What do you get when you combine a fantastic zoo with world-class roller coasters? You get Busch Gardens Tampa Bay! Our family made the trip from North Carolina’s Triad area, and it was absolutely worth it. From thrilling rides and animal encounters to unique dining experiences and entertaining shows, this park has something for everyone. If you’re still planning your summer vacation from North Carolina, keep reading—this may be your perfect pick!

Planning Your Trip from the Triad to Busch Gardens

Yes, it’s a drive—about 10 hours from the Triad to Tampa, Florida—but it’s a manageable road trip, especially if you make a stop in St. Augustine along the way. (Check out our St. Augustine travel post HERE!) Breaking up the trip adds to the adventure and keeps kids from getting too antsy.

Where to Buy Busch Gardens Tickets & Special offers

Buying your tickets directly from the Busch Gardens Tampa website can save you money versus paying at the gate. They also offer bundle deals that include SeaWorld parks Orlando, Aquatica, or Adventure Island—great for families looking to extend their Florida adventure. If you enjoy your trip so much you want a membership visit Guest Services and they can upgrade your ticket!

Busch Garden Military discounts

Active duty members receive free single-day admission plus up to three free dependent tickets (offer may change—check the site when planning).

Busch Gardens All Day Dining

All‑Day Dining Deal is $41.99 for adults and $29.99 for children (ages 3–9).

This provides:

One entrée platter, side or dessert, plus one non‑alcoholic fountain beverage
Available every 90 minutes at participating venues: Zambia Smokehouse, Dragon Fire Grill, Zagora Café, Oasis Pizza at Serengeti Overlook, and Chick‑fil‑A®

If you’re eating more than two meals/snacks during the day, this plan pays for itself and beats individual purchase prices—which hover around $25 per meal.

Busch Gardens Quick Queue passes

Skip the lines with three options starting at $29.99, including Quick Queue, Quick Queue Unlimited, and Quick Queue Unlimited + Reserved Seating for select shows.

Where to Stay: Hotels Near Busch Gardens Tampa

Choosing the right hotel can make your Busch Gardens trip smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for convenience, value, or extra perks, here’s a guide to the best nearby options:

Top Family-Friendly Hotels

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tampa – USF / Busch Gardens (0.5 mi) – Free shuttle to Busch Gardens and Adventure Island, Complimentary hot breakfast and outdoor pool, convenient for families and helps you skip park parking.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa – USF (1 mi) – Two-room suites, complimentary breakfast & evening reception, Free shuttle to Busch Gardens. Ideal for families needing extra space.

Booking Tips

Shuttle service frees you from parking logistics and fees—perfect for stress-free mornings.
Complimentary breakfast at most hotels means an easy and affordable start to the day.
Suites and family rooms are ideal for those needing extra space or traveling with young ones or pets.
Contact hotels directly or check the Busch Gardens Vacation Packages page to bundle lodging, tickets, meal plans, and tours for the best value

Many hotels also offer ticket discounts—ask ahead!

Helpful Tips to Know Before You Go

Busch Gardens is open 365 days a year, rain or shine (no refunds for weather).
Plan to spend two full days at the park to see everything: rides, animals, and shows.
Go counterclockwise through the park to beat the crowds—most guests go clockwise.
You’ll get wet on Stanley Falls and Congo River Rapids, so save those for later!
Start your visit with the Skyride for an aerial view and to get your bearings.
Download the App – navigate the park, purchase add-on experiences, and view ride wait times.

Outside food and drinks (except bottled water) are not allowed, and ride items must be stored in lockers. You’ll even find an on-site kennel if you’re traveling with pets.

Don’t Miss: Animal Encounters at Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens isn’t just about rides—it’s one of the largest zoos in North America, home to over 12,000 animals, including endangered species. You’ll find animals throughout the park:

See elephants from the Skyride
Spot giraffes while riding Cheetah Hunt
View zebras and antelope from the Serengeti Railway

Animal lovers should explore:

Serengeti Safari Tours (day or night)
Elephant & Penguin Insider Tours
Keeper for a Day
Behind-the-Scenes Animal Encounters

TIP: Visit animal habitats in the morning or evening when it’s cooler. And don’t be shy—ask zoo staff for trivia; they love it!

Rides and Roller Coasters for Thrill Seekers

credit:Busch Gardens Tampa
credit:Busch Gardens Tampa

Busch Gardens is known for top-rated roller coasters. Here are a few not to miss:

Cheetah Hunt – Fast and smooth roller coaster with amazing views
SheiKra – A floorless dive coaster
Montu – Inverted and intense
Falcon’s Fury – 30 stories high, drops face-first at 60mph (terrifying and awesome)

Check ride height requirements before you go or use the measuring stick at the park entrance.

Attractions for Younger Kids

Sesame Street Safari of Fun
A must-visit for little ones! Includes kiddie rides like Air Grover, splash areas, a carousel, and character meet-and-greets.

Wild Oasis (New in 2025) – This immersive rainforest-themed area features:

Rainforest Quest scavenger hunt adventure
Tree Top Drop (kid-friendly tower ride)
Canopy Climb (multi-level play structure)
Enchanted Falls splash pad
Habitat Hideaway with monkeys, anteaters & more

Entertainment and Shows

When it’s time to rest, don’t miss the park’s live entertainment. We loved Icons at the Dragon Fire Grill—great food and even better performances. After each show, the cast sticks around for photos and autographs, which kids love.

For more show options, check the Busch Gardens event schedule HERE.

Seasonal Events: Summer Nights

If you’re visiting in summer, don’t miss Summer Nights at Busch Gardens, running June 16 through August 10. Expect extended park hours, live DJs, fireworks, and a vibrant nighttime vibe. Details available on their website.

Extend Your Florida Adventure

Busch Gardens is conveniently located just outside downtown Tampa, making it easy to turn your theme park trip into a full Florida vacation. After our visit, we headed to Clearwater Beach—less than an hour away—for sunshine and sand.

Other great add-ons:

Orlando theme parks (90 minutes away)
LEGOLAND Florida in Winter Haven (just 45 minutes away)

Busch Gardens Tampa is more than just a theme park—it’s a whole family experience packed with education, adventure, and memory-making. Whether you’re planning your summer road trip or dreaming up the next family adventure, this Florida favorite checks all the boxes.