California's Great America in Santa Clara, CA

Do I need to make a reservation prior to arrival?

Yes. Guests must reserve both the theme park and waterpark prior to arrival. You can follow the link listed on your voucher to set-up your reservation and view availability. Capacity is limited. 

Do you offer a non-rider admission ticket? 

California's Great America does not offer a non-rider discount. Great America has a one-price admission as it is a multi-faceted park, not just a ride park. The park features live entertainment, PEANUTS characters, a variety of gift shops and dining facilities, plus a 13-acre waterpark and

much more!

At what age are children required to have an admission ticket? 

Guests three years old and older require an admission ticket to California's Great America.

May I bring my own food and beverages into the park?

No outside food, beverages or coolers are allowed to be brought into California's Great America. However, guests with special dietary needs are permitted to bring outside food and drink.

What happens if it rains during my visit?

Some attractions may close in inclement weather until conditions permit safe operation. Please enjoy a live show, meal or shopping until such weather passes. California's Great America cannot issue rain checks or refunds for inclement weather.

How do I re-enter the park should I have to leave for some reason?

If you wish to leave the park and return on the same day, please see a Guest Service Associate for a re-entry ticket at the front gate. You will need this ticket to enter the park. 

Are wheelchairs available for rent?
A limited number of wheelchairs are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis inside the park just inside the front gate.

Do you allow pets at Great America?
Only guide dogs and service animals are permitted in the park.

What is the policy on alcoholic beverages at Great America?
Guests must be at least 21 years of age to purchase, possess or consume alcoholic beverages at California’s Great America. Valid state-issued identification or valid driver's license is required for each person purchasing, possessing, or consuming alcoholic beverages. Alcoholic beverages are not permitted while in line for any ride. 

Is smoking permitted at the park?
For the convenience of all of our guests, smoking of any kind, including vapor and e-cigarettes, is not allowed in the park. 

Are there places in the park to store my belongings?
Lockers are available for rent in different areas of the main park and in South Bay Shores Waterpark.

What does my admission ticket include?
Your admission ticket to California's Great America includes all rides, live shows, and attractions in operation on the day of your visit. Your ticket also includes admission to South Bay Shores Waterpark. Your admission ticket does not include pay-per-play games or attractions, or special events, including but not limited to Halloween Haunt and concerts.

How much is parking?
Parking is $25 per vehicle for regular parking ($20 pre-purchased online) and $30 for preferred parking ($25 pre-purchased online).  

What security procedures are implemented at Great America? 
The safety of our guests and associates is our number one priority, and we have implemented several enhanced security procedures at the front gate. As part of the process:

• Guests arriving at the park will go through metal detection every public operating day. 
• All bags, purses, backpacks, waist packs, etc. will be examined prior to entering.
• Sharp objects (including pocket knives and metal chains), firearms, or other items that could be considered a weapon are strictly prohibited and should be left at home or secured in your vehicle. 
• Other prohibited items include speakers, chairs, a glass of any kind (except perfume bottles), food (except for special dietary needs), water guns, luggage, prescription drugs (unless in original packaging), weapons, bottled or canned beverages (except sealed bottles of water), hard-sided coolers, umbrellas, fireworks, scissors, knives, and child scooters/wagons.

We use a variety of methods in securing our parks, including uniformed and plain-clothed officers and video surveillance monitoring.

California's Great America does not tolerate guests who fight and/or harass other guests. People who engage in this behavior are subject to being ejected and potentially banned from the park and may be subject to arrest by local police.

What attire is appropriate for the park? 

Shirts, shorts/pants, and shoes must be worn at all times while at California's Great America. Proper swimming attire for South Bay Shores Waterpark is defined as a one- or two-piece swimsuit without abrasive buttons, rivets, zippers, or snaps. Costumes and face paint are not permitted during Halloween Haunt.

What if I require first aid?

First Aid is staffed by certified emergency medical technicians (EMT's) at all times. First Aid is located in the red schoolhouse next to 3 Point Challenge, near RailBlazer's first drop.

Where can I pick up or drop off a guest?

You can pick up or drop off guests in our passenger drop-off area just past the entrance to California's Great America parking lot entrance on Great America Parkway.