California's Great America

The Basics

An admission ticket to California’s Great America grants you access to the tallest and fastest wooden roller coaster in Northern California, which sends you hurtling through the air in 360-degree loops. On summer days, your ticket also includes the waterslides, kiddy pools, and lazy river of the Boomerang Bay water park. Book a day pass in advance to skip the lines, or purchase a season pass if you’re likely to become a park regular.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The amusement park is a must-visit for adrenaline junkies and families.

• The park is wheelchair accessible; visitors with disabilities are eligible to skip the lines.

• You can rent a poolside cabana to relax in between rides.

• Outside food and water are not permitted; there are several are dining options on site.

How to Get There

The park is located off the Great America Parkway 45 miles (72 kilometers) from San Francisco on the outskirts of San Jose. You can drive to the park or reach it via train, light rail, or bus.

When to Get There

The park’s hours and entertainment programme varies based on the season, so be sure to check the online schedule before planning your trip. Visit in the summer for the water park or, if you want to avoid the crowds and heat, visit the amusement park during spring or fall. If you’re visiting in summer, minimize the lines by getting started right when the park opens or staying late into the evening.

Holidays at California’s Great America

The amusement park offers excitement all year long, but during the holidays, it takes the thrills to a whole new level. Visit during Halloween to turn up the adrenaline with amusement park rides combined with monsters, haunted mazes, and live shows. To see the park transformed into a winter wonderland that includes spectacular light displays, holiday decor, and Santa’s workshop, visit during WinterFest.

Ways to explore

California’s Great America is one of San Jose’s most popular attractions, so purchase tickets in advance to avoid a long line at the entrance. Admission grants you access to all rides and attractions, including the tallest and fastest wooden roller coaster in Northern California, which sends you hurtling through the air in 360-degree loops. On summer days, your ticket also includes the waterslides, kiddy pools, and lazy river of the South Bay Shores water park. Opt for an upgrade for skip-the-line ride access, dining deals, or a private cabana rental.

Accessibility

Show venues, restaurants, shops, and restrooms are wheelchair accessible, while amusement and water rides are not.

Age limits

Rides and attractions have minimum age and height requirements posted, and there are dedicated areas for small children.

What to pack

Camera and battery pack, sunscreen, water bottle, credit card (the park is cashless)

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, swimwear or a change of clothing

Not allowed

Smoking is only allowed in designated areas; no outside food or beverages

Amenities

Restrooms, dining outlets, shops, lockers

Address 

The park is located off the Great America Parkway 45 miles (72 kilometers) from San Francisco on the outskirts of San Jose. You can drive to the park or reach it via train, light rail, or bus.

Driving

Take US101 to the Great America Parkway exit, which leads directly to the park. There’s paid parking at the park entrance, plus a drop-off area for those arriving by taxi or ride share.

Public transportation

VTA light rail trains, Amtrak trains, and ACE trains all stop at the nearby Great America station. VTA bus routes 140, 141, and 180 also stop in the vicinity.

Best times to visit

The midday crowds mean long lines to access rides. Arrive as the park opens and head straight to the most popular rides first to optimize your time.

Best days to visit

Weekends and holidays attract visitors in droves, while the park is quieter from Monday to Thursday.

Best months to visit

The water rides are only open during the summer months, and the entire park closes from late September to late March. Visit between June and August to experience all the attractions.

Special events

California’s Great America often hosts seasonal and themed events. Check the official website for an updated calendar.