Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Gets Investment Pledge
United Parks' CEO said the company will keep investing in Busch Gardens Tampa Bay as it works to improve the guest experience.
Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Theme Parks
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United Parks CEO Swanson told investors during an earnings call that the company intends to keep investing in Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Busch Gardens also opened Lion & Hyena Ridge in July 2026 and expects to reveal details about an upcoming attraction at IAAPA Expo 2026.
Why it matters
The commitment signals continued capital spending at the Tampa park, which offers roller coasters, animal experiences and other attractions. Swanson also acknowledged opportunities to better manage the guest experience, and a former leader has returned to help improve park operations.
Lion & Hyena Ridge spans nearly 35,000 square feet and houses five young male lions and two hyenas. Kumba, a ride operating for 33 years, permanently closed August 2, 2026, and the park has not disclosed what will replace it.
The players
United Parks & Resorts
United Parks & Resorts is the Orlando-based operator of theme parks including Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and SeaWorld Orlando.
Swanson
Swanson is the chief executive of United Parks & Resorts who led the company's recent earnings call.
The details
Swanson made the remarks on an earnings call, singling out Busch Gardens Tampa Bay among United Parks' properties. The park introduced metal detectors and restrictions on loose articles at Iron Gwazi, and after an initial $4 locker charge, it began offering complimentary lockers for up to two hours in October 2026.
Timeline
2025: Wild Oasis opened at the park.
July 2026: Lion & Hyena Ridge opened.
August 2, 2026: Kumba permanently closed after 33 years.
October 2026: Complimentary Iron Gwazi lockers were introduced.
Later this month (November 2026): Details of an upcoming attraction are expected at IAAPA Expo 2026.
Market Landscape
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay competes within Florida's concentrated theme park corridor, which includes Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando as well as United Parks' SeaWorld properties. Continued capital spending at the Tampa park reflects the pressure to keep up with that rivalry through new attractions and guest-experience upgrades.
Visitors planning a Tampa trip can expect continued changes to Iron Gwazi's locker policy, which now offers complimentary storage for up to two hours. Those interested in animal experiences may want to visit Lion & Hyena Ridge, which opened in July 2026.
The takeaway
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay's recent changes, from a new habitat to revised locker access, show the park adjusting to guest feedback. Readers planning a visit should check current policies before arriving.
What happens next
Details of an upcoming Busch Gardens Tampa Bay attraction are expected to be revealed at IAAPA Expo 2026 in Orlando later this month.
Further reading
For more on the region's attractions, browse Theme Parks coverage for Tampa.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Attractions Magazine.
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