Fright Fest is infamous for its ability to scare even the most stoic of patrons, but Great America offers scare-free zones and activities for little ones, too. Families with young children will be safe from terrifying monsters and zombies (as well as death-defying roller coasters) in Camp Cartoon and Kidzopolis, where the rides have just the right amount of zing for amusement park newbies. In Camp Cartoon, check out the miniature enclosed Ferris wheel and Looney Tunes-themed rides that mainly require no adult accompaniment for kids 36 inches and under.
For kids ready for the their first rollercoaster experience, look no farther than The Little Dipper, a 1950s classic transferred to Great America after Kiddieland closed in 2009.
Have little daredevils ready for a bit more thrill? Try The Whizzer, which children 42 inches or taller can ride without an adult-but I recommend accompanying even the bravest young ones as it’s an exhilarating and tummy-turning experience.
Fright Fest activities perfect for pint-sized guests include:
- Trick-or-treating and mingling with the Looney Tunes characters
- The Spooky-Kooky Magic show
- The daytime Spooktacular Street Party featuring classic Halloween hits
And of course little (and big) Halloween revelers are welcome to dress in costume.
Enjoy Halloween-themed shows and rides for kids during daylight hours, but once the sun begins to set, the ghouls come out to haunt the midways with no mercy. When the clock strikes 4 p.m., the Zombie Jamboree parade hits the streets of Fright Fest and begins the transformation from theme park to scream park. “Fright by Night” is not recommended for kids under 12 and those who scare easily.
The month-long celebration runs Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays plus Oct. 24.
If you go
Six Flags Fright Fest
1 Great America Parkway, Gurnee
sixflags.com/greatamerica
