Six Flags St. Louis is set to undergo a significant transformation as part of a $342 million deal that will shift its ownership after over half a century. The iconic amusement park, located in Eureka, is being acquired by Kansas City-based EPR Properties, marking a pivotal moment in its history.
The acquisition includes six other regional Six Flags parks, such as Worlds of Fun, and is valued at a substantial $342 million. EPR Properties plans to invest approximately $315 million, with the remaining amount contributed by park operators. This deal signifies EPR Property's largest acquisition since 2017, according to a press release.
The properties, spanning five states and Canada, offer a diverse range of attractions, attracting around 4.5 million visitors annually. The six parks in the United States will be leased and operated by Enchanted Parks, while the Canadian park, Six Flags La Ronde, will be managed by La Ronde Operations.
This strategic move by EPR Properties highlights their interest in expanding their attractions portfolio with high-quality assets in established regional markets. The properties possess essential characteristics that EPR Properties seeks, including stable cash flows, strong drive-in accessibility, multi-generational appeal, and significant land value.
Six Flags officials emphasize that this divestiture will enable them to focus their resources on properties with stronger returns and long-term potential. John Reilly, Six Flags President and CEO, states that the company's earnings power has been underutilized, and this transaction will simplify their portfolio, strengthen their balance sheet, and enhance their operational focus.
The deal ensures a smooth transition for customers, as Enchanted Parks will use the Six Flags brand until the end of the 2026 operating season. Season passes and memberships will be honored, and customers who purchased 12-month memberships can cancel even if the minimum contractual terms are not met. Importantly, current pricing at the parks will remain unaffected, and future pricing decisions will be made by the new owner.
The parks included in the sale are Six Flags St. Louis, Worlds of Fun, Michigan's Adventure, Schlitterbahn Waterpark Galveston, Six Flags Great Escape, Valleyfair, and Six Flags La Ronde. Six Flags St. Louis, originally known as Six Flags Over Mid-America, opened in 1971 as the final piece of Angus G. Wynne's original amusement park trio.
This acquisition presents an exciting opportunity for EPR Properties to diversify its attractions portfolio and for Six Flags to refocus its efforts on high-performing properties. The transaction demonstrates the dynamic nature of the amusement park industry, where strategic shifts can lead to new beginnings and enhanced experiences for visitors.
