Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Holidays

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 kilometers) per hour. Cheetah Hunt is a 4,400-foot (1,340-meter) long coaster that travels inside the Serengeti and down into a rocky gorge. It reaches a top speed of 60 miles (97 kilometers) 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 kilometers) 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.

Plan a trip to see Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

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Family Home Tampa
Hotel Tampa Riverwalk
The Westshore Grand, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Tampa

Tours & day trips

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Food, drink & nightlife

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Private & custom tours

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Adventure & outdoor

See all 5 activities

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
Gardenview

Gardenview

2500 E Busch Blvd Tampa FL
Gardenview
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
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
Hyatt Place Busch Gardens

Hyatt Place Busch Gardens

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

At Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, visitors can enjoy a variety of thrilling activities, including exciting rides and tours through the adventure park. Don't miss the chance to explore the vibrant atmosphere filled with live music and seasonal festivals. For those seeking water fun, Adventure Island offers exhilarating water rides to cool off. The park combines adventure and entertainment, making it a perfect destination for a memorable holiday.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, visit Hyde Park Softball Field and International Plaza and Bay Street, both located 12.9km away, offering a variety of shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, Westfield Citrus Park, 16.1km away, provides an exciting shopping atmosphere.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at the MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre, just 8.0km from Busch Gardens, for exhilarating concerts. Enjoy the cultural charm of Tampa Theatre, 9.7km away, perfect for a romantic evening. For relaxation, visit Lettuce Lake Park, 6.4km away, offering serene wellness activities amidst nature.

Adventure

Adventure Island, located 966m from Busch Gardens, offers thrilling water slides and family-friendly attractions. The Skyride, a scenic cable car 322m away, provides stunning views of the park. For an adrenaline rush, head to Grand Prix Tampa, 4.8km away, for exciting karting experiences.

Nightlife

At Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, the nightlife buzzes with excitement. Enjoy live music and vibrant performances at the Morocco Plaza. For a more relaxed vibe, head to the Serengeti Overlook, where you can sip cocktails while overlooking exotic animals under the stars.

*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, a premier destination in Tampa, Florida, offers a variety of attractions perfect for families and culture enthusiasts alike. Visitors can enjoy thrilling rides, lush gardens, and exciting shows, while nearby points of interest include modern universities and event venues. Additionally, exploring local attractions near Busch Gardens enhances the experience, making it an ideal spot for outdoor adventures and memorable family outings.

  • University of South Florida: A vibrant institution located 3.2km from Busch Gardens, the University of South Florida offers a lively campus atmosphere infused with city vibes. Visitors can explore its modern architecture, green spaces, and a variety of cultural events that reflect the dynamic spirit of student life.
  • Raymond James Stadium: Situated 9.7km away, this multi-purpose arena is home to thrilling sports events and concerts. With a family-friendly environment, it provides an entertaining atmosphere perfect for sports enthusiasts and concert-goers alike.
  • Tampa Convention Center: Located 11.3km from Busch Gardens, this expansive event venue is ideal for business conferences and exhibitions. Its modern facilities and professional ambience make it a hub for business networking and events.

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 average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January60.8°F (16.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
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 SunnySlightly LowSlightly 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

  • Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
  • Consider traveling to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay during the low season (September to November) for more affordable options.
  • 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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