Explore Busch Gardens: Top Amusement Park in Williamsburg, Virginia

Busch Gardens Williamsburg is a 100-acre European-themed amusement park that boasts 17th-century charm accompanied by over 50 exciting rides and attractions. Families can enjoy a variety of thrilling activities and entertainment, with thematic areas representing England, Scotland, Ireland, France, Germany, and Italy. Located just a few hours south of Washington DC, Busch Gardens is an ideal destination for a fun-filled day trip or weekend getaway. Moreover, it is conveniently situated near Colonial Williamsburg, a historical region rich in attractions that include historical sites, amusement parks, shopping, and fine dining options.

Attractions at Busch Gardens

• The thrill attraction *Tempesto* debuted on April 25, 2015. This exhilarating ride propels users forward and backward through the station house at over 60 miles per hour, before climbing an impressive 154 feet for its signature loop-the-loop inversion.
• In May 2014, a new stage was unveiled at the Globe Theatre, equipped with powerful video projectors and nearly 2,000 audio speakers, enhancing the entertainment experience.
• In 2013, Busch Gardens introduced its first-ever food festival featuring authentic European cuisine paired with family-friendly activities and entertainment, creating a beloved annual event.
• Visitors can also enjoy world-class thrills aboard *Verbolten*, Busch Gardens’ multi-launch indoor/outdoor roller coaster that takes guests on a fun and mysterious adventure through the Black Forest.

Busch Gardens Williamsburg Highlights

• Home to top-rated roller coasters like the Griffon, which is renowned as the world’s tallest and first floorless dive coaster, as well as the newly introduced drop tower thrill ride, Mach Tower, reaching nearly 240 feet.
• Voted as the world’s “Most Beautiful Park” every year since 1990, showcasing stunning landscapes and attractions.
• Main stage shows offer live performances, animal antics, and immersive 4-D theater experiences for all ages.
• Explore international cuisine and a unique shopping experience across the park.
• The Sesame Street Forest of Fun includes family-friendly rides, engaging playgrounds, and a 4-D Sesame Street movie experience.

Annual Food and Wine Festival

The Food & Wine Festival features two new kiosks that celebrate Eastern Asia cuisine and showcase Cajun- and Creole-inspired dishes from New Orleans within the French Quarter. Guests can indulge in individual-sized tasting portions at 14 themed kiosks throughout the park, featuring 60 specialized food items. The diverse regional menus encompass flavors from the American Southwest, Canada, the Caribbean, and many European nations.

Busch Gardens Bier Fest

Busch Gardens honors Oktoberfest with their Bier Fest, an event spanning two weekends filled with beer tastings, traditional German food, live music, and additional entertainment. This year, guests can choose from 75 beer varieties representing 10 countries, including Southeast Asia, Europe, and the United States. Moreover, local Virginia craft brewers contribute selections to the tap list. The Oktoberfest village will feature traditional German music provided by *The Happy Dutchmen*, an engaging Oompah band that invites audience participation in traditional dances and songs. Access to Bier Fest is included with park admission.

Calendar and Operating Hours

The park opens in March, offering daily operations through the spring break until April 9. Throughout April and May, Busch Gardens operates on weekends. Daily operations resume from Memorial Day through Labor Day; afterward, it operates on weekends from September through October, and has a limited schedule during the holiday season.

Visiting Tips

• Purchasing tickets in advance is advisable to avoid long lines. Consider a seasons pass for added savings and convenience.
• Visiting the park on a weekday can enhance your experience, as it tends to be less crowded than weekends or holidays.
• Arriving early ensures you maximize your day; head to popular rides first as lines tend to grow longer later in the day.
• Extend your visit to explore Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown for a comprehensive experience.

Busch Gardens is owned and operated by SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc., a prominent theme park and entertainment company that maintains a diverse portfolio of 11 destination and regional theme parks, showcasing a unique zoological collection of approximately 89,000 marine and terrestrial animals. The parks feature a broad range of rides, shows, and attractions that cater to a wide demographic, offering memorable experiences alongside exceptional value. Additionally, SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating marine and terrestrial animals that are ill, injured, orphaned, or abandoned, with the goal of reintroducing them into the wild.