Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay showing rides
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay showing rides
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay featuring rides
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay which includes rides
Busch Gardens showing dangerous animals, a garden and safari adventures


Exotic animals and thrill rides all on the one site at this theme park and zoo designed for the whole family.

Busch Gardens is an African-themed adventure park featuring more than 2,000 exotic animals, roller coasters, thrill rides, shows and exhibits. The 335-acre (135-hectare) site is divided into eight themed areas. Each area has its own attractions, and animals living in natural-style habitats.

The Serengeti Plain is one of the park’s most popular destinations. This 65-acre (26-hectare) replica of the African region is home to hundreds of free-roaming animals, including giraffes, zebras, white rhinos, ostriches and impalas.

Observe animals from aboard the Serengeti Express train, or on the Skyride, a cable-car trip that covers most of the park. Seats on both rides are included in the price of admission. Reserve a place on the Serengeti Safari, a trek across the plain in an open-top vehicle. You’ll stop by some of the animals to feed them by hand. For prices and details, visit the park’s official website.

Head on over to Jungala, a themed village that features rides, live entertainment and close-up viewing areas of Bengal tigers, crocodiles, gibbons and orangutans.

Animals are only part of the appeal of Busch Gardens. Take a deep breath and summon your nerves for Sheikra, a dive coaster that travels straight down a 90-degree drop at 70 miles (113 kilometres) per hour. Cheetah Hunt is a 4,400-foot (1,340-metre) long coaster that travels inside the Serengeti and down into a rocky gorge. It reaches a top speed of 60 miles (97 kilometres) per hour.

Take younger thrill seekers and animal lovers to Sesame Street Safari of Fun. There are child-sized rides, a water play area and lots of Sesame Street characters.

Busch Gardens is situated approximately 8 miles (13 kilometres) northeast of downtown Tampa. The amusement park is open every day of the year. Opening hours are updated each week. Check the website for up-to-date information. There is pay parking available.

Reviews of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

4.3
Top destination
5 - Excellent
21
5 - Excellent 51%
4 - Good
13
4 - Good 32%
3 - Okay
5
3 - Okay 12%
2 - Disappointing
2
2 - Disappointing 5%
1 - Terrible
0
1 - Terrible 0%

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller

Be prepared if weather is bad to either wait or cut your time short. All rides are outside. Also maybe think about kids heights. Big rides are 54"

Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

OASIS BAY SUITES, Tampa, Busch Gardens, USF

OASIS BAY SUITES, Tampa, Busch Gardens, USF

3 out of 5
3001 University Center Dr Tampa FL
OASIS BAY SUITES, Tampa, Busch Gardens, USF
La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Tampa Near Busch Gardens

La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Tampa Near Busch Gardens

3 out of 5
9202 N 30th St Tampa FL
La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Tampa Near Busch Gardens
Hampton Inn & Suites Tampa Busch Gardens Area

Hampton Inn & Suites Tampa Busch Gardens Area

2.5 out of 5
3333 East Busch Boulevard Tampa FL
Hampton Inn & Suites Tampa Busch Gardens Area
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tampa USF Busch Gardens by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tampa USF Busch Gardens by IHG

2.5 out of 5
2807 E Busch Blvd Tampa FL
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tampa USF Busch Gardens by IHG
BAY INN

BAY INN

2 out of 5
2307 E BUSCH BLVD Tampa FL
BAY INN
Tampa Inn - Near Busch Gardens

Tampa Inn - Near Busch Gardens

2 out of 5
2901 E Busch Blvd Tampa FL
Tampa Inn - Near Busch Gardens
Hyatt Place Busch Gardens

Hyatt Place Busch Gardens

3 out of 5
11408 N 30th St Tampa FL
Hyatt Place Busch Gardens
Gardenview

Gardenview

2500 E Busch Blvd Tampa FL
Gardenview
Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa USF Near Busch Gardens

Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa USF Near Busch Gardens

3.5 out of 5
3705 Spectrum Blvd Tampa FL
Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa USF Near Busch Gardens
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, visit International Plaza and Bay Street, or Hyde Park Village, both 12.9km away, offering a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, Westfield Citrus Park is 16.1km away, providing similar attractions.

Recreation

The MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre offers a vibrant atmosphere for live music, perfect for immersing yourself in entertainment vibes. The Tournament Sportsplex of Tampa Bay provides an energetic sports environment, while the Tampa Theater invites you to enjoy a romantic and cultural experience just minutes away.

Adventure

Adventure Island is a thrilling waterpark located 966m from Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, offering excitement and family fun. Enjoy outdoor adventures on the Skyride, a scenic cable car gondola situated 322m away. For adrenaline seekers, the Grand Prix Tampa karting experience is 4.8km away, promising exhilarating rides.

Nightlife

At Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, the nightlife comes alive with vibrant events, live music, and thrilling rides under the stars. Enjoy colourful festivals and themed evenings, while dining at various restaurants offering delightful cuisine. The atmosphere buzzes with excitement, making it a perfect spot for an unforgettable night out.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a premier destination in Tampa, Florida, featuring a variety of attractions suitable for families and culture enthusiasts alike. Visitors can enjoy thrilling rides, engaging animal exhibits, and lively entertainment venues. The park is conveniently located near other notable Tampa attractions, making it an excellent base for exploring local colleges, event venues, and outdoor experiences, ensuring a memorable vacation for all types of travellers.

  • Raymond James Stadium: Located 9.7km from Busch Gardens, this vibrant arena offers a thrilling atmosphere for sports enthusiasts and families alike. Home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the stadium hosts exhilarating games and concerts, making it a hub of entertainment and community spirit.
  • Florida State Fairgrounds: Situated 8.0km away, this lively fairground is a delightful destination for families. With seasonal events, outdoor activities, and a variety of attractions, it captures the essence of Florida's festive spirit, perfect for creating lasting memories.
  • Tampa Riverwalk: Just 11.3km from Busch Gardens, this picturesque esplanade invites visitors to stroll along the scenic waterfront. Ideal for families and couples, the Riverwalk offers beautiful views, recreational activities, and a romantic vibe, making it an enchanting escape.

Best time to go to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

The best time to visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January60.8°F (16.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
February64.4°F (18.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
March67.6°F (19.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May78.1°F (25.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June82.0°F (27.8°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
July83.1°F (28.4°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August83.5°F (28.6°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September81.3°F (27.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
October76.1°F (24.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
November68.9°F (20.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

Tips to save on your trip to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically September to November) for more affordable package holidays to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

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