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California's Great America: Thrills and Family Fun

Experience thrilling rides, live entertainment, and family fun at California's Great America, the Bay Area's premier amusement park, offering unforgettable memories for all ages.

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California's Great America, located in Santa Clara, is a premier amusement park offering a diverse range of attractions for thrill-seekers and families alike. From heart-pounding roller coasters like Gold Striker and RailBlazer to family-friendly zones like Planet Snoopy, the park provides an immersive experience for all ages. Enjoy live entertainment, seasonal events, and a variety of dining options, making it a perfect destination for a day of fun and adventure. With its convenient location in the heart of the Bay Area, California's Great America promises an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, excitement, and cherished memories. Don't miss the South Bay Shores Waterpark for a splashing good time during the warmer months, adding even more value to your visit. Whether you're a local or a tourist, this amusement park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a day of thrills and entertainment.

A brief summary to California's Great America

  • Friday 4 pm-10 pm
  • Saturday 4 pm-10 pm
  • Sunday 4 pm-10 pm

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance to save money and avoid long lines at the entrance.
  • Arrive early in the day, especially during peak season, to maximize your time and experience more rides.
  • Check the park's website for the most up-to-date information on hours of operation, special events, and ride closures.
  • Consider visiting during the off-season or on weekdays for smaller crowds and shorter wait times.
  • Download the California's Great America mobile app for real-time wait times, park maps, and show schedules.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    For those arriving via public transportation, the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) offers convenient access to California's Great America. Several VTA bus lines and light rail trains stop near the park. From the Great America Station, it's a short walk to the park entrance. A single VTA fare costs $2.50. Alternatively, Amtrak and ACE (Altamont Commuter Express) trains also stop at the Great America station, providing regional connectivity. From the station, follow the signs towards the park entrance.

  • Driving

    If driving, California's Great America is easily accessible from US-101. Take the Great America Parkway exit and follow the signs to the park. Standard parking costs $35 per vehicle, with RV parking available for $40. A drop-off area is located just past the parking lot entrance at 4911 Great America Parkway for convenient passenger drop-off. Consider arriving early, especially during peak season, to secure a parking spot closer to the entrance.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide a convenient way to reach California's Great America. The designated pick-up/drop-off area is located just past the entrance to the parking lot at 4911 Great America Parkway. A short ride from nearby hotels or the San Jose International Airport typically costs between $15 and $30, depending on traffic and distance.

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Discover more about California's Great America

California's Great America, a sprawling amusement park in the heart of Santa Clara, has been a beloved destination for families and thrill-seekers since its opening in 1976. Originally established by Marriott Corporation, the park has evolved through several ownership changes, each adding to its unique character and charm. Today, under the ownership of Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic amusement park entertainment, blending thrilling rides with family-friendly attractions. Spanning 112 acres, California's Great America boasts an impressive array of over 40 rides and attractions. The park is thoughtfully divided into themed areas, creating distinct atmospheres that enhance the overall visitor experience. From the adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to the delightful children's zones, there's something to captivate every member of the family. The park's collection of roller coasters is a major draw for many visitors. Gold Striker, a towering wooden coaster, consistently ranks among the best in the world, offering a thrilling ride with plenty of twists, turns, and drops. RailBlazer, a single-rail coaster, provides a unique and intense experience with its steep drops and inversions. Flight Deck, an inverted steel coaster, takes riders on a high-speed journey through loops and corkscrews, while The Grizzly offers a classic wooden coaster experience with a family-friendly appeal. For those seeking a more aggressive ride, The Demon delivers plenty of loops and airtime. Beyond the roller coasters, California's Great America features a variety of other thrill rides to satisfy adrenaline junkies. Drop Tower offers a heart-stopping freefall experience, while Tiki Twirl spins riders in a dizzying circular motion. For a more relaxed experience, the park also offers classic amusement park rides like a carousel and a Ferris wheel. Families with young children will find plenty to enjoy in Planet Snoopy, a themed area dedicated to the beloved Peanuts characters. This area features a variety of kid-friendly rides and attractions, including a junior roller coaster, a carousel, and interactive play areas. Children can also meet and greet Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and the rest of the Peanuts gang. In addition to its rides and attractions, California's Great America offers a variety of live entertainment options. Throughout the day, guests can enjoy live shows, street performances, and character meet-and-greets. The park also hosts special events throughout the year, such as Halloween Haunt and WinterFest, which add a unique touch to the visitor experience. During the warmer months, visitors can cool off at South Bay Shores Waterpark, a 15-acre water park located adjacent to California's Great America. The water park features a variety of water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river, providing a refreshing escape from the summer heat. With its recent renovations, South Bay Shores offers even more attractions and dining options, making it a must-visit destination for water park enthusiasts. California's Great America also offers a wide range of dining options to satisfy every palate. From classic amusement park fare like burgers and fries to more diverse offerings like sushi and Mexican cuisine, there's something for everyone. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of snack and beverage stands throughout the park. To make the most of your visit, consider purchasing tickets online in advance to save money and avoid long lines. Arriving early in the day is also recommended, especially during peak season. Be sure to check the park's website for the most up-to-date information on hours of operation, special events, and ride closures. While visiting California's Great America, take advantage of the park's convenient location to explore other attractions in the Bay Area. The park is easily accessible from major cities like San Francisco and San Jose, making it a perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway. Nearby attractions include Levi's Stadium, home of the San Francisco 49ers, and the Intel Museum, which showcases the history of the microchip. Despite facing a planned closure in the coming years, California's Great America continues to offer a thrilling and memorable experience for visitors of all ages. With its diverse range of rides, attractions, live entertainment, and dining options, this iconic amusement park remains a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a day of fun and adventure in the heart of the Bay Area.

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