Six Flags Over Texas Then & Now

Series One | November 2016

Then: Circa 1960s

Now: 2016

Ice Cream Palace

The Ice Cream Palace has gone through a number of transformations over the years. While the general building structure is the same, the overall facade has been given many modifications. The windows, which once stretched to the floor, have been shrunk to smaller size. The windows still share the same style as before, however. The side of the building was expanded, likely to give an indoor area for guests to enjoy ice cream. The outdoor flooring has also changed, but the perimeter stays the same.

Then: Circa 1960s

Now: 2016

France

France has held its original look throughout the park’s history. The fort seen to the left still stands, though the styling throughout the years has differed. The back fence line still remains as well as a cannon from the original theming. The mast, seen prominently in the "then" photo, also still stands but is hidden behind the foliage. While France was once a more popular area, it is now a quaint walk-through located at the center of the park.

Then: 1961

Now: 2016

Silver Star Mall

Silver Star Mall has undergone drastic changes since the park’s opening in 1961. The flag poles shown in the "then" photo still exist and are hidden behind the park's large trees. The fence line in the "then" photo is now completely covered by bushes and other foliage. The Silver Star Carousel now serves as the main back drop. The back fountains still have semblance in the park as they surround the front area of the Carousel. The center has also been completely closed off and given its own water feature. The theme park guest attire has also changed with the times.

Then: Circa 1960s

Now: 2016

Old South

The Old South area of the park looks much like it did during the opening season of Six Flags Over Texas, minus the Astrolift zooming above. The building structures are relatively untouched, though minor cosmetic modifications have taken place throughout time. The lamp post in the pathway no longer exists. The building colors and purposes have, of course, changed. Young trees and foliage are now mature and provide wide-spread shade throughout the Old South park area.

Then: Early 1960s

Now: 2016

Historical Press

When opened in 1961, Six Flags Over Texas had a Historical Press Bookshop located in the Old South section. Shortly after, the building was transformed into a number of different restaurants. There are many feature differences between the two photos that made us wonder if it is actually the same. We narrowed it down to a few distinguishable similarities. The lamp post to the left still exists, though covered in webbing in our "now" picture. The double doors are still the exact same design, though different colors. The lighting fixtures under the porch and on the right side of the building are in the same locations. Differences include the right side door expansion and the removal of the top windows and chimney. The trees in the front also remain, though now quite large.