A major leadership change has arrived at one of the premier theme parks in the United States.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has announced a new executive appointment to guide its operations during a period of extensive financial investment and development. This transition marks the beginning of a fresh chapter for the Florida-based attraction as it rolls out new guest experiences and animal habitats.
The Florida theme park has named Jon Vigue as its new Park President. Vigue takes over the leadership role while the destination undergoes a funding allocation of more than $100 million aimed at creating new attractions and enhancing existing park infrastructure.
Bringing nearly 30 years of experience within the attractions industry, Vigue moves to the Florida site following a long tenure running Wild Adventures Theme Park in Georgia. During his time there, he directed operational strategies and development programmes designed to improve guest satisfaction and secure long-term business growth. Prior to his position in Georgia, Vigue spent almost two decades working at Lake Compounce Theme Park, where he contributed to the revitalisation and sustained commercial success of the property.
His broader industry involvement includes active membership in the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) since 2007, where he recently served as the Chair of the Food & Beverage Committee for North America.
New animal habitats and park expansions
This executive appointment coincides with a series of substantial capital developments at the 300-acre site, which features a zoo accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) housing more than 16,000 animals across 200 species. The park recently expanded its family offerings with the introduction of Wild Oasis, an immersive adventure area that opened to the public in 2025.
For the 2026 season, the park is launching Lion and Hyena Ridge, which represents its largest animal habitat project in over a decade. This new environment is designed to accommodate five young male lions and a pair of hyenas. The area features 270-degree viewing zones, integrated water elements, and elevated rocky vantage points to allow visitors closer access to the animals.
Commenting on the appointment, Kyle Miller, Co-Chief Parks Operations Officer at parent company United Parks & Resorts, stated: “We are strategically focused on enhancing every aspect of the guest experience at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Jon’s extensive industry experience makes him the ideal leader to help guide that vision forward. As we continue making meaningful investments across the park, we are confident Jon’s leadership, operational excellence and passion for innovation will help drive our next chapter of growth.”
Summer events and future strategy
Expressing his outlook on the new position, Vigue noted the long-standing history of the destination. “I am incredibly honoured to join the talented team at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and help lead one of the most iconic theme parks in the country,” Vigue said.
“The park has an extraordinary legacy of combining world-class thrills, inspiring animal experiences and immersive entertainment unlike anywhere else. I look forward to working alongside our passionate ambassadors as we continue building on that legacy, investing in the future and creating unforgettable experiences for guests and families across Tampa Bay and beyond.”
The Floridian park is currently running its Summer Nights seasonal event, which extends through 9 August 2026. The programme features extended operating hours, evening entertainment options, and the premiere of the Beach Bash musical show. The line-up also includes the Boom Box Dance Party, alongside various indoor theatrical productions such as Cirque Electric, Animal Tales, Icons, and Rhythm of Nature.
Furthermore, the park has reintroduced its evening entertainment feature, Wild Skies: Drone Show & Fireworks Spectacular, utilising 400 synchronised drones. The summer schedule begins with a performance celebrating the 250th birthday of the United States, which will be followed by a brand-new custom drone production scheduled to debut on 10 July 2026.
Vigue concluded by sharing his enthusiasm for engaging directly with the park’s customer base. “I’m thrilled to be here and extremely excited about the future of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. I look forward to meeting our valued guests and annual passholders.”
