Famous Kumba roller coaster at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay closes August 2
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One of Florida’s most iconic roller coasters is preparing for its final ride after more than three decades, sparking a wave of nostalgia among theme park enthusiasts.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay recently shared that Kumba will close permanently on August 2 after 33 years of operation, ending one of the park’s best-known attractions.
Kumba was Florida’s tallest, fastest and longest roller coaster when it debuted in 1993. It also featured the world’s highest vertical loop and became a favorite among thrill seekers, according to an announcement on Busch Gardens’ website.
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The approximately three-minute ride takes guests down a 135-foot drop, reaches speeds of up to 60 mph, and features seven inversions.
As Kumba retires, Busch Gardens said on Instagram that the popular attraction will be replaced by Kumba’s Revenge, part of a $100 million investment aimed at expanding the park’s line of thrilling rides.
Kumba at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will close permanently on Aug. 2 after 33 years of operation, the venue said. (Alamy Stock Photo)
Fox News Digital has reached out to Busch Gardens for comment.
The announcement sparked an emotional response from coaster enthusiasts, many of whom have shared their memories of riding Kumba over the years.
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“This is so sad to hear,” one Reddit user wrote. “What a classic, legendary and masterpiece.”
Another person described the train as “an old friend” and added: “I’ve been lucky enough to take hundreds of trips on this train over the decades.”
The approximately three-minute ride takes guests down a 135-foot drop, reaches speeds of up to 60 mph, and features seven inversions. (Alamy Stock Photo)
Others reflected childhood memories connected to the shooting.
“Kumba was almost a rite of passage for many Florida kids,” wrote one longtime fan, recalling the first time he rode the train on an elementary school field trip.
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Many fans also expressed hope that the successor would remain faithful to the original.
“I hope his replacement will be worthy of this legendary name,” one user wrote.
The announcement sparked an emotional response from coaster enthusiasts, many of whom have shared their memories of riding Kumba over the years. (Ann Purcell/Getty Images)
Guests have until Aug. 2 to experience what Busch Gardens is calling Kumba’s “Last Roar” before the ride closes permanently.
Fox News Digital previously reported the closures of several theme parks and attractions across the country, sparking emotional reactions from longtime fans.
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Wild Waves Theme Park in Washington state is preparing to close permanently after the 2026 season, ending nearly 50 years of operation.
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Visitors are flooding the park’s social media pages, sharing childhood memories and urging buyers to get in before the gates close completely.
Fox News Digital’s Andrea Margolis contributed reporting.
