Busch Gardens Tampa Bay - Tampa, Florida

LaToya M.

I had a great time. The animal exhibits were absolutely awesome. I came for the coaster but enjoyed so much more. The food was good as well. I got the two day two park pass with all day dinner. The only thing I'd change is the drink plan. I'd much rather have all day drinks with maybe one or two meals.

Noah V. D.

Busch Gardens is certainly more of a thrill-seker's theme park. The roller coasters here are incredibly fast and exciting (with the exception of a few family-friendly ones like Phoenix or Cobra's Curse). Wait times can be a bit much, so I suggest getting a fast pass. It will be the difference between a 120-minute wait and a 30-minute wait, especially on the more popular rides like Cheetah Hunt and Iron Gwazi. For those who don't wish to ride the crazy roller coasters, there are alternatives, including many performances, safaris, a gondola, and a safari train ride.

On top of being a theme park, Busch Gardens is also a zoo. The whole park is themed like regions of the African continent, and is devided into sections based on real-life places in Africa such as Morocco, Egypt, Nairobi, The Congo, and the Serengeti, (as well as a region called "Pantopia" which stands out because it is not named after a real place, but if I had to guess i'd probably say its based on Mali.) All of the regions/sections have exhibits with the animals you would find in those respective regions. In total, I remember seeing crocodiles, lions, tigers, cheetahs, hyenas, gazelles, flamingos, parrots, Antelope, giraffes, rhinos, waterbucks, elephants, and many more. Additionally, I don't know too much about it, but Busch Gardens also puts a lot of effort and money into conservation initiatives.

Fritz A.

My wife and I just returned from an incredible trip to Busch Gardens with our kids, and we're still grinning from ear to ear! This was our son Garnet's first time at the park, and his eyes widened with wonder as he explored the colorful world of Sesame Street. Watching him hug Elmo was pure magic!
Our 9 year old daughter Peyton, on the other hand, proved to be a thrill-seeker extraordinaire! She bravely rode her first coaster, the Shikra, and screamed with delight. We couldn't be prouder of her fearless spirit!
The Smokehouse is an absolute must-visit; the slow-cooked meats and savory sides are truly to die for. We ended up going back for seconds with the dine all day pass, which is an absolute must have.
From the moment we walked through the gates, the entire Busch Gardens experience was nothing short of exceptional. The staff were beyond friendly and helpful, the park was immaculately clean, and the atmosphere was electric.
If you're looking for a vacation spot that's fun for the whole family, look no further than Busch Gardens. We can't wait to come back and make more unforgettable memories with our kids!

Alicia M.

Okay things have changed so be prepared first to purchase your tickets online. Secondly you will have to put all your money on a card because you can no longer spend cash inside the park. It's a prepaid card with a visa logo so you can use it anywhere. It was absolutely beautiful when we went the animals were the best part for me. The water rides were closed which I love the raging rapids was super bummed about that. However it was beautiful outside and the staff was great they even gave me 10 free fast ride tickets because of the inconvenience of not being able to purchase the tickets with cash. Overall great day!

M S.

Busch Gardens has just about everything you would want to see and do. From shows to animals and the best rides you can ride. They have everything for the little kids and the big kids. Half the price of the big ear theme park and less crowded. If you're visiting Florida, I highly recommend going to Busch Gardens and purchasing the fast pass for the rides. You won't regret it.

Mirah W.

Fun experience! Went on December and get the opportunity to watch pretty cool ice skating performances! It is worth it to but the food pass because food there are a little pricey and also if you get the food pass, the line usually pretty long and the restaurants are mostly close by 5pm hours maybe different.

Brenda M. -.

We enjoyed Busch Gardens, but there are a few things to note .
1. No cash is accepted. Bring a card
2. You can walk faster to entrance than riding the trail.
3. A few of the rides are under major construction
4. Buy the refill bottle it's worth it .
5. Go early to beat the lines

Jack L.

It's been 35yrs since I took my daughter here. Yesterday I took her daughter and three others. If I live another 100 years I won't go back. I spent just under $1000, including extra $ for the all day meal tickets. Between the long lines and favorite rides that were shut down, it just isn't worth it. So glad I didn't waste more money on the animal experience ($40/person) to see the small smattering of African Plains animals.
The employees were friendly and cordial, and the food was tasty, with decent portions. Still, I wouldn't buy the all day meal tickets again as it limited your options and tended to talk you out of maybe buying some treats along the way.
Go if you must. But be prepared to be underwhelmed.

PS - I'm old, I get it. But for $1000 could I get a dang map of the facilities to help plan the day? After waiting in line at guest services another ten minutes, the young lady brushed me off -like the old Geezer that I am - and pointed to a map on a nearby sign and suggested I take a picture of it. Not real convenient, as trying to see that map on my phone screen, in the bright sun, was less than ideal. Forgive me for selfishly trying to cut into your corporate profits, just to make my day more relaxing and enjoyable.