SeaWorld Scrambles To Improve Guest Experience Amid Growing Problems

SeaWorld Orlando’s front gate may soon look very different.

Guests arriving at the park recently noticed new technology quietly appearing at the entrance. The change comes during a turbulent moment for the company, as SeaWorld faces declining attendance, legal challenges, and intensified competition across Central Florida.

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For decades, the park has positioned itself as one of Orlando’s major theme park destinations. Alongside roller coasters and marine life exhibits, the resort has leaned heavily on family partnerships like Sesame Street and seasonal events to draw visitors.

Recent figures suggest that strategy is under pressure.

SeaWorld’s parent company, United Parks & Resorts, confirmed that overall attendance across its parks dropped in 2025. The company reported 21.2 million guests for the year — roughly a 1.8% decrease compared to the previous year.

Financial performance also slipped.

Revenue declined 3.6% to $1.7 billion, while net income fell sharply by 26% to $168.4 million. Executives acknowledged the results fell short of expectations, underscoring the challenges the company faces in a crowded theme park market.

Central Florida’s tourism industry has become increasingly competitive.

Universal Orlando officially opened Epic Universe – a massive new theme park that has quickly become one of the region’s most talked-about attractions – in May 2025. Meanwhile, Walt Disney World continues expanding its parks with new lands, rides, and entertainment offerings designed to keep visitors on property longer.

Against that backdrop, SeaWorld has been navigating additional challenges outside the parks themselves.

The U.S. Department of Justice recently sued the company over a policy that banned certain wheeled walkers with seats. Federal officials argue that the rule violates the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Another lawsuit could also threaten one of SeaWorld’s most recognizable partnerships.

Sesame Workshop — the nonprofit organization behind Sesame Street — filed a lawsuit accusing SeaWorld of withholding royalties and mishandling the brand. The legal dispute has raised questions about the future of the Sesame Street presence at the parks.

SeaWorld has also spent years dealing with lingering criticism tied to its treatment of marine animals.

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Debates over the company’s practices intensified after the 2013 documentary Blackfish, which renewed scrutiny over marine mammal captivity. While SeaWorld has shifted some of its messaging and programming since then, the reputational effects still shape public discussion around the brand.

Despite those challenges, the park continues making adjustments to its offerings.

SeaWorld recently announced updates to Expedition Odyssey within its first year of operation. The attraction will receive a new fire-and-ice storyline featuring new animals, volcanic environments, and an original musical score.

Even as the park tweaks its attractions, another change appears to be taking place before guests even reach them.

SeaWorld Quietly Tests New Security System

Recent visitors say SeaWorld Orlando has begun testing a new high-tech bag scanning system at its security checkpoint.

One guest shared their reaction online after spotting the new equipment.

SeaWorld is currently testing a new high tech bag scanner at their security checkpoint! I like this and its basically the same system that Universal uses. This is a much needed addition and im glad the equipment is being updated!

(Didn’t take a photo since its security releated)

SeaWorld is currently testing a new high tech bag scanner at their security checkpoint! I like this and its basically the same system that Universal uses. This is a much needed addition and im glad the equipment is being updated!

(Didn't take a photo since its security releated)

— Ethan Hershaft (@EthanHershaft) April 10, 2026

 

The system appears similar to the scanners already used at Universal Orlando Resort.

Instead of stopping for a traditional bag check, guests can walk through the checkpoint while their belongings are scanned automatically. The technology is designed to detect potential security concerns without requiring visitors to remove items from their bags.

Orlando. One is already up and operating. Lots of small improvements coming to the park recently. Enough small changes can make a large positive impact. Love to see it!

New security scanners to scan bags are being installed at @SeaWorld Orlando. One is already up and operating. Lots of small improvements coming to the park recently. Enough small changes can make a large positive impact. Love to see it! pic.twitter.com/Sl3UrRjm2a

— SaxOnTracks (@SaxOnTracks) April 9, 2026

 

For theme parks that welcome thousands of guests every morning, the difference can be significant.

Traditional bag checks often create bottlenecks at the entrance, particularly during peak travel seasons or rope drop. Automated scanners allow security teams to screen large crowds quickly without slowing the entry process.

Theme Parks Have Been Modernizing Security

SeaWorld is far from the first park to adopt this approach.

Walt Disney World introduced similar security technology several years ago. Guests entering parks like Magic Kingdom and EPCOT walk through Evolv-style scanners that allow them to proceed without stopping – unless specifically stopped by Disney’s members of security.

The change dramatically reduced wait times at the entrance gates, particularly during the busy morning rush.

Universal Orlando Resort later implemented comparable systems at its own checkpoints.

Security areas at CityWalk and the theme parks now rely on advanced scanners designed to process large crowds quickly while still maintaining strict safety standards.

SeaWorld’s current setup has remained largely unchanged compared to its competitors.

Do you plan on visiting SeaWorld Orlando any time soon?