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Congo River Rapids (Busch Gardens Tampa Bay)

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Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Company typePrivate
IndustryAmusement park, Animal theme park
FoundedMarch 31, 1959; 67 years ago (1959-03-31) in Tampa, Florida, United States
FounderAugust Busch Jr.
Headquarters
Tampa
,
United States
Area served
Worldwide visitors
OwnerUnited Parks & Resorts
Websitebuschgardens.com/tampa

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is an animal theme park situated in Tampa, Florida, with its design inspired by African themes. The park, which is under the ownership of United Parks & Resorts, commenced operations on March 31, 1959. It regularly draws in excess of 4 million guests each year, placing it second in attendance within the United Parks & Resorts portfolio, following SeaWorld Orlando.

Visitors can experience a variety of roller coasters and thrill rides, such as the Dive Coaster SheiKra, the family-friendly Cheetah Hunt inspired by the cheetah, the launched coaster Tigris, the traditional steel coaster Kumba, and Iron Gwazi, a hybrid wood-steel hypercoaster. Additional prominent attractions include Falcon's Fury, which ranks as North America's second tallest free-standing drop tower featuring a distinctive tilting mechanism; Montu, previously recognized as the tallest and fastest inverted coaster globally; and Phoenix Rising, noted as the continent’s longest and tallest family inverted coaster. The park also includes several rides designed for children along with a single water-based attraction consisting of a river rafting experience.

1957–1959: Busch Brewery and Gardens

In April 1957, Anheuser-Busch began exploring options to acquire land in Florida, considering both Tampa and Jacksonville to establish a new brewery. By July of that year, the company secured a 160-acre site in Tampa for $320,000 to develop a $20 million brewery facility, coinciding with the nearby construction of a competing Schlitz brewery. August Busch Jr. envisioned incorporating gardens to foster community engagement and bolster brand appeal.

Construction broke ground in March 1958 and continued into early 1959. Brewing operations started on March 12, 1959, followed by an official dedication ceremony on March 31 led by August Busch Jr., attended by local officials and members of the press. Operating hours were publicized in May.

The brewery alongside Busch Gardens opened their doors for public tours on June 1, 1959, offering free admission with approximately 1,000 visitors attending on opening day. The gardens spanned 15 acres adjacent to the brewery, developed at an estimated cost of $500,000. Features included lagoons and landscaping that incorporated around 36,000 flowering plants and 300 trees. Animal exhibits consisted of an amphitheater for bird shows seating 200 guests, flamingo habitats, "Devil's Island" enclosures, as well as caged eagles and cockatoos. Additional attractions comprised a dwarf village and the "Hospitality House," designed by William B. Harvard, where visitors could enjoy complimentary beer samples. Another 118 acres served as home to the Budweiser Clydesdales and housed future plans for exhibits featuring buffalo, ostriches, and zebras located east of the brewery. This initial garden area was later designated as the "Bird Gardens."

1959–1968: Expansions and African Veldt Development

In July 1959, Anheuser-Busch announced plans for a $5 million expansion due to increasing success. Construction commenced in February 1960 on a geodesic dome measuring 22.5 feet tall and 90 feet in diameter within the gardens, which opened on March 22 at a cost of $75,000. Named the Adolphus Busch Space Frame and constructed from anodized gold aluminum, it featured landscaped surroundings with suspended bird nests and ponds linked to an external lagoon.

In October 1960, plans were unveiled for an attraction called Stairway to the Stars: an Otis escalator standing 86 feet tall leading to the brewery roof. This opened on March 22, 1961, including a 5,000 square foot pool beneath (initially housing penguins), a rooftop observation deck covering 1,000 square feet, and a raised walkway extending 150 feet to connect with Busch Gardens.

Additional land acquisitions occurred in May 1962 when Anheuser-Busch announced a $3.5 to $4 million expansion project aimed at boosting attendance over the following decade. This expansion introduced themed areas such as an African veldt and American Plains featuring corresponding wildlife habitats alongside a railway system. By October of that year, the animal population had grown to nearly 1,000 birds.

In January 1963, plans for a monorail traversing the African veldt were disclosed; later that December saw the unveiling of a four-story Swiss-themed restaurant east of the brewery. Another parcel was purchased in April 1964. Thomas J. Pinta was appointed as Busch Gardens manager in July of that year. On October 1, a trackless transportation train began operating to shuttle guests between the gardens and Old Swiss House restaurant completed that same month.

The Wild Animal Kingdom representing Africa’s veldt officially opened in 1965 featuring species such as cheetahs, chimpanzees, elephants, gorillas, lions, and rhinoceroses housed within authentic habitats. A clock tower was erected adjacent to Old Swiss House during this period. By November, Anheuser-Busch expanded its land holdings eastward to accommodate future brewery or park developments. Together, the gardens and brewery encompassed roughly 208 acres within approximately 268 acres owned by the company.

Late in 1966 saw the introduction of another trackless transportation train service connecting new parking areas with park entrances. Due to rising visitor numbers coupled with operational expenses, parking fees were implemented starting in August. The Skyrail monorail debuted on September 22; this Arrow Development system spanned about 7,000 feet transporting guests through the African veldt at an additional charge—initially $1 for adults and 40 cents for children. By year’s end approximately 475 animals inhabited this section of the park. A snack bar was also opened within the parking lot during 1967.

1969–1975: Boma and Themed Area Developments

In March 1969, Anheuser-Busch revealed plans for a $1 million expansion spanning 2.5 acres, named "Boma," situated between the brewery and the monorail. This initiative aimed to enhance both the brewery's and park's appeal. Leadership shifts occurred with Franklin H. Rust taking over from Pinta in May 1969, though Rust stepped down by February 1970. As Disney World was emerging near Orlando, Anheuser-Busch sought to broaden animal habitats to sustain its competitive edge. August Busch Jr. regarded the Tampa facility as the company’s premier entertainment showcase.

During a June 1970 preview of Boma, the company announced an ambitious $12.6 million plan for a ten-year expansion encompassing a 1,000-seat amphitheater, an African veldt "tree tops" observation platform, a locomotive train, and a log flume ride. The park discontinued free entry on July 31, introducing general admission fees ($1.25 for adults, 50 cents for children) while removing parking charges; the entrance was relocated accordingly. Additional features such as a railroad, African village, and amphitheater followed.

Robert B. Bean assumed the general manager role in April 1971. On July 4 of that year, the Trans-Veldt Railway debuted as a paid attraction linking the monorail and Boma zones. Early in 1972 saw the unveiling of a $250,000 tree tops observation deck alongside the African village (later renamed Stanleyville), which included the Tanzanian Theater showcasing live elephant performances and animal habitats. Admission fees rose while charges for monorail and railway rides were eliminated. The Livingstone's Landing boat ride launched during summer 1972.

March 1973 marked the announcement of a $6.5 million second phase expansion targeting Boma, Stanleyville, and the African veldt areas. This phase introduced a Morocco-themed section, the park’s first thrill ride log flume, a dark ride, gondola lift system, animal training center, and safari attraction. A campervan park opened in May of that year. Bean resigned in April 1974 and was succeeded by Joseph C. Fincher. The sky ride gondola began operations in May 1974, connecting major sections of the park.

By 1975, Busch Gardens housed over 800 animals and had broadened its live entertainment options. The Morocco-themed village officially opened on April 16 as the new main entrance featuring retail outlets, dining venues, landscaped gardens, and the Algiers Theater; an existing snack bar formerly used for parking lot patrons was refurbished with thematic enhancements. In September, a $7.6 million development was announced including Python—the park’s inaugural roller coaster—alongside tiger and elephant exhibits, an extension of Livingstone's Landing, extensive landscaping improvements, and upgraded sound systems throughout the property.

1975–1989: The Dark Continent Era and Ongoing Expansion

Towards late 1975, Busch Gardens launched a campaign to reposition its Tampa location under an African motif by integrating live shows, marketing efforts, animal exhibits, and thrill rides. By early 1976, the park adopted "The Dark Continent" as its official name to differentiate itself from other Florida attractions with similar titles. Key zones were renamed: the African veldt became Serengeti Plain; Boma was retitled Nairobi; and the Moroccan village took on Marrakesh.

Construction commenced in January 1976 on the Congo area with a budget of $7.6 million. On July 1st of that year, Python—the park’s first steel roller coaster developed by Arrow Development—opened alongside Monstrous Mamba flat ride within Stanleyville’s northern section. The Congo area officially launched on July 26, 1977 featuring these rides plus the African Queen boat ride (a rebranded Livingstone's Landing), shooting gallery, Claw Island Bengal tiger exhibit, and Intamin’s Swinging Vines attraction. Bumper cars were also introduced in that year.

In May 1978, Busch Gardens announced plans for a $5 to $10 million expansion including construction of a large dining facility. Additional land acquisitions increased total park acreage to roughly 350 acres. By November of that year, work was underway on the Timbuktu section. A significant $18.5 million expansion was unveiled in February 1979 encompassing Timbuktu and Adventure Island water park adjacent to it. Timbuktu linked Congo and Nairobi zones featuring new attractions such as an amphitheater and expansive dining hall; that year also saw addition of a Trans Veldt Railway station within Timbuktu. A proposed $20 million hotel announced in April was postponed later on. Portions of Timbuktu opened towards late 1979.

By early 1980, Busch Entertainment Corporation—a subsidiary created by Anheuser-Busch to oversee its entertainment properties separately from brewing—managed Busch Gardens operations. The Timbuktu area officially debuted with attractions including Chance Rides carousel and trabant rides, dolphin performances at Dolphin Theater, Festhaus dining with dance shows, plus specialty retail shops. Schwarzkopf’s Scorpion roller coaster premiered in May of that year. To increase visitor numbers further, a $6 million Congo river rapids ride was announced in 1981 and opened in May 1982 alongside introduction of white tigers at Claw Island; renovations also closed Old Swiss House during that period.

In 1983 children’s attractions were added within Timbuktu and Congo areas while Marrakesh Theater opened showcasing Moroccan-American dance performances. Dwarf Village underwent transformation adding kiddie rides like miniature log flume and car rides; however, Anheuser-Busch decided to phase out "The Dark Continent" branding due to insufficient recognition, reverting back to “Busch Gardens” with refreshed slogans and logos by late that year. In June 1984 Intamin’s looping starship Phoenix launched in Timbuktu.

The eagle habitat was relocated in January 1985 while Nairobi received a new elephant enclosure in 1986. That same year saw debut of Moroccan Palace Theater hosting Kaleidoscope, becoming the primary venue for large-scale productions at the park; additionally an animal nursery named Nairobi Field Station opened in December.

February 1987 brought additions to bird shows including birds of prey such as falcons and owls; later that October Busch Gardens leased two pandas from China establishing a temporary exhibit within bird gardens which were expanded accordingly—though these pandas departed by late 1988. The monorail system upgraded to electric trains in 1988 while aviary domes were dismantled due to brewery expansion nearby. By end of that year plans included new boat attractions; fresh shows at Moroccan Palace Theater; exhibit enlargements; refurbishment of Zagora Café snack bar; relocation of white tigers into former panda enclosure; plus marketing efforts aimed at European tourists.

Celebrating its 30th anniversary in 1989, Busch Gardens introduced Tanganyika Tidal Wave—a shoot-the-chute water ride replacing African Queen boat ride—along with new koala exhibits and Clydesdale stable facilities. Tanganyika Tidal Wave had a preview mid-June followed by official opening weeks later; koalas arrived June 28; Clydesdale Hamlet opened August 11.

1990–1999: New Thrills and Expanded Animal Exhibits

Entering the early 1990s, Busch Gardens focused on upgrading its attractions to sustain visitor engagement and keep pace with evolving industry standards. Following the 1988 debut of the panda exhibit, the park pursued additional enhancements. Declining patronage led to the closure of the campervan park in 1990. That same year, the Old Swiss House underwent refurbishment and reopened as Crown Colony House, an African-themed dining venue. Around 1991, the Swinging Vines ride was retired. In May 1991, Busch Gardens launched Questor, a motion simulator created by Reflectone, featuring the explorer Sir Edison Fitzwilly on a mission to find the Crystal of Zed.

To solidify its presence in Florida's theme park market, Busch Gardens unveiled the Myombe Reserve—a three-acre habitat for chimpanzees and gorillas—replacing the former Boma area and opening on June 17, 1992. During the 1992 Summer Olympics, the park hosted a temporary Olympic village for the U.S. team. In November of that year, plans were revealed for Kumba, a premier steel roller coaster designed by Bolliger & Mabillard near Congo River Rapids; it officially opened on April 21, 1993, featuring a height of 143 feet, a track length of 3,978 feet, and speeds reaching 60 miles per hour. The children's play area Dwarf Village was replaced by Land of the Dragons in 1994. After fourteen years, the Stanleyville variety show concluded and was succeeded by Hollywood Live on Ice, an ice-skating performance debuting in November at the Moroccan Palace Theater.

The announcement of Disney's Animal Kingdom prompted Busch Gardens to develop strategies addressing increased competition. On May 9, 1995, Land of the Dragons opened over 1.5 acres including a large treehouse and several attractions adapted from its Williamsburg counterpart. Building on Kumba’s success, an Egypt-themed section was planned in May with intentions to add a fourth roller coaster, retail spaces, and a train station; further details emerged by August. Concurrently, Anheuser-Busch closed its smallest onsite brewery due to decreased beer sales and operational expenses; this 17-acre tract was transferred to Busch Gardens and later razed.

In November 1995, Serengeti Plain introduced a safari experience requiring an additional fee. By 1996, international marketing efforts expanded to Brazil, Germany, and the United Kingdom; once again, Busch Gardens hosted a temporary Olympic village during the Summer Games that year. The Egypt-themed area opened on May 16 featuring a replica King Tut tomb alongside Montu—a $10 million inverted roller coaster from Bolliger & Mabillard that set records as the tallest and longest of its kind worldwide upon opening. In June, Busch Gardens formed a theme park alliance with SeaWorld Orlando, Universal Studios Florida, and Wet 'n Wild Orlando to bolster competition against Disney. Feasibility studies for hotel development resumed after earlier initiatives in the previous decade. By October, plans were announced for a $20 million expansion focusing on animal exhibits.

In February 1997, Robin D. Carson succeeded Fincher as general manager. The Edge of Africa exhibit debuted on July 4 within Serengeti Plain across 15 acres showcasing African species such as lions and crocodiles integrated into themed villages. Toward late 1997, preparations began for an entertainment complex designed to rival Disney’s Animal Kingdom alongside upgrades including refurbishment of simulator attractions and introduction of a bird walk exhibit; an arcade facility opened in Egypt in April 1998. On May 12, Akbar's Adventure Tours simulator replaced Questor while Lory Landing bird walk opened nearby Land of the Dragons on May 5.

Revised plans for the entertainment complex surfaced in June with mention of a $10 million attraction—later disclosed as Gwazi—featuring dueling wooden roller coasters announced in July 1998. In September (notably from an earlier note), Busch Gardens acquired a 108-acre animal retirement center near San Antonio, Florida.

In subsequent developments, Tangiers Theater was converted into a candy store; meanwhile, the monorail ceased operations and was dismantled on May 13, 1999. Gwazi officially opened on June 18 at the former brewery location. October marked Busch Gardens’ inaugural family-friendly Halloween event—Spooky Safari—and saw both the opening of the San Antonio animal facility and announcement of Serengeti Plain revitalization plans involving landscaping enhancements along with introduction of species such as antelopes and giraffes aimed at improving guest experience and animal visibility.

2000–2009: Developments and conclusion of Anheuser-Busch ownership

At the turn of the millennium, Busch Gardens underwent a leadership overhaul, replacing several veteran executives to rejuvenate the park amid intensifying competition within Florida's theme park market. The focus shifted away from investing in expensive technological rides toward delivering distinctive interactive wildlife encounters, positioning the park as a premier Tampa Bay vacation destination akin to Disney's Orlando model. To increase visitor numbers, Anheuser-Busch introduced the "Fun Card," granting Florida residents unlimited access throughout the year and streamlining prior discount initiatives. Announced plans included the Rhino Rally Land Rover safari experience, which launched in June 2000 on a refurbished 29-acre Serengeti Plain.

In October of that year, the park debuted the Howl-O-Scream Halloween event to rival Universal Studios’ seasonal attractions. Following its positive reception, the Fun Card returned in 2001, alongside the May opening of Rhino Rally. After a brief closure due to the September 11 attacks, Busch Gardens promptly resumed operations. In 2002, it became the first Florida theme park to guarantee a complimentary second-day admission if rain hindered visitors’ experiences. The Dolphin Theater was replaced by a 4D cinema showcasing Haunted Lighthouse in 2003, coinciding with the introduction of a white rhino habitat and an updated Timbuktu area featuring Das Festhaus restaurant. That year also saw the rollout of a new logo, retiring a design that had been in use for two decades. Mid-2003 brought a change in general management as Dan Brown succeeded Carson.

The park launched "Summer Nights" in 2003, extending operating hours during summer months and enhancing parking facilities with tunnels beneath McKinley Drive. August Busch III prioritized entertainment upgrades while shelving plans for an on-site hotel complex. The Wild Maus coaster was relocated from Williamsburg to Tampa, taking over from Crazy Camel. In 2004, Kasbah restaurant was rebranded as Desert Grill; Cheetah Chase, a wild mouse coaster, opened; and construction commenced on SheiKra, a 200-foot Bolliger & Mabillard steel roller coaster announced that October.

Busch Gardens implemented fingerprint scanning for admission in January 2005 alongside self-service kiosks and completed transportation tunnel and parking improvements. SheiKra debuted in May as Florida’s tallest coaster and the nation’s first Dive Coaster, complemented by a new barbecue venue in Stanleyville. Beginning in 2006, the park adopted the Busch Gardens Africa branding to distinguish itself from its Williamsburg counterpart (Europe), while maintaining Tampa Bay identity locally. The Timbuktu Theater premiered Pirates 4-D, replacing Haunted Lighthouse. The original Python coaster was retired after three decades to make way for expansion plans.

In 2007, the longstanding bird show at Bird Gardens concluded and was succeeded by Critter Castaways. SheiKra temporarily closed for enhancements that introduced floorless trains. Announced that year was Jungala—a $16 million, four-acre animal attraction featuring Bengal tigers, Tomistoma crocodiles, flying foxes, gibbons, orangutans, along with rides and educational exhibits aimed at older children and teenagers. Donnie Mills took over as general manager from Dan Brown.

Jungala opened in April 2008 with an estimated investment of $40 million. That same year witnessed speculation regarding Belgian brewer InBev’s bid for Anheuser-Busch amid industry consolidation trends. InBev considered divesting Busch Entertainment’s ten parks to fund its acquisition. Throughout mid-2008, formal bids and counteroffers involved potential buyers such as Blackstone Group, Cedar Fair, Parques Reunidos, and Six Flags. On July 13, Anheuser-Busch InBev merged with Anheuser-Busch forming Anheuser-Busch InBev.

The merger cast uncertainty over Busch Gardens’ future direction; possibilities included spinning off or selling the parks individually or collectively. By late 2008 and early 2009, rumors intensified around Blackstone acquiring Busch Entertainment. Ahead of finalizing the sale, free beer samples were discontinued at parks early in 2009 along with reductions in Anheuser-Busch branding.

To celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2009, Busch Gardens established a temporary museum displaying guest memorabilia and corporate artifacts. Plans were unveiled to replace Land of the Dragons with a Sesame Street-themed children’s area featuring an expanded layout and a new kids’ roller coaster. Sale rumors culminated in October when Anheuser-Busch InBev sold Busch Entertainment to Blackstone Group for $2.3 billion. The transaction preserved the Busch Gardens brand alongside existing programs and management but resulted in removal of Clydesdale horses from all parks. By December 2009, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment assumed operational control with all Anheuser-Busch insignia removed from Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

2010–present: New Leadership and Park Enhancements

In February 2010, Jim Dean assumed the role of park president, succeeding Mills. The Mystic Sheiks of Morocco band concluded their performances, and the Timbuktu Theater introduced a new Sesame Street 4-D film, replacing the previous Pirates 4-D show. On March 27, the Sesame Street Safari of Fun area opened, spanning 2.5 acres. June saw the debut of the Walkabout Way kangaroo habitat. In October, Busch Gardens announced two upcoming 2011 attractions: the Intamin-manufactured roller coaster Cheetah Hunt and a new cheetah exhibit named Cheetah Run.

On May 16, 2011, plans were unveiled for a 16,000-square-foot Animal Care & Nutrition Center to replace the former rhinoceros enclosure. Both Cheetah Hunt and Cheetah Run officially opened on May 27. After Disney discontinued its Grad Night event in 2011, Busch Gardens launched its own celebration targeting local high school graduates.

The Animal Care Center debuted in Nairobi in January 2012 following a $5 million investment. That year also marked the introduction of Christmas Town, a seasonal holiday event. In February 2013, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment refreshed Busch Gardens’ branding with a new logo featuring a "coaster tree." The Stanleyville Theater was enclosed during 2013, and in June, the Sandstorm ride closed to make room for Falcon's Fury—an Intamin drop tower that plunges riders face down from 335 feet in Timbuktu.

By mid-2013, Crown Colony restaurant shut down due to budget constraints and declining visitor numbers. Later that year, Timbuktu underwent re-theming to become "Pantopia," incorporating fresh color schemes, narratives, new food options, and positioning Falcon’s Fury as the main attraction. After Bird Gardens Theater closed in February 2014, the Critter Castaways animal show relocated to Pantopia Theater. That same month, the park joined Tampa’s CityPASS program.

Though Falcon's Fury’s opening was postponed from May, it officially launched on September 2 following several soft openings. The Rhino Rally safari ride was permanently closed that September. In December, Busch Gardens announced the retirement of the wooden coaster Gwazi due to increasing maintenance costs and guest feedback; it ceased operations on February 1, 2015.

In February 2015, a new attraction themed around Egypt was announced. The Food and Wine Festival replaced the previous Bands, Brew, and BBQ event in March. Cobra's Curse—a spinning coaster neighboring Montu in Egypt—was officially revealed in May and opened on June 17 alongside the Dragon Fire Grill’s reopening as a market-style dining venue.

Tanganyika Tidal Wave closed on April 10, 2016 without plans for replacement. The former Crown Colony location reopened as a new restaurant in May. In December, Jambo Junction animal center was closed indefinitely amid company-wide layoffs.

Stewart Clark took over as park president in January 2017 when Jim Dean transitioned to lead SeaWorld Orlando parks. Free beer samples returned to Garden Gate Cafe (previously Hospitality House) in May 2018. In September of that year, Busch Gardens announced Tigris—a Premier Rides triple-launch coaster scheduled to debut in 2019.

March 2019 saw the announcement of Iron Gwazi—a Rocky Mountain Construction hybrid coaster conversion replacing Gwazi—with an anticipated spring 2020 opening. Tigris officially launched on April 19, 2019. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the park was closed from March through June 2020 and delayed Iron Gwazi’s debut until 2021. During this time frame, SeaWorld Entertainment parks experienced a dramatic attendance decline of approximately 96%.

Neal Thurman was appointed park president in August 2020 following Clark’s departure. Iron Gwazi eventually opened on March 11, 2022. In April, plans were revealed for a new entrance plaza alongside enhanced entertainment offerings and a pass member lounge. In October, Busch Gardens announced Serengeti Flyer—a Screamin' Swing attraction—which premiered in Spring 2023.

In January 2023, Garden Gate Cafe was renamed Springs Taproom. The Sand Serpent wild mouse coaster closed and was dismantled by July; it was succeeded by Phoenix Rising—a new roller coaster that debuted on July 21, 2024 as the park’s tenth coaster.

Park design and key attractions

  • The park's rear section is served by the Serengeti Express, a steam-powered train running on narrow-gauge tracks, with stops at themed zones including Nairobi, Congo, and Stanleyville.
  • The SkyRide aerial tramway offers transportation between Edge of Africa, near the Cheetah Hunt attraction, and Stanleyville.

Morocco

The entrance area of the park is styled to resemble Morocco. Visitors can enjoy snacks at Sultan's Sweets and Zagora Cafe. This zone also features the Moroccan Palace and the open-air Marrakesh Theater.

  • Gwazi Gliders, a compact hang glider flat ride, was moved here from the now-closed Pygmy Village children's section in Congo.
  • Myombe Reserve, established in 1992 within Nairobi, serves as a sanctuary for six western lowland gorillas and nine chimpanzees.
  • Adjacent to Myombe Reserve, the Moroccan Palace theater presents Busch Gardens' acclaimed ice skating production, Turn It Up! The Hottest Show On Ice.
  • In 2019, Iron Gwazi, a hybrid coaster combining wooden structure with steel track by Rocky Mountain Construction, replaced the original Gwazi. It stands as North America's tallest hybrid coaster and holds records as the fastest and steepest worldwide.

Sesame Street Safari of Fun

Initially named "Land of the Dragons" after replacing Dwarf Village in 1995, this children's area was rebranded as Sesame Street Safari of Fun on March 27, 2010. All previous rides remain but with updated themes:

  • Telly's Jungle Jam, an interactive play zone.
  • Rosita's Djembe Fly-Away, a swing ride attraction.
  • Bert & Ernie's Watering Hole, featuring water play elements.
  • Air Grover, a coaster designed for young guests.

Stanleyville

This section derives its name from the historic Stanleyville (now Kisangani) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It hosts major roller coasters and prominent attractions. Opened in 2005, SheiKra was North America's first Bolliger & Mabillard Dive Coaster until surpassed by Busch Gardens Williamsburg’s Griffon in 2007. Stanleyville also included Stanley Falls Flume (1973–2025) and Premier Rides’ Sky Rocket II coaster Tigris, which debuted in 2019.

The African Queen Boat Ride, introduced in 1977 as Busch Gardens’ version of Disney’s Jungle Cruise, featured live animals alongside South American macaws. It was transformed into Tanganyika Tidal Wave in 1989 with a dramatic 55-foot splash drop but ceased operation in 2016 and was dismantled by 2018 to make room for Tigris.

  • SheiKra is a Bolliger & Mabillard floorless dive coaster boasting a vertical drop of 90 degrees. Initially equipped with floor trains, it converted to floorless trains in 2007 and received a fresh paint scheme in 2013.
  • Tigris, a Sky Rocket II coaster by Premier Rides situated on the former Tanganyika Tidal Wave site, opened April 19, 2019.

Congo

The Congo area, designed to evoke the jungles of both the Republic of the Congo and Democratic Republic of the Congo, is home to two prominent attractions: Kumba, a steel sit-down coaster crafted by Bolliger & Mabillard, and Congo River Rapids, a river rapids ride manufactured by Intamin. In 2006, this section underwent significant updates, including the removal of the park’s former Arrow Dynamics Corkscrew coaster, Python. Other retired rides included Swinging Vines and Monstrous Mamba. The Pygmy Village children's rides were relocated to other park areas such as Sesame Street Safari of Fun and Morocco.

  • Kumba, whose name means roar in Swahili, is a steel coaster featuring seven inversions. Constructed in 1993 by Bolliger & Mabillard, it continues to be a signature attraction. The coaster received fresh paint jobs in 2010 and again in 2019.
  • Congo River Rapids, an Intamin river rapids attraction that debuted in 1982, includes a queue area showcasing a Komodo dragon exhibit.
  • Ubanga Banga Bumper Cars offers a classic bumper car experience.

Jungala

Launched on April 5, 2008, Jungala is a family-oriented zone emphasizing close animal interactions. Its main highlights include Tiger Trail, a walkthrough path featuring tigers and an observation tower within their habitat. The Kareebu Jungala atmosphere show provides interactive entertainment with stiltwalkers and puppet performances.

  • Orangutan Outpost allows visitors to observe six Bornean orangutans (three males and three females as of 2017) from elevated platforms.
  • Tiger Lodge and Tiger Trail serve as viewing spots for at least ten tigers over time. Notably, in 2013, female Malayan tiger Bzui gave birth to three cubs fathered by Mata. As of 2024, the tiger population includes Zahra (Bengal), Bandar (Sumatran), and Asmara (Malayan).
  • Kulu Canopy is a habitat hosting multiple species such as white-cheeked gibbons Milo and Kodo, flying foxes (fruit bats), and rare false gharials native to Indonesia and Malaysia.

Pantopia

Initially themed as Timbuktu, inspired by African marketplaces and opened in May 1980, this area has undergone considerable transformation. The Phoenix, an Intamin Looping Starship installed in 1984, was removed in 2018 and replaced by Phoenix Rising, the first Bolliger & Mabillard Family Inverted Coaster in the United States. The Mack Rides Wilde Maus known as Sand Serpent was relocated here from Busch Gardens Williamsburg and operated from 2004 until its closure in 2023.

A major refurbishment in 2003 enclosed the Timbuktu Theater, converting it into an indoor 4-D cinema that debuted titles such as "R.L Stine's Haunted Lighthouse" (2003), "Pirates 4-D" (2006), and "Sesame Street Presents: Lights! Camera! Imagination!" (2010). In 2004, Das Festhaus was rebranded as the Desert Grill.

In September 2014, Falcon's Fury, a 335-foot Intamin Sky Jump ride replacing the Sandstorm flat ride, opened alongside the area's rebranding as Pantopia.

Notable attractions include:

  • Pantopia Theater – an indoor venue that initially hosted Opening Night Critters at Pantopia’s debut in 2014; since Spring 2019, it has featured Critters Inn Charge.
  • Caravan Carousel – a carousel showcasing horses, camels, and chariots.
  • Falcon's Fury – North America’s tallest free-standing drop tower at ; it reaches speeds of , tilting riders forward at a full 90 degrees toward the ground.
  • Phoenix Rising – a family inverted coaster by Bolliger & Mabillard, notable for its over-banked curve near the entrance; it is Busch Gardens’ newest coaster as well as North America’s tallest and longest family inverted roller coaster.

Nairobi

Named after Kenya's capital city, Nairobi offers visitors up-close encounters with animals such as alligators and crocodiles. The Curiosity Cavern presents exhibits featuring mammals and reptiles, while the Myombe Reserve is home to western lowland gorillas and chimpanzees. Guests also have the opportunity to meet Animal Ambassadors, who participate in educational programs across the country at Jambo Junction.

In 2012, Busch Gardens unveiled a 16,000-square-foot Animal Care Center, highlighting the veterinary team's work within a cutting-edge facility. This center includes nutrition demonstrations, treatment rooms, a clinical laboratory, and interactive diagnostic displays, replacing the previous behind-the-scenes animal care area.

Nairobi is also the residence of five female Asian elephants and one male elephant, with daily opportunities for interaction at the Elephant Interaction Wall or through the Elephant Keeper Experience. The male elephant was transferred from Calgary Zoo in 2013.

Formerly the site of the Rhino Rally safari truck attraction—which closed in 2015—Nairobi introduced the Serengeti Flyer in 2023. This towering and thrilling S&S Sansei Screamin' Swing initially operated with a gentler morning setting but now runs exclusively in "wild mode," offering riders maximum height and speed.

Edge of Africa

Known alternatively as Cheetah Hunt Plaza, Edge of Africa is the park’s smallest themed area. It features The Serengeti Overlook Restaurant and Pub, the Cheetah Hunt roller coaster, and a Skyride station.

  • Cheetah Hunt, an Intamin Blitz coaster that opened in 2011, includes three launch sections, a Windcatcher Tower element, and a heartline roll inversion. This ride occupies the former location of a suspended monorail station that once circled the Serengeti Plain until 1999.
  • Adjacent to Cheetah Hunt is Cheetah Run, opened in May 2011 on the site previously occupied by Clydesdale Hamlet. It serves as home to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s cheetah population, offering running demonstrations, keeper interaction sessions, and hands-on educational exhibits. From 2011 to 2013, Kasi—a male cheetah—was paired with Mtani, a female Labrador Retriever. As of 2013, there are fourteen cheetahs maintained within the park.

Egypt

The Egypt-themed section recreates an immersive marketplace atmosphere featuring Bedouin tents alongside authentic crafts and artwork. Its main attraction is Montu, an inverted steel coaster manufactured by Bolliger & Mabillard, boasting seven inversions.

  • Cobra's Curse, a spinning coaster by Mack Rides, replaced the former Tut's Tomb walk-through attraction and debuted on June 17, 2016.
  • Montu, named after the ancient Egyptian falcon god of war, continues to be a standout thrill ride within this area.

Animal habitats

Busch Gardens Tampa stands as the largest zoological facility in the city, sheltering over 200 different animal species.

Animal Care Center

This center provides guests with insight into animal healthcare procedures such as treatments and x-ray imaging.

  • The Wildlife Docs, an Emmy-nominated television series, follows caretakers responsible for managing more than 12,000 animals at Busch Gardens Tampa.

Bird Gardens

A free-flight aviary hosting over 500 tropical bird species worldwide—including parrots and flamingos—opened in 1959 primarily showcasing gardens alongside animal exhibits. The original brewery attraction closed in 1995 and was replaced by Gwazi. In 2014, the Bird Gardens theater was dismantled; its outdoor show "Critter Castaways" moved indoors as "Opening Night Critters" until December 2018. Currently, the park features "Rescue Tales," an animal rescue-themed performance also presented at SeaWorld Orlando.

  • Walkabout Way, introduced in June 2010 as an Australian-themed zone, allows visitors aged five and older to hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies. This area also includes kookaburras, magpies, black swans, and tawny frogmouths. A notable resident is Horatio, a male kangaroo who arrived in 2014.
  • Lory Landing is an open aviary where guests may stroll among lorikeets and optionally feed them nectar purchased on-site.

Edge of Africa

Launched in 1997, Edge of Africa is an immersive walking exhibit that highlights African wildlife, including a Nile crocodile named Sobek, meerkats, two groups of lions, spotted hyenas, three hippos called Moyo, Kita, and Devi, vultures, and lemurs.

One lion group comprises a male named Kembe and two females, Shaba and Shtuko, who were brought as cubs from an African zoo in 2013. Another pride consists of a male named Simon and two females, Rose and Iris; both females have been spayed, with Rose remaining the only living lion as of 2024.

To avoid accidental inbreeding, hippos Moyo and Kita—who are father and daughter—are alternated daily between the exhibit space and holding areas.

The Serengeti Plain

Originally established in 1965 as the pioneering free-roaming animal habitat of its kind, the Serengeti Plain has grown from 29 acres to 65 acres. This expansive area is home to species such as Grévy's zebra, Grant's zebra, Grant's gazelle, Thomson's gazelle, sable antelope, reticulated giraffe, Ankole-Watusi cattle, addax, waterbuck, greater kudu, southern white rhinoceros, common eland, impala, common ostrich, and lowland nyala. A secluded enclosure shelters Jody, a solitary female eastern black rhinoceros.

Events

Between January and March, Busch Gardens hosts weekly concerts featuring renowned big band and pop performers delivering both classic hits and modern tunes.

In March and April, Gwazi Field becomes the venue for a concert series primarily spotlighting classic rock and country musicians. This series occasionally includes alternative rock, pop, hip hop, R&B artists, and comedians. Alongside the performances, visitors can enjoy a variety of food options from local vendors situated along the path between the Gwazi Roller Coaster and Gwazi Field entrance. After several prominent music groups withdrew their appearances in 2014 following criticism sparked by the documentary Blackfish, this concert series was discontinued in Tampa and replaced by the annual Food and Wine Festival modeled after Epcot’s event at Walt Disney World. Additionally in March, Latin music performers take to the Gwazi Field stage with similar food offerings available.

During summer months, Busch Gardens extends operating hours and presents concerts featuring artists such as David Cassidy and Starship with Mickey Thomas. Independence Day festivities include fireworks displays.

In 2010, Busch Gardens debuted Kinetix, a nighttime show rich in special effects held at Gwazi Field alongside upgraded ride effects during the Summer Nights season. This production continued until 2016. Since 2017, Summer Nights has featured themed party zones like ¡Fiesta Festa! located in Cheetah Hunt Plaza and Tigris's Party Zone in Stanleyville. Dance contests with prizes such as Adventure Island tickets and fireworks displays are part of these celebrations. Following park renovations in 2022, Summer Nights was rebranded as "Busch Gardens Summer Celebration."

Since 2000 each September and October, Busch Gardens has presented Howl-O-Scream, a highly acclaimed Halloween event that includes haunted houses, scare zones, and live shows. Previous attractions have transformed existing rides such as Evening Serengeti Safari Tours and Dark Cavern into spooky experiences. The event celebrated its 13th year in 2012.

From November through December, the park transforms into Christmas Town, showcasing holiday-themed performances like Christmas On Ice at the Moroccan Palace alongside over one million decorative lights throughout the grounds. Snow World offers guests snow play areas and ice slides. Visitors can meet Santa Claus as well as characters from Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer at Rudolph's Winter Wonderland. The event also features themed princesses such as the Ice Princess and Poinsettia Princess; Princess Fae was introduced in 2019.

On New Year's Eve, Busch Gardens hosts live musical entertainment while keeping thrill rides operational late into the night. Fireworks light up Gwazi Field as guests participate in a park-wide countdown to ring in the new year.

Rankings

The roller coasters at Busch Gardens Tampa have earned distinguished positions in the annual Amusement Today awards. Additionally, the park received nominations for best landscaping in both 1998 and 2007.

Steel

Wood

  • Gwazi: Positioned 40th (2007)

Attendance

Year Attendance
2008 4,128,000
2009 4,100,000
2010 4,200,000
2011 4,284,000
2012 4,348,000
2013 4,087,000
2014 4,128,000
2015 4,252,000
2016 4,169,000
2017 3,961,000
2018 4,139,000
2019 4,180,000
2020 1,288,000
2021 3,210,000
2022 4,051,000
2023 4,000,000

See also

Bibliography

External links

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