BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA BAY APPOINTS JON VIGUE AS NEW PARK PRESIDENT | News
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay today announced the appointment of Jon Vigue as the park’s new president, ushering in a new era of growth and innovation at one of America’s most iconic theme parks, amid an investment of more than $100 million in new attractions and park improvements.
A respected leader in the attractions industry with nearly 30 years of experience, Vigue joins Busch Gardens Tampa Bay following his long tenure at Wild Adventures Theme Park in Georgia, where he led transformational operational strategies and development initiatives designed to enhance the guest experience and position the park for sustainable growth.
His appointment comes at an exciting time for Busch Gardens Tampa Bay as the company continues to make significant investments in new attractions, immersive animal experiences and the guest experience, including food and beverage and entertainment offerings, all designed to enhance every visit from day to night. Recent major new additions include Wild Oasis, the immersive new family adventure area that debuted in 2025. Opening this year, the all-new Lion and Hyena Ridge represents the park’s largest and most immersive wildlife habitat in more than a decade. The dynamic new realm features five young male lions and a pair of hyenas, surrounded by expansive 270-degree viewing angles, water features and elevated rocky views that bring guests closer than ever before.
“We are strategically focused on improving every aspect of the guest experience at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Jon’s extensive industry experience makes him the ideal leader to advance that vision,” said Kyle Miller, Co-Chief Parks Operations Officer at United Parks & Resorts, parent company of Busch Gardens. “As we continue to make meaningful investments in the park, we are confident that Jon’s leadership, operational excellence and passion for innovation will help drive our next chapter of growth.”
Throughout his career, Vigue has built a strong reputation for operational leadership, team development and creating memorable guest experiences. Before joining Wild Adventures, he spent nearly two decades at Lake Compounce theme park, where he played a key role in the property’s revitalization and long-term success. In addition to park activities, Vigue has been actively involved with the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) since 2007, most recently as chair of the Food & Beverage Committee for North America.
“I am incredibly honored to join the talented team at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and help lead one of the most iconic theme parks in the country,” said Vigue. “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 with our passionate ambassadors as we build on that legacy, invest in the future and create unforgettable experiences for guests and families in Tampa Bay and beyond.”
The park’s momentum continues this summer with major new additions and expanded offerings. Guests can experience the return of the park’s popular Summer Nights event, taking place through August 9, with all-new entertainment, extended evening hours and spectacular nighttime productions. Highlights include the debut of the new Beach Bash show with retro-inspired music and energetic performances, the return of the fan-favorite Boom Box Dance Party and a free beer offering for guests 21 and older. The indoor entertainment offering, including shows: Cirque Electric, Animal Tales, Icons and Rhythm of Nature, gives guests additional ways to stay cool while being entertained.
As night falls, the Busch Gardens Tampa Bay skyline transforms with the return of Wild Skies: Drone Show & Fireworks Spectacular. On select nights, guests can experience two all-new nighttime spectacles featuring 400 synchronized drones, breathtaking fireworks and captivating music. The season kicks off with a patriotic production celebrating America’s 250th birthday, followed by a new drone spectacle, exclusive to Busch Gardens, debuting July 10.
“I am thrilled to be here and extremely excited about the future of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay,” Vigue added. “I look forward to meeting our valued guests and annual pass holders.”
