What’s New at SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment 

If it’s been a while since you dipped your toes into the world of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment – now known as United Parks & Resorts – it’s time to sit up and take notice. Across SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and Aquatica, there has been a steady stream of updates that rival Orlando’s greatest theme park attractions. From Arctic expeditions to soaring coasters and new family thrills, the SeaWorld parks are quietly (and impressively) levelling up. 

Whether you’re an animal lover, a thrill-seeker, or just want to cool off between theme park marathons, there’s plenty to discover. Here’s what’s been making waves since 2025 - and why 2026 and 2027 might just be the perfect time to plan your next SeaWorld Resort Holiday. 

SeaWorld Orlando: Arctic Quests and Ocean Surges  

Once best known for its marine life shows, SeaWorld Orlando has been undergoing a thrill-fueled transformation in recent years. In 2025, it's fast becoming one of the most exciting theme parks in Florida.

Summer Spectacular 

Holiday like you meant it at the Summer Spectacular, where world-class entertainment and firework displays await. Until the 1st September 2025, you can witness the all-new Hydro Surge, a high-energy show featuring acrobatics, dancers, and live vocalists at the Nautilus Theater on select afternoons and evenings. Then dance the night away as top DJs and performers ensure the sun never sets on the party. On select nights, the all-new Drone Show + Ignite Fireworks Spectacular also lights up proceedings with a first-of-its-kind spectacle. In perfect sync, hundreds of drones dance in the sky to anthemic music. It’s a celebration like nothing else at SeaWorld. 
 

Expedition Odyssey 

Buckle up for SeaWorld’s most ambitious ride yet. Expedition Odyssey, launched in spring 2025, is a family coaster like no other. Riders board sleek snowmobiles and race through icy caverns, frozen forests, and dazzling polar vistas, all while encountering cutting-edge visual effects. It’s immersive, exhilarating, and surprisingly educational, with a storyline rooted in Arctic conservation. This one’s a must-do, whether you’re five or fifty. 
 

Penguin Trek 

Still fresh and frosty, Penguin Trek takes guests on an enclosed family coaster through snowy terrain before ending in the park’s penguin habitat. It’s not just a ride, it’s a journey - blending thrills with a heart-warming look at some of SeaWorld’s coolest residents. Perfect for younger riders and animal enthusiasts with a love for flippers. 
 

Pipeline: The Surf Coaster 

This world-first coaster lets riders stand up and “surf” along its twisting track. With launch speeds of up to 60mph and a series of sweeping turns, it’s the adrenaline rush you didn’t know you needed. Open since mid-2023, it will still be a firm favourite in 2026 and beyond due to its innovative design.  



Between these headline attractions and regular seasonal events, SeaWorld Orlando has evolved into an all-around family park with something for everyone - and yes, the animals are still a big part of the picture. 
 

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: Big Drops and Bigger Roars 

If you like your theme parks with a side of wildlife, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is the place to go. With rollercoasters that compete with the very best in Florida and wide-open animal habitats that make you feel like you’ve travelled halfway across the world, it’s a seriously underrated gem. 
 

Summer Nights  

In peak season, the party heats up at Summer Nights. Every weekend until 10th August 2025, park hours are extended for an array of new entertainment at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Before hitting the dance floor, we love experiencing the new freestyle stunt show, Moto Motion! And cooling off at the innovative ice show, Rhythm Nature. Then the Boom Box Dance Party in Stanleyville, and Gwazi Rocks in Gwazi Plaza deliver dance-filled events that capture the fun of sun-filled Florida holidays. Best of all, this entire event is included with general park admission! 
 

Phoenix Rising 

Open since summer 2024, Phoenix Rising is a family-friendly suspended coaster that zips and glides over the park’s lush Pantopia area. With sweeping turns, moments of weightlessness, and a clever mythological theme, it offers just the right mix of thrills and accessibility. It’s smooth, fun, and surprisingly re-rideable - especially for coaster fans who want to bring their slightly less brave companions along. 
 

Classic Coasters, Still Iconic  

From Iron Gwazi, one of the world’s steepest and fastest hybrid coasters, to family favourites like Cobra’s Curse and Cheetah Hunt, Busch Gardens is still the king of unexpected thrills. Even better, these rides now sit alongside newer attractions, meaning there’s never been a better time to make the trek to Tampa. 
 

Animal Encounters 

The rides are impressive, but the Serengeti Safari, up-close animal experiences, and the immersive exhibits remain essential to the Busch Gardens experience. It’s this balance that makes it feel like more than just another rollercoaster park. 
 

Aquatica: Waterslides, Wildlife, and Sun-Soaked Fun 

When the Florida heat kicks in, Aquatica becomes the ultimate family cool-down zone. This water park continues to make a splash thanks to recent renovations and additions. 
 

AquaGlow 

Get ready for neon-lit nights with dazzling laser shows, and high-energy dance parties at Aquatica this summer and beyond. Until 27th September, AquaGlow is back at Aquatica Orlando. This after-dark celebration transforms the park into a water wonderland, complete with live DJ sets, and low queue times for your favourite attractions. 



With limited-capacity entry, you’ll enjoy all the thrills with plenty of space to float, splash, and dance the night away.  

Our favourite part? Unlimited complimentary soft drinks are included throughout the evening.  
 

Reef Plunge 

Glide through a transparent tube that weaves through a habitat of playful dolphins and colourful fish. Reef Plunge adds a dose of wonder to the usual waterslide thrill and will remain a firm guest favourite in 2026. 
 

Tassie’s Twisters and Racing Slides 

While not brand new, these attractions have been refreshed in recent years, ensuring they continue to thrill. Whether you’re zooming down a racing slide or taking it slow in the lazy river, there’s something for every pace and age here. 

And let’s not forget Aquatica’s clever layout. It’s easy to navigate, filled with shaded areas and kid-friendly spaces, making it ideal for families looking for a break from the theme park hustle. 
 

Why Visit SeaWorld Parks in 2026 or 2027? 

Think all the excitement happened in 2025? Not quite. Now that the big new rides have had their moment in the spotlight, the queues are shorter, everything’s running smoothly, and the parks are hitting their stride. You’ll still get all the wow-factor, just without the frenzy of opening week. 

Plus, with easy multi-park tickets and family-friendly resort options, SeaWorld’s parks slot perfectly into a wider Orlando adventure. Whether you're trekking through the Arctic, twisting through a mythical jungle, or floating happily down a lazy river, there's more than enough here to keep every age entertained – and then some. 


Discover our SeaWorld Resort Holidays for 2026 and 2027 and start planning your next Florida family adventure.