Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Busch Gardens is the rare park that's serious about both animals and adrenaline. Open since 1959 and landscaped around themes of Africa across 335 acres, it runs nine roller coasters — including Iron Gwazi, a hybrid that's among the most respected in the country, plus the diving SheiKra and the inverted Montu — alongside real herds of African wildlife. It's Tampa's answer to the Orlando parks, and often less mobbed.
The flagship park's newest habitat opened this spring in Edge of Africa: a 35,000-square-foot savanna with five young lion brothers and two hyenas, viewable from a 270-degree vantage. Gate price runs about $124, with steep online discounts.
Read the full 10 Best Things to Do in Tampa This Summer (2026) →Also featured in 22 Best Things to Do in Tampa, Florida (2026 Local Guide), Florida Theme Park Christmas 2026: Disney, Busch Gardens, SeaWorld and More
We may earn a commission when you book through partner links. It never changes our rankings.
Weekday mornings — ride Iron Gwazi and SheiKra first, before both the heat and the lines peak.
Do the coaster circuit early and save the shaded animal areas and the Serengeti train for the hot midday hours.
Nearby on Wayfind
Roccafood ›Ulelefood ›Lucky Tigrefood ›Oxford Exchangefood ›Psomifood ›On Swannfood ›Wayfind is an independent guide, not affiliated with the places listed. Details come from Google and may change — confirm hours before you go.