Wild Rides, Wild Life: Adding an Extra Thrill
Giraffes at Busch Gardens Tampa with the Cheetah Hunt coaster in the background. Image Credit: Busch Gardens
Zoos and aquariums—homes to animals, often surrounded by trees, rocks, and flowers. But wait… is that a roller coaster? What’s it doing in a zoo? Traditionally, zoos have offered experiences like train rides and carousels. Now, you’ll also find skyliners, roller coasters, 4D theaters, and more. But why? Does this detract from or enhance the experience? According to the AZA Trends 2033 Report, non-animal attractions will continue to be added to zoos and aquariums. Rides, live entertainment, immersive playgrounds, and video games will be seen as essential to engaging younger generations.
Why choose rides and games over another animal habitat? The report notes that in 2023, 74% of Gen Zs visited a family entertainment center—spaces full of participatory attractions like arcades, trampolines, and escape rooms. That’s a huge audience looking for more than just a walk around an aquarium. Some guests crave interaction—can zoos and aquariums offer both while maintaining the essence of their mission?
All AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums support wildlife conservation. Where do roller coasters fit into that narrative? Dave Cooperstein, PGAV Senior Creative Designer, says it all comes down to storytelling. "Zoos and aquariums, like themed entertainment, are rooted in storytelling—often stories about nature and conservation. Because we all learn differently, attractions like interactive climbing, thrill rides, and digital experiences engage guests who learn experientially. Through these interactive elements, we can teach about an animal’s speed or size in ways that captivate and resonate with a diverse audience."
Cheetah Hunt at Busch Gardens Tampa. Image Credit: Busch Gardens
Consider the cheetah, the world’s fastest land animal, capable of reaching 65 to 75 mph while hunting. That sounds fast, but it’s hard to imagine what that really feels like. Enter Cheetah Hunt at Busch Gardens Tampa, a roller coaster designed to give guests a visceral sense of what sprinting across the Serengeti is like. But how does that help the animal? "The goal is to create a personal connection between humans and animals," explains Cooperstein. "That connection can inspire curiosity and action—whether it’s learning more about the animal or taking steps to conserve its habitat."
And it’s not just about coasters. A wide variety of activities can convey these stories. "When designing attractions, the goal is to offer a mix of experiences that appeal to all types of guests—from a three-year-old eager for hands-on, tactile activities to an 80-year-old seeking a more relaxing day," Cooperstein says. "Through 4D theaters, art galleries, or interactive games, there’s an opportunity to reach a broader audience with conservation messages. A guest riding a skyliner can see the expanse of the veldt and may realize that all of the animals live together and depend on one another."
These experiences can complement animal habitats or explore stories beyond live animals. Take SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi’s Micro Ocean, for example. In this immersive realm, guests seemingly shrink to the size of tiny ocean creatures. "Micro Ocean was designed to tell the story of how even the smallest ocean life forms have a big impact, all without using live animals," Cooperstein shares. "The rides, giant columns, and themed environments convince you that you’ve entered a world where you’re small, zooming through a coral reef like an eel."
Micro Ocean at SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
In the end, carefully integrating non-animal attractions can help zoos and aquariums draw new visitors while still telling important animal stories. "It’s about communicating fun, exciting, and meaningful messages," Cooperstein concludes. "We don’t have to focus solely on challenges and struggles—through creative attractions, we can help visitors connect with animals in ways that inspire positive action."
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