Jon Vigue Takes Command at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Amid $100M Expansion

Vigue transitions to the Tampa property following a long-term tenure at Wild Adventures Theme Park in Georgia, where he focused on operational development and guest experience strategies. His background also includes nearly 20 years at Lake Compounce and active leadership roles within the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, including chairing the North American Food & Beverage Committee.

United Parks & Resorts, the parent company of Busch Gardens, selected Vigue to steer a period of aggressive growth. Recent capital projects include the 2025 debut of the Wild Oasis family area and the opening of Lion and Hyena Ridge, the park's largest animal habitat in over a decade. Kyle Miller, Co-Chief Parks Operations Officer at United Parks & Resorts, cited Vigue's history of operational excellence as a primary driver for the appointment.

The park is currently operating its Summer Nights event, which runs through August 9 and features expanded evening hours, drone shows, and new stage performances. Vigue expressed a focus on building upon the park's legacy of combining high-thrill attractions with immersive wildlife experiences, noting his intent to prioritize the needs of annual passholders and guests as the multi-million dollar enhancement projects continue.