Credit: Busch Gardens Tampa BayIn the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, United Parks & Resorts is taking a significant step to express its gratitude to the individuals who played a critical role in the recovery efforts. These iconic parks are showing their true colors.
Multiple United Parks & Resorts To Open Gates to Thousands of First Responders, Lineworkers
United Parks & Resorts is a relatively new player in the theme park and entertainment industry, having officially launched in the last few years. The company was formed through a strategic merger of several well-known entertainment and theme park brands, including SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment and Busch Gardens, to create a unified brand with a broader reach in the global market.
This merger aimed to capitalize on the strengths of each individual park and streamline operations to offer guests a more cohesive and enhanced experience across all locations.
Prior to its establishment, SeaWorld and Busch Gardens were well-recognized names in the industry, but the decision to form United Parks & Resorts was driven by a desire to expand the company’s footprint and increase its market share. The merger allowed for cross-brand promotions and the pooling of resources, which in turn led to major investments in new attractions, animal conservation efforts, and guest experience innovations.
United Parks & Resorts has quickly made a name for itself through a commitment to immersive, family-friendly experiences while also focusing on environmental sustainability and animal conservation—core values inherited from SeaWorld’s long-standing dedication to marine life. The company’s parks, which now include SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, Aquatica, and Sesame Place locations, offer a variety of attractions that appeal to all age groups.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, United Parks & Resorts is taking a significant step to express its gratitude to the individuals who played a critical role in the recovery efforts. The theme park company has announced that first responders and lineworkers will receive free tickets to its parks as a gesture of appreciation for their tireless work in helping communities recover from the devastation caused by the storm.
First responders can redeem up to two free tickets, which are valid through December 31, at select United Parks & Resorts locations. This initiative is a way for the company to provide these essential workers with a much-needed break after weeks of demanding work.
“As a token of our immense gratitude, we are proud to welcome first responders and lineworkers to our parks to enjoy a well-deserved day of entertainment and fun,” said Marc Swanson, Chief Executive Officer of United Parks & Resorts. “Their hard work and dedication have been vital in ensuring the safety and recovery of our communities after the storms.”
A Show of Gratitude to First Responders
First responders, including emergency personnel such as police officers, firefighters, and paramedics, can redeem their tickets online through October 31. The tickets are valid for a one-time visit to one of the following parks:
- SeaWorld Orlando
- Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
- Aquatica Orlando
- Adventure Island Tampa Bay
This offer allows these frontline workers a chance to relax and unwind with their families in a setting that promotes fun and leisure, something that many have not been able to enjoy in recent weeks due to the hurricane recovery efforts.
Swanson emphasized that this gesture is a small way to thank those who have made such a significant impact. “Our hearts go out to the Florida communities that are continuing to recover after being battered by two large storms back-to-back. We are incredibly grateful to the first responders and lineworkers who are out there working to ensure we can return to normal as quickly and safely as possible.”
Supporting Lineworkers Nationwide
United Parks & Resorts has also extended its offer to lineworkers—those responsible for restoring power and repairing infrastructure after the storm. Tickets for lineworkers have been distributed directly to utility companies, which will share them with their employees. Unlike first responders, lineworkers can redeem their tickets at multiple park locations across the United States.
Lineworkers who do not reside in Florida have the flexibility to visit a United Parks & Resorts theme park closer to their homes. Available parks for lineworkers include:
- SeaWorld: Orlando, San Antonio, and San Diego
- Busch Gardens: Tampa Bay and Williamsburg
- Sesame Place: Philadelphia and San Diego
- Aquatica Orlando
- Adventure Island Tampa Bay
By extending this offer to parks outside of Florida, United Parks & Resorts ensures that lineworkers across the country, who have also been involved in recovery efforts, can take part in this initiative. This thoughtful approach highlights the company’s nationwide appreciation for those who keep critical infrastructure running smoothly during and after natural disasters.
A Step in the Right Direction
This initiative represents more than just free tickets; it’s a step toward healing and returning to normalcy after Hurricane Milton. By offering a reprieve to the very individuals who have worked tirelessly to restore power, repair damaged structures, and protect communities, United Parks & Resorts is sending a clear message: your efforts are valued, and your well-being is important.
United Parks & Resorts: Providing a Meaningful Way To Reconnect
Providing free access to theme parks not only gives these workers a much-needed break but also fosters a sense of community and gratitude. It’s a reminder that their hard work does not go unnoticed, and their contributions are crucial in helping Florida and other affected areas get back on their feet.
Moreover, this gesture is aligned with a broader effort by United Parks & Resorts to strengthen its community ties and offer support during challenging times.
By acknowledging the sacrifices made by first responders and lineworkers, the company is positioning itself as a key player in post-disaster recovery efforts and showing that it is committed to giving back to those who give so much. United Parks & Resorts’ decision to offer free tickets comes at a time when the mental and emotional well-being of workers is just as important as the physical recovery of communities.
After weeks of grueling work in hazardous conditions, first responders and lineworkers can now enjoy a day of relaxation, creating cherished memories with their families at some of the country’s top theme parks.
In addition to the joy and excitement that theme parks bring, this initiative is also a reminder of the strength and resilience of the human spirit. Despite the challenges brought by Hurricane Milton, communities are coming together, and companies like United Parks & Resorts are leading the way in fostering gratitude and unity.
As the recovery process continues, this program not only rewards those who have worked so hard to rebuild but also symbolizes a step toward moving forward and finding moments of joy amidst the challenges.