six Flags says the safari will accommodate thousands of families per day.

Pricing for the Wild Safari Drive-Thru is $17.99 per person for single day tickets. Members and Season Pass Holders are free, plus one $9.99 Bring-A-Friend ticket. Kids aged 2 and under are also free. All guests, regardless of what type of ticket they have, need a reservation to enter.

The procedure will work like this: First, guests will purchase tickets for the Wild Safari Drive-Thru. Then, you’ll go to the reservation system to choose the date and time you want to attend. (You’ll need your ticket #, order #, or season pass/membership # to confirm you purchased tickets.) When your reservation is complete you’ll receive a confirmation. Print that, or show it on your device through your window when you arrive. Printed sheets will probably be easier to scan through the window.

Tickets are available for purchase now. Members and Pass Holders will be able to start making reservations on May 27, 2020.

A Self-Guided Tour

Your self-guided tour of the Wild Safari will slowly cruise along the 5-mile path as it winds through the 350-acre preserve. During the hour-long journey, you will have the opportunity to see 1,200 animals in simulated natural habitats. Some of these animals may cross the road, and at times you’ll have animals within a few feet of your vehicle. But rest assured that predators are fenced off from the road.

The one downside to the self-guided tour is that you won’t have a knowledgeable tour guide to point out the animals, give you facts about them, or answer any questions you may have. The tour guide was one of the highlights of my Safari Off Road Adventure experience at Six Flags Great Adventure last summer. You can brush up on the animals you’ll see and their habitats on the park’s website at  www.sixflags.com/safari . (a passenger could even have this open on a device to reference during your visit.)

Here is a list of some of the animals you can expect to see.

Wild Safari Drive-Thru Animal Guide

The americas.

• Fallow Deer
• Roosevelt Elk
• African Elephants
• White Rhino
• Grant’s Zebra
• Asian Water Buffalo
• Marabou Stork

Wild Plains

• Common Eland
• Ellipsis Waterbuck
• Dama Gazelle
• Scimitar Horned Oryx
• Reticulated Giraffe
• Red Ankole Cattle
• White Bearded Gnu
• Greater Kudu

Serengeti Grassland

• White Tailed Gnu
• African Lions

Black Bear Ridge

• American Black Bear
• European Brown Bear

Conservation Area

Set aside for native species to the NJ area such as birds, foxes, turtles and even the bald eagle.

Didgeradoo Pass

• Red Kangaroo

Tigris Asiana

• Bangal Tigers
• Siberian Tigers

Baboon Jungle

• Anubis Baboons

Safari Safety – Know Before You Go

To ensure the safety of guests, Six Flag team members, and animals, the Wild Safari Drive-Thru experience will be contact-free. All tickets will need to be purchased in advance via an online reservation system . Tickets will not be available at the gate, and guests without tickets will not be permitted to enter.

• SLOW – 5 mph speed limit
• Maintain space between your car and others
• Animals always have the right of way
• Remain in your vehicle and on paved roadway at all times
• Windows and sun roofs must remain completely closed
• Convertible tops must be closed
• No pets, including service animals, are permitted inside cars
• Do not feed or touch the animals
• No smoking or littering
• No parking or stopping, other than yielding to animals
• All vehicles will be screened by Six Flags Security prior to entering Wild Safari
• No items are permitted in pickup truck beds or in vehicles with open storage
• Cars, SUVs and consumer pickup trucks only permitted – no buses, RVs, box trucks, commercial vehicles, pickup trucks larger than a consumer pickup allowed
• Plan ahead – no restrooms, food, or gasoline available (only portable toilets at entrance and exit)
• Enter at your own risk

Personally, we’re looking forward to making the drive to the Wild Safari Drive-Thru. It will be great to take a little road trip. In addition to planning how to handle our food and restroom stops, we’re putting together some accessories to bring in the car to enhance the experience. Here are some of our ideas:

• printable animal guide (we’ll share ours once we finish it)
• scavenger hunt
• safari bingo
• booster seats to help little ones see
• camera to take photos
• safari coloring books

You can find more information on the Wild Safari Drive-Thru, including the answers to frequently asked questions, at https://www.sixflags.com/greatadventure/attractions/safari

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Six Flags Great Adventure Drive Thru Safari Returns!

By: Author Jennifer Auer

Posted on Published: April 3, 2023  - Last updated: August 10, 2023

Growing up the Six Flags Great Adventure Drive Thru Safari was pretty epic. It was something every family wanted to try at least once. We all had our stories of what it was like.

Years later the Six Flags Great Adventure Drive Thru Safari would close and visitors enjoyed it as a perk with their Great Adventure admission ticket.

These last few weeks you may have been wondering what fun things you can do this spring in New Jersey. You may be thinking about what your summer may look like. Perhaps you’ve even reflected on the Six Flags Great Adventure Drive Thru Safari in New Jersey. Did you make it there last year?

Did you want more time to experience it?

Were you worried that maybe the safari would go back to normal and driving through it would no longer be an option?

You can!! Because the Six Flags Great Adventure Drive Thru Safari is back for 2023!

Six Flags Great Adventure has its Wild Safari Drive-Thru Adventure as open for 2023 on April 1, 2023, and operating daily beginning May 19, 2023 weather permitting. It’s also open daily for spring break from April 5, to April 16, 2023.

Six Flags Great Adventure Drive Thru Safari is OPEN Again!!

Six Flags Great Adventure has reopened its Safari adventure as a drive-through experience. This year there’s, even MORE, to see as the Animal Care Team looks forward to welcoming an array of adorable babies, and new animals.

About the Six Flags Great Adventure Drive Thru Safari

Six Flags Great Adventure’s Safari operated as a self-drive-through experience from 1974 through 2012. Since 2013, Great Adventure has offered guided truck tours of the Safari. Returning to a standalone, drive-through format enables guests to enjoy the Safari’s 1,200 exotic animals from the privacy and safety of their own vehicles while allowing for proper social distancing.

How do I get tickets to the Drive Thru Safari at Great Adventure?

Advance reservations are recommended, but not required at this time for the 2023 season.

Active Members, Season Pass Holders, and single-day ticket holders can make reservations NOW at www.sixflags.com.

How do I make a reservation to visit the safari?

Tickets are required. If you are an active Member or Season Pass holder, you do not require a separate ticket.

For those that need to buy a ticket, visit this Six Flags Great Adventure page on their site . Choose a date from the calendar that is available for your ticket type. Choose the ticket quantity. You will need 1 ticket for each person in the car. Then, enter your payment information and proceed.

When you have completed the registration, you will receive a confirmation. Please print this confirmation sheet if possible. A printed sheet is easier to scan through the car window than a phone screen. We want this experience to be as contact-free as possible.

Ticket sales are for individuals. No group sales are available.

When will it open? When will it be open?

The Wild Safari Drive-Thru Adventure will open March 19, 2022, and operate daily beginning May 5, 2022 weather permitting.

How much will it cost?

Each guest will need a ticket. The admission price for the Great Adventure drive thru safari is as follows:

• General Admission weekends, holidays, & spring break — $19.99 to $24.99
• General Admission weekdays — starts at $14.99
• Admission is free to Six Flags Members, Six Flags Great Adventure and Six Flags Hurricane Harbor New Jersey Season Pass holders.

How long is the drive thru safari?

It’s a 350 acre safari with a 5 mile roadway. It will takes about 1.5 hours to 2 hours to drive through to see all the animals.

Can I stop to take pictures?

Stopping is not allowed. For the safety of all guests and animals the traffic flow needs to keep moving.

How can I take great photos and videos safely?

If you are driving through buy this dashboard cam with our Amazon affiliate link. With this dashboard camera and a memory card you can record video and take pictures throughout the drive thru safari and dinosaur experience SAFELY. You’ll never miss a moment or an animal as the Rove R2- 4K Dash Cam Built in WiFi GPS Car Dashboard Camera Recorder dashboard camera can catch everything.

This dashboard cam even allows you to livestream safely while recording. Take the grandparents with you on your drive thru adventures without them ever leaving home or show off to all your Instagram followers. You can also rotate the camera and do a little family caroake video.

Bonus… since we fully expect spring and summer and even Christmas drive thru events to continue, you’ll get so much use from your dashboard camera.

What kinds of animals are in the safari?

The Great Adventure safari has 1,200 animals from six continents including elephants, rhinos, tigers, giraffes and lions. They are separated into 10 areas. While most animals roam freely in the safari, predators are kept safely behind fences. All animals are clearly visible from car windows.

Guests can learn all about the animals and their habitats on the park’s website at www.sixflags.com/safari. During your drive through the safari, you can follow along the virtual tour on at www.sixflags.com/greatadventure to learn more about 11 sections of the safari, and the animals that reside in each section.

Safari Adventure Lands

• The Americas – Explore the inhabitants of the Americas featuring Rhea, Fallow Deer, Bison, Roosevelt Elk, Llama and Wild Turkey.
• Afrikka – A mix of exotic and endangered animals indigenous to Africa like Ostrich, African Elephant, White Rhinoceros, Asian Water Buffalo, Marabou Stork and Grant’s Zebra.
• Wild Plains – Wild Plains are home to a large variety of animals including the Common Eland, Ellipsis Waterbuck, Southern Ground Hornbill, Beisa Oryx, Peacock, Dama Gazella, Red Ankole Cattle, Scimitar Horned Oryx, Reticulated Giraffe and much, much, more.
• Serengeti Grassland – Take a trip through the Serengeti Grasslands and encounter Blackbuck, Addax, White Tailed Gnu and Aoudad.
• Kingsland – In the animal kingdom there is one mammal that reigns the title of king, and in Kingsland you will find your pride with plenty of Lions.
• Black Bear Ridge – Bear dens are plentiful in Black Bear Ridge, where you will find plenty of mamma bears and their cubs playing in the grass or relaxing in the water.
• Terra Urus – European Brown Bear cousins to the Grizzly Bears.
• Conservation Area – Travel through an untouched part of the safari left for NJ native species like birds, foxes, turtles and even the great bald eagle.
• Didgeradoo Pass – Drive through the outback where you can come face to face with Red Kangaroo, Emu and Black Swan.
• Tigris Asiana – There are plenty of tigers to be found in Tigris Asian and other animals to meet such as Nilgai, Yak, Bengal Tiger and Siberian Tiger
• Baboon Village – Guests will be able to visit the Baboon Jungle prior to exiting the safari.

What’s new at the Six Flags Great Adventure Drive Thru Safari?

Similar to 2022, there are new animals to see and new enhancements to the Six Flags Safari.

New animals at the Six Flags Great Adventure Drive Thru Safari

Here’s what guests visiting the drive thru safari this spring can expect to see.

Five Stunning Siberian Tiger Cubs  

• Five Siberian tiger cubs turn one-year old in May and will be introduced to an exhibit in a new area of the safari.

Young Animal Additions 

• Adorable European brown bear cubs under specialized care, a rare newborn bongo calf and a sable antelope calf all join the safari in 2023.

In 2022, these were the new Six Flags Safari animals.

Sawyer, the Southern White Rhinoceros  

• Six-year-old (now 7 years old) Sawyer joins three adult female rhinos in the Afrikka section of the safari. Although grey in color, the southern white rhinoceros is the largest living species of the five species of rhino, averaging 4,000 to 6,000 pounds. At 3,800 pounds and growing, Sawyer has a youthful bounce in his step and enjoys human touch like scratches from a bristle brush. With a diet of hay and grain, Sawyer and his fellow rhinos are one the world’s last remaining “mega-herbivores” – a large animal that eats mainly plants. He lives side-by-side with other animals native to Africa such as elephants, ostriches and zebras.

Three Reticulated Giraffe Calves  (now toddlers)

• Three adorable and graceful calves were born in the safari this winter and join the safari’s “tower” (group) of 13 giraffes. Native to Africa, giraffes are the tallest land mammal on Earth. They can stand up to 17 feet tall and weigh from 1,500 to 3,000 pounds. A giraffe’s long neck measures up to seven feet long, and despite its length, contains seven vertebrae just like humans. Due to habitat loss, poaching, and other human-wildlife interferences, giraffes are considered “vulnerable to extinction.”

Two sable antelope calves (now toddlers)

• This striking, horse-like antelope from Africa boasts a tufted tail, mane, and impressive, ringed horns that curve like a scimitar. Typically settling near water, the sable is an herbivore. In the wild, their beautiful horns are a highly prized trophy for hunters. Born in the safari, the pair of sable calves now reside in the Serengeti Grasslands section along with exotic hoof stock like addax, white-tailed gnu (black wildebeest), and aoudad.

Two red lechwe calves (now toddlers)

• Identifiable by their reddish fur, white-ringed eyes, and tall horns reaching up to three feet long, this type of antelope is usually found near aquatic areas in Zambia and Botswana and are considered a “near threatened species” in the wild. The safari’s red lechwe calves, born onsite this winter, reside in the Wilde Plains section with a vast array of African species such as giraffe, greater kudu, ankole cattle, dama gazelle, white-bearded gnu (blue/brindled wildebeest), bongo and more.

Two Asian water buffalo calves 

• Two adorable Asian water buffalo calves join the Afrikka section. While they bear some similarities to their African cousins, the Cape buffalo, these are domesticated animals. In the wild, they are commonly found on farms as beasts of burden. Their milk, which has more fat than that of domestic cattle, is used for making liquid butter in India. In the safari, they are true to their name and are often found submerged in ponds with only their heads visible above water.

Spring brings more baby animals to the Drive Thru Safari (now toddlers)

The Animal Care Team looks forward to welcoming an array of adorable babies including the exciting arrival of giraffe babies and scimitar calves.

Safety improvements at the Six Flags Great Adventure Drive Thru Safari Made in 2022

• Roadway Enhancements – Guests enjoy a smooth experience on an expanded, two-lane roadway with five newly paved miles of blacktop. The wider roadway helps to better accommodate guests who wish to enjoy the tour at their own pace and accommodates school buses for educational programs.

More Highlights for the 2023 Six Flags Great Adventure Drive Thru Safari

• Georgia the Giraffe  celebrates thirty-one years of life, likely one of the oldest giraffes under human care and a grandmother to many giraffes on property.
• Save an Icon Pin Program  returns with proceeds benefitting the Wildlife Conservation Network. This 2023 collectible pin will feature both the Bald Eagle and Blue and Gold Macaw.
• Monthly Safari Overnights  Six Flags Wild Safari will host their popular monthly overnight camping adventures this summer, a unique experience for a lifetime of memories.

Other enhancements to the Six Flags Great Adventure Drive Thru Safari made in 2022

• Enhanced Safari Entrance –  Six Flags’ expansive modernization and beautification efforts included a new roadway entrance and upgraded safari plaza to welcome guests;
• Enhanced Mobile App  – A new mobile app feature allowed guests to add their safari pass to their Google Pay Wallet or Apple Wallet expediting the admission experience and reduce wait time.
• New Audio Tour –  Guests can immerse themselves in the animal world with a new audio tour. Energetic narrators will showcase 11 simulated natural habitats featuring more than 70 different species of animals. Guests will learn fun and educational facts about the animals, hear fascinating animal sounds and music from around the world. At the start of their adventure, guests will receive a handout with QR codes that take them to the audio tour and safari map. The audio tour is free and can be streamed from any mobile device.
• Volta Electric Vehicle Charging Stations  – Compatible with all electric vehicles, units are available in the safari parking lot.
• Safari Off Road Education –  This fun and educational tour on a giant, off-road vehicle features a personal tour guide and driver, and an opportunity to feed giraffes and meet small exotic animals up close.
• Science on Safari  – This contactless safari experience features a special Academic Adventure audio tour, grade-specific guidebook and optional visit with an animal educator.

Is it safe?

The safety of guests, team members, and animals is Six Flags’ top priority. The new safari journey will offer a contact-free experience.

A new list of safety requirements is available on the park’s website at www.sixflags.com/greatadventure and include

• SLOW – 5 mph speed limit.
• Maintain space between your car and others.
• Animals always have the right of way.
• Remain in your vehicle and on paved roadway at all times.
• Windows and sun roofs must remain completely closed.
• Convertible tops must be closed.
• No pets, including service animals, are permitted inside cars.
• Do not feed or touch the animals.
• No smoking or littering.
• No parking or stopping, other than yielding to animals.
• All vehicles will be screened by Six Flags Security prior to entering Wild Safari.
• No items are permitted in pickup truck beds or in vehicles with open storage.
• Cars, SUVs and consumer pickup trucks only permitted – no buses, RVs, box trucks, commercial vehicles, pickup trucks larger than a consumer pickup allowed.
• Plan ahead – no restrooms, food, or gasoline available (only portable toilets at entrance and exit).
• Enter at your own risk.
• Guests who violate the rules will be escorted from the park without a refund and may be prosecuted.

What happens if my car breaks down?

If your car can still move, please drive to the side of the road (but stay on the roadway) and place your flashers on. If you cannot move your car, just place your flashers on. One of our team members will come to assist you. Do not exit the vehicle for any reason.

Are there any differences between the new drive thru safari and the old one?

The safari was renovated in 2013 for the opening of Safari Off Road Adventure, and some of the sections were redefined. That pathway remains in place. Plus guests will be able to visit the Baboon Jungle prior to exiting the safari. Camp Aventura will remain closed.

You no longer have to worry about the baboons. No. In 2003, fencing was added along the roadway to separate the baboons from the cars.

How long will the drive thru safari be available?

To ensure the safety of guests and maximize on social distancing guidelines, the safari will remain a self-drive-thru experience after Six Flags Great Adventure opens for the regular season. They do plan to reopen the Safari Off Road Adventure in the near future. No date has been set.

Will there be restrooms available?

There will be indoor restrooms available at the exit of the safari.

Will there be any souvenirs to buy?

Yes! There will be concession stands for souvenirs or refreshments at the end of the safari tour.

Stay tuned. This is a developing story and we can’t wait to bring you more details.

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Saturday 26th of August 2023

Do I need to purchase a ticket for two years old baby?

Jennifer Auer

Sunday 27th of August 2023

You would need to check with Great Adventure. - Jenn

Friday 12th of May 2023

Do we need a ticket for Wild Safari for 6 months old babies?

Sunday 14th of May 2023

You do not need a ticket for 6 month old babies. - Jenn

Colleen Carman

Thursday 20th of April 2023

I am a social director for seniors, we have a 13 seat bus.. is this allowed ? And do we pay per bus our per passenger

You would need to reach out to Six Flags Great Adventure. You have left your comment with Jersey Family Fun. - Jenn

Darlene Bennett

Thursday 28th of July 2022

I am bringing a 4 year old for the first time. What us the best time for him to have the best experience possible, he is such an animal lover!!! Thank you!

I think at dusk might be best, we've only been a few times. Perhaps give their reservation department a call and see if they have any recommendations. - Jenn

Friday 8th of April 2022

Is the safari open in the rain and do the animals come out in the rain?

We believe the safari is open rain or shine unless weather conditions would make it dangerous to do so. - Jenn

Six Flags kicks off 2024 season on March 16: Here’s what visitors can expect

• Updated: Mar. 08, 2024, 9:21 a.m. |
• Published: Mar. 08, 2024, 9:10 a.m.

Six Flags will open March 16 for the 2024 season. This photo shows the Jersey Devil Roller Coaster at the theme park, located in Jackson, New Jersey. (Michael Mancuso | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com) Michael Mancuso | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

• Annalise Knudson | [email protected]

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Six Flags Great Adventure Resort will kick off the 2024 season next week — marking the 50th anniversary season with several new experiences, park enhancements, and other upgrades across its three parks in Jackson, New Jersey.

Starting March 16, visitors will be able to visit Six Flags Great Adventure theme park, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor water park and the Wild Safari, a 350-acre wildlife preserve that has 1,200 animals from six continents.

During the 50th year of operation, guests can expect a new, 15th roller coaster, “The Flash: Vertical Velocity” at the theme park. Also coming this year is the opening of the new glamping experience , Savannah Sunset Resort and Spa, at the resort’s Wild Safari.

“Six Flags Great Adventure Resort remains committed to innovation and thrilling adventures, blending the present with a nod to our 50-year history,” said park President Brian Bacica. “Whether it’s a guest’s first visit or their 50th, everyone, regardless of their thrill level, will discover new attractions, enhanced park features, exciting events and nostalgic highlights within our resort destination.”

Six Flags Great Adventure will open weekends beginning March 16, before opening daily for spring break from March 28-April 7. Guests can come ready to ride record-breaking roller coasters, including Kingda Ka and fan favorites like Nitro, El Toro and the Jersey Devil Coaster. There will be plenty of milder thrills too, with two areas dedicated specifically to junior thrill-seekers.

The Wild Safari park will open March 30 with an all-new Safari Base Camp. This completely reimagined location at the Wild Safari entrance/exit allows guests to experience the Safari Off Road Adventure outside the theme park. Off-road vehicles with a driver and guide will take guests on an immersive and informative safari tour. This new area also includes retail and dining locations, a children’s play area, animal experiences and more.

Here’s what is new this season:

• The Flash: Vertical Velocity – Presented in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Themed Entertainment and DC, the first triple-launch super boomerang coaster to open in North America rushes forward and backward at nearly 60 miles per hour through a 180-degree twisted drop and zero-G roll;
• Splash Island – Hurricane Harbor opens May 18 with Splash Island, a family-centric area that boasts a new tree-house play structure and seven slides geared for little splash-seekers;
• Savannah Sunset Resort and Spa – Open for bookings starting June 14, guests can stay overnight within the Wild Safari with a first-class, once-in-a-lifetime safari glamping experience in the heart of New Jersey;
• Six Flags Adventure World – Pop in along the Dream Street Pathway for Six Flags essentials;
• The Flash Store – The Flash store will feature all of fan favorites to commemorate the thrilling, new ride experience;
• Nostalgic Enhancements – The Sawmill Log Flume and Giant Wheel (formerly Big Wheel) will receive upgrades while Congo Rapids returns to its original namesake, Roaring Rapids.

Here are some of the theme park enhancements and experiences:

Dream Street Pathway – In celebration of the park’s 50-year anniversary, guests are invited to become part of the adventure by purchasing an anniversary brick and keepsake. These inscribed bricks will adorn a new pathway located at the theme park’s original entrance.

Enhanced Retail and Dining Experiences –

• Retail Remodels & Rethemes– Mainstreet Market and Thrillseekers shops received upgrades while two favorites, Fright Fest Fanatics and Holiday Memories, are now available to shop all season;
• Restaurant Upgrades – Best of the West Grill & Saloon, Main Street Pub, Kickin’ Chicken Sports Bar, Funnel Cake Factory and Yum Yum Café will showcase new looks with upgraded interiors;
• Signature Beverage & Food Options – Premium and signature cocktails will be available across the park and three new Roller Coaster Coffee locations will proudly serve Starbucks®. Sweat Treats (formerly Sweet Cakes) will now offer delectable treats like crepes and gelato. The park will also expand gluten-free options at Primos Pizza;

Updated Toll Plaza & Parking Areas – Speedy Parking allows registered guests to breeze through the toll plaza before parking in newly designated parking areas including preferred sections and car charging stations at both the water park and theme park;

Reimagined Safari Off Road Adventure – Starting March 30 guests can once again embark on an unforgettable tour through a 350-acre Wild Safari embarking from Frontier Station.

There are thrilling events scheduled throughout 2024. That includes a Pride Night, July 4th Fireworks, Oktoberfest, Boo Fest, Fright Fest, Veterans Weekend and Holiday in the Park.

Six Flags will be open on March 16 and 17, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. It will then open for spring break from March 28-April 7, with varying hours. Six Flags Wild Safari Drive-Thru Adventure will operate starting March 30.

Tickets start at $43 a person, while season passes start at $13/month after initial payment.

The Six Flags Great Adventure Resort properties are hiring for the 2024 season. More than 10 diverse departments are hiring, with most wages ranging from $15 to $20 per hour, and applicants must be at least 14 years old. Interested applicants can text FUN to 732-307-6688, log on to www.sixflagsjobs.com or visit the Employment Center daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

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What's new at Six Flags Great Adventure this year? A 'super boomerang coaster' and more

2 minute read.

Six Flags Great Adventure may open for the year on Saturday, March 16, but come July 1 there will be another cause for celebration: The date marks the anniversary of the theme park's 50th season.

Businessman Warner LeRoy brought Great Adventure to life in summer 1974, and some things have remained from its early days — like the iconic ice cream sundae-shaped Yum Yum Palace and a skyride that brings guests from one end of the park to the other.

But Great Adventure has grown to include more than a dozen zones, from Frontier Adventures and Plaza del Carnival to Movietown and Jr. Thrillseekers — and it's home to 14 roller coasters that attract riders from all over.

As the park begins its 50th season, there are a number of new attractions representing "our largest park investment in almost two decades, " Park President Brian Bacica said in a news release. Here's what to look forward to this year.

▶ As Six Flags Great Adventure turns 50, readers share their favorite memories

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The Flash: Vertical Velocity

The Flash: Vertical Velocity roller coaster, "a super boomerang coaster," is scheduled to open this season. The coaster, which is the first of its kind in North America and the second in the world, "rushes forward and backward at nearly 60 miles per hour through a 180-degree twisted drop and zero-G roll," reads a news release from the park. "The train pauses, and then, just like The Flash, you change directions on a dime and rush backwards along the track."

An opening date has not been announced.

Savannah Sunset Resort & Spa

Opening Friday, June 14, Savannah Sunset Resort & Spa invites guests to sleep in one of 20 "glamping suites" designed to resemble authentic African lodges" in the middle of Six Flags Great Adventure's Wild Safari, park spokesperson Staci Wheeler said. "We will have a number of animals that freely roam around the enclosed campsite."

The resort, which will have a spa and fine-dining restaurant, costs around $600 per night and requires a two-night minimum stay. Breakfast and access to the theme park, safari and Hurricane Harbor water park are included.

Giant Wheel and Roaring Rapids

Two original rides are receiving upgrades. "The Big Wheel will be returning to its original namesake this year — Giant Wheel," Wheeler said. "It will be receiving upgrades including a repaint and new light package."

The Sawmill Log Flume also is being refurbished and will reopen this summer.

Also, "Congo Rapids" is returning to its original name, "Roaring Rapids."

Safari Off Road Adventure returns

The Safari Off Road Adventure returns following the 2023 closure of the Wild Safari Drive-Thru.

"Guests will once again be able to board our safari off-road vehicles with a driver and tour guide to experience the 350-acre Wild Safari," Wheeler said. "This attraction can be experienced from two locations. It is included with a theme park ticket, or guests can purchase a safari-only ticket to board from a new 'Base Camp' located at the entrance to the Wild Safari." 

Hurricane Harbor

Hurricane Harbor, which opens Saturday, May 18, will include a new family area called Splash Island. The feature will have a treehouse play structure and seven slides for young guests.

14 coasters (soon to be 15)

Six Flags Great Adventure has become a destination for those wanting to climb high and speed through the air on roller coasters. The Runaway Mine Train sends riders careening over a lake at 38 miles per hour, while the 3,000-foot-long Jersey Devil Coaster shoots riders to heights of 13 stories at speeds of up to 58 mph.

There are coasters based on DC Comics characters: Batman, The Ride anchors riders to the track from above, their feet dangling as they speed 50 mph; The Dark Knight is an indoor coaster where riders face six 180-degree turns, and a series of hair-raising ups and down from a height of 45 feet; The Joker is a free-fly coaster with no track above or below riders; Green Lantern is a stand-up coaster with a top speed of 64 mph; and Superman : Ultimate Flight launches roller coaster fans through the air face down and head first.

Kingda Ka shoots riders vertically at 90 degrees before sending them down a 270-degree spiral; Medusa sends them 146 feet into the air and clocks speeds of 61 mph; Nitro , at 233 feet tall, offers a quick glimpse of Philadelphia before a 215-foot drop; and Skull Mountain is an indoor coaster that rides in the dark.

Then there's El Toro, which frequently makes the list when people talk about the best coasters in the world. This wooden beast takes riders up 19 stories before dropping them 176 feet, all while traveling 70 mph.

There are junior coasters for young riders, too, like Harley Quinn Crazy Train and Lil’ Devil Coaster .

Sarah Griesemer joined the USA TODAY NETWORK New Jersey in 2003 and has been writing all things food since 2014. Send restaurant tips to [email protected] ,   follow on Instagram  at Jersey Shore Eats   and  subscribe to our Jersey Shore Eats newsletter.

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Time in Elektrostal , Moscow Oblast, Russia now

• Tokyo 09:54PM
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Time zone info for Elektrostal

• The time in Elektrostal is 8 hours ahead of the time in New York when New York is on standard time, and 7 hours ahead of the time in New York when New York is on daylight saving time.
• Elektrostal does not change between summer time and winter time.
• The IANA time zone identifier for Elektrostal is Europe/Moscow.

Time difference from Elektrostal

Sunrise, sunset, day length and solar time for elektrostal.

• Sunrise: 04:06AM
• Sunset: 08:40PM
• Day length: 16h 34m
• Solar noon: 12:23PM
• The current local time in Elektrostal is 23 minutes ahead of apparent solar time.

Elektrostal on the map

• Location: Moscow Oblast, Russia
• Latitude: 55.79. Longitude: 38.46
• Population: 144,000
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Out of the Centre

Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

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Gagarin Cup Preview: Atlant vs. Salavat Yulaev

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Gagarin cup (khl) finals:  atlant moscow oblast vs. salavat yulaev ufa.

Much like the Elitserien Finals, we have a bit of an offense vs. defense match-up in this league Final.  While Ufa let their star top line of Alexander Radulov, Patrick Thoresen and Igor Grigorenko loose on the KHL's Western Conference, Mytischi played a more conservative style, relying on veterans such as former NHLers Jan Bulis, Oleg Petrov, and Jaroslav Obsut.  Just reaching the Finals is a testament to Atlant's disciplined style of play, as they had to knock off much more high profile teams from Yaroslavl and St. Petersburg to do so.  But while they did finish 8th in the league in points, they haven't seen the likes of Ufa, who finished 2nd. 

This series will be a challenge for the underdog, because unlike some of the other KHL teams, Ufa's top players are generally younger and in their prime.  Only Proshkin amongst regular blueliners is over 30, with the work being shared by Kirill Koltsov (28), Andrei Kuteikin (26), Miroslav Blatak (28), Maxim Kondratiev (28) and Dmitri Kalinin (30).  Oleg Tverdovsky hasn't played a lot in the playoffs to date.  Up front, while led by a fairly young top line (24-27), Ufa does have a lot of veterans in support roles:  Vyacheslav Kozlov , Viktor Kozlov , Vladimir Antipov, Sergei Zinovyev and Petr Schastlivy are all over 30.  In fact, the names of all their forwards are familiar to international and NHL fans:  Robert Nilsson , Alexander Svitov, Oleg Saprykin and Jakub Klepis round out the group, all former NHL players.

For Atlant, their veteran roster, with only one of their top six D under the age of 30 (and no top forwards under 30, either), this might be their one shot at a championship.  The team has never won either a Russian Superleague title or the Gagarin Cup, and for players like former NHLer Oleg Petrov, this is probably the last shot at the KHL's top prize.  The team got three extra days rest by winning their Conference Final in six games, and they probably needed to use it.  Atlant does have younger regulars on their roster, but they generally only play a few shifts per game, if that. 

The low event style of game for Atlant probably suits them well, but I don't know how they can manage to keep up against Ufa's speed, skill, and depth.  There is no advantage to be seen in goal, with Erik Ersberg and Konstantin Barulin posting almost identical numbers, and even in terms of recent playoff experience Ufa has them beat.  Luckily for Atlant, Ufa isn't that far away from the Moscow region, so travel shouldn't play a major role. 

I'm predicting that Ufa, winners of the last Superleague title back in 2008, will become the second team to win the Gagarin Cup, and will prevail in five games.  They have a seriously well built team that would honestly compete in the NHL.  They represent the potential of the league, while Atlant represents closer to the reality, as a team full of players who played themselves out of the NHL. 

• Atlant @ Ufa, Friday Apr 8 (3:00 PM CET/10:00 PM EST)
• Atlant @ Ufa, Sunday Apr 10 (1:00 PM CET/8:00 AM EST)
• Ufa @ Atlant, Tuesday Apr 12 (5:30 PM CET/12:30 PM EST)
• Ufa @ Atlant, Thursday Apr 14 (5:30 PM CET/12:30 PM EST)

Games 5-7 are as yet unscheduled, but every second day is the KHL standard, so expect Game 5 to be on Saturday, like an early start. 

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