Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: Insider's Blog

May 1, 2025

A Wild New Chapter Begins at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

From playful squirrel monkeys to gentle giant anteaters, some of the most fascinating and adorable animals are about to make their debut at Wild Oasis—the newest immersive experience coming soon to Jungala at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

November 8, 2024

Exclusive Pass Member Experience: Kick Off the Holidays with Us!

Attention Pass Members! Celebrate the start of the season with a holiday experience designed just for you at Busch Gardens Christmas Town on November 15th and 16th. Enjoy exclusive events and a festive atmosphere you won’t want to miss!

Sweetacular and Halloween Harvest at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

October 16, 2024

Thrills, Chills, and Fall Fun at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

The leaves are turning colors, the weather is getting cooler, and that can only mean one thing… Fall has arrived— Well, as close to Fall as Florida can get, anyways. With the season changing, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has transformed into a wicked blend of enchanting spirits at Halloween Harvest during the day, and eerie thrills of Howl-O-Scream at night. Offering entertainment for all ages and families, transport yourself into a world filled with autumn chills and spooky thrills when you spend the day with us.

September 24, 2024

The First Drop: Ep. 01

The First Drop Season 2 is live! Tune in as we discuss the 25th annual Howl-O-Scream as we dive into new haunting scare zones, thrilling shows, enticing eats, and more. Make sure to subscribe to never miss an episode!

Relaxing Vacation in the Rambling Bayou at Adventure Island Tampa Bay.

April 11, 2024

Unforgettable Florida Vacation Packages: Fun at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay!

Are you looking for the perfect vacation? Florida is the perfect place with its beautiful beaches, incredible attractions, and amazing weather. From family-friendly vacations and friends ready for excitement as a group to romantic couple getaways, there are plenty of Florida vacation opportunities with cost-saving packages.

January 23, 2024

The First Drop: Ep. 14

Happy 2024, and welcome back to another episode of The First Drop! Join us as we talk about all things Pass Member Rewards, Mardi Gras, and more. Plus, hear from special guest, Erick Elliott, as he tells us about his professional journey here at Busch Gardens.

The First Drop Episode 13 at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

December 6, 2023

The First Drop: Ep. 13

Life as a Pass Member makes the thrills even better! But, don't take it from us—On this episode of The First Drop, Nicole has joined us to chat about all things Busch Gardens, and why she loves being a Pass Member.

November 16, 2023

A Festive Day Out: Unwrap a Winter Wonderland at Christmas Town

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay's Christmas Town, the park's award-winning holiday event, is a Yuletide extravaganza that starts in November and ends in January. It's the longest holiday celebration in the Tampa Bay area, promising brand-new experiences for families to cherish.

The First Drop Episode 12 at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

November 15, 2023

The First Drop: Ep. 12

Happy Holidays, everyone! In today's episode of the First Drop, we had the opportunity to chat with Gogo about how she brings events like Christmas Town to life!

August 9, 2023

National Creamsicle Day

It’s National Creamsicle Day on August 14 AND the Tampa Bay Buccaneers just unveiled their throwback creamsicle uniforms. To celebrate both, Busch Gardens guests who wear something creamsicle or orange colored to the park on August 14 can receive a FREE Creamsicle Cupcake!

The First Drop Episode 10 at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

August 9, 2023

The First Drop: Ep. 10

With National Roller Coaster Day right around the corner, Walrus Carp is telling us all about his love for amusement parks, and coasters, and how he's grown as an influencer over the past few years!

August 9, 2023

National Roller Coaster Day

Celebrate National Roller Coaster Day With Us!

The Summer bucket list that you need to beat the heat at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

July 26, 2023

Wallpaper Wednesday: Beat The Heat

This is the only Summer bucket list that you need to beat the heat!

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay The First Drop: Episode 9

July 13, 2023

The First Drop: Ep. 9

Welcome to another episode of The First Drop! Today, we're joined by Kayla, who is the host of our brand-new web series, Wild Encounters! Plus, there are tons of new Pass Members rewards for the month of July, as well as ongoing events and thrills, all throughout the park.

June 28, 2023

Wallpaper Wednesday: SandSerpent

Zip, zoom and climb five stories into the air one last time. After 19 years of family-friendly fun, guests will have the chance to ride the iconic roller coaster for the last time through July 9, before being permanently retired! Plus, Pass Members will also receive exclusive early morning access to ride SandSerpent from June 30 through July 4.

Wild Encounters Episode 1 at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

June 20, 2023

Wild Encounters: Ep. 1

Welcome to "Wild Encounters", our brand new web series where we give you an inside look at some incredible animals and the amazing people who care for them! Today, we're chatting with Cara about her zoological journey with Busch Gardens, and getting to know some fun facts about rhinos, hoofstock, and beyond.

A Father's Day Gift Guide from Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

June 15, 2023

Father’s Day Gift Guide at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

With Father’s Day being right around the corner, we’re sure finding the perfect gift for the dads in your life is high on your priority list! That’s why we’ve created the ultimate Busch Gardens Gift Guide that every dad will love. From thrilling coasters to free beer, we have the perfect day planned for you and dad!

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay The First Drop: Episode 8

June 13, 2023

The First Drop: Ep. 8

Summer is here, and things are heating up here at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay! Join us as we talk about June Pass Member rewards, Summer Nights entertainment, Adventure Island Nights, and MORE!

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Celebrates National Zoo and Aquarium Month with phone wallpapers of your favorite animals.

June 7, 2023

Wallpaper Wednesday: National Zoo and Aquarium Month

Happy #NationalZooAndAquariumMonth! Celebrate with us all month long to learn fun animal facts while getting to know some of the amazing animals that our zoo teams care for here at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

ShieKra in the sunset during Summer Nights at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

May 31, 2023

Wallpaper Wednesday: Summer Nights Sunsets

There's nothing like riding coasters during those summer night sunsets! As the sun goes down, Busch Gardens transforms into an electrifying atmosphere with entertainment around every corner.

May 17, 2023

Wallpaper Wednesday: Adventure Island

Riding the waves of excitement for #WallpaperWednesday! Tampa's Island Paradise never ceases to amaze us. Good thing it's right next door! Save your next phone wallpaper down below and dive into paradise with us. 🌊

Having a special Mother's Day at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

May 11, 2023

Mother's Day Adventures at Busch Gardens

When it comes to Mother’s Day, finding the right gift for mom isn’t always an easy task. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is here to help!

May 3, 2023

Wallpaper Wednesday: Tigris

Catapulting into Wallpaper Wednesday at more than 60 miles per hour with Tigris!

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay The First Drop: Episode 7

May 1, 2023

The First Drop: Ep. 7

Welcome back to a jam-packed episode of The First Drop! This month, we're talking about all of the thrills and adventures that are happening in May. Plus, join us as we chat with Bria, an animal care specialist from our elephant team, and learn more about her full-circle moment with Busch Gardens.

Falcon's Fury at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

April 12, 2023

Wallpaper Wednesday: Falcon's Fury

In honor of Falcon's Fury reopening, it's only fitting that we drop these wallpapers.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay The First Drop: Episode 6

April 5, 2023

The First Drop: Ep. 6

New episode just dropped! In today's video, we had the honor of interviewing Juliana, one of the leads of "Turn it up! Remix", and you won't want to miss what we chatted about! Plus, be sure to comment to enter our giveaway. Do you know how many spins Juliana does in the show?

Sights on the Serengeti when you take a VIP Tour at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

March 29, 2023

Wallpaper Wednesday: Sights On The Serengeti Safari

When you trek across our 65-acre Serengeti Plain, the adventures are endless! There's no other feeling like getting a unique and up-close look at African wildlife while observing exotic animals like zebras, ostriches, rhinos, and several antelope species. And the photo opportunities? Unreal. Just see for yourself and save one of your favorite photos for Wallpaper Wednesday!

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay The First Drop: Episode 5

March 21, 2023

The First Drop: Ep. 5

Pass Member rewards, Food & Wine, Adventure Island, and so much more! There's a lot to talk about this month, and we have all the details that you want to know. Plus, watch until the end for our trivia question and learn how you can enter to win a Busch Gardens swag bag!

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Food & Wine Festival 2023.

March 15, 2023

Wallpaper Wednesday: Food & Wine Festival 2023

There are so many sights to see, sips to sip, and food to taste during Food & Wine! Cheers to the festivities and download some of your favorite sights for Wallpaper Wednesday.

March 8, 2023

Wallpaper Wednesday: Flamingos

You know what we do on Wednesdays... Change our wallpapers (and wear pink)! Download your favorite flamingo photo down below and update your wallpaper to something flamazing! 🦩

March 3, 2023

World Wildlife Day at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

It’s World Wildlife Day, and being one of North America’s largest accredited zoos, we just had to celebrate accordingly!

March 1, 2023

Wallpaper Wednesday: Serengeti Flyer

Taking your Wallpaper Wednesday to a new and thrilling level! Download your favorite photos down below and join in on celebrating the opening of the world’s tallest and fastest ride of its kind, Serengeti Flyer.

February 22, 2023

Wallpaper Wednesday: Spring at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

There's an extra spring in our step with all of these recent blossoms around the park! Breathe some new life into your phone wallpaper and download your favorite photo down below to update.

February 17, 2023

The First Drop: Ep. 4

Welcome back to another episode of The First Drop! Obviously, Serengeti Flyer is a hot topic, right now along with some other exciting park happenings. Stay tuned until the end to find out how you can enter to win our giveaway!

February 9, 2023

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Valentine's Day Cards

It's the season of love! Why not send that special someone a thrilling Valentine's Day card?

February 1, 2023

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Becomes New Home for ‘Bandar’, a Critically Endangered Sumatran Tiger

Everyone say hello to Bandar! He’s a 9-year-old endangered male Sumatran tiger who’s joined our diverse collection of more than 200 animal species.

January 25, 2023

Wallpaper Wednesday: Opposite Day

Either it's Opposite Day, or our coasters are looking a bit different... Either way, how cool are these wallpapers for #WallpaperWednesday?!

January 18, 2023

Wallpaper Wednesday: Mardi Gras

The first weekend of Mardi Gras: Success ✅ Now, jazz up your phone wallpaper to something vibrant and get really to revel in all of the Mardi Gras-style festivities happening this weekend!

January 12, 2023

The First Drop: Ep.3

Welcome to The First Drop! We're kicking off 2023 with some awesome Pass Member Rewards, electrifying events, a giveaway, and so much more.

January 11, 2023

Wallpaper Wednesday: Rollercoasters

Whether you’re a coaster enthusiast or want rides that are fun for the whole family, you can explore Florida’s favorite coasters and thrill rides, right here at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay!

January 4, 2023

Wallpaper Wednesday: Baby Rhino

New year— more cute baby rhino photos!

December 6, 2022

The First Drop: Ep.2

With it being the holiday season, we're feeling a little extra festive and merry! Let's chat about the thrilling December Pass Member rewards, Christmas Town festivities and food, New Year's plans, and MORE!

November 22, 2022

Catch the Coca-Cola® Holiday Caravan

Don’t miss your chance to see the sparkling Coca-Cola ® Holiday Caravan at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay!

The First Drop Episode 1 at Busch Gardens Tampa

November 7, 2022

The First Drop: Ep.1

Welcome to 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙁𝙞𝙧𝙨𝙩 𝘿𝙧𝙤𝙥 🎢 our new web series that's here to give you all of the newest and exciting Busch Gardens Tampa Bay updates! Make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel so that you never miss an episode.

Wallpaper Wednesday at Busch Gardens Tampa

November 1, 2022

Wallpaper Wednesday: Kumba

Feel the roar of Kumba. 🦁🎢

June 30, 2022

Beat the Summer Heat at Busch Gardens

When it comes to your summer thrills, you gotta stay cool and recharged. Follow these pro-tips during your next Busch Gardens visit, and you’ll be sure to beat that summer heat all season long!

June 8, 2022

4 Thrills That Every Dad Will Love for Father's Day

When in doubt, give the gift of thrills! Make this Father’s Day one to remember and celebrate with animals, coasters, fireworks, and MORE!

April 8, 2022

Being a Pass Member Just Got Even Better

If you’re a Pass Member here at Busch Gardens and/or Adventure Island, you’re in for a treat! Our parks have had a lot of new and exciting changes happen recently and as a thank you for being part of our Pass Member Family, we are thrilled to share with you a sneak peek at one of the largest investments we have ever made in the park experiences.

January 29, 2022

Samantha, Beloved Chimpanzee at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Passes Away at Age 47 After a Long Battle with Cancer

We are mourning the passing of Samantha, a senior chimpanzee and beloved member of the Busch Gardens family. Samantha passed away on January 28 after a decades-long battle with cancer.

July 23, 2021

How a Park Visit Inspired an Entire Career

Hear from one of our ambassadors on what sparked her passion for animals!

December 21, 2020

Top Fireworks Viewing Locations Around the Park

From the Festival Field to Cheetah Hunt Plaza, there are so many places to watch fireworks at our park!

July 24, 2020

Meet Sydney: an Echidna Puggle

Our newest arrival is also one of the rarest zoo babies around!

Rhino poop grows a papaya tree at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

April 22, 2020

Meet Jody, the Papaya Loving Black Rhino

Learn more about how a papaya seedling grew from composted rhinoceros poop.

April 20, 2020

Busch Gardens Backgrounds for your Video Chats

Need to add some “thrill” to your conference calls? Look no further.

Mardi Gras Weekend at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

February 17, 2020

Party Like It's New Orleans: Experience Our All-New Mardi Gras Weekend

Searching for something fun to do this weekend? Look no further than Busch Gardens to catch some beads and savor in New Orleans dishes at our NEW Mardi Gras Weekend!