Busch Gardens Tampa Closing Historic Roller Coaster

After 44 years Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is closing its oldest roller coaster on September 8, 2024, to make way for future development. The Scorpion, which opened on May 16, 1980, in what was then the Timbuktu area of the park, is one of three Silver Arrow models produced by Anton Schwarzkopf, and one of his few attractions still operating. Originally announced to be closing on Labor Day the park released a statement keeping the attraction open through the following Sunday.

This sit-down roller coaster offers a unique experience with its lap bar mechanism and features a 360-degree loop. It has long been a favorite among coaster enthusiasts for its inverting element and will be missed.

There is no official word or rumors yet about what will replace this beloved attraction, aside from speculation about a much-anticipated Giga coaster. Recently, Busch Gardens closed the nearby Wild Mouse coaster, Sand Serpent, and built the Rising Phoenix, a suspended family roller coaster by B&M, in Pantopia.

We recently visited the park with our Go-Pro camera to record some footage to compile into a short Point of View video.