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.

That's why I was pleased to see NBC report that American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) have announced they will now recognize The American Eagle as a Roller Coaster Landmark.

GURNEE, Ill. - The famed American Eagle roller coaster at Six Flags Great America in north suburban Gurnee will be recognized as landmark at a roller coaster convention later this year.

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.