Busch Gardens Williamsburg
| Company type | Amusement park |
|---|---|
| Industry | Entertainment |
| Founded | May 16, 1975 |
| Founder | Anheuser-Busch |
| Headquarters | James City County , United States |
Area served | North America |
| Owner | United Parks & Resorts |
| Website | buschgardens |
Busch Gardens Williamsburg—previously known as Busch Gardens Europe and Busch Gardens: The Old Country—is an amusement park located in James City County, near Williamsburg, Virginia, roughly northwest of Virginia Beach, Virginia. Initially developed by Anheuser-Busch (A-B) and now under the ownership of United Parks & Resorts, it stands as one of the two operational Busch Gardens locations.
The park commenced operations on May 16, 1975, situated adjacent to Anheuser-Busch’s brewery and the nearby Kingsmill Resort area. Its original title was 'Busch Gardens: The Old Country,' with a theme celebrating various European nations. In 1993, the park adopted the name Busch Gardens Williamsburg and was briefly rebranded as Busch Gardens Europe between 2006 and 2008. Attendance figures in 2015 reached an estimated 2.78 million visitors, placing it 20th among North American amusement parks.
Among its standout attractions are major roller coasters including Loch Ness Monster, Griffon, Verbolten, Pantheon, Alpengeist, and Apollo's Chariot.
History
Beginning in the early 1970s, Anheuser-Busch (A-B) initiated the development of Busch Gardens as part of a broader investment strategy in the Williamsburg region, which encompassed a brewery, the Kingsmill Resort, along with residential and commercial real estate. The park officially opened in 1975 under the name Busch Gardens: The Old Country.
This investment followed discussions between Gussie Busch and then Arkansas governor and Colonial Williamsburg chairman Winthrop Rockefeller. During the 1990s, A-B expanded its theme park holdings by acquiring the nearby water attraction Water Country USA, complementing other properties such as SeaWorld.
In 2008, Belgium-based brewer InBev acquired Anheuser-Busch and announced plans to sell off non-core assets. By 2009, the Blackstone Group was chosen to purchase and manage ten former A-B amusement parks, including two located in Williamsburg. In July 2010, Denver-based Xanterra Parks and Resorts, owned by Phillip Anschutz, agreed to acquire the neighboring Kingsmill Resort.
The COVID-19 pandemic caused a postponement of the park’s 2020 season opening until August 6. Upon reopening, it featured the Coasters and Craft Brews event with reduced capacity, mandatory advance reservations, and health screening protocols. Additionally, modified versions of seasonal events such as Taste of Busch Gardens Williamsburg, Halloween Harvest, Christmas Celebration, Winter Weekends, and Mardi Gras were held.
Beginning in January 2021, Busch Gardens Williamsburg transitioned to year-round operations by introducing limited-capacity special events during winter months—a strategic move extending beyond its usual operating period from late March through early January.
Overview
This park integrates thrilling roller coasters with Broadway-caliber performances and is organized into themed "countries," each offering unique cuisine, music, and attractions reflecting their respective cultural inspirations.
Conservation
Jack Hanna's Wild Reserve showcases animals such as bald eagles and gray wolves. Busch Gardens collaborates with SeaWorld—both under the ownership of United Parks & Resorts—via the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, which allows visitors to contribute to wildlife preservation efforts. To minimize environmental impact, the Rhine River Cruise operates with battery-powered vessels. Additionally, Busch Gardens and Water Country USA utilize beneficial insects in place of chemical pesticides to maintain organic gardens. All printed materials throughout the park are produced using recycled paper.
Howl-O-Scream
Since its inception in 1999, Howl-O-Scream has served as the park’s premier Halloween celebration, featuring more than twelve themed attractions that include motifs such as witches, zombies, vampires, clowns, and skeletons.
St. Patrick's Day
In March 2021, Busch Gardens Williamsburg introduced its inaugural St. Patrick's Day festivities spanning all ten hamlets. This event spotlights Irish culinary specialties, live music, entertainment acts, and unique activities, while rides remain operational. The Das Festhaus stage presents award-winning Irish stepdance performances like Celtic Fyre, complemented by shows from Virginia’s Irish Dance Schools held at the San Marco Theatre. Children can participate in a scavenger hunt led by a leprechaun character, whereas adults may enjoy beverages including Guinness selections and green beer.
Night of Oktoberfest
The annual Night of Oktoberfest, held since 1976 within the Germany Hamlet and restricted to guests aged 21 and over, features German-inspired cuisine and beverages, a DJ, interactive games, raffle prizes, and access to select amusement rides.
Christmas Town
Debuting in 2009, Christmas Town is the park’s seasonal holiday event offering exclusive winter and Christmas-themed attractions. A centerpiece is the 50 ft "O Tannenbaum" Christmas tree located in Oktoberfest, which illuminates in time with festive music. Each venue presents themed entertainment such as modern adaptations of classic tales (e.g., Scrooge No More), ice-skating productions (Twas That Night on Ice), and a cappella concerts (Gift of Harmony). Signature rides including Verbolten, InvadR, Pantheon, and more recently Apollo's Chariot operate during this period. The park is decorated with millions of lights alongside real Christmas trees to enhance the holiday ambiance. Seasonal dining menus cater to colder weather preferences, and themed retail options are available. Christmas Town runs from the weekend preceding Thanksgiving through early January.
Hamlets
The park is organized into ten hamlets that represent traditional European villages inspired by regions from England, France, Germany, Italy, Scotland, and Ireland.
Transportation options within the park include two primary attractions: The Aeronaut Skyride—a gondola system connecting Sesame Street Forest of Fun, Aquitaine, and Rhine Feld—and the Busch Gardens Railway, a steam train replica linking Heatherdowns, Festa Italia, and New France. Both provide functional transit between hamlets while reinforcing the park’s "Old Country" motif, ensuring convenient travel for families.
Banbury Cross (England)
Banbury Cross showcases authentic Tudor-style English architecture and houses Guest Services near the main entrance gates. Its prominent feature is a replica of the Elizabeth Tower, widely known as Big Ben. Dining venues include The Squire's Grill serving breakfast and lunch options, alongside a funnel cake stand, an ice cream shop, and a candy store. The Globe Theatre is a double-sized reproduction of Shakespeare’s original playhouse; after renovations in 2014 it resumed hosting live performances. Previously dedicated to 4-D film presentations such as Haunts of the Old Country and Pirates 4-D, it now features “American Jukebox: Summer Remix,” a musical show highlighting popular American hits from previous decades.
Heatherdowns (Scotland)
Perched on the hill overlooking Banbury Cross, Heatherdowns presents a Scottish-inspired village atmosphere. Tweedside Train Station provides a 20-minute journey, making stops at Festa Italia and Caribou Station in New France. Nearby, visitors can find Tweedside Gifts. The Highland Stables are home to Scottish Blackface sheep, Border Collies, and Clydesdales, featuring daily herding exhibitions and photo sessions. Up until 2010, the stables showcased the Anheuser-Busch Clydesdales before the theme park division was sold in 2009. Seasonal kiosks support events such as the Food and Wine Festival and Summer Nights.
- Loch Ness Monster – This Arrow Development roller coaster is distinguished as the last remaining coaster worldwide with interlocking loops. It was closed in 2023 for refurbishment by Premier Rides.
Sesame Street Forest of Fun
Since its opening on April 3, 2009, Sesame Street Forest of Fun has offered four family-oriented rides inspired by Sesame Street characters. Attractions include Grover's Alpine Express, a Zierer Force roller coaster; Bert and Ernie's Loch Adventure, a flume ride with water effects; Oscar's Whirly Worms, a rocking and spinning Rockin' Tug ride; and Prince Elmo's Spire, a family-friendly Zamperla shot-n-drop tower. The area also features both wet and dry play zones, a stage hosting the "Sunny Days Celebration" show, and a gift shop. The Skyride station closest to the Main Gate is located here, providing connections to Aquitaine, France, and Rhinefeld, Germany.
- Bert and Ernie's Loch Adventure – Water-based flat flume ride
- Oscar's Whirly Worms – Spinning and rocking Rockin' Tug attraction
- Prince Elmo's Spire – Family-oriented drop tower manufactured by Zamperla
- Grover's Alpine Express – 24-foot tall family roller coaster by Zierer
Killarney (Ireland)
Previously known as Hastings, England, this section was transformed into an Irish-themed area in 2001—marking the first new country addition in over two decades—resulting in a 17% increase in attendance after opening and receiving a top honor from the Themed Entertainment Association. It is home to Celtic Fyre at Abbey Stone Theatre, an acclaimed Irish dance production awarded Best Amusement Park Entertainment by USA Today in 2021. Formerly called the Magic Lantern Theatre, this venue hosted popular musical revues such as Kaleidoscope and Rockin' the Boat. Visitors can enjoy Irish cuisine at Grogan's Grill.
Next to Castle O'Sullivan, a pathway ascends toward Aquitaine, France, passing animal habitats and theaters. Originally opened as Jack Hanna's Wild Reserve in 2000, this section merged with Killarney in 2017 and is now known as Jack Hanna Trail.
- Finnegan's Flyer – Launched in spring 2019, this S&S Sansei Screamin' Swing propels riders 100 feet high at speeds up to 45 mph
- Eagle Ridge & Wolf Valley – Animal exhibits located near the village area
- Pet Shenanigans Theater – Outdoor venue that formerly hosted More Pet Shenanigans
- Lorikeet Glen – Enclosed sanctuary where guests can interact with vibrant lorikeets
San Marco (Italy)
Introduced during Busch Gardens’ expansion phase, San Marco completed the outer loop walkway and added a pedestrian bridge connecting to Oktoberfest in Germany. Inspired by Renaissance Italy, its highlight is Da Vinci's Garden of Inventions featuring Italian sculptures and rides based on Leonardo da Vinci’s designs. Dining options include Ristorante Della Piazza offering Italian fare alongside live entertainment such as "Mix It Up."
- Escape from Pompeii – A shoot-the-chutes water ride depicting Pompeii’s destruction with effects including fire, water splashes, and falling statues
- Little Gliders & Little Balloons – Children's carnival rides themed around Da Vinci’s inventions
- The Battering Ram – A high-capacity swinging ship ride delivering intense thrills without any inversions
Festa Italia (Italy)
Festa Italia honors Marco Polo's historic journey from China, featuring numerous festival-themed midway games alongside attractions inspired by Roman mythology.
- Apollo's Chariot – The inaugural Bolliger & Mabillard Hyper Coaster showcasing bold drops over ponds and hills; its striking purple and gold color scheme is prominently visible from the park’s entrance.
- Roman Rapids – An Intamin River Rapids attraction winding through Roman ruins, designed to drench guests.
- Tradewinds – A permanent music express attraction.
- Elephant Run – A music express ride tailored for younger visitors.
- Turkish Delight – A variation on the classic teacups ride.
- Tempesto – A Premier Rides Sky Rocket II coaster featuring triple launches, an inline twist, and a non-inverting loop, capable of reaching 60 mph both forwards and backwards.
- Pantheon – An Intamin multi-launch roller coaster.
Additionally, Festa Italia houses the Festa Train Station for the Busch Gardens Railway.
Rhinefeld (Rhineland Germany)
Rhinefeld is themed as a ski resort nestled in the German Alps and functions as the third stop for Busch Gardens’ Skyride. This area includes Land of the Dragons, a children’s play zone with rides and seasonal entertainment.
- Alpengeist – A Bolliger & Mabillard inverted coaster styled as a haunted ski lift, featuring six inversions and Alpine-themed décor including ski equipment at the station.
- Kinder Karussel – The park’s historic Herschell Carousel.
- Land of the Dragons – An interactive play area for kids, complete with a treehouse and various rides.
Land of the Dragons
Established in 1994 to replace Grimms Hollow, Land of the Dragons serves as Busch Gardens’ main children’s section, with Dumpherey the Dragon as its mascot. Highlights include a dragon-themed three-story treehouse, a water play area featuring waterfalls and geysers, smaller play zones, and formerly the Dragon Digs retail shop. Featured attractions are:
- Flutter Splutter – a flying dragon ride
- Chug-A-Tug – a boat ride
- Bug-A-Dug – a music express-style attraction with ladybug-themed cars
- Dragon-themed Treehouse
- Brook – a water play zone
Since 2012, the Lost Children building was moved here from Wild Moose Lodge in New France.
Oktoberfest (Bavaria, Germany)
Oktoberfest recreates the ambiance of the traditional German festival, offering numerous flat rides and carnival games. Das Festhaus serves German fare alongside American favorites while hosting rotating live performances. This section once featured The Big Bad Wolf suspended coaster until its closure in 2009.
In 2011, Oktoberfest received updates including new retail outlets, a beer garden, and Beste Brezeln und Bier pretzel shop adorned with a Bavarian maypole. The Mäch Tower, a 246-foot Roto-Drop by Moser's Rides, operated here until shutting down in 2023. The site previously occupied by Big Bad Wolf became home to Verbolten, a Zierer ESC family launch coaster that debuted in spring 2012.
The area also hosts the annual BierFest event, showcasing over 22 varieties of beer on tap paired with German-inspired food and drinks.
The trackless dark ride Curse of DarKastle ran from 2005 until its closure in 2017 due to maintenance expenses. Subsequently, its building was repurposed for seasonal events. In 2022, Busch Gardens revealed plans for DarKoaster: Escape The Storm—an Intamin family launch straddle coaster replacing DarKastle. DarKoaster launched in May 2023 as North America’s first fully indoor straddle coaster.
Featured attractions include:
- Der Autobahn – bumper car ride
- Der Autobahn Jr. – kiddie bumper cars
- Der Roto Baron – Red Baron-style ride
- Der Wirbelwind – traditional yo-yo swings
- DarKoaster: Escape The Storm – indoor straddle coaster
- Verbolten – Black Forest-inspired family launched coaster reaching speeds up to 53 mph with a distinctive free-fall track element
- Big Bad Wolf: The Wolf's Revenge – steel coaster hitting 40 mph, serving as a spiritual successor to the original Big Bad Wolf
Aquitaine (France)
This area, inspired by the elegance of Belle Époque France and centered around the village of Aquitaine, includes a variety of shops and a major Skyride terminal that links England with Rhinefeld, Germany. Seasonal performances take place at the Royal Palace Theatre.
- Griffon – A Bolliger & Mabillard dive coaster featuring a 205-foot vertical drop at 90 degrees, two Immelmann inversions, and a splashdown finale; serves as a sister attraction to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay's SheiKra. Debuted: 2007
New France (French Colonial)
New France presents a French colonial atmosphere with themed retail outlets and attractions such as the Busch Gardens Railway departing from Caribou Station and the Le Scoot Log Flume, which boasts a 50-foot descent through a sawmill setting. The Trappers Smokehouse specializes in grilled and smoked dishes including chicken, turkey legs, ribs, and brisket.
- Le Scoot Log Flume – Traditional log flume ride
- Le Catapult – Simple carnival scrambler
- InvadR – A wooden coaster built by Great Coasters International in 2017, themed around the Viking invasion of New France; features nine airtime hills, a 74-foot drop, and reaches speeds up to 48 mph
Current (listed by year introduced)
| Name | Manufacturer | Type | Opened |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loch Ness Monster | Arrow Development | Custom Looper | 1978 |
| Alpengeist | Bolliger & Mabillard (B&M) | Inverted Coaster | 1997 |
| Apollo's Chariot | Bolliger & Mabillard (B&M) | Hyper Coaster | 1999 |
| Griffon | Bolliger & Mabillard (B&M) | Dive Coaster | 2007 |
| Grover's Alpine Express | Zierer | Force 190 Coaster | 2009 |
| Verbolten | Zierer | ESC Coaster | 2012 |
| Tempesto | Premier Rides | Sky Rocket II | 2015 |
| InvadR | Great Coasters International (GCI) | Wooden Coaster | 2017 |
| Pantheon | Intamin | LSM Launch Coaster | 2022 |
| DarKoaster: Escape The Storm | Intamin | Family Launch Straddle Coaster | 2023 |
| Big Bad Wolf: The Wolf's Revenge | Bolliger & Mabillard (B&M) | Family Inverted Coaster | 2025 |
Retired
| Name | Manufacturer | Type | Opened | Closed | Replaced By | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Die Wildkatze (The Wildcat) | Schwarzkopf | Wildcat | 1976 | 1983 | Big Bad Wolf | |
| Das Kätzchen (The Kitten) | Allan Herschell Company | Little Dipper | 1976 | 1984 | ||
| Glissade | Schwarzkopf | Jet Star - Jumbo Jet model | 1975 | 1985 | (Wild Maus) | |
| Drachen Fire | Arrow Dynamics | Custom Looper coaster | 1992 | 1998 | 'Big Bad Wolf: The Wolf’s Revenge' | |
| (Wild Maus) | (Mack Rides) | (Steel Wild Mouse) | '1996 | '2003 | 'Curse of DarKastle (DarKoaster: Escape The Storm)' | |
| 'Big Bad Wolf' | 'Arrow Dynamics' | 'Suspended Coaster' | '1984' | '2009' | 'Verbolten' |
Entertainment
rowspan="3" Halloween SpooktacularLate September to Early November rowspan="12" Christmas TownNovember to Early January| Event | Name | Performance Space | Opened | Replaced | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mardi Gras
Late January to Late March |
Sunny Days Celebration | Sesame Street Forest of Fun | 2010 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| New Orleans Brass Jazz Band | Das Festhaus, Oktoberfest | 2021 | Festhaus Varieté: Comedic Jugglers | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Carnaval Imaginique: A Golden Jubilee Spectacular | Globe Theatre, England | 2022 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Bourbon Street Brigade | Il Teatro Di San Marco, Italy | 2024 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The Craw Daddies | Aquitaine, France | 2025 | Mardi Street Party (France); revival of Samba Jamboree | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Mardi Street Party | Killarney Village, Ireland | 2025 | Samba Jamboree; revival of Mardi Street Party (France) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| St. Patrick's Day Celebration
March |
Celtic Fyre | Abbey Stone Theatre, Ireland | 2010 | Emerald Beat | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sunny Days Celebration | Sesame Street Forest of Fun | 2010 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dublin Over | Killarney Village, Ireland | 2021 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Killarney Village Celebration | Killarney Village, Ireland | 2022 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Kids' Weekends
Late March to Late April |
Celtic Fyre |
Abbey Stone Theatre, Ireland |
2010 |
Emerald Beat | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sunny Days Celebration | Sesame Street Forest of Fun | 2010 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dublin Over | Killarney Village, Ireland | 2021 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Oom-Pah Band | Das Festhaus, Oktoberfest | 2021 | OktoberZest (partial) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Food & Wine Festival
Late April to Late June |
Celtic Fyre |
Abbey Stone Theatre, Ireland |
2010 |
Emerald Beat | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sunny Days Celebration | Sesame Street Forest of Fun | 2010 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sesame Street: Let's Play Together! | Globe Theatre, England | 2018 | Elmo Rocks! | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dublin Over | Killarney Village, Ireland | 2021 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Trio di Roma | Il Teatro Di San Marco, Italy | 2024 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| We Are Oktoberfest | Das Festhaus, Oktoberfest | 2025 | OktoberZest; second revival of This is Oktoberfest | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Summer of Wonder
Late June to Late July |
Celtic Fyre |
Abbey Stone Theatre, Ireland |
2010 |
Emerald Beat | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sunny Days Celebration |
Sesame Street Forest of Fun |
2010 |
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| Sounds of San Marco (daytime set) |
Il Teatro Di San Marco, Italy |
2023 |
Bel Concertino | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| We Are Oktoberfest |
Das Festhaus, Oktoberfest |
2025 |
OktoberZest; second revival of This is Oktoberfest | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Broken Turnstiles |
Aquitaine, France |
2025 |
Abbey Taverns | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sounds of San Marco (nighttime set) |
Il Teatro Di San Marco, Italy |
2025 |
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| Across the Pond: Legends of the UK |
Globe Theatre, England |
2026 |
American Jukebox: Summer Remix | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Kinetix: A New Generation |
Royal Palace Theatre, France |
2026 |
revival of Kinetix | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Bier Fest Brews & BBQ
August |
Celtic Fyre |
Abbey Stone Theatre, Ireland |
2010 |
Emerald Beat | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sunny Days Celebration |
Sesame Street Forest of Fun |
2010 |
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| Sounds of San Marco (daytime set) |
Il Teatro Di San Marco, Italy |
2023 |
Bel Concertino | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| We Are Oktoberfest |
Das Festhaus, Oktoberfest |
2025 |
OktoberZest; second revival of This is Oktoberfest | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Broken Turnstiles |
Aquitaine, France |
2025 |
Abbey Taverns | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sounds of San Marco (nighttime set) |
Il Teatro Di San Marco, Italy |
2025 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Across the Pond: Legends of the UK |
Globe Theatre, England |
2026 |
American Jukebox: Summer Remix | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Kinetix: A New Generation |
Royal Palace Theatre, France |
2026 |
revival of Kinetix | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Howl-O-Scream
Early September to Early November |
Monster Stomp on Ripper Row | Globe Theatre, England | 2014 | Pirates 4-D (2011); second revival of Monster Stomp | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Fiends (2024 revival)
|
Abbey Stone Theatre, Ireland | 2024 | Jack is Back; third revival of Fiends in the Festhaus | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The Witching Hour | Oktoberfest | 2024 | revival of Jack's Haunting Hour | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Skeletones in Your Closet | Das Festhaus, Oktoberfest | 2025 | Phantoms of the Festhaus; revival of Skeletones | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Spirit Spellebration | Il Teatro Di San Marco, Italy | 2025 | Skeletones | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Count's Countdown to Halloween | Sesame Street Forest of Fun | 2017 | Monster Game Show | Sesame Street Forest of Fun | 2024 | Monster Street Party | Aquitaine, France | 2024 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Celebration of Lights at O'Tannenbaum | Oktoberfest | 2009 | England Carolers | Banbury Cross and Globe Theatre, England | 2009 | Santa's Fireside Feast | Castle O'Sullivan, Ireland | 2009 | Polar Pathway: Spectacle of Lights | Escape from Pompeii exterior | 2011 | Gloria! | Abbey Stone Theatre, Ireland | 2011 / 2023 | Rejoice / Celtic Fyre: A Christmas Celebration | Scrooge No More! | Globe Theatre, England | 2014 | A Sesame Street Christmas | 'Twas That Night | Royal Palace Theatre, France | 2015 | Elmo's Christmas Wish | Sesame Street Forest of Fun | 2021 | Merry Misfits | Aquitaine, France | 2023 | Wisemen | Il Teatro Di San Marco, Italy | 2023 | Unto Us | Christmas Town Live! A Holiday Special | Das Festhaus, Oktoberfest | 2025 | Up on the Haustop |
Roller Coasters and Rides
Curse of DarKastle Oceaneering Tracked dark ride 2005 2017 DarKoaster: Escape the Storm Eggery Deggery Zamperla Mini Ferris Wheel 1994 2018 Die Wirbelwindchen Hampton Mini Swing Ride 1975 2019 Battle for Eire - Simulator attraction 2018 2020 Da Vinci's Cradle Zierer Magic Carpet style ride 1983 2022 Mäch TowerMoser's Rides Drop Tower style ride 2011 2023 The Flying Machine Tivoli Orbiter ride 1980 2024| Name | Manufacturer | Type | Inaugurated | Decommissioned | Successor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gladiator's Gauntlet | Vekoma | Canyon Trip | 1988 | 1993 | |
| Questor | Simulator attraction | 1990 | 1996 | King Arthur's Challenge | |
| Sea Dragon | Mack Rides | Sea Storm ride | 1987 | 1998 | Apollo's Chariot |
| Eagle One Monorail | Westinghouse Electric Corporation | Monorail system | May 1975 | 1998 | |
| Drachen Fire | Arrow Dynamics | Custom looping coaster | 1992 | 1998 | Festhaus Park area |
| King Arthur's Challenge | Simulator attraction | 1996 | 2001 | Corkscrew Hill simulator ride | |
| Wild Maus (previously Wild Izzy) | Mack Rides | Wild Mouse roller coaster model | 1996 | 2003 | Curse of DarKastle; later moved to Busch Gardens Tampa as "Cheetah Chase" |
| Le Mans Raceway | Arrow Dynamics | Vintage car ride experience | 1975 | 2006 | Griffon |
| Big Bad Wolf | Arrow Dynamics | Suspended roller coaster type | 1984 | 2009 | Verbolten |
| Riffle Rapids | Children’s water attraction | \~1994 | \~2009 | (Relocated and re-themed as Bert and Ernie's Loch Adventure) | |
| Corkscrew Hill | Simulator attraction | 2001 | 2010 | Europe in the Air | |
| Europe in the Air | Reflectone | Simulator attraction
2010 2016 Battle for Eire | |||
Past Entertainment Offerings (partial list)
\- ZomBeats Howl-O-Scream Aquitaine ,France 2021-22 \- Jack is Back Howl-O-Scream Killarney Village,Ireland 2003-11 /2019-23 Fiends revivals \- Mardi Party DJ Mardi Gras Oktoberfest 2021-23 \- The Killarney Village Band Mardi Gras Abbey Stone Theatre,Ireland 2022-23 \- OktoberZest Das Festhaus,Oktoberfest 2017-24 We Are Oktoberfest \- Samba Jamboree Mardi Gras Killarney Village,Ireland 2021-24 Mardi Street Party; later moved to France as The Craw Daddies \- Emerald Ensemble St. Patrick's Day Das Festhaus,Oktoberfest 2021-24 \- Rockin' Celts St. Patrick's Day Aquitaine ,France 2023-24 \- Abbey Taverns Ireland 2024 Relocated to France as Broken Turnstiles \- Irish Ivories St. Patrick's Day Il Teatro di San Marco ,Italy 2024 \- Phantoms of the Festhaus Howl-O-Scream Das Festhaus,Oktoberfest 2021-24 Skeletones in Your Closet \- Skeletones Howl-O-Scream Il Teatro Di San Marco ,Italy 2021-24 Spirit Spellebration; moved to Oktoberfest as Skeletones in Your Closet \- Up on the Haustop Christmas Town Das Festhaus,Oktoberfest 2021-24 Christmas Town Live! A Holiday Special \- Celtic Christmas Trio Christmas Town Killarney Village,Ireland 2023-24 \- American Jukebox: Summer Remix Globe Theatre ,England 2023-25 Across the Pond: Legends of the UK \- Bürgermeister's Hideaway (paid dining experience) Year-Round Germany 2022-25 Opened to public \- Bürgermeister's Storytime Food & Wine Festival Prost! Patio,Oktoberfest 2025
Jack Hanna's Wild Reserve
The Wild Reserve, inspired by Jack Hanna, is home to bald eagles and wolves. Eagle Ridge extends more than 3,000 feet and is devoted to the care, rehabilitation, and educational presentation of bald eagles. Visitors can observe a single pair of Busch Gardens' wolves at Wolf Haven, while Wolf Valley spans over 8,000 feet, providing a naturalistic environment for other wolves to thrive. The reserve also features Lorikeet Glen, an aviary that displays Rainbow lorikeets along with various other bird species. Positioned within the Ireland section, the park has scaled back on animal attractions but continues to highlight these prominent exhibits.
Highland Stables
Located between the England and Scotland areas, Highland Stables presents Scottish Blackface sheep, Border Collies, black Clydesdale horses, and Highland cattle. Guests can enjoy daily interactive demonstrations showcasing these animals.
Parking and Transit
The park provides designated parking spaces for guests with disabilities, as well as areas for recreational vehicles and group buses. Shuttle trams transport visitors from remote parking lots to the main entrance gates.
Within the park boundaries, three steam locomotives run along the narrow gauge Busch Gardens Railway, which forms a loop connecting Heatherdowns, Festa Italia, and New France sections. A skyride also operates, linking the Banbury Cross, Aquitaine, and Rhinefeld themed districts.
Honors and Accolades
In 2021, USA Today ranked the park as the fourth top amusement destination in the United States.
| Golden Ticket Awards: Best Landscaping – Amusement Park | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Year | 1998 | 1999 | 2000 | 2001 | 2002 | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Placement | Template:Center | Template:Center | Template:Center | Template:Center | Template:Center | Template:Center | Template:Center | Template:Center | Template:Center | Template:Center | Template:Center | Template:Center | Template:Center | Template:Center | Template:Center | Template:Center | Template:Center | Template:Center | Template:Center | Template:Center | Template:Center | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| NAPHA Survey: Most Beautiful Park | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year | 1990–2022 (consecutive annual rankings) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Placement | Template:Center (each year from 1990 through 2022) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| NAPHA Survey: Favorite Theme Park | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | 2021 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Placement | Template:Center | Template:Center | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Visitor Numbers (approximate)
| 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3,094,000 | 2,900,000 | 2,800,000 | 2,744,000 | 2,856,000 | 2,726,000 | 2,699,000 | 2,780,000 |
Sources
- Announcement page for Busch Gardens Williamsburg expansion
- Official Busch Gardens Williamsburg website
- Official site for Busch Gardens Williamsburg Howl-o-Scream event
- Official website for Busch Gardens Williamsburg Christmas Town