The Sunshine State’s theme parks have faced several controversies over the years, from Disney’s clash with Governor Ron DeSantis over the “Don’t Say Gay” law – a war that spanned several years, lawsuits, and the restructuring of Disney’s Reedy Creek district – to more specific dramas within the theme park community, such as the backlash over Disney’s decision to replace Splash Mountain with Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. Five dolphins died at the Panama City Beach theme park over the course of eight months, leading to Florida Sen. Jay Trumbull calling for the immediate removal of all remaining dolphins from Gulf World Marine Park and a raid on the park. Following reports that The Dolphin Company was preparing to sell its animal assets – which currently spans 295 dolphins, 51 sea lions, 18 manatees, and 18 seals across its 30 properties – it’s now been confirmed that Gulf World Marine Park has officially closed for good.
Author: Chloe James
Published at: 2025-07-29 21:02:55
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