Preparing to open for its 45th season of operation, an iconic coaster at Six Flags Great America has earned a new title ahead of the upcoming season.

The American Eagle is made of Douglas fir trees and was painted by hand, Six Flags said. Construction began in June 1980, and there were rumors about what the park — then Marriott's Great America — was constructing until it opened in October of the same year, Six Flags said.

There’s a lot of “new” coming to Six Flags Great America in north suburban Gurnee for the 2025 season, from the record-breaking dive coaster Wrath of Rakshasa to other attractions and food and beverage options.