Credit: SeaWorld Orlando, Universal Studios, Disney
Central Florida’s theme park battle is about to reach epic levels, literally. As Universal Orlando prepares to open Epic Universe, Walt Disney World will have to do something to lure guests away from its cross-town rival.
Universal Orlando seems to be announcing more information about Epic Universe every day, from inviting guests to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD to adding Harry Potter attractions.
Credit: Universal’s Celestial Park
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Meanwhile, Walt Disney World Resort is adding Tiana’s Bayou Adventure to Magic Kingdom and promises major expansions to Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom.
But with so much competition between Central Florida’s big two, this little guy may be shut out of the theme park game. But SeaWorld Orlando’s CEO Mark Swanson is trying to prevent that from happening at his park.
SeaWorld CEO Mark Swanson said:
Epic doesn’t have a crystal ball. I’m not saying Epic doesn’t have an impact or anything like that. I’m sure there will be many crowded days. In general, we believe that anything new that brings people to the market is good for us and the industry as a whole. We’ve certainly been competing here for a long time. We like what we can offer.
Credit: SeaWorld
Mr. Swanson met with SeaWorld Orlando investors and assured them that even after the major expansion projects at Disney World and Universal Studios Orlando are completed, his theme park will not have any attractions to draw crowds.
Part of SeaWorld’s appeal is its price. Tickets to SeaWorld are generally cheaper than tickets to Disney World or Universal Orlando Resort.
Since the end of the pandemic, SeaWorld Orlando has dramatically expanded its footprint, including adding Florida’s steepest roller coaster. We’re also working on a new family-friendly penguin-themed coaster.
The theme park is also holding a Halloween haunted house event for the fourth year in a row, hoping to compete with Disney World and Universal Orlando’s Halloween events.
Credit: Aquatica Orlando
Like its rivals, SeaWorld has the Aquatica water park and Discovery Cove, allowing guests to stay longer on-site. However, unlike its competitors, SeaWorld still does not have an on-site hotel complex, which puts it at a disadvantage.
Swanson told investors that SeaWorld Orlando saw a 2% increase in attendance in the first quarter of this year, which led to a 1% increase in total revenue. But with guest numbers flattening out at Disney World and Universal Studios, how long will this surge last for Central Florida’s smaller theme parks?
But Swanson believes SeaWorld will continue to draw tourists even after 50 years in Central Florida and after Disney World and Universal complete major renovations.
Is SeaWorld a must-see when vacationing in Central Florida?
