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Guide to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
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The Complete Guide to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is one of Florida's most exhilarating days out, combining world-class thrill rides with genuine wildlife encounters across a stunning 335-acre adventure park. From record-breaking roller coasters and open-air safari expeditions to up-close animal experiences and spectacular live shows, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay delivers an extraordinary day for thrill seekers, animal lovers and families alike. Here's everything you need to know before you visit.
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Rides and Attractions at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is home to some of the most impressive roller coasters in Florida — and several that hold records across the entire world. Here's what to expect on your visit.
Iron Gwazi
A true monster of a coaster. Iron Gwazi is the tallest hybrid coaster in North America and the fastest and steepest in the world, towering to a full height of 206 feet before plunging riders into a 91-degree drop at speeds of up to 76mph — faster than any other ride in Florida. With 12 airtime moments, three full inversions and over 4,075 feet of purple steel track, Iron Gwazi is an absolute must for thrill seekers.
Height: 48"/122cm
Serengeti Flyer
The world's tallest and fastest ride of its kind, Serengeti Flyer soars riders higher and higher above Busch Gardens Tampa Bay's expansive 65-acre Serengeti Plain with each progressive swing. Featuring twin duelling arms that reach speeds of 68mph and a maximum height of 135 feet, riders experience multiple negative-G moments before plunging back toward the earth. Breathtaking in every sense of the word.
Height: 48"/122cm
Tigris
Florida's tallest launch coaster, inspired by the power and agility of the tiger. Tigris features an exhilarating triple launch with forward and backward motion, catapulting riders through looping twists, daring drops, a 150-foot skyward surge and a thrilling inverted heartline roll — all at speeds of over 60mph.
Height: 54"/137cm
SheiKra
200 feet up, then straight back down at 70mph on a 90-degree drop. SheiKra is one of the most iconic coasters in Florida, featuring an Immelmann loop, a second dive into an underground tunnel and a spectacular splashdown finale. Sky above, earth below and nothing but an enormous thrill in between.
Height: 54"/137cm
Cheetah Hunt
Inspired by the speed and agility of the world's fastest land animal, Cheetah Hunt is a thrilling launch coaster that climbs high above the African landscape before twisting, turning and soaring across the ground. With burst after burst of acceleration across 4,429 feet of track, this breathtaking ride perfectly captures the movement and spirit of a hunting cheetah.
Height: 48"/1.22m
Falcon's Fury
The tallest freestanding drop tower in North America and the first of its kind in the world. Falcon's Fury climbs high above the park before pivoting riders 90 degrees in mid-air to a face-down dive position. An instant later you'll plunge straight down at 60mph and 3.5Gs in a terrifyingly powerful freefall.
Height: 54"/1.37m
Montu
One of the tallest and longest inverted coasters in the world, named after the ancient Egyptian god of war. Montu features seven inverted loops, plummeting drops and speeds of over 60mph — all with your feet dangling freely below you. A legendary Florida coaster that tests your courage at every turn.
Height: 54"/1.37m
Kumba
Boasting one of the world's largest vertical loops, Kumba is consistently rated one of the world's best steel coasters. After an initial 135-foot drop you'll plunge into a diving loop and experience a full 3 seconds of complete weightlessness while spiralling 360 degrees. A true classic.
Height: 54"/137cm
Cobra's Curse
A brilliantly unique family spin coaster set within a mysterious Egyptian archaeological excavation. After ascending on a vertical lift just like an elevator, riders come face to face with an 80-foot snake icon before trekking over the park's Serengeti Plain. A fantastic option for families looking for shared thrills.
Height: 42"/1.07m
Congo River Rapids
A soaking white-water journey recreating the treacherous elements of Africa's Congo River. Expect to get wet — very wet.
Height: 42"/1.07m
Air Grover
Set within the Sesame Street Safari of Fun area, Air Grover is a brilliant introduction to roller coasters for younger guests. Mum or dad can hop on too, making this a perfect first coaster experience for little ones.
Height: 38"/96.5cm
Animal Experiences at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is also one of North America's largest zoos, providing world-class care to over 200 species of animals. The animal experiences here are as much a reason to visit as the rides.
Serengeti Safari
Additional ticket required
The highlight of any visit to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. The Serengeti Safari takes you right to the heart of the action on a 30-minute open-air safari truck expedition across the 65-acre Serengeti Plain, where hundreds of animals roam freely. Meet zebras, rhinos and antelopes, feed a giraffe a leafy snack and enjoy incredible photo opportunities throughout. Your personal guide will keep you entertained with fascinating facts and funny stories along the way.
Edge of Africa
The most intense safari experience outside of Africa itself. Trek through a remote safari encampment themed around an abandoned African fishing village and discover lions, hippos, hyenas, meerkats, lemurs, giraffes, crocodiles and vultures at your own pace. A truly immersive walking safari experience.
Wild Oasis
North America's most immersive kid-friendly adventure realm. Wild Oasis immerses you in the sights and sounds of the rainforest with up-close animal encounters in a multi-species habitat, a themed drop-tower ride with special effects, a high-energy climbing canopy and interactive water play areas. A must-visit for families of all ages.
Myombe Reserve
Peer through the mists and fog of Myombe's Great Ape Domain for a close-up look at western lowland gorillas and chimpanzees living their daily lives in a lush forest habitat. A fascinating and moving experience for guests of all ages.
Animal Care Centre
Get a fascinating behind-the-scenes glimpse into the state-of-the-art facility where Busch Gardens Tampa Bay's staff care for their animals, from X-rays and surgeries to nutrition and treatments. From fan favourites to critically endangered species, this is a brilliant insight into the conservation work going on behind the scenes every day.
Top Tip: Head to the animals first thing in the morning when temperatures are still relatively cool — certain species tend to be far more active early in the day.
Shows and Entertainment at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay isn't just about the rides. Between the coasters and the animal encounters you'll find a brilliant line-up of live shows and experiences that are every bit as unmissable. From spectacular ice shows and Broadway-style performances to animal showcases that will leave you genuinely inspired, here's what's on during your visit.
Rhythm of Nature
An extraordinary ice show that takes audiences on a captivating journey through the animal kingdom. Follow Dakari, a young hero facing his destiny, as the beauty of nature's teachings unfold in a thrilling ice-bound adventure. Featuring breathtaking performances, stunning choreography and spectacular special effects, Rhythm of Nature is a truly magical experience exclusive to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.
Location: Moroccan Palace Theatre
Storytime at Sesame Street Safari of Fun
A wonderful new experience for the whole family, Storytime at Sesame Street Safari of Fun brings your favourite Sesame Street characters together for a special shared reading experience. Gather round to hear kid-friendly tales featuring Elmo, Cookie Monster, Big Bird and more, surrounded by the colourful world of Sesame Street. A lovely way to take a breather and create a magical memory with the little ones. Takes place daily — check the park's show schedule for specific times.
Location: Sunny Day Theater, Sesame Street Safari of Fun
Animal Tales
Discover Busch Gardens Tampa Bay's incredible variety of over 200 species and get up close with some of the park's amazing Animal Ambassadors in this fun and educational live presentation. Learn about the conservation efforts behind each animal and find out how you can help protect their wild habitats.
Dining at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
After a day of record-breaking coasters, safari expeditions and animal encounters, you're going to need to refuel. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has a great range of dining options spread throughout the park, from smoky BBQ joints and fresh pizzas to American classics and international flavours. Here's what's on the menu.
Busch Gardens All Day Dining Pass
Want to make your money go further? The Busch Gardens All Day Dining Pass lets you eat and drink every 90 minutes throughout the day at participating Busch Gardens Tampa Bay restaurants. The 3 Visit-ticket: SeaWorld, Aquatica & Busch Gardens + Eat for Free and The Ultimate 3-Park Ticket also include 3 days of all-day dining across all three parks!
Some of the top eateries at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay :
Dragon Fire Grill & Pub — A family-friendly market-style restaurant with great food and entertainment.
Zambia Smokehouse — A cool BBQ joint right next to SheiKra, perfect for fuelling up between coasters.
Oasis Pizza — Fresh-from-the-oven pizza and garden salads with views of the Serengeti Overlook.
Zagora Café — Burgers and fajita wraps with a spicy Moroccan twist.
Chick-fil-A — The iconic chicken sandwiches, nuggets, waffle fries and more from this American favourite.
What Can I Bring Into Busch Gardens Tampa Bay?
The following items are not permitted inside Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: coolers, glass containers, food such as sandwiches, meals and snacks, and flavoured drinks. You are welcome to bring water bottles into the park.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Opening Hours and Getting There
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is open daily from 9.30am to 10am, with closing times ranging from 5pm to 9pm depending on the season. We recommend checking with the park before your visit for exact times on your chosen date.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is located at the corner of Busch Boulevard and 40th Street, approximately one hour from Orlando via Interstate 4.
Address: 10165 N McKinley Drive, Tampa, FL 33612
From Orlando: Travel west on I-4 to I-75, then head north on I-75 to the Fowler Avenue exit 265. Bear left onto Fowler Avenue and head west to McKinley Drive — the first junction past the main entrance to the University of South Florida. Turn left onto McKinley Drive and continue to the car park and main entrance.
From St. Petersburg: Travel north on I-275 to the Fowler Avenue exit. Turn right onto Fowler Avenue and proceed 2.5 miles to McKinley Drive. Turn right onto McKinley Drive and continue to the main car park entrance.
From the North: Travel south on I-75 to Fowler Avenue exit 265. Bear right onto Fowler Avenue and head west to McKinley Drive. Turn left onto McKinley Drive and continue to the car park and main entrance.
From the South: Travel north on I-75 past the intersection of I-4 to Fowler Avenue exit 265. Bear left onto Fowler Avenue and head west to McKinley Drive. Turn left onto McKinley Drive and continue to the car park and main entrance.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Accessibility
Disabled parking spaces are available in Lot A near the main entrance — a legal parking permit is required.
Guests with physical conditions that would prevent normal seating or use of safety restraints should not board the following rides: SheiKra, Cheetah Hunt, Stanley Falls Log Flume, Congo River Rapids, Kumba, Tanganyika Tidal Wave, Montu, Phoenix, Scorpion and Ubanga-Banga Bumper Cars. Guests with hard casts cannot ride Kumba, Montu or SheiKra.
Wheelchairs and Electric Convenience Vehicles (ECVs) can be rented at Stroller Rental near the front gate in Morocco, available on a first-come first-served basis. Guests may also use their own wheelchairs throughout the park.
Scripts for all shows are available at Guest Relations. A sign-language interpreter may be available with at least two weeks' advance notice — contact Guest Relations at [email protected] to arrange. Assistive Listening Devices are available at Guest Relations and most theatres.
Guests with visual impairments must have a companion or park team member read the ride restrictions to them prior to boarding.
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