Beginning June 20 through August 9, American Eagle at Six Flags Great America returns its legendary side-by-side racing for the first time in nearly 10 years! This is part of the 50th Anniversary Celebration of Great America and probably part of America 250. No doubt this brings back memories from longtime guests of the thrilling head-to-head excitement that made it a fan favorite for generations. Being a wooden coaster brings with it recurring maintenance costs for retracking and refreshing the structure and ver the last few years the “operating” side has alternated. This no doubt played into the lack of racing over the last decade (there were rumors about the strength of the structure being able to withstand the forces of two trans simultaneously), but it is good to see both sides running for summer 2026.

Debuting in 1981, American Eagle was built by Intamin and held records for tallest, fastest and largest drop on a wooden roller coaster at the time it was built. It was also the fastest overall coaster with the largest drop. Most of these records stood for several years and American Eagle still holds several racing coaster records to this day. Building a big racing coaster is quite the feat as you’re really building two roller coasters.

Current world records

• Fastest racing wooden roller coaster
• Longest racing wooden roller coaster
• Tallest racing wooden roller coaster
• Largest drop on a racing wooden roller coaster

The racing coaster has made a bit of a comeback the last few years, especially with the opening of Stardust Racers at Epic Universe. American Eagle still holds its place as the tallest, fastest, and longest racing wooden coaster in the world, American Eagle stands as a true symbol of innovation and adrenaline. This year is the 250th anniversary of America and the 50th of Great America and nothing screams patriotism more than a coaster named American Eagle. It has left, right, red and blue all brought together in one amazing ride. Two trains. Two tracks. One epic race. Don’t miss your chance to race on American Eagle before August 9, 2026.