Oil Derrick Six Flags Over Texas

Oil Derrick

Tower

No Height Requirement

No Restraints

Low Thrill
Opened May 24, 1969
Ride Type Observation Tower
Ride Height 300 Feet
Observation Deck Heights 267 Feet, 255 Feet
Manufacturer Intamin
Ride Color Orange

The Tower Slides

When Oil Derrick opened in 1969, it featured a twelve-lane covered slide. The slides connected to the Oil Derrick's first level at approximately 47 feet tall. Guests would race down the slide on burlap sacks. Only lasting until the 1975 season, the slides proved to be a bit dangerous and unpredictable for riders. Guests looking at Oil Derrick today can reference the first set of railings as the loading point for the Tower slides.

Special Events

In the early years of Fright Fest, a huge inflatable gorilla could be seen climbing up the side of the Oil Derrick. The gorilla was eventually replaced by a spider that had the same effect. In recent years, Oil Derrick has not had any Fright Fest decor, but the ride has stayed operational instead of being closed.

For Holiday in the Park, Oil Derrick sports a huge star that sits in front of its observation decks. After the removal of Texas Chute Out, Oil Derrick took on the job of also dressing up like a light strand Christmas tree.

Ride History

  • 2018

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    Oil Derrick receives a paint job. The attraction is closed all season while its elevator system is rehabilitated.

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  • 2001

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    Oil Derrick receives a paint job.

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  • 2000

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    Oil Derrick reopens to the public after two years of elevator rehabilitation.

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Construction Updates

Follow along with ride construction, refurbishments, theming updates and fresh paint schemes.

Featured
New Restaurant & Oil Derrick (Update 5)
New Restaurant & Oil Derrick (Update 5)

A quick look at the progress of Six Flags Over Texas’ all-new chicken restaurant coming to Gotham City as well as the progress of Oil Derrick’s paint job.

Oil Derrick (Update 4), Virtual Reality, & New Restaurants
Oil Derrick (Update 4), Virtual Reality, & New Restaurants

We take a look at progress on new in-park restaurants, virtual reality coming to Superman: Tower of Power, and the progress of Oil Derrick’s new paint job at Six Flags Over Texas.

Harley Quinn Spinsanity (Update 2), Oil Derrick (Update 3), & Restaurant Updates
Harley Quinn Spinsanity (Update 2), Oil Derrick (Update 3), & Restaurant Updates

A look at the quick progress happening on Harley Quinn Spinsanity, the current status of Oil Derrick’s new paint job, and a brand new restaurant coming to Gotham City at Six Flags Over Texas.