Busch Gardens, Voted One of the Best Theme Parks in the U.S., Kicks Off Summer Fun with All-New First of its Kind Rides and the Return of the Summer Nights Spectacular
Press Release from Busch Gardens:
TAMPA, Fla., WILLIAMSBURG, Va., (May 22, 2023) – There is no better place to be this summer than Busch Gardens parks, voted one of the best theme parks in the U.S. in USA Today’s 10Best 2023 Readers Choice awards. A new first of its kind ride is opening in both parks including Serengeti Flyer in Tampa, the world's tallest and fastest ride of its kind, and DarKoaster in Williamsburg, North America’s first all-indoor straddle coaster. Returning this year is also fan favorite Summer Nights featuring all-new entertainment, fireworks and more.
“Summer is always an exciting time at Busch Gardens and there are more reasons than ever to celebrate it at one of the best theme parks in the country,” said Marc Swanson, CEO of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. “We're thrilled to welcome families and friends to our park to create unforgettable memories and enjoy the many things our park has to offer, including award winning rides, attractions and restaurants.”
Great experiences to enjoy at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay this summer include:
All-New Serengeti Flyer, the World’s Tallest and Fastest Ride of its Kind. With each swing of Serengeti Flyer, riders soar higher and higher above Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s expansive 65-acre Serengeti Plain while experiencing multiple negative-G moments before plunging back toward the Earth. Serengeti Flyer features twin dueling arms that soar progressively higher, reaching speeds of 68 mph and a maximum height of 135 feet at the ride's peak. The park's new thrill features the capability to adjust the ride's intensity level, giving guests the opportunity for a milder or wilder experience. Guests can also experience a host of other amazing thrills including Iron Gwazi, one of the best roller coasters in the country according to USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.
All new this Summer is Icons, where guests can step into the world of musical icons with a new review show at Dragon Fire Grill. Featuring live performances of fan-favorite hits inspired by musical legends, this show will have guests singing and dancing in their seat. Other fan favorite entertainment returning this summer includes Turn It Up! Remix, an award-winning year-round Ice-Skating show at the Moroccan Palace Theater featuring talented skaters and stunning video and projection elements that demonstrate the power and beauty of living life to the fullest.
Summer Nights Firework Spectacular - As the sun goes down, the park lights up on 27 select nights with a dazzling display of colors and sound. From jaw-dropping colors to intricate patterns, the Summer Nights Fireworks Spectacular, sponsored by Bad Boy Mowers, will leave guests in awe. With the perfect music to accompany the show, it's an unforgettable experience.
All-new Elite VIP Tour and Other Fan Favorite Animal Experiences. New this summer is the Summer Nights Elite VIP Tour where an experienced Busch Gardens guide will map out a personalized and unforgettable day. In this private, guided tour, guests will be provided the VIP treatment. From front-of-the-line access on Florida’s favorite thrill rides, to up-close animal encounters and feeding opportunities, and lunch at fan-favorite restaurants, this tour will provide the elite experience. Other not to miss favorites returning this Summer include the Animal Care Center where guests can see and learn all about animal care at the state-of-the-art care facility, voted a 2023 USA Today Readers’ Choice 10Best finalist, and the award-winning Serengeti Safari - Florida's award-winning Serengeti Safari® tour offers guests a unique and up-close look at African wildlife. This 30-minute off-road expedition is led by an expert guide. Guests will be provided with the opportunity to hand-feed giraffes and explore the habitats of our Serengeti Plain.
The Busch Gardens Williamsburg summer lineup features:
All-new DarKoaster, is North America’s first all-indoor straddle coaster now open to all park visitors. Thrill seekers experiencing DarKoaster will embark on snowmobiles and discover a mysterious phenomenon. A supernatural force is imminent as explorers discover that they are evading more than just a raging storm. As the weather strikes, riders encounter four accelerating launches and speed through the elements in total darkness DarKoaster is an unprecedented, family-friendly addition to Busch Gardens’ thrill ride portfolio. With a 48” height requirement, this attraction is perfect for the whole family to conquer together.
Summer Nights features concerts, fireworks, and special culinary offerings. Running from June 16– August 13, Busch Gardens Summer Nights will electrify guests of all ages with world-renowned entertainment, the park’s collection of thrill rides, and specialty culinary offerings. Play all day and stay for the grand finale every Friday – Saturday with a firework spectacular. Each Saturday a new nationally touring artist will take the stage for the Summer Nights Concert Series. All shows are free with park admission and feature chart-topping musicians with genres for all tastes – from national headliners to nostalgic bands. Concert acts include Maddie & Tae, Flo Rida, Matthew West and more.
Guests interested in the best deal of the summer can take advantage of the limited-time Memorial Day sale which provides up to 50 percent savings on single day tickets, Fun Cards and Annual Passes. An Annual Pass is the best way to enjoy an entire year of family fun, thrilling attractions, and exciting seasonal events. Categorized in easy-to-use tiers, options provide guests with unlimited year-round admission and unbeatable benefits including free parking, in-park discounts, and monthly rewards.
About Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay is the ultimate family adventure, offering 300 acres of fascinating attractions based on exotic explorations around the world. Busch Gardens is a unique blend of thrilling rides, an AZA accredited zoo with thousands of animals representing more than 200 species, and exciting seasonal events all year providing unrivaled experiences for guests of every age. For more information, visit BuschGardensTampa.com. Busch Gardens is owned by SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: SEAS), a leading theme park and entertainment company providing experiences that matter and inspiring guests to protect animals and the wild wonders of our world.
About Busch Gardens Williamsburg
Busch Gardens® Williamsburg is an action-packed European-themed adventure park with 17th century charm and 21st-century technology, boasting more than 100 acres of family fun. Home to top-rated roller coasters, more than 50 rides and attractions, live stage shows, monthly special events and delicious culinary experiences. For more information, visit www.BuschGardens.com Busch Gardens is owned by SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: SEAS), a leading theme park and entertainment company providing experiences that matter and inspiring guests to protect animals and the wild wonders of our world.