New Busch Gardens ticket policy allows guests to reschedule if it's too hot

Tampa is in the midst of a record hot summer, and thanks to human-induced climate change, we can expect to experience hotter and hotter temps going forward, which is not ideal for standing in long lines at theme parks.

In an effort to get more butts in queues, this morning Busch Gardens Tampa announced the launch of its new "Weather-or-Not Assurance" policy, which allows guests to reschedule their visit for anytime over the next 12 months in the event of extreme weather.

"The Weather-or-Not Assurance program applies when rides are closed for 60 minutes or more due to weather," says a press release. "Additionally, if inclement weather causes early closure or negatively impacts the park’s operating hours, guests are eligible for a return visit at no additional cost."

According to the theme park, the new policy covers rain, lightning, wind, snow, hail and even extreme heat, specifically if the heat index reaches 110 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Of course, the new policy does not apply to passholders—other conditions can be found on the Busch Gardens website.

The park's new "Weather-or-Not Assurance" program is "the most generous in the theme park industry," says Busch Gardens, and compared to other Florida theme parks, this statement is probably true.

For example, Universal Orlando only allows guests to reschedule if  "a hurricane or tropical storm warning is issued by the National Hurricane Center or a state of emergency is declared for the Orlando area or in your place of residence." A similar policy is in place at Disney World resorts.

Besides Busch Gardens Tampa, the new policy applies to all theme parks under the SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment umbrella, including Adventure Island, SeaWorld Orlando and more.

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