Gargantuan roller coasters kiss the sky, then riders rocket down hills and zip around hairpin turns as they scream at the top of their lungs. Meanwhile, iconic characters like Bugs Bunny, Batman and Robin, Scooby-Doo and Superman mingle with guests on the ground. At Six Flags parks, superstars, adrenaline rushes and extreme thrills reign. And the best part is that no matter where you live, you probably have easy access to one of the 12 locations in ten states. What's new: Six Flags New England is on our radar for lots of new family fun this summer. This branch is known for the award-winning Superman: Ride of Steel, a coaster that flies moms, dads and older kids at 77 miles per hour from heights of 208 feet (a similar version is at Six Flags America in Washington, DC). And this year, the Dark Knight indoor coaster moves into the park (also soaring into the Chicago and Jackson, NJ, parks) around the time the latest Hollywood Batman installment, The Dark Knight, moves into theaters. Little kids take heart: Attractions for mini thrill seekers include New England's new Thomas Town, featuring a Thomas the Tank Engine train ride (also at Atlanta, Los Angeles and Vallejo, CA) and the shows and rides at Wiggles World (also at Chicago, Jackson, NJ, and Lake George, NY). Bargains: If you're going to visit any Six Flags more than once, think season pass. Price varies from park to park, but four or more season passes at Six Flags New England are $70 each, compared to $50 for a day ticket, and they're good at any U.S. Six Flags when validated. They also come with coupon books for discounts on park merchandise and free access to park concerts. Purchase one-day tickets online for possible discounts. 413-786-9300 (MA park), sixflags.com. Where to stay: The Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place Hotel is ten min-utes from Six Flags, with views of the Connecticut River, fine food and massages for park-weary moms (rooms from $119 per night). 413-781-1010, starwoodhotels.com.