The Waves of Honor program from Busch Gardens and SeaWorld is giving eligible U.S. Veterans FREE park admission plus additional tickets for family and friends  at participating parks across the country.

What’s the Offer?

Busch Gardens and SeaWorld are once again rolling out the red carpet for America’s military veterans. Whether you’re closer to Virginia, Florida, Texas, or California, there’s a park ready to welcome you and your loved ones. Here’s what’s included:

• 4 complimentary single-day tickets — one for you, plus up to 3 for your guests
• 50% off up to 6 additional single-day tickets — perfect for extended family gatherings or treating friends
• Discounted Unlimited Memberships — for those who want to make Busch Gardens or SeaWorld a regular destination throughout the year

Participating Parks

This year’s Veterans Salute is available at five participating parks:

• Busch Gardens Williamsburg (Virginia)
• Busch Gardens Tampa Bay (Florida)
• SeaWorld Orlando (Florida)
• SeaWorld San Antonio (Texas)
• SeaWorld San Diego (California)

No matter where you are in the country, there’s a good chance one of these parks is within driving distance — making this the perfect opportunity for a family day trip or a full vacation getaway.

Who Qualifies?

This offer is open to all U.S. military veterans. Whether you served in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, or Space Force, this ticket is Busch Gardens’ and SeaWorld’s way of saying thank you for your service.

If you redeemed a free veteran ticket in previous years, you should have already received an email letting you know the offer is back. But even if you didn’t get that email, you can still claim your tickets by verifying your status.

How to Claim Your Tickets

The process is simple and secure:

1. Visit the official Busch Gardens or SeaWorld Military Ticket Page for your park of choice
2. Verify your veteran status through ID.me — the trusted identity verification service used across military and government programs
3. Reserve your tickets by May 10th
4. Print or save your tickets and head to the park by June 30th

Important Dates to Remember

Mark your calendar — this offer has a tight window:

• Reservation deadline: May 10, 2026
• Tickets must be used by: June 30, 2026

Make a Day (or a Whole Trip!) of It

Each of the participating parks offers its own unique flavor of adventure — and many are located near destinations steeped in American military heritage. Here’s what to look forward to at each park:

Busch Gardens Williamsburg, Virginia

Nestled in the heart of Virginia’s Historic Triangle, surrounded by Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown, this park is a must-visit for history-loving military families.

Park highlights:

• World-class roller coasters including Pantheon, Griffon, and Apollo’s Chariot
• Sesame Street Forest of Fun for the little ones
• Authentic European-themed villages with food and live entertainment
• Animal encounters and shows throughout the park

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Florida

An African-themed adventure park home to more than 200 species of animals and some of Florida’s wildest coasters.

Park highlights:

• Thrill rides including Iron Gwazi, SheiKra, Cheetah Hunt, and Tigris
• The Serengeti Plain, where you can see giraffes, zebras, and rhinos roaming freely
• Sesame Street Safari of Fun for families with young children
• Live shows, animal care experiences, and authentic African cuisine

SeaWorld Orlando, Florida

Central Florida’s marine-life and coaster powerhouse, and an easy add-on for military families already visiting the area.

Park highlights:

• Record-breaking coasters like Mako, Manta, Ice Breaker, and Pipeline: The Surf Coaster
• Up-close encounters with dolphins, sea lions, penguins, and orcas
• Spectacular shows, nighttime fireworks, and seasonal events
• Kid-friendly rides at Sesame Street Land

SeaWorld San Antonio, Texas

The largest marine-life park in the world, with rides, animal experiences, and a dedicated water park.

Park highlights:

• Texas-sized thrills on Texas Stingray, Great White, and Wave Breaker: The Rescue Coaster
• Aquatica water park included with many ticket options
• Beluga whale, dolphin, and sea lion experiences
• Family-friendly shows and seasonal celebrations

SeaWorld San Diego, California

Southern California’s iconic marine adventure park, offering breathtaking coastal views and unforgettable animal experiences.

Park highlights:

• High-energy coasters including Emperor, Electric Eel, and Journey to Atlantis
• Interactive encounters with dolphins, sea lions, sea turtles, and orcas
• Sesame Place San Diego for the youngest guests
• Gorgeous bayfront scenery and year-round California sunshine

New! Unlimited Military Membership Has Arrived & More United Parks & Resorts Military Discounts for Active Duty & Veterans

Active Duty, Military Dependents, National Guard, Reserve, Retired and Veterans with a military ID and MWR privileges may purchase the BEST OFFER for discounted Memberships at their local Base Information Ticket and Travel office — or online through ID.me. The new annual military pass is an incredible offer. Plus, check out other discounts on single day admission. You can grab ALL United Parks & Resorts Military Offers below. 

LEARN MORE

Don’t Miss Out

Whether you’re riding Pantheon in Williamsburg, exploring the Serengeti in Tampa, meeting orcas in Orlando, catching a wave at SeaWorld San Antonio, or soaking up the sunshine in San Diego — Busch Gardens and SeaWorld are proud to say thank you to the men and women who have served our country.