Discover Thrilling Adventures at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Everyone knows about the big players on the Florida amusement park scene: Walt Disney World Resort®, SeaWorld® Orlando, and Universal Orlando Resort™, to name a few. These are all terrific parks, no question. But don’t let the big boys distract you from another amusement park gem in Tampa, Florida, just over an hour’s drive from Orlando: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Not only does it have adrenaline-charged rides that will leave you breathless, but it also boasts Tampa’s largest zoo and world-class shows and entertainment. With the recent revamping of its Timbuktu section, there’s never been a better time to visit this family-friendly local attraction.
Rides at Busch Gardens Tampa
The rides at Busch Gardens Tampa will not disappoint. From sky-high peaks to fearsome drops that will have you grinning from ear to ear with the adrenaline rush, a visit here is anything but dull. Legendary roller coasters, rides for younger kids, even a few more relaxing options – this place has it all. Here are a few of the highlights:
- SheiKra®: Roller coaster fans may finally meet their match with this pulse-pounding extreme ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat with rip-roaring 70-mph drops.
- Montu: With seven inversions ranging from the famed Immelman loop to a creative weightless roll, the Montu will take your breath away – in a good way.
- Congo River Rapids: Bob over swirling eddies and try to dodge water jets and pounding waterfalls as you zip down a frothing river.
- Sandserpent: A family-friendly "wild mouse" style roller coaster that’s just as fun for adults as it is for kids.
- Skyride: No trip to Busch Gardens Tampa would be complete without this picturesque ride in a cable car that affords you a birds-eye view of the entire park.
- Cobra’s Curse: Get ready to feel the fury of centrifugal force on this whirling roller coaster ride that whips you over and down hills and steep drops, all in the shadow of a glowering 30,000-pound snake.
- Falcon’s Fury: Test your mettle on North America’s tallest freestanding drop tower, a pulse-shattering simulation of skydiving that drops you at 60 mph from 300 feet up in the air – facing the ground the entire time.
The Reimagined Land of Pantopia™
Long-time fans of Busch Gardens Tampa will be excited to see the 35-year-old Timbuktu section of the park transformed into the imaginative land of Pantopia.
Dotted between its jewel-toned buildings are a mecca of thrilling rides, delectable food, and top-notch entertainment. The aforementioned Falcon’s Fury (Pantopia’s monumental centerpiece) and Sandserpent are both located here, along with other classic favorites. Appease a growling stomach with tasty tidbits from Dragonfire Grill or rest your feet while watching an engaging show at Pantopia Theater. There’s no better way to experience this land!
Exciting Animal Experiences at Busch Gardens Tampa Await You!
If you think you’ve seen everything when it comes to zoos, think again. One of the largest zoos in North America, the zoo at Busch Gardens Tampa has more than 200 species of intriguing and amazing animals as well as memorable animal encounters that you’ll be talking about for years to come.
Go behind the scenes to observe real veterinarians as they care for the sick or wounded animals at the Animal Care Center (which is also where the series The Wildlife Docs® is filmed) or hand feed a flamingo -- one of Busch Gardens Tampa’s animal ambassadors. Buy a cup of fruit nectar for the lorikeets on Lory Landing and you’ll be instantly swarmed by these brilliantly colored creatures as they vie to snag some of the delicious sweets from your outstretched hand. If birds aren’t your thing, try Kangaloom®, another feeding area where you’ll get to dish out treats to furry Australian animals like kangaroos and wallabies.
If you’re dying for a safari trek, the Serengeti Safari® is a fan favorite. For an extra cost, you’ll get to explore the 65-acre natural habitat in an open-air vehicle for a full 30 minutes, giving you ample time to admire the zebras, ostriches, and giraffes that roam the lands. You’ll even get the opportunity to have the gentle giraffes slurp food straight from you hands.
Busch Garden Tampa Hours
Hours for Busch Gardens Tampa depend on the day and time of year you plan to visit. The official Busch Gardens Tampa website provides a calendar that includes operating hours for each month, as well as a list of upcoming events.
Busch Gardens Tampa Tickets
Visitors can purchase Busch Gardens Tampa tickets via the official website. The offerings range from single-day passes for one park all the way up to annual membership passes for those who can’t get enough of all the rip-roarin’ fun this park has to offer. Those in active service can get a military discount for Busch Gardens Tampa tickets by purchasing through the official site.
Busch Gardens Tampa Coupons
If you’re searching for a coupon for Busch Gardens Tampa tickets, look no further than Tampa Bay CityPASS. You’ll get discounted Busch Gardens Tampa tickets, as well as a major discount on other amazing Tampa tourist destinations. You can save on admission to the Florida Aquarium, ZooTampa at Lowry Park, the Clearwater Marine Museum, and more!
Busch Gardens Tampa Parking
Parking at Busch Gardens Tampa is a breeze, thanks to nearly 5,000 spaces available for vehicles and the ability to purchase parking passes online. You can also purchase parking on site, but buying online first gives you one less thing to worry about when you’re ready and raring to go on some awesome rides!
Busch Gardens Tampa may not be as well known as the other heavy hitters in Orlando, but that doesn’t mean this theme park isn’t out of this world. With world-class rides and almost 60,000 exotic animals residing in the zoo, it’s definitely a must-see the next time you’re looking for a fun day out in Tampa.
Nearby Lodging
To get the most out of your stay in Tampa Bay, we recommend finding lodging near Tampa Bay's top attractions like Busch Gardens Tampa. Use this map to find the right lodging for you:
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