TAMPA, Fla. — Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will be closed on Thursday, as the Florida Gulf Coast braces for the impact of Hurricane Helene's path.
"After reviewing the latest route of Hurricane Helene and to ensure the safety of our ambassadors, guests and animals, Busch Gardens Tampa will be closed on Thursday," park staff said on Wednesday.
Park officials plan to move animals from the zoo and animal habitats into hurricane-secure buildings while employing animal experts and veterinarians to monitor the wildlife during the storm.
All other major zoos and aquariums in the Tampa Bay area plan to close Thursday.
"Veterinarians ... will remain onsite 24/7 to monitor the animals, safely housed in buildings designed to withstand category five hurricanes," Busch Gardens staff said Wednesday. "Once weather conditions improve, our recovery team will ensure the habitats are safe for the animals to return."
For those who bought Thursday tickets for Busch Gardens ahead of time, the amusement park's website has information about how some ticketholders can reschedule their visits.
"You never know when thunder and lightning, hail, or even a hurricane might unexpectedly land and ruin your good time," Busch Gardens Tampa Bay's website reads. "That's when our 'Weather-or-Not Assurance' steps in to provide you with a return visit on us."
Pass member admission, complimentary tickets, 14-Day Length of Stay tickets and packages and Discover Cove ticket packages are not eligible for coverage, according to the park's website.
"Stop by guest relations at the park or submit your information below to request your return visit," the website reads. "You'll need your original admission ticket or order number."
The National Hurricane Center has issued hurricane and storm surge warnings for parts of Florida's Gulf Coast, including the Tampa Bay area. Read the latest on Hurricane Helene and its trajectory here.
We will continue to provide the latest information through your 10 Tampa Bay hurricane headquarters.
