Theme Parks: Tampa

By VISIT FLORIDA staff
Published: May 8, 2008
Last Updated On: July 12, 2011

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Tampa’s theme parks invite you to explore an exotic world of wildlife and waterparks.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is the ultimate family adventure park offering a wide range of attractions that encourage guests to delve into the African continent.

There is a lot going on at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. For the thrill-ride lover, the choices include SheiKra, the tallest dive coaster in the world and at 200 feet, Florida's tallest roller coaster; Gwazi, the Southeast's largest and fastest double wooden coaster; Montu, one of the tallest and longest inverted roller coasters in the world; and the park's brand new magnet-propelled, "launch" coaster, Cheetah Hunt. This 4,429-foot coaster, inspired by the legendary speed of the Cheetah, climbs high above the African landscape, races down along the ground and through a rocky gorge, all the while using burst of acceleration to propel awestruck riders.

Need a splash to cool your excitement? Try Tanganyika Tidal Wave, Stanley Falls Log Flume or Congo River Rapids.

Adventure Island, a Busch Gardens water park, is 30 acres of tropical paradise featuring 18 water attractions, a championship sand volleyball court and Splash Attack, a tree house maze overflowing with fun. The water park features a brand new adventure sending riders on a splashing journey filled with drops, curves, waterfalls - and an unforeseen visit.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is known for animal attractions such as Rhino Rally that offers an off-road adventure through the wilds of Africa.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is known for animal attractions such as Rhino Rally that offers an off-road adventure through the wilds of Africa; Edge of Africa offering an intense safari experience; and Lory Landing and Bird Gardens with their brilliantly-colored birds from around the world. Park guests will also be able to get an up-close view of the white rhinos via the Serengeti Express Train, which traverses the habitat. The Skyride and Rhino Rally also will provide views of these endangered animals.

Keeper-For-The-Day will give guests an opportunity to work alongside the park's zoological team assisting in the care of exotic and endangered animals. The 6 1/2-hour program pairs participants with a zoological educator for a one-on-one experience offering a wide variety of hands-on training sessions and animal care for large and small mammals, birds and reptiles.

Family-friendly entertainment include the "Critter Castaways," located in the Bird Gardens area, and "A is for Africa," located in the new Sesame Street Safari of Fun area. It is joined by Sesame Street presents: “Lights, Camera, Imagination!” in Timbuktu’s 4-D theater, which features Elmo, Cookie Monster, Big Bird and other lovable Sesame Street characters trying to save the Sesame Street Film Festival. Their adventures are brought to life with zany 4-D gags and special effects like wind, water and jump-out-of-your-seat surprises!

To learn more about Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, visit www.buschgardens.com or call toll-free 1-888-800-5447. Ask about special Bounce tickets including Busch Gardens and Adventure Island.