The End of Kingda Ka at Six Flags Great Adventure

Well, folks, it’s the end of an era. This morning, Six Flags Great Adventure confirmed that its iconic Kingda Ka roller coaster is officially closing its doors (or rather, its tracks) for good.

For nearly two decades, this record-breaking monster of a ride dominated the amusement park skyline as the world’s tallest roller coaster, towering a jaw-dropping 456 feet above Jackson, New Jersey.

Those who have ridden the beast over the years know that this is a massive loss for the state of New Jersey. We here at the Wildwood Video Archive very much loved to ride this and was happy it was in our backyard.

Let’s take a moment to appreciate just what made Kingda Ka such a legend. Not only did it claim the title of the tallest roller coaster in the world, but it also held the crown as the fastest coaster in America, launching riders from 0 to a mind-bending 128 mph in mere seconds.

But as the saying goes, “all good things must come to an end”—and for Kingda Ka, that time has come.

So, what’s next for Great Adventure? Well, they’re not just sitting around twiddling their thumbs, that’s for sure!

The park has BIG plans, including the removal of not just Kingda Ka, but also several other fan favorites like The Twister, Parachutes, and the Green Lantern coaster. (granted we need to add that I don’t know a single person who lived the Green Lantern Coaster).

In a statement released today, Six Flags Great Adventure President Brian Bacica hinted at something truly epic on the horizon.

According to Bacica, the park is planning to replace Kingda Ka with a new multi-record-breaking launch coaster that’s set to open in 2026.

“With our dedication to creating unforgettable experiences, the park’s multi-year expansion plans will bring major investments,” Bacica teased, mentioning new thrill rides, family experiences, and even improved dining options.

It sounds like Six Flags is pulling out all the stops to make sure that 2026 will be a season to remember.

Also See: Wonderland Pier Could Become A Hotel But Save Ferris Wheel

And if you can’t wait until 2026 for a new ride, don’t worry! Great Adventure is set to debut Flash: Vertical Velocity, a Vekoma Super Boomerang coaster, next year.

This ride promises to deliver a heart-pounding experience as it hurls you forwards, then backwards through a twisting track. Just another example of how Six Flags is staying ahead of the thrill game.

On their website they pump up the Flash: Vertical Velocity coaster by saying “Strap in for a breathtaking journey that propels you up to 60 miles per hour aboard an intricately designed train inspired by THE FLASH’s suit in a race like no other. Launching both forward and backward, you’ll ascend a towering 172 feet before speeding off into micro gravity as you’re turned upside down, nearly 100 feet off the ground. Feel the rush as you zoom through a 180-degree twisted drop followed by a Zero-G roll that leads you to the end of the track. But that’s not the end. Suddenly, you’re rushing backwards to experience it all over again in reverse.”

While we lose the Kingda Ka in North Jersey, (or central), many are wondering when will a new coaster make its way to South Jersey. It’s been quite some time since a new thriller coaster has opened at the Jersey Shore.

Could we see something new come down here in the future?

Did you ride Kingda Ka? Let us know about your experience.