Tampa is one of the most fun cities in America, and that’s due to its huge theme parks and award-winning family-friendly destinations. In 2025, the Museum of Science and Industry, Florida Aquarium, and Busch Gardens will all debut new attractions and rides. Here’s what to look forward to in the future.
This is in addition to the massive Super Nintendo World opening this May in Orlando, which I will make the drive to attend opening weekend.
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MOSI – Tampa: massive dome theatre expansion
Tampa’s Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) is embarking on an ambitious transformation of its iconic Dome Theatre, with a multi-million-dollar renovation scheduled for completion in 2025.
The new Digital Dome Theatre will feature cutting-edge 8K projection technology powered by 10 Christie projectors, creating a brighter, sharper, and more immersive experience. With seating for over 300 visitors—nearly seven times the current capacity—the upgraded theatre will become the second-largest digital planetarium in the U.S.
Florida Aquarium: puffin and sea lion exhibits
Tampa’s Community Redevelopment Agency approved $15 million in funding to help the Florida Aquarium greatly expand its offerings in 2024. This expansion would include a new penguin and sea lion exhibit in addition to Florida’s only puffin exhibit. The redevelopment project will run $45 million, with the aquarium covering $30 million.
The Florida Aquarium is a Tampa gem that draws crowds nationwide. Officials estimate it generates more than a quarter of a million dollars in economic impact on the region. Six out of seven CRA members voted in favor of funding the aquarium. According to Florida Aquarium President and CEO Roger Gerrman, the last time the venue received city or taxpayer dollars was in 1997.
Here is a quick breakdown of the aquarium’s major expansion plan:
- Phase 1: The MORPH’D exhibition presented by PAR, which opened last summer on the second floor in the Mosaic Exhibit Hall, offers an immersive experience with interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and engaging animals who have adapted over time to survive.
- Phase 2: A redesigned second-floor mezzanine with an expansive touch experience that triples the size of the current exhibit, a new tide pool water feature, and an aquatic lounge for guests to relax with food and drinks.
- Phase 3: The only Pacific Puffin exhibit in Florida presented by the Vinik Family Foundation. The habitat, complete with a kelp forest and other fish species, will transport guests to a rugged coast with multiple viewing windows to enjoy these fun-to-watch birds.
- Phase 4: The sea lion exhibit, presented by Mosaic, will mimic the rocky shores of the Pacific Northwest and bring California sea lions to the west coast of Florida for the first time. The project will also expand the Aquarium’s African penguin habitat.
Busch Gardens: Wild Oasis Realm
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will launch its latest attraction, the Wild Oasis realm, in Spring 2025. This all-new adventure zone, located in the park’s Jungala area, promises to deliver North America’s most interactive and exciting experience yet. Wild Oasis offers something for everyone, blending thrilling rides, immersive environments, and close encounters with wildlife.
Visitors will be transported to a lush rainforest, where they’ll feel the rush of a revamped drop tower enhanced with cutting-edge digital and sound effects. Families can cool off in a dynamic water-play area or explore a multi-level climbing canopy. Animal lovers will also get the chance to visit a brand-new, multi-species habitat for up-close interactions with fascinating creatures from around the world.
Learn more and plan a future visit on the park’s website.
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