Busch Gardens is building Lion & Hyena Ridge — a nearly 35,000‑sq‑ft Edge of Africa expansion that will house five brother lions and two hyenas with panoramic viewing. Construction is underway and the exhibit is due to open later in 2026.

Enchanted Rock’s new Backcountry Area opens on Tuesday with about 10.5 miles of rugged trail and limited facilities, after the park more than doubled in size.

A pod of at least six orcas cruised Elliott Bay Monday, drawing shore watchers to Alki Avenue and prompting reminders about viewing rules. Volunteers and researchers are collecting photos to help ID the group.