Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Located in Williamsburg, Busch Gardens Williamsburg sticks to the historical theme that so pervades Virginia. However, Busch Gardens does not focus on American History, but several European “histories”. The theme park is divided into zones, and each zone represents England, Ireland, Scotland, France, Germany, and Italy, respectively. In addition to the zones, there are also beer gardens (this theme park is presented to you by Anheuser-Busch, a major Beer company), and the nearby Water Country USA water park.

Some of the premier rides in this establishment are Griffin, located in the French section, and this ride hurtles the riders through steep drops and winding turns. Alpengeist is one of the top ten steel rollercoaster’s in the country, and this jaw dropper (it is the worlds most twisted inverted rollercoaster) is located in the German area of the park. Apollo’s Chariot, in Italy, reaches great height and even greater speeds – people riding on this will definitely feel the sensation of being weightless. Other crowd pleasing rides include the Battering Ram, Loch Ness Monster, The Big Bad Wolf, Roman Rapids, Corkscrew Hill, Curse of DarKastle (a mulit-sensory experience unlike anything else), Da Vinci’s Cradle, and Escape from Pompeii.

Naturally, there are daily shows, and each section has its own respective contribution. Whether it is oompah song and dance in the beer garden in Germany (ages 21 and older only, please) or traditional Irish jigging, there is definitely a show to appeal to your sensibilities. For animal lovers, there is Jack Hanna’s Wildlife Reserve, Wolf Valley (despite the importance of these apex predators, people are just beginning to warm up to the idea that wolves such be protected, not feared) where animals are easily viewed, and of course, the Clydesdale Horses stable.

During October, Busch Gardens transforms into “Howl-O-Scream” , where the entire park stays open late and becomes “haunted”. It is a lot of fun, if you have never been to an amusement park for Halloween before, we highly recommend trying this theme park – you will have a great time. Oktoberfest, in the Germany area, is not solely reserved for the end of September – October…it happens year round!

There are plenty of places to eat around the park. Every section does have an interpretation of that regions authentic cuisine, and typical American food is available throughout the park. Indeed, Busch Gardens Williamsburg has really delicious food for a theme park, which is a really pleasant surprise. There is beer sampling available for legal patrons. And what is a theme park without merchandise stores? In addition to the kitschy “Busch Gardens “t-shirts and the like, there are really creative worldly decorations abound and make great gifts or decorations. We suggest buying merchandise on the way out of course, and coincidentally (or not…) most of the stores are located around the entrance/exit locations.

Water Country USA is Virginia’s largest water park. The pervasive theme throughout this ameusment park is the 1950’s and 1960’s Surfing. There are river rafting rides, lazy rivers, water slides, flumes, and pools. It is a great way to spend a hot day. And should you want to combine Water Country USA with Busch Gardens Williamsburg, you can purchase a Bounce Ticket, which permits unlimited access to both parks for either 2 or 3 days (2 days cost $65; 3 days cost $75 per person). Admission to Busch Gardens alone runs about $50 for adults and $43 for children ages 3-6. To Water Country USA, tickets range about $36 for adults, $29 for children. Group Sizes have special package rates, so visit their website here (click on the “home” option to go to their webpage) to get the full details. There are plenty of places to stay and dine around Busch Gardens Williamsburg, so be sure to look in our “Places to Stay” and “Places to Eat” options on our homepage.



Virginia Tourists Guide - Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, Virginia