Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has invested nearly $40 million in a park-wide transformation under its new president Jeff Davis.
The Florida theme park, operated by United Parks & Resorts, is introducing the Wild Oasis at Jungala realm, which opens in May, as well as new animal encounters, enhanced guests experiences, improved dining offerings, and a major transformation of the Adventure Island water park.
Davis said: “The extensive nearly $40m in investments will further solidify the park’s status as a premier destination, ensuring guests of all ages will make unforgettable memories to last a lifetime.”
Davis added, “The additions and improvements will be made across our infrastructure, operations, staff recruiting, equipment, as well as adding to our aesthetics with more beautiful gardens and plant life.
“New animal arrivals are also in the plans, such as the reimagined meerkat habitat, set to open this summer to inspire awe and wonder for all who visit.
“This is an exciting time for the park and these investments will make it better than ever before.”
New rides, animals and water park experiences
Starting with Wild Oasis, this new realm is themed to lush rainforests and includes animal encounters, thrilling rides, and interactive play zones.
Highlights include Tree Top Drop, a reimagined drop tower featuring state-of-the-art digital and sound effects.
As for Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s new animal experiences; capybaras, giant anteaters, squirrel monkeys and meerkats are arriving at the park this spring.
Animal habitats across the site have been enhanced, including a new climbing structure for a new troop of chimpanzees, accessibility features for the geriatric, all-female Asian Elephant herd, and a new giraffe barn.
Updated dining experiences have been created with new executive chef Lavon Smith, who brings “an exciting new culinary vision to the park”, Busch Gardens said.
Finally, Adventure Island has added the new Castaway Falls interactive splash and play area. This multi-level attraction offers water elements and cascading slides.
Meanwhile at Busch Gardens Williamsburg, North America’s longest inverted family coaster is set to open this year.
Images courtesy of United Parks & Resorts
