How do I express my love for theme parks? Writing in my weekly love letter.
Hello, theme park admirers. It’s Haley, the voice of In the Loop: Theme Park Scoops.
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Valentine’s Day is a week away, and for many, you might luck out in having a long holiday weekend with Presidents’ Day landing on the following Monday.
If I was Central Florida park-hopping on Valentine’s Day, here’s my idea of the perfect date itinerary.
Lovable reptiles: Over 2,000 American alligators make their home at Gatorland. A pair of alligators have gained fame in recent years: Jawlene and Mystic the leucistic alligator.
Take an intimate thrill ride: Who wants to be a single rider on Valentine’s Day? Take your sweetheart or riding buddy on the best two-seat roller coaster in Central Florida, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure at Universal Islands of Adventure. There isn’t a wrong pick for whoever gets the motorbike or the sidecar.
A “kiss goodnight”: Walt Disney’s way of sending guests home with an enchanting fireworks show is a cherished tradition. A special fireworks show is one of the many romantic things to do at Disney World.
Be “mine”ful about the park crowds next weekend. I can tell you that in recent years (specifically the post-pandemic), President’s Day weekend has become one of the most popular times to visit Central Florida’s major theme parks.
Fun Spot
Huge love 🎢
Let’s keep the Valentine’s Day celebrations going.
Fun Spot America is offering a fun promotion for anyone. The “Gals, Pals & Vals Days” package covers a ride ticket option and food.
The limited-time deal starts before Valentine’s Day too.
SeaWorld Orlando
Hearts and sharks 🦈
Fall deeply in love with the underwater ambiance at a SeaWorld Orlando restaurant.
The park is bringing back its unique dining experience at Sharks Underwater Grill on Valentine’s Day—a three-course dinner, live music, and a fascinating view of shark friends.
For reservations and pricing, click here.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Sip, savor and music 🍷
March isn’t far off and that means festivals will be in full swing for spring.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay announced headlining artists for the 2025 Food & Wine Festival. Seeing Flo Rida at one of Florida’s oldest theme parks seems like a pretty Florida thing to do.
Walt Disney World
Well, that stinks 🪲
Disney’s Animal Kingdom had its first round of 2025 permanent closures at Dinoland U.S.A. Next up, “It’s Tough to be a Bug!”
The 3D movie and live show based on “A Bug’s Life” is closing next month. Taking over the space in the Tree of Life Theater is “Zootopia: Better Zoogether!”
With this upcoming closure, it’s another sign that Disney is moving away from attractions that have scary elements. Sure “It’s Tough to be a Bug!” wasn’t on the level of the Extraterrorestrial Alien Encounter at Magic Kingdom, but I can see why this might be a one-and-done.
I wonder what kind of magic Disney will use to get the stink bug smell out of the venue?
Legoland Florida
Say ‘hi’ to the voice of Kai 🥷
There’s still some time to kick it with Ninjago heroes at Legoland Florida.
This weekend, Vincent Tong, the voice of Kai in “LEGO Ninjago” the TV series, is visiting the park for a meet-and-greet that’s exclusive to passholders.
There is a lot included in Ninjago Weekends. Click here for a full lineup.
Universal Orlando
Let the good times scroll⚜️
I had the privilege of attending the kick-off to Universal Orlando Resort’s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval.
With it being the 30th anniversary, there are even more flavors and floats to enjoy this year.
I attached photos for your scrolling pleasure.
I bid you adieu, subscribers.
Feel free to keep me in the loop on all things theme parks through my email or reach out to me on my X or Instagram.
