It wasn’t the start to summer SeaWorld had planned. As temperatures rose across Florida, so did tensions inside one of the company’s Orlando parks—culminating in a full-scale shutdown that left guests confused and staff scrambling.
Aquatica, SeaWorld’s water park, was forced to close abruptly last week after a TikTok-organized swarm of teenagers overwhelmed the premises. Eyewitnesses described the situation as chaotic, with some still stuck in traffic near the park by the time security closed it down.
The closure came almost exactly a year after a similar incident disrupted the park’s operations. That earlier episode, which included a large-scale fight caught on camera, prompted widespread criticism of the park’s crowd management strategies. This time, the shutdown was swift and preemptive—perhaps a sign that leadership hoped to avoid a repeat.
SeaWorld Slashes Summer Prices
Now, SeaWorld appears to be taking a different approach to damage control—one that hinges less on security measures and more on pricing strategy.
One week after the closure, SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica Orlando launched a Fourth of July ticket sale. The promotion, which runs through June 22, offers discounts of up to 55% on single-day tickets, Fun Cards, and Annual Passes. It applies to both parks and is being positioned as a celebration of summer.
The parks are operated by United Parks & Resorts, formerly known as SeaWorld Entertainment, which has been working to reshape its brand amid shifting guest expectations and ongoing scrutiny. The timing of the sale suggests an effort not just to boost attendance, but to regain control of the narrative.
“Whether you’re here for the thrills, the shows, the animals, or the food, there’s no better time to visit,” said Jon Peterson, Park President of SeaWorld Orlando. “We can’t wait to welcome guests for an unforgettable summer at SeaWorld Orlando.”
The sale coincides with SeaWorld Orlando’s Summer Spectacular event, a seasonal push that includes the launch of new attractions and evening entertainment. Among the newest additions is Expedition Odyssey, an immersive flying theater experience. Its debut was marred by controversy after part of its sign allegedly struck and injured a guest.
Also debuting this summer is a new drone show set to accompany the Ignite Fireworks Spectacular. Family-oriented attractions like Hydro Surge and Baby Shark’s Big Celebration, which opens June 30, round out the offerings. Guests aged 21 and older are also being offered a complimentary beer per visit.
Keeping Cool at Aquatica
Aquatica, meanwhile, is doubling down on its own summer programming. The park has brought back AquaGlow, a separately ticketed nighttime event running select evenings through September 27. The after-dark experience joins a slate of high-energy attractions, including Roa’s Rapids, expansive wave pools, and the family-friendly Turi’s Kid Cove.
“We are proud to invite guests to Aquatica Orlando this summer to discover everything from high-speed thrills to relaxing waterways,” said Brad Gilmour, Park President of Aquatica Orlando. “With exciting limited-time events like AquaGlow, all-new enhancements throughout the park, and beloved attractions that keep guests coming back year-round, there’s no better place to cool off and make unforgettable memories with family and friends.”
Do you plan on visiting SeaWorld this summer?
