California's Great America, Santa Clara

I'm a fellow Gen X'er and I remember the days when (Marriotts's) Great America was the most amazing place there was. My mom took me to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk a lot, but a trip to Great America, that was like going to Disneyland. Years later in 2000 I had the unbelievable chance of actually working there, 2 seasons. (Paramount's) Great America was a fun place to work, and be. The park was very clean and crowds were often pretty heavy. We still had Tidal Wave, Top Gun (now Flight Deck), and price was only $45 to get in. I had so much fun working there. Now that's all changed. Being a grown up now I see things completely differently. The park I've grown to love is a thing of the past. The last time I've been there was back in 2005 after Stealth was taken out and Boomerang Bay came. The water park itself is not so bad, however it seems that since then new offerings for the paying guests have dwindled. They don't bother investing in new technological, thrill inducing rides which is the staple for the park. The food hasn't changed in years, still overpriced and crappy. The employees aren't trained well to give guests the utmost cuortesy. It's sad. This place as a tremendous amount of potential. (California's) Great America doesn't do justice. If I were in charge, major changes would happen. Just like Disney's California Adventure has made a big overhaul, I would do the same. It should have stayed an affiliate of Paramount and keep the park in top notch condition. Offer better food choices especially healthy, and keep in mind to cater to all ages, not just kids and teens. Of course that's all a pipe dream, but if you enjoy Great America, then make your next visit the best experience you can get from it. And don't spend too much of your hard earned money either. Save some to go to Six Flags Discovery Kingdom as well.

the park needs work. I went on Saturday (5/15). A hotdog was $10, drinks $4-5 each. Many of the attractions were still closed. There are no 'new' attractions for the last few years. I was somewhat disappointed.

The demon its an all time classic. The prices are astronomical, and half of the rides were closed when we went. So you can eat, play games and go broke. Six Flags in San Antonio kickes way more ass than Great america.

We enjoyed the rides but it wasn't as exciting as we were expecting. The best part were the water slides and pools. Items inside were very expensive compare to six flags and Disneyland. Some of the employees were rude and not very happy. My child was disappointed that after saying thanks for the ride, they just ignored her and gave her a weird rude look.

We had fun. We went on a weekday so the lines were pretty short. Top gun was one of my favorites, so don't miss it ;). Unfortunately I cannot review Boomerang Bay because it was closed the day I was there :( A bad thing is that they don't tell you to keep your head up on the rides. I kept my head down on the drop zone ride and I pulled one of my neck nerves (ouch). So if you're planning on going there keep your head up on all the rides xD On some rides it takes FOREVER to start the ride. If you're a thrill seeker, don't go on the grizzly because there is a long line for it and it isn't well worth it. Water rides are long, even on a weekday. My favorite rides: Top gun and Demon Have fun!

i used to live in the area, i have been going there since i was a small kid. it really is a lot of fun for all ages. teens can enjoy the roller coasters (top gun is a personal favorite) and little kids have their own area. food is realtively cheap but we usually bring our own food since they have a picnic area. it really is no more expensive than going to disneyland. all the shows are good, there really aren't that many problems with the park. the management keeps things safe for families, they have signs posted that it is a family park and that vulger language and clothing is not appropriate and you will be removed from the park for that kind of thing. i would definately reccomend the park to other people, its a place where everyone can have a good time. its not hard to find and if you are in the area it's something you should do.

I love great america, and i am going back in early july. I have gon for the past 3 years. Great rides. I love drop zone, top gun, the demon, invertigo. Vortex is just ok. You get what you pay for. Food is relitivly cheap.

it was an excellent experience for me and my three teenage sons who had a blast on the rides and with their friends they got on so many rides the management there is very kind and courteous always trying to help thank you and can't wait to go back!!!!

Paramount's Great America is awesome. I loved it. The rides give such a thrill. There are things to do for people of all ages. My 6 year old son loved it. He enjoyed the childrens area, as well as the roller coasters that he was able to go on. Time and moneywise it was very reasonable. It is conviently located and easy to get to. I would tell anyone that I know to take the time and go to "Great America" even if you have to travel a little way to get there. It is totally worth it!