About 50 miles south of Milwaukee, just across the Wisconsin/Illinois border, is one of the best amusement parks in all 50 states, Six Flags Great America. With the recent addition of two new roller coasters, it's bigger and better than ever.

V-2 Vertical Velocity is one of the most thrilling coasters in the park. The ride, which reaches speeds of up to 70 mph, suspends riders on a spiral that travels straight up and back down two 185-ft. vertical towers.

The other coaster is called Deja Vu. It takes you forwards and backwards on a twisting and inverted steel track. Riders are strapped into ski-lift style chairs that hold them from the track above. After diving from 178 ft. at 65 mph, the ride takes you through a 110-ft. boomerang turn.

To keep thrill seekers satisfied, there are also classic coasters like Raging Bull, Demon, Batman the Ride, American Eagle, Shock Wave, Iron Wolf, Viper and more.

Six Flags Great America is much more than roller coasters. There is fun for people of all ages and plenty for the whole family to enjoy.

On a hot day, nothing beats a water ride, and Great America doesn't disappoint. There's Splashwater Falls, which takes you straight up and down and is guaranteed to get you soaking wet. Roaring Rapids takes you white-water rafting and is quite exciting. The Yankee Clipper and Logger's Run are more relaxing water rides but equally enjoyable.

For younger guests and those seeking something a little tamer, there are plenty of options. The swings, also known as the Whirligig, are a popular choice. The Whizzer is an enjoyable roller coaster for kids and the Chubasco is a twirling pottery cup ride suitable for all ages.

Great America also offers a number of entertaining shows for patrons to enjoy. They include "Zajie! An Acrobatic Adventure," "To Fly," "Dancin' in the Streets" and many more.

General admission at Great America is $39.99. Children 54 inches tall and under and seniors age 60 and up are $29.99. Kids 3 and under are free. An individual season pass costs you $91 while one for a family of four runs $287.96. Parking is $10. Call (847) 249-1800 for more information on ticket prices and season passes.

To get to Great America from Milwaukee take I-94 east and exit at Grand Ave. (Rt. 132). The park is located immediately on the right.

The park opened for weekends on May 4. It opens on a daily basis on Thurs., May 16. Hours vary depending on the day of the week.

If you're planning on spending the night near Great America there are many hotels located nearby. For lodging assistance call Accommodations Express 24 hours a day, seven days a week at (800) 371-6936.

For more information on Six Flags Great America, including group sales, job opportunities or other inquiries call (847) 249-4636 or visit www.sixflags.com.