Imagine this: you’re a middle school student, a plus-size girl, going on a school trip to an amusement park with your classmates for the first time. You’re excited about the rides, the fun atmosphere, and the smell of funnel cake wafting through the air. You wait in line with your friends and finally think you’re on a ride, only to discover you can’t ride. After several attempts to tuck your stomach in to fasten your belt, park staff begin to violently jump on your seatbelt with the same goal. Feeling defeated, you hop off the ride and watch as the ride takes off without you.*Line up the violins.
That little girl was me, and needless to say, I never got a chance to go to an amusement park until I was an adult. For many plus-size people, struggling to find a comfortable, comfy seat on a ride is an all-too-common issue. It was at Six Flags Great Adventure that I was forced to irrevocably face my fear of rollercoasters. So, let’s answer the burning question on your mind: Is Six Flags Plus-Size Friendly?
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Standard rollercoaster seats are too cramped for larger people, causing discomfort and, in my personal experience, embarrassment. Plus-size people tend to avoid amusement parks for fear of being weighed before riding the rides. It’s a myth, but it’s one that causes many to avoid the theme park experience altogether.
Have amusement parks ever imposed size restrictions?
Let’s rewind time for a moment and look at the historical challenges amusement parks have faced when it comes to size inclusivity. In the past, rides were designed to be one-size-fits-all, ignoring diverse body shapes and sizes. This lack of consideration left many people isolated and making it difficult for them to enjoy their amusement park experience without feeling restricted or excluded.
Fast forward to the present day, and there has been a noticeable shift in these theme parks towards supporting an inclusive environment. Known for its thrilling rides and family-friendly environment, Six Flags has made great strides to cater to the needs of all patrons, regardless of size.
Has Six Flags made any changes?
One of the most recent efforts Six Flags has made to accommodate plus-size visitors is the introduction of guest assistance services. These programs aim to provide accommodations to guests with specific needs, such as size or physical comfort. Six Flags is working to expand the size range of its ride seats and provides sample seats outside each attraction so guests can try out the seats for that particular ride. This can help reduce anxiety without wasting time waiting in line and potentially being disappointed.
Six Flags offers larger seats in certain rows of rides to increase passenger comfort. Six Flags has demonstrated its commitment to embracing inclusive design and actively seeking guest feedback to prioritize the park experience for all visitors.
So what does this mean for the plus-size experience at Six Flags? It’s progress. It means our needs are being recognized and addressed. As we look to the future, it’s important that we continue to advocate for plus-size representation in all of our spaces, including our amusement parks.
By sharing our experiences and supporting efforts that promote diversity and accessibility, we can help create a world where everyone feels valued and accepted. The next time you’re getting ready for a fun-filled day at Six Flags, you can be sure it will be a thrilling and comfortable experience.
Are you planning on going to an amusement park this summer? Let me know in the comments!