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SeaWorld Abruptly Closing This Weekend, Locks Out Planned Visitors

Guests hoping to visit SeaWorld San Antonio or splash around at Aquatica this weekend will be met with an unfortunate surprise: both parks are closing their gates on Saturday, May 3, 2025.

A family entering SeaWorld San Antonio
Credit: SeaWorld

SeaWorld San Antonio is one of the company’s three U.S. locations, with others in San Diego, California, and Orlando, Florida. Since 1964, SeaWorld has welcomed millions of guests with a mix of marine animal exhibits, roller coasters, and live entertainment. However, the brand has also faced its share of controversy, most notably after the 2013 documentary Blackfish brought global attention to its treatment of orcas in captivity.

In the years since, SeaWorld has attempted to shift its public image, promoting animal rescue and education through new exhibits and programming. One of the latest additions to SeaWorld San Antonio is “Rescue Jr.,” a conservation-themed kids’ zone that invites young guests to explore hands-on rescue missions through play. It features water areas, rides, climbing structures, and full-scale animal rescue vehicles. Unfortunately, none of that will be available this Saturday.

Four people are enjoying a ride on a yellow inflatable raft in an aquarium-themed water park attraction at Aquatica. They are smiling and watching marine life, including rays, through the clear tunnel surrounding the water.
Credit: SeaWorld Entertainment

SeaWorld made the announcement on its official Instagram account, alerting followers that the Texas parks will not be open to the public on Saturday due to a private event. Both parks will reopen on Sunday, April 4.

“Park Update: SeaWorld and Aquatica will be closed on Saturday, May 3, for a private event,” the post reads. “We look forward to welcoming you back for a full day of fun on Sunday, May 4!”

 

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A post shared by SeaWorld Texas (@seaworldtexas)

While SeaWorld has not disclosed the details of the private event, full-park closures are typically reserved for large-scale buyouts or corporate functions. If you were planning to visit SeaWorld San Antonio this weekend, be sure to check the park’s hours before heading out—and don’t forget to rebook for Sunday.

Which SeaWorld park is your favorite: Orlando, San Antonio, San Diego, or Abu Dhabi? Let Disney Dining know in the comments! 

Jess Colopy

Jess Colopy is a Disney College Program alum and kid-at-heart. When she’s not furiously typing in a coffee shop, you can find her on the hunt for the newest Stitch pin.

One Comment

  1. Oh your title totally catfished me,I was hoping to read that they are closing for ever ,it’s disgusting that such animals are kept in tiny prisons

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