Six Flags Over Texas

Get your adrenalin pumping at this theme park, home to the tallest and fastest roller coaster in Texas.

The Six Flags Over Texas theme park has been entertaining visitors for 50 years. The name refers to the six nations that have ruled over the Dallas area: France, Spain, Mexico, the Republic of Texas, the Confederate States of America and the United States of America. The park is divided into nine themed sections. The Mexico and Spain sections feature themed food and entertainment relating to those nations. Looney Tunes USA has rides and the Looney Tunes Mall, where you can buy merchandise and souvenirs, and ice cream from Cold Stone Creamery.

Choose from dozens of rides at Six Flags Over Texas, the oldest park in the Six Flags franchise. Most of the rides have height restrictions for children, unless an adult accompanies them.

The rides come with varying "thrill" ratings. On the extreme end is the Titan, the tallest and fastest roller coaster in Texas, reaching top speeds of 85 miles (136 kilometers) per hour. It’s nicely balanced by slower-paced attractions such as the Chaparral Antique Cars, where children can play driver in old-fashioned gas-powered cars.

One of the most popular rides is the roller coaster Pandemonium, previously named Tony Hawk's Big Spin, after the professional skateboarder. The ride mimics the wide turns and pivots of a professional skateboarding circuit, topping 30 miles (48 kilometers) per hour and riding five stories above the ground.

For something other than a thrill ride, head to Gotham City, where kids can meet Batman and the rest of the Justice League. For refreshment, you’ll find giant hot dogs at Bubba's in the Texas section or a traditional American diner meal at Johnny Rockets in Goodtimes Square.

Six Flags Over Texas operates March through early January, and the peak season is June through August. Check the website for daily opening hours. Buy your tickets online; they are cheaper and you’ll avoid waiting at the gate. The park is in Arlington, 20 miles (32 kilometers) outside of central Dallas and there is paid parking. Check if your hotel participates in the Arlington Trolley service, which will take you to and from the park and other attractions.