Thrills & Chills at Six Flags

Similar to last year, USAA hosted Family Fest to celebrate employees and their families at Six Flags Over Texas. The weather was a tad chilly this year: overcast, windy and barely hitting 60 degrees. But a perk of going was the early “magic hour” before the park opened to the public. We made the most of it and headed straight for the big coasters, knocking out Titan (a first for Danielle) and New Texas Giant. Jeff and Danielle thrilled while I happily chilled from the ground—those coasters are just a bit too much for me. 

One ride we all enjoyed together was Pirates of Speelunker Cave. The best way to describe it is Pirates of the Caribbean meets It’s a Small World—colorful, quirky, and absolutely my speed. So good and no line, we enjoyed it twice.

Jeff insisted we revisit an old favorite: Casa Magnetica. He has fond memories of it, though it’s been scaled down over time. What used to be a guided walk-through is now more of a self-guided experience. It still has a Day-of-the-Dead-meets-physics vibe, where gravity seems just a little upside down. Perhaps that is what happens in the underworld!

One unexpected and slightly odd attraction (in March?!) was Ever Smile Industries, a haunted walk-through experience. Jeff took this one solo—Danielle has learned that creepy walk-throughs with live actors are not her thing.

Throw in rides on Batman, Runaway Mine Train, Runaway Mountain, Judge Roy Scream, Justice League, and a spin on the carousel, and we can call it a successful day.

Oh, and a buffet lunch with BBQ sandwiches and egg rolls and really tasty ranch for the lettuce, corn and potato chips.

Nothing extraordinaire -- just a few rides and a little time together outside. Keepin' life simple.