Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Tours and Activities

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Busch Gardens featuring dangerous animals, a park and safari adventures
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay


Exotic animals and thrill rides all on the one site at this theme park and zoo designed for the whole family.

Busch Gardens is an African-themed adventure park featuring more than 2,000 exotic animals, roller coasters, thrill rides, shows and exhibits. The 335-acre (135-hectare) site is divided into eight themed areas. Each area has its own attractions, and animals living in natural-style habitats.

The Serengeti Plain is one of the park’s most popular destinations. This 65-acre (26-hectare) replica of the African region is home to hundreds of free-roaming animals, including giraffes, zebras, white rhinos, ostriches and impalas.

Observe animals from aboard the Serengeti Express train, or on the Skyride, a cable-car trip that covers most of the park. Seats on both rides are included in the price of admission. Reserve a place on the Serengeti Safari, a trek across the plain in an open-top vehicle. You’ll stop by some of the animals to feed them by hand. For prices and details, visit the park’s official website.

Head on over to Jungala, a themed village that features rides, live entertainment and close-up viewing areas of Bengal tigers, crocodiles, gibbons and orangutans.

Animals are only part of the appeal of Busch Gardens. Take a deep breath and summon your nerves for Sheikra, a dive coaster that travels straight down a 90-degree drop at 70 miles (113 kilometres) per hour. Cheetah Hunt is a 4,400-foot (1,340-metre) long coaster that travels inside the Serengeti and down into a rocky gorge. It reaches a top speed of 60 miles (97 kilometres) per hour.

Take younger thrill seekers and animal lovers to Sesame Street Safari of Fun. There are child-sized rides, a water play area and lots of Sesame Street characters.

Busch Gardens is situated approximately 8 miles (13 kilometres) northeast of downtown Tampa. The amusement park is open every day of the year. Opening hours are updated each week. Check the website for up-to-date information. There is pay parking available.

Plan a trip to see Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

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Top Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Hotel & Accommodation Deals

OASIS BAY SUITES, Tampa, Busch Gardens, USF

OASIS BAY SUITES, Tampa, Busch Gardens, USF

2 out of 5
3001 University Center Dr, Tampa, FL
OASIS BAY SUITES, Tampa, Busch Gardens, USF
La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Tampa Near Busch Gardens

La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Tampa Near Busch Gardens

3 out of 5
9202 N 30th St, (718), Tampa, FL
La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Tampa Near Busch Gardens
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tampa USF Busch Gardens by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tampa USF Busch Gardens by IHG

2.5 out of 5
2807 E Busch Blvd, Tampa, FL
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tampa USF Busch Gardens by IHG
Tampa Inn - Near Busch Gardens

Tampa Inn - Near Busch Gardens

2 out of 5
2901 E Busch Blvd, Tampa, FL
Tampa Inn - Near Busch Gardens
Hyatt Place Busch Gardens

Hyatt Place Busch Gardens

3 out of 5
11408 N 30th St, Tampa, FL
Hyatt Place Busch Gardens
BAY INN

BAY INN

2 out of 5
2307 E BUSCH BLVD, Tampa, FL
BAY INN
ZenHomes in Tampa near Busch Gardens

ZenHomes in Tampa near Busch Gardens

3 out of 5
10620 Altman St, Tampa, FL
ZenHomes in Tampa near Busch Gardens
Cozy apartment next to Busch Gardens / USF

Cozy apartment next to Busch Gardens / USF

Tampa
Cozy apartment next to Busch Gardens / USF
Modern cozy townhouse- USF-Busch Gardens -Raymond James Stadium -Amelia Arena

Modern cozy townhouse- USF-Busch Gardens -Raymond James Stadium -Amelia Arena

Tampa
Modern cozy townhouse- USF-Busch Gardens -Raymond James Stadium -Amelia Arena
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay offers an exciting array of activities, including thrilling rides, wildlife encounters, and live music performances. Beyond the park, visitors can explore local shopping areas, enjoy vibrant festivals, and embark on sightseeing tours. For those seeking adventure, nearby golf courses and dolphin sightings provide additional entertainment options, ensuring a memorable holiday experience in Tampa, Florida.

Shopping

At Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, enjoy shopping at Channelside Bay Plaza, just 11.3km away, offering a vibrant mix of businesses and entertainment. Westshore Plaza Mall is 14.5km away, providing a family-friendly atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, visit Tampa Premium Outlets, located 17.7km away, for a great shopping experience.

Recreation

Enjoy live performances at the MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre, just 8.0km from Busch Gardens, offering a vibrant atmosphere. For sports enthusiasts, the Tournament Sportsplex, 11.3km away, hosts various events, while the TPC of Tampa Bay, 16.1km distant, provides a serene golfing experience amidst lush landscapes.

Adventure

Adventure Island, a thrilling waterpark located 966m from Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, offers fun for the whole family with exciting water rides. Enjoy a scenic view on the Skyride, the cable car gondola only 322m away, or race your mates at Grand Prix Tampa, 4.8km away.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Tampa Theater, just 9.7km away, offering captivating performances in a romantic setting. For family fun, visit Splitsville, an exciting arcade AdventureZone 11.3km away. Don't miss the David Falk Theater, also 11.3km out, blending entertainment and culture perfectly.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

While visiting Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, make sure to explore the thrilling arena entertainment facilities and nearby modern colleges, perfect for family and cultural experiences. For outdoor enthusiasts, a visit to the terrace park and local attractions around Tampa Bay offers a delightful way to soak up the sun and enjoy the scenery. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere that this area has to offer!

  • University of South Florida: Experience vibrant city vibes at this modern university, located 3.2km from Busch Gardens. Explore its beautiful campus, art installations, and lively student atmosphere, making it a great spot to soak in local culture.
  • Raymond James Stadium: A hub of entertainment located 9.7km away, this stadium hosts thrilling sports events and concerts. Bring the family for an exciting day filled with atmosphere, cheering crowds, and unforgettable moments.
  • Tampa Riverwalk: This picturesque esplanade, situated 11.3km from Busch Gardens, is perfect for a romantic stroll or a family outing. Enjoy stunning waterfront views, parks, and dining options along the scenic walkway.

Best time to go to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

The best time to visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Busch Gardens Tampa Bay falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature around Busch Gardens Tampa Bay falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January60.8°F (16.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February64.4°F (18.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
March67.6°F (19.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May78.1°F (25.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June82.0°F (27.8°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July83.1°F (28.4°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August83.5°F (28.6°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September81.3°F (27.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
October76.1°F (24.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
November68.9°F (20.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

For a budget-friendly trip to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, consider visiting between September and November when accommodation prices drop. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the priciest. Use Expedia to find great hotel deals, filter for eco-friendly options, and combine your hotel, flights, and activities for extra savings. Don't forget to explore free activities in the area and utilise public transport for affordable travel. By planning wisely, you can enjoy a fantastic experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Busch Gardens Tampa Bay are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to April, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to customise your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodation options currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your hotel stay at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.