Busch Gardens is a unique theme park in Tampa, Florida that is home to 2,000 animals and 200 different species. This 335 acre theme park has more operating roller coasters then both Universal Orlando theme parks combined! Busch Gardens is owned and operated by SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment.
If you’re looking for non-stop thrills in Central Florida then you need to visit Busch Gardens Tampa. Whether you’re wanting to experience animal encounters, thrilling rides or great shows, this amazing park has you covered.
Busch Gardens Tampa encourages you to take a walk on the wild side! Between the park’s thrilling roller coasters and thousands of animals, you’ll find that Busch Gardens has something for everyone. The entire park is themed after Africa, and you’ll love the Serengeti Plain where you watch as African wildlife wanders free. The 335 acre park is also home to some of Florida’s most thrilling roller coasters, and the park just keeps adding more.
Use this guide to Busch Gardens Tampa to plan the perfect trip to this thrilling theme park.
Busch Gardens Tampa Basics
Address: 10165 McKinley Drive, Tampa, FL 33612
Hours: 10 am – 6 pm
Cost: Single Day Tickets – $89.99
Single Day + All Day Dining – $124.98
Busch Gardens + Adventure Island – $117.99
Busch Gardens + Adventure Island + All Day Dining – $167.99
Getting To Busch Gardens Tampa
Busch Gardens Tampa is about an hour from Orlando, Florida. It’s incredibly easy to add this park to any Central Florida Trip. The closest airport is Tampa (TPA) which is only 8 miles from Busch Gardens, and Orlando (ORD) is only about an hour from the park.
There is public transportation available, including a bus that will take you from the airport to the park. You can use the Netpark Transfer Center, the ride takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes and costs $4.
If you decide to rent a car then you will also have to pay parking at Busch Gardens Tampa, but it also affords you more freedom while in the area.
Where To Stay Near Busch Gardens Tampa
Holiday Inn & Suites – 3715 E. Fowler Avenue, Tampa, FL 33612
Drive Time: 3 minutes
The Holiday Inn & Suites is newly renovated and features spacious and comfortable rooms. It’s just 3 minutes from Busch Gardens Tampa making it a great base for long days spent in the park. The hotel also has a restaurant in the lobby, Toast to Toast Bar & Grill, making it convenient to grab a meal at the Holiday Inn before or after a day spent at Busch Gardens.
Embassy Suites Tampa – 3705 Spectrum Boulevard, Tampa, FL 33612
Drive Time: 4 minutes
The Embassy Suites Tampa is a great base for your time spent at Busch Gardens. Your family can relax in a spacious two-room suite and enjoy complimentary breakfasts. This hotel is also very close to the University of South Florida, which is good to keep in mind during major college events.
Hampton Inn & Suites – 3333 E. Busch Boulevard, Tampa, FL 33612
Drive Time: 4 minutes
This brand new 84 room hotel is directly across the street from the entrance to Busch Gardens Tampa. You can’t get much closer or find a better base for your Busch Gardens adventure. The modern guest rooms will have you feeling at home in no time. The free wifi, microwave, and mini-refrigerator are just an added bonus for families staying in this Hampton Inn.
Holiday Inn – Busch Boulevard – 2807 East Busch Boulevard, Tampa, FL 33612
Drive Time: 4 minutes
Feel the thrills of Busch Gardens Tampa from only .5 miles away at this Holiday Inn Busch Boulevard. This is the newest Holiday Inn in the area, and it offers complimentary buffet breakfasts perfect for fueling up before hitting the park. This Holiday Inn also has a complimentary shuttle to Busch Gardens.
Hyatt Place – 11408 N. 30th Street, Tampa, FL 33612
Drive Time: 5 minutes
The Hyatt Place is conveniently located just .5 miles and a 5 minute drive from Busch Gardens Tampa. The hotel offers a 24 hour coffee shop, 24 hour food and beverage kiosk, and adjoining rooms for larger families. The Hyatt Place also offers a convenient shuttle bus to park service.
Hampton Inn & Suites – Tampa North – 8210 Hidden River Parkway, Tampa, FL 33637
Drive Time: 12 minutes
Just 6 miles from Busch Gardens Tampa you’ll find the comfortable Hampton Inn & Suites. This hotel has a laid back atmosphere and is located in a quiet business district. The Hampton Inn also offers complimentary shuttle service to the park, making it a great option for families.
Hilton Garden Inn – 13305 Tampa Oaks Boulevard, Tampa, FL 33637
Drive Time: 13 minutes
This Hilton Garden Inn is newly renovated and is located in a tranquil nature preserve. Although it’s a little further from Busch Gardens, the drive is an easy 13 minutes. The shuttle service to the park is currently unavailable, so this is only an option for those who have their own transportation.
Tampa Marriott Water Street – 505 Water Street, Tampa, FL 33602
Drive Time: 20 minutes
This exquisitely redesigned Marriott sits just steps from the Tampa Riverwalk. Although it is further from Busch Gardens, it’s got an elevated feel that some of the other options don’t. If you’re looking for a bit more luxury this hotel is perfect for you, and it’s only 10 miles and 20 minutes from the park.
No matter where you stay while visiting Busch Gardens you’re sure to make memories that will last a lifetime! There is an option for every budget whether you’re looking for a great deal or luxury. These hotels will fit the bill.
Busch Gardens Tickets
There are several options for tickets at Busch Gardens. Tickets are now date specific so make sure to pay attention to the date when purchasing tickets. A single day Busch Gardens ticket is $89.99 and children under 3 are not required to have a ticket. For just $35 more you can add an All Day Dining Pass to your single day ticket, $124.98.
All Day Dining Passes include 1 entree, 1 side or 1 dessert, and 1 regular sized beverage (non-alcohol), you can go through the line up to once per hour. This is good for the entire day until 30 minutes before the park closes. A photo ID is required when redeeming All Day Dining Passes, and only the person listed on the pass can redeem. The passes do not include alcoholic beverages, take out, and are not valid at any specialty dining establishments.
You can also purchase Busch Gardens and Adventure Island tickets together for $117.99. Adventure Island is the waterpark that is affiliated with Busch Gardens Tampa and it’s a great value. You can add an All Day Dining Pass to this package as well for a total of $167.99.
You can purchase tickets in advance here.
Parking At Busch Gardens
There are nearly 5,000 parking spaces at Busch Gardens Tampa and you can purchase parking in advance here.
$30 – cars, campers, motorcycles and trucks
$35+ – preferred parking
Busch Gardens Rain Guarantee Policy
If your day in the park is ruined by rain you are eligible for a complimentary visit to the park. The complimentary visit must be made within 1 year of your original visit. You can redeem this by visiting Guest Services, but be aware that enactment of the rain guarantee is at the discretion of Guest Services.
Locker Rentals
You’ll find all day locker rental in Morocco, near the entrance of the park. These are great for families because riders are not permitted to have any loose articles of clothing on any of the major attractions. You can pay for these at self service kiosks that accept both cash and cards. There are 3 different sizes including:
Standard – 7.5h x 13w x 18 d – $15 per day
Large – 10.5h x 16.5w x 18 d – $20 per day
Jumbo – 15.5h x 22.5w x 18 d – $25 per day
Rules At Busch Gardens Tampa
Guests must wear face coverings indoors. These face coverings must fit within the CDC guidelines.
Alcoholic beverages can be purchased by any guests over 21 years of age. Each guest must present a valid form of photo ID in order to purchase alcohol inside the park.
Visitors 13 and under should be accompanied by an adult unless taking part in a Summer Camp.
There are designated smoking areas throughout the park, but all indoor areas remain smoke free.
You are not permitted to bring outside beverages, food or coolers into the park. You may bring an empty refillable water bottle.
Security Procedures At Busch Gardens
You’ll need to budget additional time to get through security at Busch Gardens. All bags and backpacks may be searched, and all people will either walk through a metal detector or have a hand held wand used prior to entering the park. You are not permitted to bring sharp objects including knives, disposable straws, coolers of any kind or hazardous items into the park.
Each ride has safety warning signs, make sure to read these before entering each attraction.
There are designated smoking areas throughout the park, but all indoor areas remain smoke free.
You are not permitted to bring outside beverages, food or coolers into the park. You may bring an empty refillable water bottle.
Lands Of Busch Gardens Tampa
- Egypt
- Congo
- Birds Garden
- Jungala
- Morocco
- Nairobi
- Pantopia
- Cheetah Hunt Area
- Sesame Street Safari of Fun
- Stanleyville
Shows At Busch Gardens Tampa
Turn It Up!
You can take in the entertaining Turn It Up! At the Moroccan Palace Theater. This spectacular ice skating show features contemporary performances, aerial tricks and fun electric pop music.
Storytime At Sesame Street Safari Of Fun
Your kids will absolutely love hearing stories from all their favorite Sesame Street characters. Listen as Elmo, Cookie Monster, and Big Bird regale you with stories. This is the perfect show for the entire family.
Guide To The Animal Encounters At Busch Gardens Tampa
Busch Gardens Tampa features 10 different animal encounters, ranging from a VIP 7 hour tour of the park to meeting a sloth or penguin. There is an encounter for every budget, and these are some of the most unforgettable experiences that Busch Gardens offers.
One of the many draws of visiting Busch Gardens Tampa is the amazing zoo that the park has to offer. This includes 65 acres of Serengeti Plains that are home to over 12,000 animals and 200 different species. For those who love animals, the park offers several ways for you to see them, whether you take a Serengeti Safari or enjoy one of the many animal encounters.
The animal encounters allow you to have personal experiences with your favorite exotic animals while learning more about them and the conservation efforts that are currently helping to save them. Use this guide to the animal encounters at Busch Gardens Tampa to choose the perfect animal encounter for you and your family.
Sloth Encounter – $69.99 per person
Have you always wanted to meet a sloth? If so, the sloth encounter will be a dream come true. You must be at least 8 years old to participate in this animal encounter. The 30 minute walking tour helps you to understand how to care for sloths before you have the opportunity to interact with one. You can book the sloth encounter here.
Penguin Insider Tour – $29.99 per person
Venture to Penguin Point to get a behind the scenes look at the adorable penguins who call Busch Gardens home. These warm weather African penguins are amazing to meet and watch. There is a limit of 8 people per tour, and all participants must be 5 years of age or older. You can book the Penguin Insider Tour here.
Elite Adventure Tour – $399.99 per person
The ultimate VIP access to Busch Gardens Tampa. This 7 hour private tour gives you the full VIP treatment. Whether you’re a thrill seeking roller coaster enthusiast or an animal lover, this tour allows you to fully customize your Busch Gardens experience. You will enjoy front of the line access on rides, an incredible Serengeti Safari and complimentary lunch in the park. You can book the Elite Adventure Tour here.
Keeper For A Day – $249.99 per person
On these brand new tours, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s like to be an animal keeper. Meet Animal Care Specialists and learn all of the necessary skills to take care of the exotic animals and endangered species. You’ll also get a 4 hour behind the scenes walking tour complete with animal encounters. All participants must be at least 13 years old.
There are three different options for the Keeper For A Day Tour:
- Keeper For A Day – Animal Ambassador
- Keeper For A Day – Australia
- Keeper For A Day – Elephants
You can book the Keeper For A Day Tour here.
Private VIP Rhino Safari – $599 per person
On this unique off road private safari you’ll join Keepers to meet giraffes and rhinos. This 45 minute VIP tour will allow you to meet Jody, an endangered black rhino, and you’ll even get to feed her a snack! Talk about an unforgettable experience! There is a limit of 12 guests per tour and all participants must be age 5 and up. You can book the Private Rhino Encounter here.
Serengeti Safari – $39.99 per person
Busch Gardens is home to 200 animal species and the best way to get up close and personal with them is on the Serengeti Safari. This award winning tour is a park favorite that is led by an expert and takes about 30 minutes. Don’t forget your camera and be prepared for amazing photo opportunities! Participants must be ages 5 and up, and you can book it online in advance here.
Gorilla Insider Tour – $29.99 per person
You’ll journey to the Myombe Reserve for some up close and personal time with Busch Gardens Gorilla troop. Guests over 5 years old can get up close to these remarkable endangered species. You can even participate in a private training session in front of the window in the Myombe Reserve. You can book a Gorilla Insider Tour here.
Hippo Insider Tour – $29.99 per person
The Edge Of Africa is the place to have an up close encounter with one of these behemoth exotic animals. This walking tour allows you to meet a Busch Gardens animal care specialist while you learn to enrich, feed and help conservation efforts for the hippo. Participants must be 8 years of age or older. You’ll need to check in at the Serengeti Outpost 15 minutes before your scheduled time. You can make reservations for the Hippo Insider Tour here.
Elephant Insider Tour – $29.99 per person
This 30 minute experience takes guests behind the scenes to find out how the Busch Gardens team works with and cares for Asian elephants. You’ll also learn about conservation efforts and initiatives to help save these incredible animals in Asia and Africa. It’s recommended that you check in at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time. You can book an Elephant Insider Tour here.
Aldabra Tortoise Insider Tour – $19.99 per person
During this animal encounter you can enjoy an up close encounter with one of the largest tortoises in the world. This 20 minute family friendly tour gives you the opportunity to interact with Aldabra tortoises in their habitat. Participants must be at least 3 years old. You can book the Aldabra Tortoise Insider Tour here.
Animal Care Center Tour – $19.99 per person
This 30 minute walking tour takes you through the Animal Care Center facility at Busch Gardens Tampa. Get a behind the scenes look at what it takes to care for over 200 species of animals that call Busch Gardens Tampa home. You can book the Animal Care Center Tour here.
There is an animal encounter for every budget, and these are memories that will last a lifetime! Whether you meet a penguin or become a Keeper for a day, you won’t soon forget your animal encounter at Busch Gardens Tampa!
Dining At Busch Gardens Tampa
The most important aspect of tickets, when it comes to restaurants in the park, is the All Day Dining Pass. The pass is a great value for families that are planning to spend all day in the park. For only $29.99, you can dine at select restaurants all day long until 30 minutes before the park closes. All Day Dining Passes include 1 entree, 1 side or 1 dessert, and 1 regular sized beverage (non-alcohol), you can go through the line up to once per hour. A photo ID is required when redeeming All Day Dining Passes and only the person listed on the pass can redeem. The passes do not include alcoholic beverages, take out, and are not valid at any specialty dining establishment.
Part Of The All Day Dining Pass
- Zambia Smokehouse
- Zagora Cafe
- Dragonfile Grill and Pub
Sultan’s Sweets
The perfect way to start your morning at Busch Gardens Tampa is by grabbing a cup of coffee and a sweet treat at Sultan’s Sweets. This is a Starbucks location inside the park. While there, make sure to wander through the rest of the store to take in all of the amazing sweets, including handmade candy, cakes, and decadent fudge.
Crown Colony Cafe
This full service restaurant is a park favorite. You can relax in air conditioned comfort while you enjoy views of the Serengeti Plain. The diverse menu has something for everyone and will satisfy even the most discerning diner. From fresh salads and hearty sandwiches, to deliciously upscale entrees, the Crown Colony has it all.
Zambia Smokehouse
The Zambia Smokehouse is an air conditioned fast casual eatery that will draw you in with enticing aromas of the open pit BBQ. They have all the typical bbq fixings including mac & cheese, baked beans and coleslaw. Of course, all of the BBQ meat staples are available including brisket, ribs and pulled pork. This is a park favorite and a popular spot for lunch and dinner. It’s also part of the All Day Dining Plan.
Garden Gate Cafe
Adults will love the relaxed atmosphere of the Garden Gate Cafe where you can cool down with beautiful lake views. Grab a draft beer, specialty cocktail or small bites. The Garden Gate Cafe is not included in the All Day Dining Plan.
Zagora Cafe
The Zagora Cafe is a great place to grab a hearty breakfast when you enter the park. This fast casual establishment offers a variety of American dishes. They also have a great selection of healthier options including wraps, roasted turkey and seafood platters. The Zagora Cafe is included in the All Day Dining Pass.
Dragon Fire Grill and Pub
This food court style dining service offers cuisine from around the world. Not to mention, live family entertainment while you dine. The food court features pizza, Asian cuisine, chicken platters and more. Adults (21+) can enjoy the Dragon Fire Pub’s beer selection, as well as refreshing cocktails. The Dragon Fire Grill and Pub is part of the All Day Dining Pass, but alcohol is not included.
Giraffe Bar
A brand new addition to Busch Gardens Tampa is the Giraffe Bar. As you watch the Giraffe and other African animals of the Serengeti Plains wander by, you can also enjoy a beverage. The Giraffe Bar has a selection of curated specialty cocktails and hand crafted mixed drinks. The menu also includes a variety of wine and spirits that help support conservation efforts in Africa. The addition of craft and domestic beer ,and multiple TVs for sports fans to enjoy, is sure to make the Giraffe Bar a park favorite. This bar is not included in the All Day Dining Pass.
Quick Bites
- Chick-Fil-A
- Oasis Pizza
- Kenyan Kanteen
- Jungala Market
No matter where you dine in Busch Gardens Tampa you are sure to have delicious food and an amazing atmosphere. Whether you are having drinks with a view of the Serengeti Plain or enjoying a live show while dining, you’ll have a fantastic time at Busch Gardens
Best Attractions At Busch Gardens Tampa
Many of the best rides in the park are the impressive roller coasters, but there are also a nice variety of family friendly rides.
Cheetah Hunt
The Cheetah Hunt roller coaster takes you up to the speeds of 60 mph. This is a great introductory coaster for kids as the height requirement is 48 inches. You’re meant to feel as if you are racing a cheetah on this coaster that does not disappoint.
Serengeti Safari
Busch Gardens is home to 200 animal species and the best way to get up close and personal with them is on the Serengeti Safari. You’ll need to pay a little extra for this, at $39.99 for ages 5 and up, and you can book it online in advance here.
Iron Gwazi
The newest roller coaster in the Busch Gardens line up is set to open in March of 2022. This is meant to be the most thrilling and extreme coaster yet. This wooden – steel hybrid will climb 206 feet and drop at a 91 degree angle (that’s beyond vertical). You’ll hit speeds of 76 mph on this thrill ride, as well as tons of unexpected twists and turns along the way.
Falcon’s Fury
You’ll recognize the Falcon’s Fury as a drop tower, but at 335 feet high, it’s one of the tallest drop towers in the world. But this thriller has a huge twist, you’ll pivot 90 degrees and be face down before plummeting 30 stories!
Cobra Curse
You’ll come face to face with a gigantic cobra on this unique coaster. This coaster features an elevator lift before you spin, and go both backwards and forwards. The coaster also leaves you almost completely sideways. This is a great coaster for enthusiasts who don’t love to go upside down.
Kumba
The Kumba coaster is perfect for those who like speed and thrill. This coaster even has an interlocking corkscrew as it hits speeds of 60 mph. Keep in mind that this coaster has been around since the early 90’s and isn’t the smoothest in the park. It’s still a lot of fun, just watch out for your neck.
Serengeti Express Train Ride
This kid friendly ride is perfect for the whole family. Take in the sights and sounds of the Serengeti Plain on this relaxing train ride. The train stops in Nairobi, Congo and Stanleyville. giving you an amazing view of the free roaming herds of zebras, antelope and giraffe among other African animals.
Tigris
Inspired by the agility of the world’s most powerful big cat, the tiger, you’ll find this ride thrilling! As you are catapulted through exhiliterating twists and turns in both backwards and forwards motions. You’ll race at 60 mph and be shot 150 ft in the air on 1,800 feet of smooth steel track on Tigris.
SandSerpent
This roller coaster is a great introduction to thrill rides in the park, as it’s considered a moderate ride. The height minimum is 46 inches on this wild ride that’s 5 stories high. This is a “wild mouse” style coaster that is perfect for the whole family. You’ll experience drops, curves and corkscrews as you race your way through the winding track.
Air Grover
This kid friendly roller coaster has a height requirement of 38 inches and is sure to thrill your little ones. You’ll find this ride in Sesame Street Safari of Fun Play Area. If you find that your kids are afraid to ride their first roller coaster alone, don’t worry, you can join them!
SheiKra
Arguably one of Busch Gardens Tampa’s best thrill rides is the SheiKra coaster. This coaster lifts passengers 200 ft in the air before taking them on a heart pounding plunge. Often referred to as the diving coaster, this smooth coaster has many other twists and turns waiting for you!
Montu
Montu is famous for having 7 thrilling inversions on a silky smooth track. This extreme coaster is always among the favorites of coaster enthusiasts. You’ll be left breathless by the 60 ft vertical loop, a weightless roll and a unique batwing inversion. This one is not for the faint of heart and has a 54 inch height requirement.
Stanley Falls Flume
On this wild water ride for the whole family, you’ll get soaked! This ride is perfect for younger riders and for those sunny and hot Florida days. You’ll drop 40 feet on the final splash after weaving through lush jungles.
These top attractions at Busch Gardens Tampa are perfect for thrill seekers and families alike! What are you waiting for?
Adventure Island Waterpark
Adventure Island is a fantastic waterpark located at Busch Gardens Tampa. If you’re looking for a great way to beat the Florida heat with its many water slides, Adventure Island is the answer. For adventure seekers, the park offers rides like the Colossal Curl, where passengers in 4-person rafts ride through a completely enclosed slide before dropping into a halfpipe. Younger children will love Paradise Lagoon and the lazy river. Use this guide to Adventure Island to plan your perfect water escape!
Adventure Island is a great way to beat the Florida heat with its many waterslides. For adventure seekers the park offers rides like the Colossal Curl, where passengers in 4-person rafts ride through a completely enclosed slide before dropping into a halfpipe. Younger children will love Paradise Lagoon and the lazy river.
The Basics Of Adventure Island
Address: 10001 McKinley Drive, Tampa, FL 33612
Hours: 10 am – 6pm (changes depending on season)
Cost: Single day ticket – $44.99
Single Day + All Day Dining Pass – $79.99
Busch Gardens + Adventure Island – $117.99
Busch Gardens + Adventure Island + All Day Dining – $167.99
Tickets
There are several options for tickets at Adventure Island. Tickets are now date specific so make sure to pay attention to the date when purchasing tickets. A single day Adventure Island ticket is $44.99 and children under 3 are not required to have a ticket. For just $35 more you can add an All Day Dining Pass to your single day ticket, $79.99.
All Day Dining Passes include 1 entree, 1 side or 1 dessert, and 1 regular sized beverage (non-alcohol), you can go through the line up to once per hour. This is good for the entire day until 30 minutes before the park closes. A photo ID is required when redeeming All Day Dining Passes and only the person listed on the pass can redeem.
You can also purchase Busch Gardens and Adventure Island tickets together for $117.99. You can add an All Day Dining Pass to this package as well for a total of $167.99.
Parking At Adventure Island
Purchasing pre-paid parking is highly recommended General parking includes one car, motorcycle, or camper/RV for one day for $25.00.
You can also purchase VIP parking that is closer to the park entrance for $35.00 per day.
Adventure Island Rain Guarantee Policy
If your day in the park is ruined by rain you are eligible for a complimentary visit to the park. The complimentary visit must be made within 1 year of your original visit. You can redeem this by visiting Guest Services, but be aware that enactment of the rain guarantee is at the discretion of Guest Services.
Rules At Adventure Island
Guests must wear face coverings indoors. These face coverings must fit within the CDC guidelines.
Alcoholic beverages can be purchased by any guests over 21 years of age. Each guest must present a valid form of photo ID in order to purchase alcohol inside the park.
There are designated smoking areas throughout the park, but all indoor areas remain smoke free.
You are not permitted to bring outside beverages, food or coolers into the park. You may bring an empty refillable water bottle. No coolers of any shape or size are permitted in the park.
Each slide has individual clothing restrictions. You can review them here.
You must wear proper swimming attire. Restrictions include thong bathing suits are not allowed in the park. Cutoff jeans, denim of any kind, cargo shorts and frayed shorts are not permitted. Cotton T-shirts, shorts, and water shoes may not be worn on any of the body slides. Clothing with metal buttons, clips, and trim are also prohibited. Water shoes are permitted in pool areas, pathways and all tube based attractions.
You cannot bring personal lounge chairs into the park.
Cabana Rental
There are many options for cabana rentals at Adventure Island. These include both luxury and more affordable lounge chair options that are perfect for any budget!
Super Cabana – $179.99
The most luxurious of all the cabana options at Adventure Island is located at the Endless Surf wave pool. The Super Cabana easily seats 8 and comes with a number of perks. You’ll be treated to a welcome basket, and a mini-fridge holding 10 bottles of water. Availability is limited and it is recommended that you book in advance. You can book the Super Cabana here.
Fabian’s Fun Port Cabana – $99.99
These jumbo umbrella rentals, located in the popular Fabian’s Fun Port, are perfect for families looking to get out of the sun. You’ll get an all day locker rental, seating for 6, and a mini-fridge with 10 bottles of water. You can book a Fabian’s Fun Port Cabana here.
Mango Joe’s Cabana – $69.99
Located at Mango Joe’s Cafe, and offering seating for up to 6 people, these cabanas are perfect for families. You’ll get a mini-fridge with 8 bottles of water, a fan, and an all day locker. It is recommended that you book the Mango Joe’s Cabanas in advance, you can do that here.
Riverside Cabana – $69.99
You’ll find the Riverside Cabanas next to the Rambling Bayou Lazy River. These cabanas seat 6 comfortably and offer ceiling fans and a mini-fridge with 8 water bottles. You can purchase a Riverside Cabana here.
Splash Attack + Wave Pool Cabanas – $69.99
Both the Splash Attack and Wave Pool Cabanas are in great locations. You’ll find the Spack Attack Cabanas near Splash Attack play area and Solar Vortex. While the Wave Pool Cabanas are conveniently located at the Endless Surf Wave Pool. Both seat 6 people, have ceiling fans, and mini-fridges with 8 bottles of water. You can book either of these options here.
Solar Vortex Riverside Lounges – $19.99
These reservable loungers are perfectly tucked away near Solar Vortex. The rentals include 2 lounge chairs, a shade umbrella and all day locker rental. You can book a Riverside Lounge here.
Quick Queue Passes
There are two different kinds of Quick Queue passes available at Adventure Island.
Quick Queue Unlimited – $19.99
With the Quick Queue Unlimited you get priority access to the most popular water slides as often as you would like to ride them in one day. With this pass you can enjoy unlimited access to Aruba Tuba, Calypso Coaster, Riptide, Colossal Curl and Solar Vortex. You can purchase the Quick Queue Unlimited here.
Quick Queue – $9.99
With the Quick Queue you’ll get one time access to the most popular water slides in the park. You can enjoy one time, front of the line access to Aruba Tuba, Calypso Coaster, Riptide, Colossal Coaster and Solar Vortex. You can purchase a Quick Queue pass here.
Rides And Attractions At Adventure Island
Water Slides
Rapids Racer
The world’s first dueling saucers arrive at Adventure Island in Spring 2022. These high speed tunnels of twists and turns are sure to have your heart pounding.
Wahoo Remix
A water slide filled with thrilling sights and sounds. The Wahoo Remix features a synchronized light show with sound elements. Your family will love this exhilarating and high energy ride.
Colossal Curl
Touted as one of Florida’s favorite water slides, this thrilling slide isn’t for the faint of heart. Complete with waterfalls and corkscrews, you’ll feel weightless as you’re hurled through the air. The height requirement for Colossal Curl is 48 inches.
Solar Vortex
The Solar Vortex was America’s first dual tailspin slide. It’s one of the most popular water slides in the park! This family raft ride is full of thrills, you embark on a swirling journey through open tailspins. A cool feature of the Solar Vortex is that it uses solar energy to make the colorful patterns that appear throughout the slide. Height requirement for Solar Vortex is 42 inches.
Vanish Point
The epic free fall of 70 feet makes Vanish Point a thrill you won’t soon forget! As the floor drops out from under you, make sure to smile for the camera. The height requirement for Vanish Point is 48 inches and water shoes are strictly prohibited.
Aruba Tuba
Whether you ride solo or with a partner, this ride is for the bravest of thrill seekers. As a completely dark ride, you’ll rush through total darkness before landing in a splash pool at the end. The height requirement for Aruba Tuba is 42 inches.
Calypso Coaster
Perfect for the whole family, this open flume ride is full of soaking wet fun! You can ride solo or with a partner, but whatever you do hang on tight. There are tons of surprises along the way on this family fun ride. The height requirement for the Calypso Coaster is 42 inches.
Riptide
Race your friends or family on this head first, four lane water slide. If you’re competitive then Riptide is right up your alley, as you compete against 3 other riders. All 4 competitors are released simultaneously from 55 feet above to race through twists and turns. The height requirement for Riptide is 42 inches.
Pools and Lazy Rivers At Adventure Island
Endless Surf
In this 17,000 sq ft pool you can enjoy the rolling surf with waves every 5 minutes. It is highly recommended that weak and non-swimmers wear life vests for their own safety.
Rambling Bayou
The Rambling Bayou is a half mile lazy river that transports you through lush landscapes and beautiful waterfalls. If you are looking for complete relaxation, the Rambling Bayou lazy river is the perfect spot for you. Riders under 42 inches must wear life vests.
Paradise Lagoon
The Paradise Lagoon is perfect for those looking for fun in the sun. Whether you take part in a fun net climb or cliff jump into the 9,000 sq ft pool waiting below, this pool is a ton of fun! Weak and non-swimmers are encouraged to wear life vests.
Fabian’s Fun Port
The fun port is entertainment for the whole family, including the kids. Kids will love the bubbling springs and jumping jets, and climbing on the water-friendly jungle gym.
Virtual Reality Snorkeling
This experience is completely immersive and something that you won’t find anywhere else in Tampa. You’ve got your choice of 3 different virtual experiences, including snorkeling, flying through the sky and an epic modern fantasy. You’ll be suspended in a pool while you are transported to a place beyond your wildest imagination. Virtual reality snorkeling is an additional $25.00 per person. Tickets can be purchased in advance here.
Restaurants At Adventure Island
Hang Ten Tiki Bar
This brand new full service bar has all the chill vibes! Enjoy hand crafted cocktails, local brews and an impressive rum selection. You can also try a surf inspired rum or beer flight, as well as Island light bites like soft pretzels and empanadas.
Surfside Cafe
For casual eats head to the Surfside Cafe that offers family favorites like chicken tenders, burgers and delicious cold beverages.
Island Food Truck
Located in Fabian’s Fun Port is Island Food Truck a quick stop for families on the go! It’s the perfect place to grab a quick foot long hotdog, chips and more quick bites.
Mango Joe’s
With a menu featuring something for everyone, Monago Joe’s is sure to be a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for fresh salads, ribs or delectable dessert, Mango Joe’s has you covered.
A day spent at Adventure Island won’t be one that you forget! Whether you ride thrilling water slides or have a relaxing day in the lazy river, you’ll love Adventure Island.
Pack Your Bags and Head to Tampa!
Busch Gardens, combined with Adventure Island, is the perfect family vacation in Central Florida. It’s got something for the whole family, including exhilarating roller coasters, amazing African animals and a waterpark.
Busch Gardens also offers several educational programs and camps that offer educational experiences for students, teachers and youth groups. You can check out the list of programs HERE.
What are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Tampa!
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