So here's what's going on:

At idle, car overheats - temp continues to rise, thermostat doesn't open because the upper hose is hot and the lower is cold.

Ran car without thermostat, both hoses are hot - so water pump is circulating coolant (I assume)

Checked Thermostat in boiling water, its does open - may be it was stuck.

After checking thermostat, re-installed it, temp still continues to rise at idle, lower hose stays cold. But I took it for a drive, as I drove temp came down to about a little over the mid point. Drove it for about 20 miles. Checked the lower hose, its warm now. Upper one is hotter than the lower one so at least the coolant if flowing and t-stat is opening somewhat. The fan did come on. But once I idle again temp begins to rise.

What do you guys think is going on here?

 

ur upper hose is going to be hotter because the water hasnt gone through the radiator yet, the lower hose should be cooler, have you checked your fans? start there first then if your radiator is circulating i would change the t stat.