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Everything you need to know about Florida theme parks this summer

 
Cobra's Curse Spin Coaster at Busch Gardens
Cobra's Curse Spin Coaster at Busch Gardens
Published May 24, 2016

Every summer we look ahead to what's new at Florida's theme parks and attractions. With prices at most parks hovering around $100 for a single day, theme parks have to give customers a "wow" factor.

This year aims high.

Busch Gardens is opening Cobra's Curse, a roller coaster with cars that twirl freely, the only spinning coaster of its kind in the world. That's not to mention the live snakes in the ride queue. Disney is finally giving Frozen fans their wish with a ride at Epcot, while old favorite Soarin' expands capacity and technology.

Universal is going big with a mammoth King Kong attraction — the giant ape's head is as big as your car. And SeaWorld emerges from its Blackfish haze with Orlando's first hypercoaster, topping out at 200 feet tall.

We have the scoop on all these. We also checked in on Tampa Bay's attractions to find out what they have to offer this summer. Keep your arms and legs inside as we help you plan your summer.

DISNEY: 27 new things at Walt Disney World this summer

(Disney Springs, photo courtesy of Walt Disney World)

BUSCH GARDENS: Cobra's Curse spinning roller coaster promises wild ride, snakes

(Cobra's Curse, photo courtesy of Busch Gardens)

BUT, WAIT: Will the ride's live snakes be comfortable with all that commotion?

(Times photo James Borchuck)

UNIVERSAL ORLANDO: King Kong conquers the park, plus the Incredible Hulk, Sapphire Falls

(King Kong, photo courtesy of Universal)

SEAWORLD: Hypercoaster Mako to debut

(Mako, photo courtesy of SeaWorld)

STAY LOCAL: What's new at Lowry Park Zoo, the Florida Aquarium, MOSI and more

(Photo courtesy of MOSI)