Florida Theme Parks Will No Longer Accept Cash

Posted by: Lana Porter August 26, 2023

There’s no question that the digital age, which seemed so futuristic to theme park designers like Walt Disney, is now our present-day reality. An average theme park guest has the world in the palm of their hand, able to interact with their resort, ride wait times, and vacation photos on one device. Following the trend of Disney Park Magic Bands, plastic park ticket cards, or just the efficiency of a visitor’s phone, some Florida theme parks are about to make another big change.

Credit: Disney

Consider a cashless world! Many Florida amusement parks are already way ahead of you. My News 13 journalist Ashley Carter reports that “SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica are going cashless starting Aug. 30. The parks will only be accepting card and mobile payments at restaurants, shops, ticket windows, parking tolls, etc. Visitors with cash can convert it to a prepaid Visa card at Cash to Card kiosks at the parks.”

Credit: Ashley Carter/ X, SeaWorld

These popular marine-themed parks feature various live shows, exhibits, and interactive attractions where visitors can learn about marine animals. SeaWorld Orlando is famous for its thrill rides, and the Aquatica water park, also owned by SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, offers numerous water-based fun, the best of which is a water slide that goes through a habitat of Commerson’s dolphins. Soon, you won’t have to worry about wet bills!

But these two aren’t the only ones…the cashless move also goes for Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Adventure Island starting on Aug. 30! These tandem Tampa parks are following suit. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is the traditional ride theme park, while Adventure Island is the adjacent water park. They will only be accepting card and mobile payments and offering the same Cash to Card kiosks.

Credit: Ashley Carter/ X, Busch Gardens

While this seems like a no-brainer move for park efficiency and even cleanliness, some patrons are disappointed in the decision. Many find comfort in the tangibility of carrying cash and fear a world that exists solely online. But have they ever had change fall out of their pocket on a roller coaster?

How do you feel about the transition? While most Walt Disney World locations still accept cash, it is feasible that Magic Kingdom and its sister parks could be headed the same way.