SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa held dual press conferences last week to reveal what’s coming to both parks in 2020. And the news was thrilling! Here are 5 reasons we can’t wait to visit SeaWorld and Busch Gardens in 2020:
Iron Gwazi
Busch Gardens Tampa’s wooden roller coaster Gwazi closed in 2015 but it’s about to re-open with a face lift. Manufactured by Rock Mountain Construction, the new Iron Gwazi will be the world’s steepest and North America’s tallest hybrid wooden coaster. The coaster will be 206-feet tall, feature a 91-degree drop and reach speeds up to 76 mph. Elements of the former wooden attraction will be integrated into the new ride but also include a steel track and reimagined layout. The crocodile, known for adapting and thriving over millions of years, is the animal inspiration for Iron Gwazi. This will be Busch Gardens Tampa’s 10th roller coaster.
Solar Vortex
Along with Iron Gwazi, Adventure Island in Tampa will also welcome a new thrill. Solar Vortex, which SeaWorld Park’s says is America’s first dual tailspin water slide, will stand 55-feet-tall, reach a speed of 20 mph and feature three AquaLucent elements, where colorful patterns of light will shine on the slide.
Ice Breaker
Meanwhile over in Orlando, SeaWorld will bring guests a new thrill called Ice Breaker in spring 2020. The park’s first launch coaster will feature four launches, taking riders both forward and backward at speeds up to 52 mph. The ride will also feature a 93-foot-tall spike with 100-degree angle. Ice Breaker will be located near Wild Arctic and include a similarly snowy theme.
Alaska SeaLife Center
With the addition of Ice Breaker, SeaWorld has announced a new partnership with the Alaska SeaLife Center, a dedicated research, rescue, rehabilitation and education facility. We’re excited to see where this partnership goes.
Fun Card
In 2020 SeaWorld will also bring back the Fun Card. Florida residents can purchase a Fun Card and enjoy unlimited visits in the same year for the price of a single-day admission. Right now, when you purchase a 2020 Fun Card you will be able to get the rest of 2019 free. The Fun Card is valid through December 31, 2020 and does come with blackout dates.
|