25 Surprising Facts About Busch Gardens Tampa: Hidden Gems and Insider Secrets
Busch Gardens Tampa is more than just a theme park – it’s a world of adventure, wildlife, and excitement. While many visitors enjoy the thrilling rides and animal exhibits, there’s so much more to discover. Here are 25 things you probably didn’t know about this Florida gem.
1. It Started as a Bird Garden
Believe it or not, Busch Gardens Tampa began in 1959 as a simple bird garden and hospitality facility for Anheuser-Busch. The park has come a long way since then!
2. Free Beer Was Once a Tradition
Until 2009, the park offered free beer samples to adult visitors, a nod to its Anheuser-Busch heritage.
3. Home to Over 200 Species
While known for its African animals, Busch Gardens houses over 200 species from around the world.
4. Cheetah Run is More Than Just a Ride
The Cheetah Run attraction features a 220-foot sprint track where visitors can watch cheetahs run at full speed.
5. Secret Animal Encounters
For an additional fee, you can book behind-the-scenes tours to get up close with animals like sloths and penguins.
6. SheiKra’s Unique Design
SheiKra was North America’s first dive coaster with a 90-degree drop. Its name comes from a bird of prey known for diving vertically.
7. Conservation Efforts
The park is involved in significant conservation efforts, including species survival programs for endangered animals.
8. Skyride’s Impressive Stats
The Skyride transports guests across the park and has been operating since 1974, covering nearly 10,000 miles annually.
9. Pantopia’s Hidden Gems
The Pantopia area is full of hidden details and Easter eggs. Look closely at shop signs and decorations for clever puns and references.
10. Montu’s Egyptian Connection
The Montu roller coaster is named after the Egyptian god of war, fitting its intense and warrior-like ride experience.
11. Unique Dining Experiences
You can dine with animals at the Serengeti Overlook Restaurant, enjoying views of the Serengeti Plain while you eat.
12. Halloween Transformation
During Howl-O-Scream, parts of the park transform into terrifying haunted houses and scare zones.
13. Christmas Town Magic
In winter, the park becomes a twinkling wonderland with over a million lights for Christmas Town.
14. Tiger Cubs Born at the Park
Several endangered Malayan tiger cubs have been born at Busch Gardens as part of their species survival program.
15. Cobra’s Curse’s Vertical Lift
The Cobra’s Curse roller coaster features a unique vertical lift that brings riders face-to-face with an 80-foot snake icon.
16. Sesame Street Connection
The park features a Sesame Street Safari of Fun area, perfect for younger visitors.
17. Stanley Falls’ Long History
The Stanley Falls log flume has been thrilling guests since 1973, making it one of the park’s oldest attractions.
18. Extensive Veterinary Care
The park has a state-of-the-art animal care center where visitors can sometimes view actual veterinary procedures.
19. Falcon’s Fury’s Unique Drop
Falcon’s Fury is North America’s tallest freestanding drop tower, with a unique feature that tilts riders 90 degrees face-down before dropping.
20. Sustainable Practices
The park implements various eco-friendly practices, including recycling, water conservation, and using solar energy.
21. Record-Breaking Roller Coasters
Iron Gwazi, opened in 2022, is North America’s tallest hybrid coaster and the fastest and steepest hybrid coaster in the world.
22. Animal Ambassadors Program
Some of the park’s animals serve as “ambassadors,” participating in educational programs and even visiting local schools.
23. Scorpion’s Nostalgic Appeal
The Scorpion roller coaster, opened in 1980, is one of the last remaining Schwarzkopf-designed coasters in the United States.
24. Unique Plant Life
The park’s landscaping includes over 500 species of plants from tropical regions worldwide.
25. Educational Programs
Busch Gardens offers various educational programs, including summer camps and field trips, focusing on wildlife conservation and environmental science.
From its humble beginnings as a bird garden to its current status as a world-class theme park and conservation center, Busch Gardens Tampa continues to surprise and delight visitors. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, animal lover, or just looking for a fun day out, there’s always something new to discover at this remarkable park.