Planning Trip to Six Flags Great America

Upon visiting Illinois State University for my fiance's graduate degree program, we are planning to make a trip to Six Flags Great America for a day (or maybe two). I would like any suggestions anyone has to offer to make this trip as enjoyable as possible. I'm not terribly financially equipt, and cutting costs are also a bonus (I already gain free admission being a six flags employee :) ) What hotels do you suggest that we try and stay in? Thanks for the help!

your a ride op on thunder run?

I was when I made this name last year.

Well one thing I'd say is hut Superman:UF early, as the lines for that reach 90 minutes or so later in the afternoon. Also, make sure to ride RB many times, and try it in the back. It's one of the most intense first drops ever. Hmm let's see...Demon is a pretty good arrow looper with usually short lines. Also, make sure to ride Viper. The line is usually 25 minutes or so but its well worth it. Also ride the blue side of American Eagle, its smoother. Red side is cool though because they run it backwards (dont know if theyll do that again this season). Also, don't expect Deja Vu to be opened the whole day but if you see it opened try to catch a ride. V2 is also always a good time.

Note: Eagle red is foward, blue is backwards.

You might want to try searching on here for the topics about the last couple CoasterBuzz cons as they both took place at SFGAm. There was some talk about hotels in one of the topics.

As for the rides, it all depends how crowded the day is and if Vu is open when the park opens. Last year, during the first couple weeks it was open for daily operation, I was able to ride Raging Bull, Giant Drop, & Deja Vu in the first 1/2 hour or so it was open, then leave & goto work.

get there at 10AM and hit DeJa Vu first before the 2haour line starts

Wait until at least mid afternoon to ride Viper. It is usually very sluggish in the morning, but once it warms up it is fantastic. Seat 1-3 seems to give the best air.

After hitting Superman in the morning, head straight for Rajin' Cajun (Reverchon spinning mouse), as it has a pretty low capacity. The line won't look that long, but it moves slowly.