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California's Great America: A Thrilling Theme Park Experience

Experience thrilling rides, family fun, and exciting entertainment at California's Great America in Santa Clara!

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California's Great America, located in Santa Clara, California, is a 112-acre amusement park offering a mix of thrilling rides, family-friendly attractions, and the South Bay Shores waterpark. With over 40 rides and attractions, including the renowned Gold Striker wooden roller coaster, the park provides a diverse range of experiences for visitors of all ages.

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

  • Check the park's calendar for operating hours and special events before your visit.
  • Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to save time and potentially money.
  • Maximize your time by using the Fast Lane pass to skip the lines on popular rides.
  • Take advantage of the free drop-off area on Great America Parkway if you're using a ride-sharing service.
  • Cool off at South Bay Shores waterpark, included with your park admission during the summer months.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) offers light rail and bus services to California's Great America. Take the VTA Green or Orange Line to the Great America Station. From the station, it's a short walk to the park entrance. A single VTA fare costs $2.50.

  • Ride Share

    If arriving by ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, the designated drop-off and pick-up area is located just past the entrance on Great America Parkway at 4911 Great America Parkway. From there, it is a short walk to the park's entrance. A short trip from the nearby San Jose International Airport (SJC) to California's Great America typically costs between $20-$30, depending on traffic and demand.

  • Driving

    California's Great America is located at 4701 Great America Parkway, Santa Clara, CA 95054. Parking is available on-site, with standard parking costing $35 per vehicle. RV parking is also available for $40. Keep in mind that parking spaces near the entrance accommodate on a first-come, first-served basis.

Unlock the Best of California's Great America

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Discover more about California's Great America

California's Great America, located in Santa Clara, California, has been a popular destination for thrill-seekers and families since its opening in 1976. Originally built by the Marriott Corporation to celebrate America's bicentennial, the park has evolved through several ownership changes, including stints with Kings Entertainment Company, Paramount Parks, Cedar Fair, and now Six Flags. The park features a wide array of attractions, including roller coasters like Gold Striker, known as one of the best wooden roller coasters in the world, and RailBlazer, a unique single-rail coaster. For families, Planet Snoopy offers kid-friendly rides and attractions themed around the Peanuts gang. During the warmer months, visitors can also enjoy South Bay Shores, a 15-acre waterpark included with park admission, featuring water slides and a lagoon area. Throughout the year, California's Great America hosts various special events and live entertainment, ensuring there's always something new to experience. Dining options range from classic amusement park fare to diverse culinary offerings, including options like Subway, Panda Express, and the South Bay Cantina. While the park is set to close in October 2027, visitors can still enjoy the park's attractions and create lasting memories in its remaining years.

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