Wild Surge

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Company type	Private
Industry	Theme park
Founded	March 31, 1959 (1959-03-31) in Tampa, Florida, United States
Founder	Anheuser-Busch
Headquarters	Tampa , United States
Area served	Tampa, Florida
Products	Animal theme park attractions, roller coasters, thrill rides
Owner	United Parks & Resorts
Website	buschgardens.com/tampa/

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is an animal theme park located in Tampa, Florida, with an African theme. Owned by United Parks & Resorts, the park first opened its doors on March 31, 1959. It regularly draws over 4 million visitors each year, making it the second most popular property owned by United Parks & Resorts after SeaWorld Orlando.

Visitors can enjoy 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 hybrid wood-steel hypercoaster Iron Gwazi. Additional highlights include Falcon's Fury, which ranks as North America's second-tallest free-standing drop tower and features a distinctive tilting drop, Montu, previously the world's tallest and fastest inverted roller coaster, and Phoenix Rising, known as the tallest and longest family inverted coaster in North America. The park also provides multiple rides designed for children along with a water-based river rafting attraction.

1957–1959: Establishment of Busch Brewery and Gardens

In April 1957, Anheuser-Busch evaluated Florida as a potential site for a new brewery, focusing on Tampa and Jacksonville. By June, speculation arose about a $25–30 million brewery project in Tampa, though these claims were initially refuted. On July 25, Anheuser-Busch confirmed acquiring a 160-acre plot in Tampa for $320,000 to construct a $20 million brewery, coinciding with Schlitz's nearby brewing facility development. August Busch Jr. intended to incorporate gardens to engage the community and bolster the company's public image.

Construction commenced in March 1958 and progressed through early 1959. The brewery began operations on March 12, 1959, with an official dedication ceremony led by August Busch Jr. on March 31, attended by roughly 2,000 guests including media representatives and local officials. Operational hours were announced in May.

On June 1, 1959, the brewery and adjoining Busch Gardens opened to visitors free of charge, attracting approximately 1,000 guests at launch. The gardens covered 15 acres adjacent to the brewery and featured lagoons along with landscaping that included nearly 36,000 flowering plants and about 300 trees. Early attractions comprised a bird show amphitheater seating 200 people, a flamingo habitat, "Devil's Island" animal exhibit, enclosures for eagles and cockatoos, a dwarf village, and the "Hospitality House," where complimentary beer samples were offered. An additional 118 acres east of the brewery housed Budweiser Clydesdales and plans for exotic animals such as buffalo, ostriches, and zebras. This initial section later became known as the "Bird Gardens."

1959–1968: Expansion and Introduction of African Veldt

Following strong initial success, Anheuser-Busch announced in July 1959 a $5 million expansion for its Tampa facility. Construction began in February 1960 on the Adolphus Busch Space Frame—a $75,000 geodesic dome made from anodized aluminum surrounded by landscaped areas to accommodate birds—which opened on March 22. In October that year, plans were revealed for an 86-foot Otis escalator called the Stairway to the Stars leading to the brewery roof; this feature debuted on March 22, 1961. The rooftop included a 5,000-square-foot pool originally housing penguins, a 1,000-square-foot observation deck, and a raised walkway extending 150 feet connecting to Busch Gardens.

In May 1962, additional land acquisitions enabled Anheuser-Busch to announce a $3.5 to $4 million expansion of Busch Gardens aimed at managing increased attendance. This development introduced themed areas such as an African veldt and American Plains featuring corresponding wildlife habitats alongside enhancements like a railway system and improved landscaping. By October of that year, bird populations had grown to around 1,000 individuals. Early in 1963, construction began on a monorail traversing the African veldt area and on a four-story Swiss-themed restaurant situated east of the brewery. Further land purchases were made in April 1964.

Thomas J. Pinta was appointed as manager of Busch Gardens in July 1964. On October 1 of that year, a trackless transportation train was launched to ferry guests between the gardens and the newly completed Old Swiss House restaurant. The Wild Animal Kingdom representing the African veldt officially opened in 1965 featuring authentic habitats housing animals such as cheetahs, chimpanzees, elephants, gorillas, lions, and rhinoceroses. A clock tower was added next to the Swiss House.

By November 1965, Anheuser-Busch's holdings included approximately 268 acres encompassing both garden areas and brewery facilities. To improve guest transport from parking zones, a trackless shuttle train was constructed in late 1966. Due to increased visitor numbers, parking fees were introduced in August that year. The Skyrail monorail debuted on September 22 as a seven-thousand-foot Arrow Development system providing an upgraded experience through the African veldt; adult fares started at one dollar. By late 1966, roughly 475 animals inhabited this section of the park. A snack bar serving parking lot visitors was opened in 1967.

1969–1975: Expansion of Boma and Themed Zones

In March 1969, Anheuser-Busch revealed plans for a $1 million expansion spanning 2.5 acres named "Boma," situated between the brewery and monorail to optimize both operations. Leadership shifted swiftly with Franklin H. Rust taking over as manager from Pinta in May 1969, though Rust stepped down by February 1970. With Disney World emerging nearby, Anheuser-Busch sought to boost the Tampa brewery and gardens' appeal to tourists, with August Busch Jr. stressing the need for competitive positioning. The Tampa site served as the company’s flagship model for venturing into the entertainment sector.

During a June 1970 preview of Boma, a $12.6 million expansion plan covering ten years was announced, featuring an amphitheater for 1,000 spectators, an African veldt observation deck dubbed "tree tops," a train locomotive, and a log flume ride. On July 31, the park transitioned from free entry to charging admission ($1.25 for adults and 50 cents for children), coinciding with Boma's debut showcasing African wildlife and an artificial mountain. The entrance was repositioned to accommodate increased visitor flow. Additional developments included a railroad, an African village (later renamed Stanleyville), and an amphitheater.

Robert B. Bean assumed the general manager role in April 1971. The Trans-Veldt Railway began operation on July 4 as a paid attraction linking major park sections. By mid-1972, the $250,000 tree tops viewing platform and African village opened; the latter contained the Tanzanian Theater featuring live elephant performances, gorilla and okapi habitats, retail outlets, and access to Stanleyville train station. Charges for monorail and railway rides were eliminated as general admission fees increased. The Livingstone's Landing boat ride launched in summer 1972.

In March 1973, a second phase expansion valued at $6.5 million was announced targeting enhancements to Boma, Stanleyville, and the African veldt area with plans for a Morocco-themed zone, log flume (which opened in June 1973), dark ride, gondola lift, animal training center, and safari experience. A nearby campervan park opened in May that year. Bean resigned in April 1974 and was succeeded by Joseph C. Fincher. The sky ride gondola commenced service in May 1974 connecting the monorail station, tree tops lookout, and Stanleyville.

By 1975, Busch Gardens housed more than 800 animals while broadening its live entertainment options. On April 16, the Morocco-themed village debuted as the new main entrance featuring retail shops, dining venues, landscaped spaces, and the Algiers Theater; an upgraded snack bar was incorporated near the parking lot area. In September, a $7.6 million development plan introduced the park’s inaugural roller coaster alongside new exhibits for tigers and elephants, expansion of Livingstone's Landing, enhanced landscaping throughout the park, and installation of park-wide audio systems.

1975–1989: The Dark Continent Era and Continued Development

Towards the end of 1975, Busch Gardens launched a promotional campaign emphasizing a unified African theme for its Tampa location, rebranding it as "The Dark Continent" in early 1976 to set it apart from similarly named Florida parks. This repositioning brought new live shows, animal displays, and thrill rides to visitors. The African veldt was renamed Serengeti Plain; Boma became Nairobi; and the Moroccan-themed area was retitled Marrakesh.

Construction on the $7.6 million Congo section began in January 1976. Arrow Development’s steel roller coaster Python debuted on July 1 as the park’s first coaster attraction. Additionally, an octopus-style flat ride called Monstrous Mamba opened that year within Stanleyville located in the northern part of the park. The Congo area officially launched on July 26, 1977 incorporating these rides plus new features such as the African Queen boat ride (a rebranding of Livingstone's Landing), shooting gallery, Claw Island tiger exhibit, and Intamin’s Swinging Vines swing ride. Bumper cars were also introduced in 1977.

In May 1978, Busch Gardens announced plans for a $5–10 million expansion including a large-scale dining facility. Anheuser-Busch acquired extra land expanding the property significantly during this period. Construction continued throughout late 1978 on Timbuktu section development. By February 1979, an $18.5 million expansion was unveiled encompassing Timbuktu alongside Adventure Island water park next door. Timbuktu served as a connector between Congo and Nairobi with new rides, eateries, and an amphitheater added; moreover, Trans Veldt Railway included a station there in 1979. A proposed $20 million hotel announced in April experienced delays before construction could begin. Partial opening of Timbuktu occurred by late 1979.

At the dawn of the 1980s decade, Busch Entertainment Corporation was established as an Anheuser-Busch subsidiary tasked with managing entertainment ventures independently. Timbuktu officially opened in January featuring attractions such as Chance carousels and trabants; it also hosted dolphin shows at Dolphin Theater alongside Festhaus dining with dance performances and specialty retail shops. Schwarzkopf’s Scorpion roller coaster debuted in May that year. To attract more visitors, Busch Gardens announced a $6 million river rapids ride addition for Congo in 1981 which debuted in May 1982 together with white tigers introduced at Claw Island.

During the early ’80s period, children’s rides were incorporated into Timbuktu and Congo areas while Marrakesh Theater opened mid-1983 showcasing Moroccan-American dance productions. Dwarf Village underwent transformation adding child-friendly attractions including a miniature log flume and car ride experiences. By November of that year, Anheuser-Busch retired "The Dark Continent" branding due to limited recognition among guests reverting to "Busch Gardens" with refreshed logos and marketing slogans. In June 1984, Intamin’s Phoenix looping starship roller coaster premiered within Timbuktu.

Several relocations took place including moving eagle enclosures beneath the brewery escalator in January 1985 and establishing new elephant habitats within Nairobi by 1986. The Moroccan Palace Theater opened August 11 presenting its inaugural show Kaleidoscope, becoming the venue for major productions at the park; meanwhile Nairobi Field Station animal nursery began operations December 9.

In February 1987 bird shows expanded to feature birds of prey such as falcons and owls. That October Busch Gardens arranged to lease two pandas from China; their exhibit debuted November 17 inside bird gardens with newly constructed aviaries tailored for them; both pandas returned to China by late 1988. The monorail underwent upgrades transitioning to electric trains in 1988 while removal of an aviary dome occurred due to brewery expansion.

By late 1988 plans were underway for additional attractions including a new boat ride aimed at European visitors along with refurbishments like upgrading Moroccan snack bar Zagora Café and relocating white tigers into former panda enclosures.

Celebrating its thirtieth anniversary in 1989, Busch Gardens announced Intamin's Tanganyika Tidal Wave shoot-the-chute water ride replacing African Queen boat ride; also unveiled were koala exhibits and Clydesdale stables housing four horses which opened progressively from June through August alongside Orchid Canyon nature walk additions.

1990–1999: Introduction of Thrill Rides and Wildlife Exhibits

In the early 1990s, Busch Gardens focused on expanding its attraction lineup following the 1988 debut of the panda exhibit. Due to diminishing attendance, the campervan park was shuttered in 1990. The Old Swiss House underwent transformation into the Crown Colony House, featuring an African-inspired dining experience. Around 1991, the Swinging Vines ride was removed from the park. May 1991 marked the unveiling of Questor, a motion simulator developed by Reflectone that followed explorer Sir Edison Fitzwilly’s adventures.

To enhance its presence in Florida's market, Busch Gardens introduced the Myombe Reserve in June 1992—a three-acre habitat dedicated to chimpanzees and gorillas—replacing the previous Boma area. The following month, the park hosted a temporary Olympic village for the U.S. team during the 1992 Summer Olympics. November of that year brought announcements for Kumba, a signature steel coaster by Bolliger & Mabillard situated near Congo River Rapids. Kumba opened in April 1993, boasting a height of 143 feet, nearly 4,000 feet of track length, and speeds reaching 60 miles per hour.

In 1994, Dwarf Village was replaced by the Land of the Dragons children's zone. After a fourteen-year run, the Stanleyville variety show concluded and was succeeded by Hollywood Live on Ice, an ice skating production staged at the Moroccan Palace Theater. The development of Disney’s Animal Kingdom motivated Busch Gardens to prepare for direct competition. Land of the Dragons officially opened in May 1995 on a 1.5-acre plot, featuring attractions such as a three-story treehouse and a ferris wheel.

Building on Kumba’s popularity, plans for an Egypt-themed area were submitted in May 1995, including proposals for a fourth roller coaster, retail spaces, and a train station. In October 1995, Anheuser-Busch closed its smallest brewery located within the park as part of corporate restructuring; this 17-acre parcel was designated for future park expansions. That autumn also saw the closure of the Monstrous Mamba flat ride; meanwhile, a safari experience with an additional fee was introduced in November within Serengeti Plain. By December 1996, demolition of the brewery was complete.

Busch Gardens broadened its international marketing efforts in 1996 to include Brazil, Germany, and the United Kingdom and once again provided a temporary Olympic village for the 1996 Summer Games. The $5 million Egypt section opened in May that year, featuring a replica of King Tut’s tomb and Montu—a $10 million inverted roller coaster by Bolliger & Mabillard that was then recognized as the world’s longest and tallest inverted coaster. In June, Busch Gardens formed a theme park alliance with SeaWorld Orlando and Universal Studios Florida to compete more effectively against Disney while exploring potential hotel developments.

October 1996 brought announcements for a $20 million animal exhibit expansion. Early in 1997, general manager Fincher was succeeded by Robin D. Carson. On July 4 of that year, Edge of Africa debuted on a 15-acre section within Serengeti Plain, showcasing animals such as crocodiles, hippopotamuses, lions, and vultures amid an African village setting. Progress continued through late 1997 and into 1998 toward creating an entertainment complex designed to rival Disney’s Animal Kingdom; plans included upgrading simulator attractions and adding a walk-through aviary near Land of the Dragons.

In May 1998, Akbar's Adventure Tours replaced Questor as the new simulator attraction; an arcade area also opened earlier that April within Egypt. A $10 million ride addition was announced for this entertainment complex—later disclosed as Gwazi—featuring dueling wooden roller coasters which launched on June 18, 1999 on land formerly occupied by the brewery. October saw Busch Gardens introduce its inaugural family-oriented Halloween event called Spooky Safari alongside opening an animal retirement facility on a newly acquired 108-acre site north of San Antonio.

By 1999, Tangiers Theater had been replaced by a candy store while the monorail ceased operation and was dismantled that May. Plans to revitalize Serengeti Plain included enhanced landscaping designed to better separate species and bring wildlife closer to visitors through train rides showcasing antelopes, gazelles, giraffes, and zebras.

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

By the year 2000, Busch Gardens' management under Carson had replaced numerous veteran executives and assembled a fresh leadership team to revitalize the park amid intensifying competition from Florida's theme parks. Rather than investing in expensive technological attractions, the park emphasized distinctive interactive wildlife encounters and positioned itself as a vacation destination for the Tampa Bay area, akin to Disney's role in Orlando. To encourage repeat visits, Anheuser-Busch launched the "Fun Card" in 2000 for Florida residents at both Busch Gardens Tampa and SeaWorld Orlando, effectively consolidating various discount promotions. Announced plans included Rhino Rally, a Land Rover safari ride that debuted in June 2000 on the renewed 29-acre Serengeti Plain, featuring an optional truck tour through animal habitats. That October, Busch Gardens introduced Howl-O-Scream, a Halloween event adapted from its Williamsburg counterpart to rival Universal's seasonal offerings.

Following the positive reception of the Fun Card, it returned in 2001. Rhino Rally officially opened on May 23. In response to the September 11 attacks, Anheuser-Busch temporarily closed its parks but reopened them the following day. In June 2002, Busch Gardens became Florida's first theme park to offer guests a complimentary second-day admission if rain disrupted their initial visit. August brought announcements to replace the Dolphin Theater with a 4D film venue. For the 2003 season, enhancements included a new white rhino habitat, an interactive zoo keeper experience, a redesigned Timbuktu area with a rethemed Das Festhaus restaurant, and the debut of the 4D film Haunted Lighthouse. A refreshed logo was introduced to succeed one that had been in use for two decades. Mid-2003 saw Dan Brown succeed Carson as general manager. The 750-seat 4D theater opened in May alongside Timbuktu's renovation and the Kasbah restaurant (which was renamed Desert Grill in 2004). The expansive 26-acre white rhino exhibit launched in June.

Beginning in June 2003, "Summer Nights" extended operating hours during summer months. Later that year, construction commenced on parking lot expansions to support new tunnels beneath McKinley Drive aimed at improving guest access. With August Busch III taking a more active role to enhance profitability, entertainment offerings were revamped and plans for a hotel complex were abandoned. The Wild Maus wild mouse coaster was relocated from Busch Gardens Williamsburg to Tampa, replacing Crazy Camel.

The Cheetah Chase wild mouse coaster opened in February 2004. October marked the start of construction for SheiKra, a 200-foot Bolliger & Mabillard steel roller coaster situated in Stanleyville. In January 2005, fingerprint scanning replaced photo ID tickets; self-service kiosks were introduced alongside a new entrance; parking and tunnel projects were completed. SheiKra debuted on May 21 as Florida's tallest coaster and the nation's first Dive Coaster model, accompanied by a new barbecue restaurant in Stanleyville.

In 2006, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay rebranded itself as Busch Gardens Africa to distinguish from its Williamsburg sister park themed around Europe while maintaining Tampa Bay branding locally. Five activity zones underwent updates and Pirates 4-D premiered in February, taking over from Haunted Lighthouse. After three decades, the Python roller coaster closed in October to allow expansion work impacting nearby Congo section exhibits.

The Bird Gardens' bird show concluded after 48 years in 2007 and was succeeded by Critter Castaways. SheiKra temporarily closed in May for conversion to floorless trains and reopened in June. September brought plans for Jungala—a $16 million four-acre area featuring Bengal tigers, Tomistoma crocodiles, flying foxes, gibbons, orangutans, plus attractions such as a mini space shot and zip line. Donnie Mills replaced Dan Brown as general manager by year-end.

Jungala officially opened on April 5, 2008 with an estimated cost of $40 million targeting older children and young teenagers who had outgrown Land of the Dragons but were not yet ready for SheiKra. Amid industry consolidation trends, Belgian brewer InBev explored acquiring Anheuser-Busch in May with intentions to potentially sell Busch Entertainment (which included ten parks) to finance the takeover. InBev submitted a formal bid on June 11; Anheuser-Busch considered restructuring and divesting assets including Busch Entertainment by late June to counter the offer. On June 27 InBev filed suit seeking board removal to facilitate acquisition; an official takeover bid followed on July 7.

A friendly merger formed Anheuser-Busch InBev on July 13; InBev planned financing through subsidiary asset sales including Busch parks. Speculation arose regarding possible buyers such as Blackstone Group, Cedar Fair, Parques Reunidos, and Six Flags. By August, Blackstone (which operates Merlin Entertainment) and Parques Reunidos emerged as front-runners; agreements were expected by summer 2009.

In early 2009 free beer samples at Busch parks were discontinued after decades; Anheuser-Busch branded products were reduced or removed amid sale preparations. For its 50th anniversary celebrations, Busch Gardens assembled a temporary historic museum within former ride facilities showcasing memorabilia.

By June 2009 plans surfaced to replace Land of the Dragons with a Sesame Street themed area following Williamsburg’s example; August confirmed expansion including a children's roller coaster and retheming of attractions. Sale rumors intensified in September with Blackstone Group nearing agreement; acquisition was announced on October 7 for $2.3 billion. The transaction resulted in removal of Clydesdale horses but preserved Busch Gardens branding and staff continuity. Operations transitioned into SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment by December with all Anheuser-Busch signage removed from the park.

2010–present: Changes in Ownership and New Developments

In February 2010, Jim Dean succeeded Mills as the park president. 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 section opened, spanning 2.5 acres. Additionally, Walkabout Way, a kangaroo habitat, was launched in June.

On October 13, Busch Gardens announced two major additions for 2011: the Intamin-manufactured roller coaster named Cheetah Hunt and the accompanying Cheetah Run habitat. Plans were also unveiled for a new 16,000 square-foot Animal Care & Nutrition Center to take the place of the outdated rhino enclosure. Both Cheetah Hunt and Cheetah Run officially opened on May 27, 2011. After Disney ended its Grad Night events in 2011, Busch Gardens introduced its own celebration tailored for local high school seniors.

January 2012 saw the opening of the Animal Care Center in Nairobi, constructed at an estimated cost of $5 million. That November, the park launched a seasonal winter event called Christmas Town. In February 2013, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment refreshed Busch Gardens’ branding with a new "coaster tree" logo representing both attractions and nature. The Stanleyville Theater was enclosed that same year, while Sandstorm closed in June to make room for Falcon's Fury—a 335-foot Intamin drop tower featuring face-down descents—situated in Timbuktu.

By mid-2013, the Crown Colony restaurant shuttered indefinitely due to budget constraints and declining visitor numbers. In November, Timbuktu was reimagined as Pantopia, featuring bright colors, an updated storyline, new food options, and Falcon’s Fury as its focal point. The Critter Castaways animal show relocated from Bird Gardens Theater to Pantopia Theater after Bird Gardens closed in February 2014 and was subsequently demolished.

In February 2014, Busch Gardens became part of Tampa’s CityPASS program. Although Falcon's Fury’s debut was postponed from May, it officially opened on September 2 following soft launches. That same month saw the permanent closure of Rhino Rally safari attraction. In December, the park announced that Gwazi would cease operations due to rising maintenance costs and guest feedback; it officially closed on February 1, 2015.

February 2015 brought news of a new attraction within the Egypt section. The Food and Wine Festival replaced Bands, Brew, and BBQ in March. Cobra's Curse—a spinning coaster located next to Montu—was revealed in May and opened on June 17. The Desert Grill was rebranded as Dragon Fire Grill on June 1.

Tanganyika Tidal Wave ceased operations on April 10, 2016 without any replacement planned. The former Crown Colony reopened with a new dining venue that May alongside Cobra's Curse’s launch. Jambo Junction animal center closed indefinitely in December amid corporate staffing reductions. In January 2017, Stewart Clark took over as park president from Jim Dean.

Free beer samples returned in May 2018 at the venue formerly known as Hospitality House, now renamed Garden Gate Cafe. In September of that year, Busch Gardens announced Tigris—a triple-launch coaster by Premier Rides—scheduled to open in 2019.

In March 2019, Busch Gardens unveiled Iron Gwazi: a hybrid coaster conversion by Rocky Mountain Construction replacing Gwazi. Tigris officially opened on April 19, 2019. However, Iron Gwazi’s completion was postponed to 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic which forced park closures from March through June 2020; during this period SeaWorld Entertainment parks experienced a drastic attendance decline of approximately 96%.

Following Stewart Clark’s departure, Neal Thurman became park president in August 2020. Iron Gwazi officially opened on March 11, 2022 after preview events. In April of that year, plans were announced for a new entrance plaza along with enhanced entertainment options and a lounge dedicated to pass members.

In October 2022, Busch Gardens revealed Serengeti Flyer—a Screamin' Swing ride set to debut in spring 2023. The Garden Gate Cafe underwent rebranding as Springs Taproom in January 2023. Meanwhile, the Sand Serpent wild mouse coaster closed and was dismantled by July; it is being replaced by Phoenix Rising which is scheduled to open on July 21, 2024 as the park’s tenth roller coaster.

Park design and features

• The Serengeti Express, a narrow-gauge steam locomotive, operates along the rear section of the park, stopping at themed zones including Nairobi, Congo, and Stanleyville.
• The SkyRide provides transportation for visitors between Edge of Africa (adjacent to Cheetah Hunt) and Stanleyville.

Morocco

Serving as the park’s primary entrance, the Morocco area showcases Sultan's Sweets, Zagora Cafe, the Moroccan Palace, and the outdoor Marrakesh Theater.

• Gwazi Gliders, a compact hang glider flat ride, was relocated from the now-closed Pygmy Village children’s area in the Congo section.
• Myombe Reserve, established in 1992 within Nairobi, is a sanctuary for six western lowland gorillas and nine chimpanzees.
• Near Myombe Reserve stands the Moroccan Palace theater, home to Busch Gardens’s acclaimed ice skating production, Turn It Up! The Hottest Show On Ice.
• Iron Gwazi, erected by Rocky Mountain Construction on the former Gwazi roller coaster site, is a hybrid wooden-steel coaster that debuted in 2022. It holds the distinction of being North America’s tallest hybrid coaster as well as the fastest and steepest worldwide.

Sesame Street Safari of Fun

Originally named "Land of the Dragons" after replacing Dwarf Village in 1995, this children’s zone was rebranded to Sesame Street Safari of Fun on March 27, 2010. While adopting new theming, all original rides remain:

• Telly's Jungle Jam, an interactive play environment.
• Rosita's Djembe Fly-Away, a swinging ride.
• Bert & Ernie's Watering Hole, a splash play area.
• Air Grover, a roller coaster designed for young guests.

Stanleyville

Named after Kisangani’s former name in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Stanleyville features prominent attractions such as SheiKra, which opened in 2005 as North America’s inaugural Bolliger & Mabillard Dive Coaster. It maintained uniqueness until Busch Gardens Williamsburg introduced Griffon in 2007. This area also included Stanley Falls Flume (1973–2025) and Premier Rides’ Sky Rocket II coaster Tigris, which launched in 2019.

The African Queen Boat Ride began operations in 1977 as Busch Gardens’ counterpart to Disney's Jungle Cruise, incorporating live animal exhibits and South American macaws. In 1989, it was reimagined as Tanganyika Tidal Wave featuring a significant drop. The attraction closed in 2016 and was dismantled by 2018 to accommodate Tigris.

• SheiKra, a floorless Bolliger & Mabillard dive coaster with a vertical 90-degree plunge. Initially operated with floors, it transitioned to floorless trains in 2007 and received a new paint scheme in 2013.
• Tigris, a Premier Rides Sky Rocket II coaster erected on the former Tanganyika Tidal Wave location; it opened on April 19, 2019.

Congo

The Congo section draws inspiration from the jungles of both the Republic of the Congo and Democratic Republic of the Congo. It features two principal attractions: Kumba, a steel sit-down roller coaster by Bolliger & Mabillard, and Congo River Rapids, an Intamin river rapids ride. In 2006, this area underwent refurbishment that included retiring Python, an Arrow Dynamics Corkscrew coaster. Other former rides included Swinging Vines and Monstrous Mamba flat rides. The Pygmy Village children’s zone was removed to make room for relocated attractions such as Sesame Street Safari of Fun’s teacup and kiddie swing rides.

• Kumba, meaning roar in Swahili, is a steel roller coaster featuring seven inversions. Constructed by Bolliger & Mabillard in 1993, it remains one of the park’s premier thrills. The coaster was repainted twice, once in 2010 and again in 2019.
• Congo River Rapids debuted in 1982 as an Intamin river rapids attraction with a queue area that includes a Komodo dragon exhibit.
• Ubanga Banga Bumper Cars provides a family-oriented bumper car experience.

Jungala

Since its opening on April 5, 2008, Jungala has served as a family-friendly attraction emphasizing intimate animal interactions. The Tiger Trail is a walk-through experience where visitors can observe tigers up close, including a glass turret that allows views inside the tiger enclosure. The Kareebu Jungala show features stiltwalkers who use puppetry to entertain and engage guests.

• Orangutan Outpost is an elevated viewing platform dedicated to Bornean orangutans; as of 2017, Busch Gardens cared for six orangutans, evenly split between three males and three females.
• Tiger Lodge and Tiger Trail have historically provided observation spaces for at least ten tigers. A notable event occurred in 2013 when Malayan tiger Bzui gave birth to three cubs. By 2024, the tiger population includes Zahra (Bengal), Bandar (Sumatran), and Asmara (Malayan).
• Kulu Canopy is a diverse habitat accommodating white-cheeked gibbons named Milo and Kodo, fruit bats known as flying foxes, and the rare false gharials native to Indonesia and Malaysia.

Pantopia

Originally introduced in May 1980 as Timbuktu, this section was themed around African marketplaces and bazaars. The Phoenix, an Intamin Looping Starship, was added in 1984 but was removed in 2018 to make way for Phoenix Rising, which is the first Bolliger & Mabillard Family Inverted Coaster in the United States. The Sand Serpent, a Mack Rides Wilde Maus coaster relocated from Busch Gardens Williamsburg, operated here from 2004 until it closed in 2023. A renovation in 2003 enclosed the Timbuktu Theater, transforming it into an indoor 4-D cinema that premiered titles such as "R.L Stine's Haunted Lighthouse" (2003), "Pirates 4-D" (2006), and "Sesame Street Presents: Lights! Camera! Imagination!" (2010). Additionally, Das Festhaus was rebranded as the Desert Grill in 2004.

In September 2014, Falcon's Fury—a 335-foot Intamin Sky Jump—opened on the site of the former Sandstorm orbiter ride. This launch coincided with the area's rebranding to Pantopia.

• Pantopia Theater: An indoor stage that opened with Opening Night Critters in 2014; since Spring 2019, it has featured Critters Inn Charge.
• Caravan Carousel: A ride showcasing horses, camels, and chariots.
• Falcon's Fury: Standing at 335 feet tall, this Intamin Sky Jump is North America’s tallest free-standing drop tower, reaching high speeds during its descent.
• Phoenix Rising: This family inverted coaster by Bolliger & Mabillard includes an over-banked turn near the entrance sign and holds the distinction of being Busch Gardens’ most recent coaster addition as well as North America’s tallest and longest family inverted roller coaster.

Nairobi

Named after Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi offers close-up animal encounters featuring species such as alligators and crocodiles. Curiosity Cavern contains exhibits of mammals and reptiles, while Myombe Reserve replicates a tropical rainforest environment home to western lowland gorillas and chimpanzees. The area also hosts Animal Ambassadors who participate in educational outreach across the country at Jambo Junction. The main train station for Busch Gardens is situated within Nairobi.

The Animal Care Center opened in 2012, allowing guests to observe veterinary care procedures and featuring animals from Busch Gardens’ television series Wildlife Docs. This nearly 16,000-square-foot facility includes a kitchen for nutrition demonstrations, treatment rooms, a clinical laboratory, and interactive diagnostic stations. Behind the scenes are the animal nutrition center, recovery areas, and veterinary offices.

Nairobi’s Elephant Interaction Wall is home to five female Asian elephants—Tina (53), Rosie (50), Simba (52), Carina (48), and Carnaudi (30)—along with one male elephant who arrived from Calgary Zoo in 2013. Visitors can participate in daily interactions either at the wall or through the Elephant Keeper Experience.

In 2023, Serengeti Flyer replaced the former Rhino Rally safari ride with an intense S&S Sansei Screamin' Swing. Initially operating with “mild mode” during mornings and “wild mode” later in the day, it now runs exclusively in “wild mode,” delivering maximum height and speed thrills.

Edge of Africa

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

• Cheetah Hunt, an Intamin Blitz coaster inaugurated in 2011, boasts three launch sequences, a Windcatcher Tower, and a heartline roll inversion. It utilizes the former site of a suspended monorail station that once circled the Serengeti Plain until its closure in 1999.
• Adjacent to Cheetah Hunt is Cheetah Run, an animal exhibit launched in May 2011 as a replacement for the Clydesdale Hamlet. This exhibit highlights Busch Gardens Tampa Bay's collection of cheetahs through running demonstrations and interactive Meet a Keeper sessions. Educational content about cheetahs is accessible via interactive screens. Between 2011 and 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 maintains a population of 14 cheetahs.

Egypt

The Egyptian-themed area features Bedouin tents alongside authentic crafts and artwork, creating a marketplace ambiance. The centerpiece attraction is Montu, an inverted steel coaster. Tut's Tomb, previously an audio-guided walk-through tomb excavation, closed in Winter 2013 to accommodate the queue line for Cobra's Curse. The former Golden Scarab Gift Shop was repurposed into a retail outlet at the exit of the new ride.

• Cobra's Curse, a Mack Rides spinning coaster that replaced Tut's Tomb, opened on June 17, 2016.
• Montu, named after the Egyptian falcon deity of war, is a Bolliger & Mabillard inverted roller coaster featuring seven inversions.

Animal habitats

Busch Gardens stands as Tampa’s largest zoological facility, hosting more than 200 distinct animal species.

Animal Care Center

This center offers guests the opportunity to witness animal care practices firsthand, including medical treatments and x-ray procedures.

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

Bird Gardens

A free-flight aviary housing over 500 tropical bird species from around the globe, including parrots and flamingos. Established in 1959, this area predominantly features gardens and animal displays. The original brewery attraction closed in 1995 and was succeeded by Gwazi. In 2014, the Bird Gardens theater was dismantled; the outdoor show "Critter Castaways" transitioned indoors as "Opening Night Critters" until December 2018. Presently, the park presents "Rescue Tales," an animal rescue exhibition also showcased at Seaworld Orlando.

• Walkabout Way, designed as an Australian-themed outpost, debuted in June 2010. It permits visitors to hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies while observing species such as kookaburras and black swans. Notably, Horatio, a male kangaroo, joined this exhibit in early 2014. This interactive experience is available to guests aged five years and older.

• Lory Landing is an open aviary where visitors can stroll among lorikeets and optionally feed them nectar purchased on-site.

Edge of Africa

Since its opening in 1997, Edge of Africa has offered guests a walk-through experience showcasing a variety of African wildlife, including a Nile crocodile named Sobek, meerkats, two distinct lion prides, spotted hyenas, three hippos—Moyo, Kita, and Devi—as well as vultures and lemurs.

The current lion pride consists of male Kembe along with females Shaba and Shtuko, all of whom arrived as cubs from an African zoo in 2013. Another pride includes male Simon and females Rose and Iris; as of 2024, Rose remains the sole surviving lion from this group. To prevent reproduction, both Iris and Rose have been spayed.

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

The Serengeti Plain

Launched in 1965 as the pioneering free-roaming animal habitat of its kind, the Serengeti Plain has expanded from an initial 29 acres to cover 65 acres. This habitat is home to species such as Grévy's zebra, Grant's zebra and 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 private enclosure within the area shelters Jody, a lone female eastern black rhinoceros.

Events

Between January and March, Busch Gardens organizes a weekly concert series featuring renowned big band and pop artists performing both timeless classics and modern hits.

In March and April, the park hosts concerts at Gwazi Field predominantly spotlighting classic rock and country musicians. Occasionally, performances include alternative rock, pop, hip hop, R&B artists, and comedians. This event also offers ethnic cuisine and wine tastings from local vendors along the walkway connecting the Gwazi Roller Coaster to Gwazi Field. After artist cancellations linked to the documentary Blackfish in 2014 led to criticism, Busch Gardens replaced this series with an annual Food and Wine Festival inspired by Epcot’s event. Latin music acts perform at Gwazi Field during March alongside similar culinary experiences.

During summer months, extended park hours feature concerts by artists such as David Cassidy and Starship with Mickey Thomas. Independence Day celebrations incorporate fireworks displays as part of the entertainment offerings.

In 2010, Busch Gardens debuted Kinetix—a nighttime show rich in special effects—at Gwazi Field to enhance Summer Nights with strobe lighting, fog machines, and other effects synchronized with rides. This show continued until 2016. Starting in 2017, Summer Nights transformed into themed party zones like ¡Fiesta Festa! at Cheetah Hunt Plaza and Tigris’s Party Zone in Stanleyville. These zones include DJs and dance contests awarding prizes such as tickets to Adventure Island. In 2022, Summer Nights was rebranded as "Busch Gardens Summer Celebration" coinciding with ongoing park renovations.

Since 2000 each September and October, Busch Gardens presents Howl-O-Scream—a highly acclaimed Halloween event featuring haunted houses, scare zones, and themed performances. Previous attractions have included night-time versions of Serengeti Safari Tours and Curiosity Caverns. The event marked its 13th anniversary in 2012.

From November through December, Christmas Town transforms the park with more than one million lights alongside seasonal shows like Christmas On Ice held in the Moroccan Palace. Introduced in 2012, Snow World offers snow play areas and ice slides while Santa’s House near the Nairobi Train Station provides photo opportunities with Santa Claus and his elves. The station also hosts a Christmas Sing Along Train tour around the Serengeti Plain. Since 2016, guests can meet characters from Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer within Rudolph's Winter Wonderland. Christmas Town further features themed princesses including the Ice Princess in Icy Forest; the Poinsettia Princess near poinsettia displays; and Sugarplum Princess Fae who debuted in 2019.

On New Year's Eve, Busch Gardens offers live musical performances throughout the park with extended hours for thrill rides. The celebration culminates with fireworks at Gwazi Field followed by a park-wide countdown welcoming the new year.

Rankings

The roller coasters at Busch Gardens Tampa have earned distinguished placements from Amusement Today, including acknowledgments for outstanding landscaping in the years 1998 and 2007.

Steel Coasters

• Montu: Ranked 2nd (1999)
• Kumba: Ranked 4th (1998)
• SheiKra: Ranked 13th (2006)
• Cheetah Hunt: Ranked 29th (2011)
• Iron Gwazi: Ranked 29th (2022)

Wooden Coasters

• Gwazi: Ranked 40th (2007)

Attendance Figures

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

• Florida tourism industry
• Incidents at SeaWorld parks
• SeaWorld San Antonio
• SeaWorld San Diego
• Sesame Place (Pennsylvania)

External links

• Official website