ZooFlorida, US

Busch Gardens Tampa

Busch Gardens Tampa offers an unparalleled blend of wild animals and world-class thrills.

About

Busch Gardens Tampa offers an unparalleled blend of wild animals and world-class thrills. This unique African-themed animal theme park in Tampa, Florida, boasts one of North America's largest zoos, housing over 200 species across 335 acres, alongside an impressive array of award-winning roller coasters and live entertainment. It provides an immersive experience where the excitement of a safari meets the adrenaline of a modern amusement park, making it a standout destination for all ages.

Beyond the heart-pounding rides, the park shines with its commitment to wildlife. Traverse the sprawling 65-acre Serengeti Plain to witness free-roaming herds of rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and antelopes, either from viewing points, the Serengeti Express train, or a guided Serengeti Safari tour. Engage with magnificent tigers in Jungala's Tiger Lodge, observe gorillas and chimpanzees in their naturalistic Myombe Reserve, or get up close with cheetahs at Cheetah Run. Interactive experiences like hand-feeding colorful lorikeets or graceful flamingos at Animal Connections provide memorable moments with fascinating creatures.

Busch Gardens Tampa is more than just a day out; it's an adventure into the heart of Africa, combined with the exhilaration of cutting-edge attractions. The park's diverse offerings, from captivating animal habitats and educational encounters to the towering drops of Iron Gwazi and SheiKra, ensure a full day of discovery and excitement. It’s a place where conservation meets thrills, creating an unforgettable experience that educates, entertains, and inspires. Take the ultimate field guide with you: use the Snappit app to identify birds, plants, and animals on your trip.

Busch Gardens Tampa first opened its doors on March 31, 1959, conceived by Anheuser-Busch as a hospitality venue. Initially, it served as a means to showcase their Clydesdale horses and beers, featuring beautiful gardens and exotic bird exhibits, including four parrots. A pivotal expansion occurred in 1965 with the introduction of the 70-acre Serengeti Plain, establishing one of the largest free-roaming enclosed animal habitats outside of Africa, accessible via a monorail. Throughout the 1970s, the park began incorporating thrill rides, eventually evolving into the comprehensive animal theme park it is today, balancing its roots in animal care and conservation with adrenaline-pumping attractions.

What to do here

Embark on a Serengeti Safari to feed giraffes.

* Experience thrilling rides like Iron Gwazi, SheiKra, Montu, Kumba, and Cheetah Hunt.

* Visit the Animal Care Center to observe animal care firsthand.

* Enjoy family-friendly attractions and shows in Sesame Street Safari of Fun.

* Attend seasonal events like Summer Nights, Howl-O-Scream, or Christmas Town.

Seasonal info

Summer (May-August): Expect hot, humid weather and afternoon thunderstorms. The park often features "Summer Nights" with extended hours, drone shows, themed parties, and sometimes free beer for guests 21+.

Fall (September-November): Generally pleasant weather. Halloween events like "Halloween Spooktacular" (family-friendly) and "Howl-O-Scream" (separately ticketed, scarier) occur.

Winter (December-February): Cooler, ideal weather. "Christmas Town" offers festive lights, shows, and holiday-themed experiences.

Accessibility

Busch Gardens Tampa provides accessible parking and a Ride Accessibility Program (RAP) for guests with disabilities. Wheelchairs and Electric Convenience Vehicles (ECVs) are available for rent, with reservations recommended. ASL interpreters can be requested 14 days in advance. First aid facilities are staffed by medical professionals, and all gift shops are wheelchair accessible. A virtual queue system is available for some rides for RAP participants.

Don't miss

Serengeti Plain

Explore this vast habitat on the Serengeti Safari tour (an open-air vehicle experience where you can feed giraffes) or the Serengeti Express train, observing diverse African wildlife.

Iron Gwazi

North America's tallest hybrid coaster and one of the world's fastest and steepest.

SheiKra

A dive coaster with a 200-foot drop at a 90-degree angle.

Jungala

Home to tigers and orangutans, offering up-close viewing opportunities.

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Eastern Gray Squirrel

Brown Anole

Muscovy Duck

Sandhill Crane

Bee

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Arrive early

** Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before the park opens to beat the crowds, especially for popular rides and animal exhibits.

Buy tickets online

Purchasing tickets in advance online can often save you money compared to buying at the gate.

Utilize the park map and app

Plan your day using the park map or mobile app to minimize walking and maximize your time, especially if you have specific rides or animal encounters in mind.

Stay hydrated

Florida weather can be hot and humid; drink plenty of water throughout the day. Bring a reusable water bottle or take advantage of water fountains.

Consider a Serengeti Safari

For an unforgettable animal interaction, book the Serengeti Safari tour to feed giraffes on the open plain.

Dress comfortably

Wear comfortable shoes suitable for extensive walking, and consider light, breathable clothing.

Frequently asked questions

: Busch Gardens Tampa offers several unique animal experiences, including the Serengeti Safari, where you can take an open-air vehicle tour of the 65-acre Serengeti Plain and have the opportunity to hand-feed giraffes. You can also interact with flamingos and even meet a sloth at Animal Connections, or get up close to lorikeets in an interactive aviary.
: Yes, Busch Gardens Tampa features the Sesame Street Safari of Fun, an area dedicated to young children with kid-friendly rides like Air Grover, water play areas, character meet-and-greets, and live shows featuring Sesame Street characters. The new Wild Oasis area also offers a climbing structure, splash pad, and kid rides.
: Busch Gardens Tampa offers a comprehensive Ride Accessibility Program (RAP) accessible through Guest Relations, which provides a virtual queue system for guests unable to wait in standard lines. The park also provides accessible parking, wheelchair and ECV rentals, and ASL interpreters upon request. First aid stations and accessible restrooms are available throughout the park.