This morning, ZooTampa announced the arrival of a few things in the works for 2024, including a revamped kids zone, as well as new interactive habitats and attractions.
One of the first new additions to open next year will be Stingray Shores. The new interactive habitat is expected to debut this winter and will allow guests to touch and feed stingrays. The zoo is also offering a new "Signature Encounter" experience, giving guests the opportunity to actually get into the water with the stingrays.
Stingray Shores will completely replace the former Stingray Bay area of the park, which in 2021 experienced a "supersaturation event," resulting in the deaths of 12 stingray.
On a lighter note, a completely redone kid's area is also in the work's for 2024, and will feature a redone wallaby "Signature Encounter," and a new ride called Aussie Trek.
The ride, which will be sponsored by Tampa-based steak chain Outback, will " feature opportunities for parents and their kids to go on a safari and learn about the land down under’s unique wildlife," says ZooTampa.
The new family-friendly kid's zone will also house an expanded splash pad and playground, as well as new food and beverage options from an Outpost Grab N Go Market and a Boomerang Bar for the parents.
In today's announcement, ZooTampa also highlighted a new Prehistoric Predators specialty event, arriving January through April. The event will allow guests to come "face to face with giant animatronic ferocious predators of the past," says the park.
Last December, ZooTampa announced plans for a major $125 million expansion over the next 20 years. The zoo outlined plans to expand all the way to the Hillsborough River, and included water taxis, a new dining and entertainment district, a new South America realm and expanded Africa and Asia areas.
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ZooTampa unveils plans for new $125 million expansion, which includes Hillsborough River water taxis
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