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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
FounderAnheuser-Busch
Headquarters
Tampa
,
United States
Area served
Worldwide visitors
ProductsAnimal exhibits, roller coasters, thrill rides, live entertainment
OwnerUnited Parks & Resorts
Websitebuschgardens.com/tampa/

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is an animal theme park located in Tampa, Florida, with an African theme, and is owned by United Parks & Resorts. Since its opening on March 31, 1959, the park has consistently welcomed over 4 million guests each year, making it the second most visited property within United Parks & Resorts, following SeaWorld Orlando.

The park features a variety of roller coasters and thrill rides, such as the Dive Coaster SheiKra, the family-friendly Cheetah Hunt, the launched coaster Tigris, the traditional steel coaster Kumba, and the wood-steel hybrid hypercoaster Iron Gwazi. Notable attractions also include Falcon's Fury, which is North America's second tallest free-standing drop tower and is distinguished by its tilting mechanism; Montu, once recognized as the tallest and fastest inverted coaster worldwide; and Phoenix Rising, the continent’s longest and tallest family inverted coaster. The park also offers several rides designed for young children along with a water-based river rafting experience.

1957–1959: Establishment of Busch Brewery and Gardens

In April 1957, Anheuser-Busch began exploring land purchases in Florida, focusing on Tampa and Jacksonville to establish a new brewery. By July of that year, the company acquired a 160-acre plot in Tampa for $320,000 to construct a $20 million brewery, coinciding with Schlitz’s brewery development nearby. August Busch Jr. highlighted the importance of incorporating gardens to engage the local community and boost brand awareness.

Construction broke ground in March 1958 and continued into early 1959. The brewery commenced operations on March 12, 1959, with Busch Jr. dedicating the facility on March 31 before an audience of approximately 2,000 guests including media representatives and city officials. Public tours began on June 1 as a complimentary attraction, attracting about 1,000 visitors during its initial opening.

Busch Gardens debuted on a 15-acre site adjacent to the brewery at an estimated cost of $500,000. The area was landscaped with lagoons, around 36,000 flowering plants, and roughly 300 trees. Early animal exhibits featured a bird show amphitheater seating 200 spectators, flamingo habitats, "Devil's Island" enclosures for various animals, as well as caged eagles and cockatoos. Additional attractions included a dwarf village and the "Hospitality House," designed by William B. Harvard, which offered free beer samples.

An additional 118 acres east of the brewery were dedicated to housing Budweiser Clydesdales along with planned exhibits for buffalo, ostriches, and zebras. The original garden area eventually became known as the "Bird Gardens."

1959–1968: Expansion and Introduction of African Veldt

In July 1959, Anheuser-Busch announced plans for a $5 million expansion of its Tampa facility following increased success. Construction commenced in February 1960 on a geodesic dome measuring 22.5 feet in height and 90 feet in diameter within the gardens. Later named the Adolphus Busch Space Frame, this structure included landscaping elements such as suspended bird nests and ponds linked to an external lagoon. The dome opened on March 22 at a cost of $75,000.

In October 1960, Anheuser-Busch unveiled plans for the Stairway to the Stars—an Otis escalator standing 86 feet tall that would provide access to the brewery roof. This feature opened on March 22, 1961, including a 5,000-square-foot pool initially housing penguins, a 1,000-square-foot observation deck, and a 150-foot elevated walkway leading into Busch Gardens.

Further land acquisitions took place in May 1962 as Anheuser-Busch prepared for a $3.5 to $4 million expansion to accommodate growing attendance. This expansion introduced themed areas such as an African veldt and American Plains with corresponding animal habitats and incorporated a railway system. By October of that year, the animal population had grown to approximately 1,000 birds.

Construction began in January 1963 on a monorail traversing the African veldt area; later that December plans were announced for a four-story Swiss-themed restaurant east of the brewery. Additional land purchases followed in April 1964. Thomas J. Pinta was appointed manager in July of that year. In October, a trackless transportation train was launched to connect the gardens with the Old Swiss House restaurant and parking facilities.

The Wild Animal Kingdom representing the African veldt officially opened in 1965 with authentic habitats housing species such as cheetahs, chimpanzees, elephants, gorillas, lions, and rhinoceroses. A clock tower was also constructed adjacent to the Old Swiss House during this period. By November of that year, Anheuser-Busch had acquired more land east of its existing property for future development; total holdings reached approximately 268 acres encompassing both gardens and brewery.

Toward late 1966, a trackless shuttle train was built to enhance guest transportation between parking areas and park attractions. To help cover increasing operational costs amid rising visitor numbers, parking fees were introduced. On September 22 that year, the Skyrail monorail began operation—a 7,000-foot system developed by Arrow Development running over the African veldt; it functioned as a premium attraction priced at $1 for adults and $0.40 for children. By year-end, around 475 animals resided within the African veldt habitat. In addition, a snack bar was opened in one of the parking lots during 1967.

1969–1975: Boma and Themed Area Developments

In March 1969, Anheuser-Busch revealed plans for a $1 million expansion of its zoo, named "Boma," spanning 2.5 acres between the brewery and the monorail, designed to enhance both the park and brewery operations. Leadership changes occurred with Franklin H. Rust succeeding Pinta in May 1969, although Rust stepped down by February 1970. To counteract the emerging Disney World near Orlando, Anheuser-Busch intended to broaden animal exhibits to sustain its market position. August Busch Jr. regarded the Tampa location as the company’s premier entertainment showcase.

During Boma's preview in June 1970, a $12.6 million expansion plan covering ten years was announced, featuring a 1,000-seat amphitheater, an African veldt "tree tops" observation deck, a locomotive train, and a log flume ride. The park transitioned from free entry to charging admission starting July 31, coinciding with Boma’s launch that included African mammals, birds, and an artificial mountain. Admission fees began at $1.25 for adults and 50 cents for children; the entrance was shifted to a nearby road. Future developments introduced a railroad, an African village (later renamed Stanleyville), and the amphitheater.

Robert B. Bean took over as general manager in April 1971. On July 4, the Trans-Veldt Railway debuted as a paid attraction connecting the monorail with Boma. Early in 1972, the $250,000 tree tops observation platform opened alongside Stanleyville’s African village on June 19, which featured live elephant performances at the Tanzanian Theater as well as gorilla and okapi exhibits. Around this period, fees for the monorail and railway rides were eliminated while general admission prices increased. The Livingstone's Landing boat ride was introduced in summer 1972.

A second phase expansion valued at $6.5 million was unveiled in March 1973 targeting Boma, Stanleyville, and the African veldt areas; this included plans for a Morocco-themed zone, a log flume (the park’s inaugural thrill ride), a dark ride attraction, a gondola lift (sky ride), an animal training center, and a safari experience. Nearby, a campervan park opened in May of that year. Bean resigned in April 1974 and Joseph C. Fincher assumed the general manager role. The sky ride gondola launched in May, linking major sections of the park.

By 1975, Busch Gardens was home to more than 800 animals and had expanded its live entertainment roster. The Morocco-themed village debuted on April 16 as the new main entrance featuring retail shops, dining options, landscaped gardens, and the Algiers Theater; it incorporated the former parking lot snack bar into its thematic design. In September, a $7.6 million project was announced to introduce the park’s first roller coaster (Python), tiger and elephant habitats, an extension of Livingstone's Landing, enhanced landscaping throughout the park, and upgraded sound systems.

1975–1989: The Dark Continent Era and Ongoing Expansion

Towards the end of 1975, Busch Gardens initiated a rebranding campaign centered on an African motif by adding live shows, advertising campaigns, animal exhibits, and thrill rides. In 1976, the park adopted the name "The Dark Continent" to differentiate itself from other Florida attractions. The African veldt was renamed Serengeti Plain; Boma became Nairobi; and the Moroccan village took on the name Marrakesh.

Construction commenced on the Congo-themed section in January 1976 as part of a $7.6 million expansion plan. On July 1 that year, Arrow Development’s Python roller coaster opened as the park’s first coaster attraction. Additionally, an octopus-style flat ride called Monstrous Mamba premiered in Stanleyville’s northern area during that year. The Congo area officially launched on July 26, 1977; it incorporated Python and Monstrous Mamba rides while transforming Livingstone's Landing into the African Queen boat ride and adding features such as a shooting gallery, Claw Island Bengal tiger exhibit, and Intamin’s Swinging Vines attraction. Bumper cars were also introduced in 1977.

In May 1978, plans for a $5–10 million expansion were announced including a large dining facility. By mid-1978, Anheuser-Busch had expanded its Tampa property holdings significantly. Work progressed on Timbuktu section which opened in February 1979 as part of an $18.5 million development that also included Adventure Island water park nearby. Timbuktu connected Congo and Nairobi zones featuring attractions like a spacious dining hall amphitheater and a new Trans Veldt Railway station. A proposed $20 million hotel announced in April 1979 was subsequently postponed.

By early 1980, operations of Busch Gardens transferred under Busch Entertainment Corporation—a newly formed subsidiary managing Anheuser-Busch’s entertainment ventures independently. Timbuktu officially opened in January with rides including a Chance Rides carousel and trabant; it also featured dolphin shows at the Dolphin Theater along with Festhaus dining hall offering dance performances and specialty retail outlets. The Schwarzkopf steel roller coaster Scorpion debuted in Timbuktu on May 16. To increase visitor numbers, plans for a $6 million river rapids ride within Congo were revealed in 1981.

In 1982 renovations closed Old Swiss House while white tigers were introduced at Claw Island exhibit. Intamin’s Congo River Rapids ride opened on May 26 that year. For the 1983 season children’s attractions were added to both Timbuktu and Congo areas; Marrakesh Theater launched Moroccan-American dance performances; Dwarf Village was revamped with family-friendly rides such as a miniature log flume and car ride. By November 1983 Anheuser-Busch discontinued "The Dark Continent" branding due to limited recognition and reinstated Busch Gardens name accompanied by refreshed slogans and logos.

June 1984 saw Intamin’s looping starship Phoenix opening within Timbuktu zone. In January 1985 eagle enclosures were relocated beneath brewery escalators. A new elephant habitat debuted in Nairobi during 1986 alongside completion of Moroccan Palace Theater presenting Kaleidoscope show; Nairobi Field Station animal nursery opened that December.

February 1987 introduced birds of prey including falcons, eagles, and owls into bird shows; later that year Busch Gardens leased two pandas from China with temporary exhibits opening November inside bird gardens supported by new aviaries constructed for them—both pandas departed by late 1988. The monorail received electric trains in 1988 while brewery expansion necessitated removal of aviary dome structures. By year-end plans included new boat rides, additional theater productions, expanded animal exhibits reopening Old Swiss House renovations as Zagora Café relocating white tigers into former panda enclosures along with marketing initiatives targeting European visitors.

For its thirtieth anniversary in 1989 Busch Gardens announced several additions including Tanganyika Tidal Wave shoot-the-chute water ride replacing African Queen boat ride accompanied by Orchid Canyon nature walk; koala exhibit opening in June; and Clydesdale stables debuting in August housing four horses.

1990–1999: New Thrills and Expanded Animal Exhibits

In the early 1990s, Busch Gardens aimed to introduce fresh attractions to maintain visitor enthusiasm following the 1988 panda display. Due to decreasing patronage, the campervan park ceased operations in 1990. That same year, the Old Swiss House underwent refurbishment and reopened as the Crown Colony House restaurant, embracing an African theme. Around 1991, the Swinging Vines ride was dismantled. Additionally, Busch Gardens launched Questor, a motion simulator developed by Reflectone, which featured the explorer Sir Edison Fitzwilly on a mission to find the Crystal of Zed.

To bolster its presence in Florida's market, the park unveiled the Myombe Reserve in June 1992—a 3-acre habitat housing chimpanzees and gorillas located adjacent to the Moroccan Palace Theater. Busch Gardens also supported temporary Olympic villages for U.S. teams during the 1992 and 1996 Summer Games. By late 1992, plans were underway for Kumba, a flagship steel roller coaster designed by Bolliger & Mabillard near Congo River Rapids. This coaster debuted in April 1993, standing 143 feet tall with a track length of 3,978 feet and reaching speeds up to 60 mph.

In 1994, Dwarf Village was replaced by Land of the Dragons, a children’s zone featuring an expansive treehouse and themed rides. The long-standing Stanleyville variety show concluded and was succeeded by Hollywood Live on Ice at the Moroccan Palace Theater.

With Disney's Animal Kingdom emerging as a rival, Busch Gardens expedited its expansion initiatives. Land of the Dragons opened in May 1995 over 1.5 acres with upgraded attractions adapted from its Williamsburg counterpart. Following Kumba’s success, an Egypt-themed area was planned to include a fourth roller coaster, retail outlets, and a train station. In October 1995, Anheuser-Busch shuttered its Tampa brewery located within park grounds due to declining beer sales and operational costs; ownership of this land was transferred to Busch Gardens.

International marketing efforts intensified in 1996 with outreach targeting Brazil, Germany, and the United Kingdom. The Egypt section debuted in May following a $5 million investment and featured a replica of King Tut’s tomb alongside Montu—Bolliger & Mabillard’s inverted coaster that became the world’s longest and tallest of its kind—constructed at a cost of $10 million. In June of that year, Busch Gardens formed a theme park alliance with SeaWorld Orlando, Universal Studios Florida, and Wet 'n Wild Orlando to better compete against Disney. Plans for hotel development were revisited after previous attempts had stalled.

In October 1996, proposals surfaced for a $20 million expansion focused on animal exhibits. Leadership changed in February 1997 when Robin D. Carson succeeded general manager Fincher. The Edge of Africa exhibit opened on July 4 across 15 acres of Serengeti Plain terrain, presenting African species such as crocodiles and lions within an immersive village environment. By late 1997 and early 1998, enhancements included replacing Questor with Akbar's Adventure Tours simulator ride and introducing Lory Landing—a walk-through aviary near Land of the Dragons. An arcade was added to the Egypt section in April 1998.

June 1998 brought announcements for Gwazi—dual wooden roller coasters costing $10 million—which launched on June 18, 1999 at the former brewery location. That year also saw Tangiers Theater replaced by a candy store and the discontinuation of the monorail system.

In October 1999, Busch Gardens hosted its inaugural family-oriented Halloween event named Spooky Safari. Simultaneously, it opened a new animal retirement facility on a newly acquired 108-acre property near San Antonio, Florida. Efforts to rejuvenate Serengeti Plain included landscaping improvements aimed at separating animal species while enabling closer wildlife viewing via train rides; new animals such as giraffes and antelopes were introduced to enrich both guest experience and animal care standards.

2000–2009: Developments and Conclusion of Anheuser-Busch Stewardship

Entering the new millennium, Busch Gardens under Carson's direction revamped its leadership to address intensifying rivalry from Florida's theme parks. Instead of channeling funds into expensive, cutting-edge rides, the park prioritized distinctive, hands-on wildlife encounters and positioned itself as a vacation spot for the Tampa Bay area, mirroring Disney's approach in Orlando. To increase visitor numbers, Anheuser-Busch introduced the "Fun Card" for Florida locals at both Busch Gardens Tampa and SeaWorld Orlando, granting unlimited annual admissions and replacing earlier discount schemes. In May 2000, plans were unveiled for Rhino Rally, a Land Rover safari adventure on the Serengeti Plain, which opened in June featuring an additional truck tour.

October 2000 saw the debut of Howl-O-Scream, a Halloween event adapted from its Williamsburg counterpart to rival Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights. Following positive reception, the Fun Card was reintroduced in 2001; Rhino Rally officially launched in May. After the September 11 attacks, the parks temporarily shut down but resumed operations swiftly. In 2002, Busch Gardens became Florida’s pioneer park to offer free admission for a second day if rain affected a guest’s visit. Future developments included replacing the Dolphin Theater with a 4D cinema and revitalizing Timbuktu with new attractions and dining venues. A refreshed logo accompanied these upgrades in 2003, when Dan Brown took over as general manager from Carson mid-year.

That same year, a white rhino exhibit was unveiled alongside the premiere of the 4D film Haunted Lighthouse. The introduction of "Summer Nights" extended operating hours during summer months. Infrastructure enhancements featured expanded parking facilities and tunnels to improve accessibility. August Busch III emphasized a comprehensive entertainment revamp while canceling plans for an on-site hotel complex. Late 2003 saw the relocation of the Wild Maus roller coaster from Williamsburg to Tampa.

In 2004, Kasbah restaurant was rebranded as Desert Grill, and the Wild Maus coaster reopened under the name Cheetah Chase. The park announced SheiKra, a 200-foot steel Dive Coaster designed by Bolliger & Mabillard, which launched in May 2005 as Florida’s tallest coaster and America’s first Dive Coaster, complemented by new dining options. The park implemented fingerprint scanning technology replacing photo ID tickets, introduced self-service kiosks, and opened a tunnel facilitating tram and parking lot access.

Beginning in 2006, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay adopted the moniker Busch Gardens Africa to differentiate itself from its Williamsburg counterpart while maintaining its local Tampa Bay identity. Updates were made to activity zones, with Pirates 4-D substituting Haunted Lighthouse. The original Python roller coaster was retired after three decades to allow for expansion.

In 2007, after nearly five decades, the Bird Gardens’ bird show concluded and was succeeded by Critter Castaways. SheiKra temporarily closed for modifications that added floorless trains. The $16 million Jungala area was announced to replace Python’s location; it featured animal exhibits such as Bengal tigers and orangutans along with new attractions aimed at older children and young teenagers. Donnie Mills succeeded Dan Brown as general manager.

Jungala officially opened in April 2008 with an estimated $40 million investment targeting tweens who had outgrown Land of the Dragons but were not yet ready for SheiKra. Concurrently, Belgian brewing company InBev sought to acquire Anheuser-Busch amid industry consolidation efforts and considered divesting Busch Entertainment parks to finance the takeover bid. InBev formally submitted its offer in June; Anheuser-Busch initially contemplated restructuring to resist but ultimately agreed to merge forming Anheuser-Busch InBev in July. This merger created uncertainty regarding Busch Gardens’ ownership with potential buyers including Blackstone Group, Cedar Fair, Parques Reunidos, and Six Flags.

By late 2008, Blackstone Group and Parques Reunidos emerged as leading contenders for acquiring Busch parks. Industry experts anticipated a deal by mid-2009. As part of divestiture preparations, complimentary beer samples were discontinued at Busch parks early in 2009 along with a reduction in Anheuser-Busch branding presence. To commemorate its 50th anniversary, Busch Gardens assembled a temporary museum showcasing memorabilia from guests and corporate history.

Mid-2009 brought announcements to replace Land of the Dragons with a Sesame Street-themed section featuring expanded attractions and a new children’s roller coaster. Speculation about Busch Gardens’ sale intensified with Blackstone Group emerging as the preferred buyer; by October Anheuser-Busch InBev confirmed selling Busch Entertainment to Blackstone for $2.3 billion. The acquisition preserved the Busch Gardens name along with existing programs and leadership but resulted in removal of Clydesdale horses from the park. By December, operational control transitioned to SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment under Blackstone ownership with all Anheuser-Busch logos eliminated.

2010–present: New Leadership and Developments

In February 2010, Jim Dean succeeded Mills as the park’s president. The Mystic Sheiks of Morocco concluded their performances, making way for a new 4-D Sesame Street film debuting in the Timbuktu Theater, which replaced Pirates 4-D. On March 27, the Sesame Street Safari of Fun section was inaugurated on a 2.5-acre site. Later, on June 14, Walkabout Way, a kangaroo habitat within the Bird Gardens, was introduced. On October 13, Busch Gardens announced two upcoming 2011 attractions: Intamin’s new launched roller coaster Cheetah Hunt, positioned in the former monorail station, alongside a cheetah habitat called Cheetah Run.

On May 16, 2011, plans were disclosed for a new 16,000-square-foot Animal Care & Nutrition Center to replace the previous rhinoceros enclosure. Both Cheetah Hunt and Cheetah Run officially opened on May 27. Following Disney’s discontinuation of Grad Night in 2011, Busch Gardens initiated its own graduation event tailored for local high school seniors.

The Animal Care Center began operations on January 23, 2012, located in the Nairobi area with an estimated investment of $5 million. November saw the debut of Christmas Town as a seasonal winter event. In February 2013, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment refreshed Busch Gardens’ branding with a new logo and slogan featuring a "coaster tree" symbolizing both nature and thrill rides. That same year, the Stanleyville Theater was enclosed. The Sandstorm flat ride closed in June to allow construction of Falcon's Fury—a 335-foot Intamin drop tower opening the next year in Timbuktu—offering face-down drops. Mid-2013 also witnessed the closure of the Crown Colony restaurant amid budget reductions and declining attendance.

In November 2013, the Timbuktu area was reimagined as "Pantopia," characterized by vibrant colors, an updated storyline, new dining options, retained rides, and Falcon's Fury. Following the Bird Gardens Theater's closure in February 2014, the Critter Castaways animal show relocated to Pantopia Theater; the original theater was later demolished. That month also marked Busch Gardens’ inclusion in Tampa’s City Pass program alongside other regional attractions.

Although Falcon's Fury’s intended May 1 opening was postponed, Pantopia officially launched that April. After several soft openings, Falcon's Fury opened to guests on September 2. The Rhino Rally safari attraction permanently ceased operations that same September.

In December 2014, Busch Gardens announced it would retire the wooden roller coaster Gwazi due to increasing operational expenses and guest feedback; it officially closed on February 1, 2015 after fifteen years of operation. A new attraction within the Egypt section was revealed in February 2015 for debut the following year. In March, the Food and Wine Festival replaced Bands, Brew, and BBQ as a culinary event.

May brought the formal announcement of Cobra's Curse—a spinning roller coaster set to open in Egypt during 2016—while Dragon Fire Grill reopened on June 1 as a market-style dining venue.

Tanganyika Tidal Wave shut down on April 10, 2016 without plans for replacement. The former Crown Colony site reopened with a new restaurant in May ahead of Cobra’s Curse launching on June 17 near Montu.

Jambo Junction animal exhibit closed indefinitely on December 9 due to corporate workforce reductions.

In January 2017, Stewart Clark succeeded Jim Dean as park president after Dean transitioned to lead SeaWorld Orlando parks.

Free beer samples returned in May 2018 at the venue formerly known as Hospitality House, now renamed Garden Gate Cafe.

September saw Premier Rides announce Tigris—a triple-launch roller coaster slated for opening the following year.

In March 2019, Iron Gwazi was announced: a Rocky Mountain Construction hybrid coaster conversion replacing Gwazi with an anticipated spring 2020 debut.

Tigris officially opened on April 19, 2019 as Busch Gardens’ ninth roller coaster.

The COVID-19 pandemic forced park closure from March through June 2020, delaying Iron Gwazi’s launch until 2021.

Neal Thurman was appointed president in August 2020 following Stewart Clark’s departure in September.

Iron Gwazi welcomed guests officially on March 11, 2022 after preview events.

April 2022 brought announcements for enhancements including a new entrance plaza, expanded entertainment options, and a pass member lounge planned for that season.

In October, Serengeti Flyer—a Screamin' Swing ride—was revealed with an expected spring 2023 opening.

The Garden Gate Cafe was rebranded as Springs Taproom in January 2023.

By July, Sand Serpent wild mouse coaster had closed and been removed; it was succeeded by Phoenix Rising which debuted July 21, 2024 as the park’s tenth roller coaster.

Park configuration and highlights

Morocco

The primary entrance area of the park is designed with a Morocco theme. Guests can enjoy snacks at Sultan's Sweets and Zagora Cafe. Key features here include the Moroccan Palace and Marrakesh Theater.

  • Gwazi Gliders, a compact hang glider flat ride, was moved 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.
  • The Moroccan Palace, located near Myombe Reserve, is home to Busch Gardens’ acclaimed ice skating production, Turn It Up! The Hottest Show On Ice.
  • Iron Gwazi, a hybrid coaster combining wooden and steel elements, was constructed by Rocky Mountain Construction on the former Gwazi footprint. Debuting in 2022, it stands as North America’s tallest hybrid coaster as well as the fastest and steepest worldwide.

Sesame Street Safari of Fun

Opening on March 27, 2010, Sesame Street Safari of Fun replaced the previous "Land of the Dragons" section (which itself had superseded the Dwarf Village in 1995). This area features revamped versions of earlier attractions:

  • Telly's Jungle Jam, an interactive play zone
  • Rosita's Djembe Fly-Away, a swing ride
  • Bert & Ernie's Watering Hole, a splash play area
  • Air Grover, a roller coaster designed for children

Stanleyville

Named after the former city Stanleyville (now Kisangani) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, this area includes major attractions such as SheiKra, a flagship coaster launched in 2005. SheiKra was North America’s inaugural Bolliger & Mabillard Dive Coaster until Busch Gardens Williamsburg introduced Griffon in 2007.

This section formerly housed Stanley Falls Flume (1973–2025) and Tanganyika Tidal Wave (1989–2016), a water ride adapted from the African Queen Boat Ride (1977). Tanganyika Tidal Wave was removed in 2018 to make space for Tigris, a Premier Rides Sky Rocket II coaster that debuted on April 19, 2019.

  • SheiKra: A 200-foot-tall floorless Bolliger & Mabillard dive coaster featuring a 90-degree vertical plunge; floors were eliminated in 2007 and the ride received new paintwork in 2013.
  • Tigris: A Sky Rocket II coaster constructed on the former site of Tanganyika Tidal Wave, adding to the park’s collection of thrill rides.

Congo

The Congo area draws inspiration from the jungles of both the Republic of the Congo and Democratic Republic of the Congo. It showcases two prominent rides: Kumba, a steel sit-down roller coaster by Bolliger & Mabillard, and Congo River Rapids, an Intamin river rapids attraction. In November 2006, this section underwent significant updates including removal of the park’s previous Arrow Dynamics Corkscrew coaster named Python. Other former rides included Swinging Vines and Monstrous Mamba flat rides. The Pygmy Village children’s zone was relocated to Sesame Street Safari of Fun and Morocco.

  • Kumba, meaning roar in Swahili, is a steel sit-down coaster featuring seven inversions. Built by Bolliger & Mabillard in 1993, it remains a key attraction and was repainted in both 2010 and 2019.
  • Congo River Rapids, an Intamin river rapids ride opened in 1982, features a queue area with a display of Komodo dragons.
  • Ubanga Banga Bumper Cars provides visitors with a traditional bumper car experience.

Jungala

Inaugurated on April 5, 2008, Jungala is a family-oriented area centered around intimate animal experiences. The Tiger Trail is a walking path featuring tigers and includes a glass observation turret that allows visitors to view the animals within their habitat. The Kareebu Jungala show captivates audiences with performances by stiltwalkers and puppetry.

  • Orangutan Outpost offers an elevated platform for visitors to observe and engage with six Bornean orangutans (comprising three males and three females as of 2017).
  • Tiger Lodge and Tiger Trail provide viewing spots historically accommodating at least ten tigers. Notably, in 2013, the female Malayan tiger named Bzui gave birth to a litter of three cubs. As of 2024, the park is home to three tigers: Zahra (Bengal), Bandar (Sumatran), and Asmara (Malayan).
  • Kulu Canopy is home to several species including white-cheeked gibbons named Milo and Kodo, fruit bats known as flying foxes, and the uncommon false gharial crocodile native to Indonesia and Malaysia.

Pantopia

Originally launched in May 1980 under the name Timbuktu, this section was themed after African marketplaces and shopping centers. The Phoenix, an Intamin Looping Starship ride installed in 1984, was removed in 2018 and succeeded by Phoenix Rising, which is the first Bolliger & Mabillard Family Inverted Coaster introduced in the United States. The Sand Serpent, previously known as Wild Izzy, Wild Maus, and Cheetah Chase, was a Mack Rides Wilde Maus coaster that operated from 2004 until 2023.

A renovation in 2003 enclosed the Timbuktu Theater, transforming the former Dolphin Theater into an indoor 4-D cinema showcasing films 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 opened as a 335-foot Intamin Sky Jump—the tallest free-standing drop tower in North America—replacing the Sandstorm orbiter ride. At the same time, Timbuktu was renamed Pantopia.

  • Pantopia Theater: This indoor venue premiered with Opening Night Critters in 2014 and has been home to Critters Inn Charge since spring 2019.
  • Caravan Carousel: Features a variety of mounts including horses, camels, and chariots.
  • Falcon's Fury: An Intamin Sky Jump ride that accelerates riders at high speeds while tilting them forward at a 90-degree angle toward the ground.
  • Phoenix Rising: A family-friendly inverted coaster by B&M featuring an over-banked turn near the entrance sign; it stands as Busch Gardens’ latest coaster addition and holds the distinction of being North America’s tallest and longest family inverted coaster.

Nairobi

Named after Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi offers close-up experiences with animals such as alligators and crocodiles. Curiosity Cavern presents exhibits featuring mammals and reptiles, while Myombe Reserve serves as a tropical rainforest habitat for western lowland gorillas and chimpanzees. This area also hosts the Animal Ambassadors program, which participates in educational outreach across the country. The main Busch Gardens train station is situated within Nairobi.

The Animal Care Center, opened in 2012, spans nearly 16,000 square feet and functions as a veterinary hospital where visitors can watch animal care procedures and meet personalities from the Wildlife Docs television series. Among its facilities are a nutrition demonstration kitchen, treatment rooms, a clinical laboratory, interactive diagnostic stations, as well as behind-the-scenes areas for nutrition management, recovery care, and veterinary offices.

The Elephant Interaction Wall features six Asian elephants—five females and one male originating from Calgary Zoo—providing daily opportunities for interaction along with the Elephant Keeper Experience program.

In 2023, Nairobi introduced the Serengeti Flyer, replacing the former Rhino Rally safari ride. This attraction is an intense S&S Sansei Screamin' Swing towering high above the park. Initially operating in two modes—“mild” during morning hours and “wild” in afternoons—it now runs exclusively in “wild mode,” offering riders maximum height and velocity.

Edge of Africa

Edge of Africa, also referred to as Cheetah Hunt Plaza, represents the park's most compact area. It features The Serengeti Overlook Restaurant and Pub, the Cheetah Hunt roller coaster, and the Skyride station.

  • Cheetah Hunt, an Intamin Blitz coaster that debuted in 2011, includes three launch sections, a Windcatcher Tower, and a heartline roll inversion. This ride occupies the former site of a suspended monorail station that once encircled the Serengeti Plain until 1999.
  • Adjacent to Cheetah Hunt is Cheetah Run, which replaced the Clydesdale Hamlet in May 2011. This animal exhibit showcases Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s cheetah population and features running demonstrations alongside Meet a Keeper experiences. Interactive displays provide educational insights about cheetahs. Significantly, from 2011 to 2013, Kasi, a male cheetah, was paired with Mtani, a female Labrador Retriever; Mtani now resides with a staff member while Kasi has been matched with a female cheetah. As of 2013, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay cares for 14 cheetahs.

Egypt

This section evokes an Egyptian bazaar atmosphere with Bedouin tents, authentic crafts, and artwork. The centerpiece attraction is Montu, an inverted steel coaster. Tut's Tomb, previously an audio-guided tomb excavation walk-through, closed in Winter 2013 to accommodate the queue for Cobra's Curse. The former Golden Scarab Gift Shop was repurposed into a retail outlet at this attraction’s exit.

Animal habitats

Busch Gardens stands as Tampa’s largest zoological facility, home to more than 200 species.

Animal Care Center

This center allows guests to observe animal healthcare procedures such as treatments and x-rays.

  • The Wildlife Docs is an Emmy-nominated documentary series that follows caretakers as they manage the health of over 12,000 animals at Busch Gardens Tampa.

Bird Gardens

A free-flight aviary hosting upwards of 500 tropical bird species from across the globe, including parrots and flamingos. The original section opened in 1959 and continues to serve primarily as gardens and animal exhibits. A former brewery attraction closed in 1995 and was replaced by the Gwazi roller coaster. In 2014, the Bird Gardens theater was dismantled; this led to relocating the outdoor show "Critter Castaways" indoors under the title "Opening Night Critters" until December 2018. Presently, the park features "Rescue Tales," an animal rescue presentation also shown at Seaworld Orlando.

  • Walkabout Way launched in June 2010 with an Australian outpost theme. It permits visitors to hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies, as well as observe species such as kookaburras, magpies, and black swans. A notable inhabitant is Horatio, a male kangaroo who arrived in 2014. This experience is available for guests aged five years and older.
  • Lory Landing is an open aviary where visitors can interact directly with lorikeets, with nectar available for purchase to facilitate hand-feeding.

Edge of Africa

Established in 1997, Edge of Africa is an immersive walk-through exhibit showcasing a variety of African wildlife, including a Nile crocodile named Sobek, meerkats, two distinct lion prides, spotted hyenas, hippos Moyo, Kita, and Devi, as well as vultures and lemurs.

The most recent additions to the lion prides are male Kembe and females Shaba and Shtuko, who arrived as cubs in 2013 from a zoo in Africa. Another pride features male Simon alongside females Rose and Iris; as of 2024, Rose remains the sole surviving lion. To prevent reproduction, both Iris and Rose have been spayed.

Hippos Moyo and Kita, a father-daughter pair, are alternated daily between their exhibit and holding areas to avoid accidental inbreeding.

The Serengeti Plain

Since its debut in 1965, the Serengeti Plain habitat has grown from 29 acres to 65 acres, setting a precedent for expansive free-roaming animal environments. The habitat is home to species such as Grévy's and Grant's zebras, Grant's and Thomson's gazelles, sable antelope, reticulated giraffes, Ankole-Watusi cattle, addax, waterbuck, greater kudu, southern white rhinoceros, common eland, impala, common ostrich, and lowland nyala.

A private enclosure houses Jody, a lone female eastern black rhinoceros.

Events

Between January and March, Busch Gardens presents a weekly concert series featuring prominent big band and pop performers delivering both timeless classics and modern hits.

In March and April, concerts take place at Gwazi Field predominantly highlighting classic rock and country artists; occasional performances include alternative rock, pop, hip hop, R&B acts, and comedians. This series is complemented by unique culinary offerings featuring ethnic dishes and wine tastings along the pathway connecting the Gwazi Roller Coaster to Gwazi Field. Following the impact of the documentary Blackfish and associated online petitions that led several musical groups to withdraw from SeaWorld and Busch Gardens events in 2014, this concert series was discontinued in Tampa and replaced with an annual Food and Wine Festival modeled after Epcot’s event at Walt Disney World. Additionally in March, Latin music performers entertain at Gwazi Field with similar food experiences.

During summer months, the park extends operating hours to include concerts by artists such as David Cassidy and Starship featuring Mickey Thomas. Independence Day festivities incorporate fireworks displays into the entertainment schedule.

In 2010, Busch Gardens launched Kinetix—a nighttime show rich with special effects—at Gwazi Field alongside enhanced ride experiences for Summer Nights; Kinetix concluded its run after 2016. Beginning in 2017, Summer Nights evolved to feature party zones with DJs and dance competitions offering prizes like Adventure Island tickets. Prominent zones include ¡Fiesta Festa! in Cheetah Hunt Plaza and Tigris’s Party Zone located in Stanleyville. Following renovations in 2022, Summer Nights was rebranded as "Busch Gardens Summer Celebration."

Since 2000 each September through October, Busch Gardens has hosted Howl-O-Scream—a highly acclaimed Halloween event comprising haunted houses, scare zones, and live shows. Previous attractions have included rides transformed for the occasion such as Evening Serengeti Safari Tours and Dark Cavern. The event celebrated its 13th anniversary in 2012.

From November through December, Christmas Town transforms theaters into holiday-themed productions like Christmas On Ice while the entire park is adorned with over one million lights alongside themed areas such as Snow World featuring snow play zones and ice slides. Launched in 2012, Christmas Town introduced Santa’s House near the Nairobi Train Station where guests can take photos with Santa Claus and his elves. Since 2016, visitors have had opportunities to meet characters from Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer within Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland. Seasonal princesses appear across themed locations for photo sessions including Princess Fae who made her debut in 2019.

For New Year’s Eve celebrations, Busch Gardens offers live musical performances throughout the park with extended ride hours; festivities culminate in fireworks at Gwazi Field accompanied by a park-wide countdown welcoming the new year.

Rankings

The roller coasters at Busch Gardens Tampa have achieved notable placements on the award lists compiled by Amusement Today, with nominations recognizing excellence in landscaping in both 1998 and 2007.

Steel Coasters

Wooden Coasters

  • Gwazi: Positioned 40th in 2007

Attendance Figures

Year Visitor Count
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

  • MacIntosh, Julie. Dethroning the King: The Hostile Takeover of Anheuser-Busch, an American Icon. Wiley, September 2011.
  • McMorrow-Hernandez, Joshua. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Arcadia Publishing, March 2017.

External links

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