Why did Sea World in Ohio close?

After three decades of operation, financial troubles caused SeaWorld in Aurora, Ohio to close. The 2010 season was its final in operation; Six Flags Entertainment Corporation purchased the marine park from Anheuser-Busch in 2001.

The Aurora, Ohio park opened its doors in 1970, with the anticipated distinction of being the only marine park in the Midwest. However, while other SeaWorld locations - Orlando, San Antonio and San Diego - were open throughout the year, harsh northern winters meant the park could only fully operate from mid-May through mid-September. With dwindling attendance and the inability to match the success of other SeaWorld sites, the park was sold for $110 million.