Busch Gardens Tampa president talks about $200 million in improvements

Posted | Contributed by Jeff

Today 45-year-old Jon Vigue still works in theme parks, after getting a start at Lake Compounce 30 years ago. Only now he is president of Busch Gardens Tampa and, rather than serving hungry park goers on hot summer days, he’s overseeing a five-year $200 million enhancement at the park.

Read more from Business Observer (Florida).

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Let's see if he stays longer than six months. If he's for real, he has a *lot* of work to do to get that park back where it needs to be, and a parent company that has no interest in doing it.

This bit is not too encouraging:

I think when you look at our positioning, we are a value alternative to some of those other players that are in Central Florida

Like, "Our combination of up-close animal attractions and world-class thrill rides, a short ride from the beach, is unique in the world" would be the way I'd try to sell myself. But sure, be the K-Mart of theme parks instead.

I don't totally disagree with the statement. Busch Gardens (and SeaWorld) should be a less expensive alternative to Disney and Universal. The issue is that right now they really aren't. Food and parking are actually more expensive than BGT, and a one day ticket at gate price is in the triple digits.

Right now they are offering the worst mid-2000s legacy Six Flags experience at 2026 Orlando prices. They should be offering a Dollywood/Hershey/Cedar Point experience at those price points.

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