Core Concept - Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is set to open Wild Oasis, a new immersive adventure realm for families, with previews for Pass Members starting May 30 and a full opening on June 6 [1][2]. Group 1: Wild Oasis Features - Wild Oasis is inspired by rainforests and includes animal encounters, rides, and interactive play zones designed for family entertainment [1][2]. - The new area will feature Habitat Hideaway, showcasing over 200 animal species, including capybaras, giant anteaters, squirrel monkeys, and tropical birds, with unique viewing perspectives [3]. - The Tree Top Drop, a 35-foot drop tower with multimedia experiences, will be introduced later in June, catering to younger thrill-seekers [4]. Group 2: Attractions and Activities - Wild Oasis will offer various attractions such as the Canopy Climb, an expansive climbing structure, and Enchanted Falls, an interactive splash pad for younger visitors [5]. - The Rainforest Quest will provide a self-guided educational scavenger hunt, promoting exploration and understanding of nature's interconnectedness [5]. Group 3: Annual Pass Benefits - Busch Gardens is promoting its Annual Pass program, which offers early access to Wild Oasis and significant savings during a limited-time Memorial Day Sale, with discounts up to 50% on tickets and passes [6]. - The Annual Pass includes benefits like unlimited year-round admission, free parking, in-park discounts, and monthly payment options starting at $15 [6]. Group 4: Company Overview - Busch Gardens Tampa Bay spans 300 acres and combines thrilling rides with an AZA accredited zoo featuring over 16,000 animals from more than 200 species, providing diverse experiences for all ages [8][9].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q1 2025, total revenue was $286.9 million, a decrease of $10.5 million or 3.5% compared to Q1 2024, primarily due to decreases in admissions per capita and attendance [18][21] - Attendance decreased by approximately 59,000 guests or 1.7% year-over-year, with the Easter shift impacting attendance by about 140,000 guests [19][21] - Adjusted EBITDA was $67.4 million, a decrease of $11.7 million compared to the prior year, influenced by revenue declines and timing-related expenses [21][22] - The net loss for Q1 2025 was $16.1 million, compared to a net loss of $11.2 million in Q1 2024 [21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In-park per capita spending increased by 1.1%, marking growth for 19 of the last 20 quarters [6][21] - Total revenue per capita decreased by 1.8%, with admissions per capita down 4.2% due to a shift in peak visitation days [19][21] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - April 2025 attendance was up 8.1% compared to April 2024, indicating a positive trend despite the Q1 challenges [6][21] - Year-to-date attendance through April showed approximately 1.3% growth on a fiscal basis [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on significant investments in new rides, attractions, and events to enhance guest experience and drive revenue [6][10] - There are ongoing discussions regarding integrating branded hotels into parks and unlocking the value of owned real estate [11][12] - The company is pursuing sponsorship opportunities, expecting to generate over $20 million in high-margin revenue over time [12][13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving new records in revenue and adjusted EBITDA for 2025, with 75% of historical attendance and revenue opportunities still ahead [7][17] - The company is optimistic about the impact of new attractions and events, as well as the potential increase in visitors due to competitive attractions in the area [35][66] Other Important Information - The balance sheet remains strong, with a net total leverage ratio of 3.1 times and approximately $764 million in total available liquidity [14][22] - The company repurchased 100,000 shares for approximately $4.6 million during the first quarter, indicating confidence in the stock's valuation [16][22] Q&A Session Summary Question: How does the company plan to bridge the Q1 EBITDA loss to expected record levels? - Management highlighted strong April performance, with attendance up over 8%, and emphasized upcoming new rides and attractions as key drivers for growth [31][33] Question: What was the impact of Easter on April attendance? - Management noted that April's attendance benefited from the Easter shift, with additional attendance beyond that expected from the holiday [43] Question: How are international sales performing? - International ticket sales are up low single digits year-over-year, with group bookings also running ahead of last year [50][53] Question: What are the expectations regarding labor costs due to competition from Epic? - Management acknowledged planned labor increases but stated they have effectively managed costs and matched labor needs to attendance forecasts [82][83] Question: What is the company's strategy regarding capital allocation and buybacks? - Management indicated a focus on maximizing shareholder returns and mentioned that they are comfortable with the current leverage ratio while considering future buybacks [87][89]

Core Insights - Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is making a significant investment of nearly $40 million to enhance the park's offerings and guest experiences under the new leadership of Park President Jeff Davis [1][2] Investment and Enhancements - The investment will cover infrastructure, operations, staff recruitment, and aesthetic improvements, including new animal habitats and dining experiences [2] - Recent years have seen consistent innovation with multimillion-dollar attractions like Iron Gwazi, Serengeti Flyer, and Phoenix Rising, reinforcing the park's status as a premier destination [2] New Attractions - The upcoming Wild Oasis at Jungala will feature animal encounters, rides, and interactive play zones, designed to provide unforgettable family experiences [3] - New animal species, including capybaras, giant anteaters, squirrel monkeys, and meerkats, will be introduced, alongside enhancements to existing habitats [4] Culinary Experiences - Executive Chef Lavon Smith is introducing new culinary offerings, including full-service venues and a Food & Wine Festival featuring diverse global cuisines [5] Entertainment and Events - Summer Nights will return with extended hours, new shows, and a nighttime spectacular, enhancing the park's entertainment offerings [6] - Adventure Island will also see new attractions, including the interactive splash area Castaway Falls, aimed at providing fun for all ages [7] Annual Pass Benefits - Annual Pass Members will receive early access to new attractions and exclusive perks, with passes available starting at $15.75 per month [8] Company Overview - Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a 300-acre theme park that combines thrilling rides with an AZA accredited zoo, offering a unique experience for guests of all ages [9]