In a surprising development Busch Gardens announced the impending closure of Scorpion on September 2, 2024. This cam out of nowhere and gives fans only about 10 days to enjoy “the sting of the Scorpion” one more time before closing forever. Thankfully though the announcement came with a promise that “new attractions “future thrills” would be announced shortly to take its place (get ready for the Giga rumors). Here is what the park wrote:

“Time’s ticking! Don’t miss your LAST CHANCE to take a ride on the iconic Scorpion roller coaster before its final run on the track on Labor Day, 9/2. And stay tuned… this closure paves the way for future thrills.”

-Busch Gardens

Scorpion is really a unique ride. We’ve written in the past about how it’s one of only 3 like it in the world with its rare 360 degree circular loop. The park alludes to this history on it’s website:

“The Scorpion^® is one of only three roller coasters of its kind remaining in the world today, yet its sting is every bit as effective at instilling thrills through every twist and turn. Scorpion pulls you through a 360 degree loop and speeds of 50 miles per hour!”

-Busch Gardens

The ride is a classic that opened in 1980 by famous roller coaster designer Schwarzkopf. It packs a ton of punch in a very small footprint and is unique in that it goes upside down with only a lap bar. It’s also personally special as it was my 8 year old son’s first inversion.

It’ll be interesting to see what comes of the former site. Pantopia has had a total makeover since 2023 with only Falcon’s Fury remaining (and there are rumors about that too). The area lost Phoenix, Sand Serpent and a few kids rides to make room for Phoenix Rising. Now Scorpion will make room for something else. I’m personally hoping Scorpion can find its way somewhere else for a second life as it’s quite small and built on flat land. Maybe it pops up at another park next year?

Unfortunately I don’t think I’ll be able to get to the park in the next 10 days to enjoy it (sort of surprising and curious that they didn’t give more warning), but I’ll have my memories and a bunch of POV’s on YouTube to remember it. Wait times on the app were only 5 minutes today (just a couple hours after the announcement), so not a bunch of nostalgia seekers yet, but this is the coaster of a lot of people’s childhood, so no doubt many will come in for a last ride soon. Goodbye Scorpion, you were a great ride who brought much joy to many over your 44 year life! One last time:

“Now sit back and enjoy, but watch out for the sting of The Scorpion!”