Jump to content

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Coordinates: 28°2′15″N 82°25′21″W / 28.03750°N 82.42250°W / 28.03750; -82.42250
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
(Redirected from Wild Surge)

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
A view of the Serengeti Plains in 2006
LocationTampa, Florida, US
Coordinates28°2′15″N 82°25′21″W / 28.03750°N 82.42250°W / 28.03750; -82.42250
StatusOperating
OpenedJune 1, 1959; 65 years ago (1959-06-01)
OwnerUnited Parks & Resorts
General managerNeal Thurman
ThemeAfrica
Asia
Operating seasonYear-round
Attendance3,210,000 (2021)[1]
Area335 acres (136 ha)
Attractions
Total29 as of 2023
Roller coasters9
Water rides2
WebsiteOfficial website

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a 335-acre (136 ha) animal theme park located in Tampa, Florida, United States, with the entire park landscaped and designed around themes of Africa and Asia. Owned and operated by United Parks & Resorts, the park opened on June 1, 1959. The park has an annual attendance consistently exceeding 4 million, often ranking second among United Parks & Resorts parks behind SeaWorld Orlando.[2]

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay features many roller coasters and thrill rides, including a Dive Coaster called SheiKra, a "family-style" thrill coaster themed around cheetahs called Cheetah Hunt, a launched roller coaster called Tigris, a classic seated steel roller coaster called Kumba, a wood-steel hybrid hypercoaster called Iron Gwazi, Falcon's Fury (the second-tallest free-standing drop tower in North America, and one of few to tilt and face riders towards the ground), Montu, which was the tallest and fastest inverted roller coaster in the world when it opened, and Phoenix Rising, North America's tallest and longest family inverted roller coaster. The park also features several rides and attractions aimed for children under the age of nine, as well as two water rides — a river rafting ride and a classic log flume.

History

[edit]

1957–1959: Busch Brewery and Gardens

[edit]
The Busch Brewery in 1967

Anheuser-Busch proposed acquiring land in Florida to construct a brewery with Tampa and Jacksonville as potential sites in April 1957.[3][4] By June, unconfirmed rumors were reported that a $25–30 million brewery would be built in Tampa, but were initially denied by Anheuser-Busch.[5][6] Anheuser-Busch made public on July 25, that it had purchased a 160-acre (65 ha) plot of land in Tampa for $320,000 to construct a $20 million brewery. The construction of the Tampa brewery coincided with the construction of a competing brewery, Schlitz, in the Tampa Industrial Park complex.[7][8] August Busch Jr. remarked during the planning of the brewery that the company wanted to include gardens to attract the local community and contribute landscaped areas.[9][10] Busch Jr. held the opinion that functional parks could help widen Anheuser-Busch's interest.[11]

In March 1958, August Busch Jr. commemorated the groundbreaking for the Tampa brewery.[12] Construction took place through the rest of 1958 and the early 1959.[12] In February 1959, Anheuser-Busch acknowledged the brewery would open in March.[13] A dedication ceremony for the brewery was scheduled in March, though the opening of the Busch Gardens would not take place until June when the brewery's beer would begin to ship.[14] Manufacturing in the Busch brewery began on March 12.[15] The brewery was dedicated on March 31, by August Busch Jr. with around 2,000 people in attendance, including the press, political and local leaders.[9][10] Anheuser-Busch formally announced the operating hours of the Busch brewery and gardens in May.[16][17]

The brewery and gardens officially opened to the public for tours on June 1, 1959, as an admission-free facility with 250 attending the opening ceremony and around 1,000 attendees to Busch Gardens.[18][19] Busch Gardens opened on 15-acre (6.1 ha) of land southwest of the brewery at the cost of around $500,000.[14][15][18][20] The associated gardens featured lagoons and landscaping, with around 36,000 flowering plants and 300 trees.[21][22] Opening animal attractions for Busch Gardens included a bird show in an amphitheater seating around 200 individuals, a bird sanctuary featuring flamingos and a separate animal area named "Devil's Island," and caged enclosures for eagles and cockatoos.[15][23][24] Additional attractions included a dwarf village and the "Hospitality House," a William B. Harvard designed facility that offered free samples of beer to guests.[23][24][25] Another 118-acre (48 ha) was used for housing the brewers Budweiser Clydesdales, and planned to host buffalo, ostriches, and zebras located east of the brewery.[10][26][27] The original gardens was later dubbed the "Bird Gardens".[28]

1959–1968: Additions and African veldt

[edit]
The Stairway to the Stars escalator outside the Busch Brewery

A $5 million expansion was announced in July 1959 by Anheuser-Busch to the existing facility because of the newfound success.[29][30] In February 1960, construction started on a geodesic dome in the gardens that was 22.5-foot (6.9 m) high and 90 feet (27 m) in diameter,[31] later opening on March 22, at the cost of $75,000.[32][33] The dome, named the Adolphus Busch Space Frame, was constructed from anodized aluminum colored gold and located north of the bird amphitheater.[33] The dome featured landscaping, suspended birds nests, and ponds that connected to a lagoon outside.[32][33] Anheuser-Busch revealed its plan to construct the Stairway to the Stars attraction in October that would be a 86-foot (26 m) Otis escalator to the roof of the brewery.[34][35] The escalator opened on March 22, 1961, as part of a renovation to the Busch brewery and its public tours.[36][37] The escalator featured a 5,000-square-foot (460-square-metre) pool beneath, a 1,000-square-foot (93-square-metre) observation deck atop of the brewery, and a 150-foot (46 m) raised walkway to enter Busch Gardens.[34][35] The pool originally hosted penguins.[38]

Anheuser-Busch bought additional parcels of land in May 1962.[39] In the same month, Anheuser-Busch communicated its intentions to expand Busch Gardens at the cost of $3.5 to $4 million as the company projected a rise in attendance for the coming decade, necessitating growth. The expansion called for different themed lands, with an African veldt and the American Plains planned, accompanied by wildlife animals pertaining to each geography. The additions would also call for a railway and create more landscaped environments for animal habitats.[40][41] In October, Busch Gardens expanded its animal collection to around 1,000 birds.[42] As part of the expansion, Anheuser-Busch stated a monorail would be constructed through the African veldt in January 1963,[43][44] and a four-story Swiss-themed restaurant in December, both east of the brewery.[45][46] Another land purchase was made by Anheuser-Busch in April 1964, their third since the opening.[47][48] Thomas J. Pinta was named manager of Busch Gardens in July.[49] Busch Gardens debuted a trackless transportation train on October 1, to travel between the gardens and the Old Swiss House via the parking lot.[50][51] The Old Swiss House was completed in October.[52]

The monorail with the Old Swiss House in the background in 1977

The Wild Animal Kingdom, representing the African veldt, was completed in 1965,[53][54] in addition to a clock tower built adjacent to the Old Swiss House.[55] The African veldt contained a variety of animals mostly imported from Africa, including cheetahs, chimpanzees, elephants, gorillas, lions, and rhinos with habitats faithfully recreated by the park.[53] By November, Anheuser-Busch acquired land east of its existing property for a potential expansion of Busch Gardens or its brewery.[56] The gardens and brewery encompassed around 208 acres (84 ha),[57] with the total acreage owned by the brewer amounting to around 268 acres (108 ha).[56]

A portion of the 1965 land purchase would be used for a trackless transportation train to shuttle guests between a new parking lot and its facilities in the latter half of 1966.[58][59] Busch Gardens began charging guests for parking in August because of the increase in visitors and to offset costs.[60] The monorail, originally named the Skyrail, opened to the public on September 22.[61] The Skyrail opened as a 7,000-foot (2,100 m) long Arrow Development monorail taking parkgoers through the African veldt, which was an upcharge for adults and children initially costing $1 and ¢40 respectively.[62][63] Near the end of 1966, around 475 animals were exhibited in the African veldt.[64] A snack bar was constructed and opened in the parking lot in 1967.[65]

1969–1975: Boma and themed area expansions

[edit]
A sign located near the entrance of Busch Gardens in 1972

For the coming year, Anheuser-Busch announced in March 1969 a 2.5-acre (1.0 ha) zoo area expansion entitled "Boma" to the current gardens. The exhibit space would cost $1 million, located between the brewery and the monorail, and contribute to the growth of the brewery and park.[66][67] Busch Gardens saw short manager changes with Pinta being replaced by Franklin H. Rust in May 1969,[68][69][70] and Rust resigning in February 1970.[71][72] Anheuser-Busch expressed its intention to expand its animal habitats, coinciding with the development of Disney World in the vicinity of Orlando, Florida.[73][74] August Busch Jr. had toured the Disney World site and wanted the Tampa brewery and gardens to maintain its hold in the tourist market.[75] The Anheuser-Busch Tampa location was favored amongst its other four properties, being the company's leading model into the entertainment industry.[76]

During the preview event for the Boma area in June 1970, Anheuser-Busch announced a $12.6 million expansion for the coming decade. The expansion would initially call for the additions of an amphitheater seating 1,000 guests, a "tree tops" viewing platform of the African veldt, a locomotive train, and a log flume.[76][77] The plans also stipulated the end of free-admission and charging a general admission to the park as well as getting rid of parking admission.[77][78] General admission to the park was implemented on July 31, coinciding with the opening of the Boma area that featured African mammals, birds, and a manmade mountain.[79][80] The initial price of entry to the park was $1.25 for adults and ¢50 for children.[80] The park's entrance was relocated during the same day to an adjacent road.[81][82] The immediate extension of Busch Gardens called for the construction of a railroad, African village, and an amphitheater in the following years.[28][83][84]

Busch Gardens Trans-Veldt Railway from the Nairobi Junction station

Robert B. Bean was named the new general manager for the Busch Gardens park in April 1971.[85] The Trans-Veldt Railway opened on July 4, between the monorail and Boma section. The train departed from the "Nairobi Junction" station into the animal habitat and was an upcharge attraction.[86][87][88] In January 1972, the tree tops observation deck was being constructed at the cost of $250,000,[89] opening months later with the African village on June 19. The African village, located north of the original gardens, accommodated the Stanleyville station, an additional train station on the Trans-Veldt Railway. The African village contained the Tanzanian Theater featuring an elephant show, gorilla and okapi enclosures, and various shops.[90][91] The tree tops was a three-level observation deck in the northern half of the African veldt and only reachable by the Trans-Veldt Railway upon opening.[92] During this time, the monorail and railway upcharges were eliminated, with the general admission increased in price.[90] The boat ride in the African village, titled Livingstone's Landing, later opened in the summer 1972.[93]

A $6.5 million addition was announced in March 1973 for a phase two development of the 1970 expansion plans. The plans would affect three park sections: Boma, Stanleyville (renamed from the African village), and the African veldt. The plans called for a Morocco-themed area, a log flume, a dark ride, a gondola lift, an "animal training center," and a safari attraction.[94][95] Busch Gardens opened a nearby campervan park in May.[96][97] The first thrill ride at the park, the log flume, opened in June in the Stanleyville section.[98][99][100] Bean resigned as general manager and was replaced by Joseph C. Fincher in April 1974.[101] The sky ride transportation gondola opened in May, which linked the park's monorail station, tree tops outlook, and Stanleyville section together.[95][102]

By 1975, the park housed over 800 animals and expanded its live entertainment options throughout the park.[103] Busch Gardens opened its Morocco-themed village on April 16, acting as the new entrance to the park.[104][105] The Morocco area hosted shops, landscaped areas, eateries, and the Algiers Theater upon opening.[105][106] The snack bar originally located in the parking lot was incorporated into the Morocco area with thematic upgrades.[107] In September, the park disclosed a $7.6 million development that would include the park's first roller coaster, exhibits for tigers and elephants, extension to the Livingstone's Landing, extensive landscaping, and the addition of sound systems throughout the park.[108][109][110]

1975–1989: The Dark Continent and continued growth

[edit]
The Python roller coaster with a train traversing its corkscrew

Near the end of 1975, Busch Gardens launched a new campaign that sought to promote the Tampa park around a centralized older Africa theme.[111] The rebrand of the Busch Gardens park would introduce aspects of live entertainment, advertising, animal displays, and thrill rides.[111] The beginning of the 1976 year saw the park take on a new name as "The Dark Continent".[112][113] The Dark Continent was chosen to distinguish Busch Gardens from other comparably named attractions in Florida, such as the Tiki Gardens and Sunken Gardens.[114] As part of the campaign, the African veldt became known as the Serengeti Plain, Boma became Nairobi, and the Moroccan village was formally dubbed Marrakesh.[111][115][116]

Work on the last part of the $7.6 million development, another themed area known as the Congo, began in January 1976.[117] Python, a steel roller coaster manufactured by Arrow Development, premiered on July 1, as the park's first roller coaster.[118][119] An octopus-style flat ride, named the Monstrous Mamba, constructed by the Eyerly Aircraft Company was opened shortly after in 1976.[118][119] Both additions were part of Stanleyville and located in the northern half of the section.[120] A marching brass group known as the Mystic Sheiks of Morocco began performing throughout the park in 1976.[121] The Congo section opened on July 26, 1977, next to Stanleyville and located northwest in the park's layout.[122][123] The Congo incorporated the Python roller coaster and Monstrous Mamba into its themed land.[120] The land saw the transformation of Livingstone's Landing into the African Queen boat ride.[124] In addition, the land hosted a shooting gallery, the Bengal tiger's Claw Island exhibit, and an Intamin swing ride entitled the Swinging Vines.[123][125][124] Bumper cars were opened in 1977.[126]

The Timbuktu section with architecture and carousel

An unspecified addition to the park was disclosed in May 1978 at a cost of between $5 and $10 million, including a large dining facility.[127][128][129] During 1978, Anheuser-Busch made land acquisitions extending their total property to encompass around 350-acre (140 ha) in Tampa.[130] Construction was well underway in November for the expansion titled Timbuktu.[131] In February 1979, the park unveiled a $18.5 million expansion that would include the Timbuktu addition and a new water park adjacent to the park called Adventure Island.[132][133] The Timbuktu addition would mark the 20th anniversary of the park's opening. It would also connect the Congo and Nairobi sections, include a large dining facility, several attractions, and an amphitheater.[134][135] The Trans Veldt Railway operated a new station in the area in 1979.[132] Continuing with the developments for the past years was the announcement of a $20 million hotel in April,[136][137] though was later delayed.[138] Parts of the Timbuktu section began to open in late 1979.[139][140]

At the beginning of 1980, the park was operated by the newly formed Busch Entertainment Corporation, a subsidiary of Anheuser-Busch, to separately manage its entertainment and beer assets.[141][142] In the early 1980s, the tree tops observation platform closed in favor of a Congo train station.[92] A variety show debuted in the since renamed Stanleyville Theater in 1980.[143][144] The park officially opened the Timbuktu section of the park in January 1980. The section opened with a Chance Rides carousel and trabant, a dolphin show in the Dolphin Theater, the Sandstrom orbiter, the Festhaus dining hall with a dance show, an airplane ride, various game booths, and specialty shops.[145][146][147] Scorpion, a Schwarzkopf steel roller coaster, later opened in Timbuktu on May 16.[148] To boost attendance in the park, Busch Gardens revealed plans for a $6 million river rapids ride for the Congo section in 1981.[149][150] In 1982, the Old Swiss House closed indefinitely for structural renovations and white tigers were introduced to the park in the Claw Island exhibit.[151][152] The 1,380-foot (420 m) Intamin Congo River Rapids ride opened on May 26.[153][154]

For the 1983 season, the park added children rides to the Timbuktu and Congo sections.[155][156] Additionally, the Marrakesh Theater opened in the southern portion of the Marrakesh area with a Moroccan-American dance show.[157] In the latter half of 1983, Dwarf Village was reconstructed to appeal to younger audiences. The Dwarf Village reopened with a miniature log flume, a car ride, and various play areas.[155][158] In November, Anheuser-Busch stated it would deemphasize and slowly shift away from "The Dark Continent" name in favor of "Busch Gardens" as the name did not catch on with park visitors and was not as recognizable. The return of the prominent Busch Gardens name would bring changes to the slogan and logo.[159] The following year, an Intamin looping starship, Phoenix, opened in the Timbuktu section on June 5, 1984.[160] The eagle enclosure was relocated to a different location under the brewery escalator in January 1985.[161][162] A new elephant habitat was created in the Nairobi section in 1986.[163] The Moroccan Palace Theater was completed on August 11, and debuted the show, Kaleidoscope, on August 22.[164] Upon its opening, the Moroccan Palace Theater was the park's main venue to host larger style productions.[165] An animal nursery, named the Nairobi Field Station, opened on December 9.[166]

The bird gardens of Busch Gardens

The bird show gained a birds of prey segment including falcons, eagles, and owls in February 1987.[167] Busch Gardens leased a pair of pandas from the Chinese government in October 1987, with a temporary 120-foot (37 m) exhibit opening in the bird gardens on November 17.[168][169] To accommodate the pandas, new bird aviaries were built in the gardens.[170] The first panda on loan left in April 1988 while the second left in October 1988.[171][172] The monorail received electric trains in 1988.[173][174] The aviary dome was removed in the same year due to the expansion of the brewery.[175] By the end of 1988, park officials were considering several additions such as a new boat ride, another show for the Moroccan Palace theater, new exhibit spaces, and reopening the Old Swiss House. The park had started a refurbishment of the Moroccan snack bar, the Zagora Café, and relocated the white tigers to the panda's previous enclosure. Busch Gardens officials planned to launch promotions to attract the European tourist market and draw on its unique position in the Florida amusement park industry.[176]

For the park's 30th anniversary, Busch Gardens announced a shoot the chute water ride named the Tanganyika Tidal Wave, a koala exhibit, and a Clydesdale stable for the coming year.[177][178] Previews of the Intamin-made Tanganyika Tidal Wave began on June 15,[179] and officially opened weeks later.[180] The water ride replaced the African Queen boat ride and featured a nature walk named the Orchid Canyon.[181][180] The koalas exhibit opened in the previous panda enclosure on June 28.[182] The Clydesdale Hamlet opened south of the monorail station on August 11, housing four Clydesdale horses.[183][184]

1990–1999: Thrill additions and animal habitats

[edit]

By the early 1990s, Busch Gardens sought to add more attractions to keep up the attention from the public and amusement industry trends. The panda exhibit, introduced in 1988, was the last significant attraction introduced to the park. Busch Gardens officials recognized the need for a subsequent addition.[185] The campervan park was closed in 1990 due to the decline in sales.[186] The former Old Swiss House reopened as the Crown Colony House in early 1990. A restaurant was added on the top floor of the renovated building utilizing an African theme.[187][188] The Swinging Vines attraction was removed around 1991.[124] The park announced Questor in May 1991, a motion simulator ride manufactured by Reflectone,[189] which opened on May 23.[190] Located near the Clydesdale stables and Crown Colony House, Questor featured the story of explorer Sir Edison Fitzwilly pursuing the Crystal of Zed through different landscapes.[191]

A train of the Kumba roller coaster ascending its lift hill

To maintain its hold in the Florida theme park market, Busch Gardens unveiled plans to construct the Myombe Reserve, a 3-acre (1.2 ha) chimpanzee and gorilla exhibit that would replace the Boma section.[192][193] The exhibit opened on June 17, 1992, with its entrance located near the Moroccan Palace Theater.[192][194] The park hosted a temporary Olympic village for the U.S. team in July as a sponsor of the 1992 Summer Olympics.[195][196] Continuing efforts to expand, the park revealed plans in November to construct a signature steel roller coaster within the Congo section named Kumba.[197][198] Manufactured by Bolliger & Mabillard, the roller coaster would be constructed in the northwest area of the park near the Congo River Rapids and bumper cars.[199] The roller coaster debuted with a height of 143 feet (44 m), a track length of 3,978 feet (1,212 m), and reached speeds of 60 mph (97 km/h) upon opening on April 21, 1993.[197][199] In 1994, a kids area named the Land of the Dragons was earmarked to replace the Dwarf Village.[200] The Stanleyville variety show saw its production close in 1994, after fourteen years,[144] and a new ice skating show debut in the Moroccan Palace Theater titled, Hollywood Live on Ice, in November.[201]

The construction of the Wild Animal Kingdom prompted Busch Gardens to map out a competitive strategy for the coming years in preparation for its first direct competitor in the Florida theme park market.[202][203] The Land of the Dragons opened on May 9, 1995, debuting on a 1.5-acre (0.61 ha) area featuring a large three-story tree house, miniature cars, a ferris wheel, and rope bridge.[204] The dragon retheme was done to update the area and adopted from its sister park in Williamsburg.[204][205] The success of Kumba prompted the park to file plans for an Egypt section in May that would include the park's fourth roller coaster, shopping, and a train station.[206][207] Additional details of the Egypt land were revealed in August.[208][209] Anheuser-Busch stated it would close the brewery inside the Busch Gardens Tampa location on October 25. The plant on the Busch Gardens property had become the smallest brewery of the company's 13 and was slated to close down because of the decreased beer consumption and high per-barrel costs. The shutdown was part of an overall restructuring effort, with the 17-acre (6.9 ha) land transferred to the park.[210][211] The Monstrous Mamba flat ride closed in the fall season.[119] A safari upcharge attraction was opened to the public in November riding through the Serengeti Plain section.[212] The park's brewery closed in December and was later demolished.[213]

The park began expanding its international marketing efforts in Brazil, Germany, and the United Kingdom in 1996.[214] In addition, the park hosted another temporary Olympic village as a sponsor of the 1996 Summer Olympics.[215] The Egypt section opened to guests on May 16, located in the south east portion of the park at the cost of $5 million.[206][216] The section included a recreation of King Tut's tomb, a sand pit, Egyptian hieroglyphs structures, and the Bolliger & Mabillard inverted roller coaster, Montu.[214] Montu was created at the cost of $10 million, opening as the world's longest and tallest inverted roller coaster.[216] Busch Gardens entered a theme park partnership in June with SeaWorld Orlando, Universal Studios Florida, and Wet 'n Wild Orlando to compete with Disney.[217] In the same month, the park considered the feasibility of a hotel, the latest effort since the 1980s.[218][219] In October, park officials disclosed plans for an animal exhibit section at the cost of $20 million.[220][221]

Various animals located in the Serengeti Plain

General manager Fincher was replaced by Robin D. Carson in a corporate shuffle in February 1997.[222][223] The Edge of Africa animal exhibit section opened on July 4. Located in the middle of the park on a 15-acre (6.1 ha) parcel of the Serengeti Plain, the animal exhibit featured crocodiles, hippos, hyenas, lions, meerkats, and vultures among an African village and wildlife themes.[224][225] Plans for an entertainment complex, the likes that would rival Disney's Animal Kingdom, were in the planning stages in December 1997.[226][227] Further improvements to the park were disclosed, including a refurbished simulator ride and a bird walk through exhibit.[228] An arcade area would open in the Egypt section in April 1998.[229] The simulator ride, Akbar's Adventure Tours, opened on May 12, replacing Questor.[230][231] The walk through Lory Landing bird exhibit opened in May 5, near the Land of the Dragons.[232] In June, updated plans for the entertainment complex cited a $10 million ride to open in the coming year,[227] which would later be revealed as the dueling wooden roller coasters, Gwazi, in July.[233] Busch Gardens purchased a 108-acre (44 ha) area north of San Antonio, Florida, for an animal retirement facility in September.[234]

In the ensuing year, the Tangiers Theater was replaced by a confectionary store.[235] The monorail closed on May 13, 1999, with demolition occurring on the same day.[236][237] Gwazi opened on June 18, on the former site of the Anheuser-Busch brewery.[238][239] The park would debut its first family-friendly Halloween event, titled the Spooky Safari, in October.[240] Occurring in the same month, the San Antonio facility for the park's animals opened,[241] as well as plans to revitalize the Serengeti Plain were announced.[242] Landscaping and physical barriers were planned to separate animals, bring wildlife closer to the train, and include several animals such as antelopes, gazelles, giraffes, and zebras.[243]

2000–2009: Updates and end of Anheuser-Busch ownership

[edit]

Up to 2000, Busch Gardens' manager, Carson, had replaced several long-time executives and created a new leadership team to rejuvenate the park because of growing competition from other Florida theme parks. Instead of investing in technologically innovative and expensive rides, the park sought to attract guests through unique experiences with interactive wildlife elements. The park began advertising its location as a holiday destination within the Tampa Bay area as Disney had done in Orlando.[244] To retain attendance from returning visitors, Anheuser-Busch began offering a "Fun Card" to Florida residents at their Busch Gardens Tampa and SeaWorld Orlando theme parks beginning in 2000.[244][245] The pass would provide benefits and ability to visit the park to the end of the year and would replace most of its discount programs previously offered.[245][246] Park officials revealed plans to construct Rhino Rally in May, a Land Rover safari attraction for the coming year.[247][248] The revitalized 29-acre (12 ha) land of the Serengeti Plain debuted to the public on June 22, including an add-on tour in a truck through the animal habitat.[249][250] Busch Gardens premiered Howl-O-Scream, a new iteration of its Halloween event from the previous year in October, adopting the event from its sister park in Williamsburg after its success and in hopes of challenging Universal's Halloween event.[251][252]

The Busch Gardens logo implemented during the 2003 season

After its success, the Fun Card was reintroduced in 2001 for Florida residents.[246] Rhino Rally opened to the public on May 23.[253] After the events on September 11 attacks, Anheuser-Busch temporarily closed its parks, but reopened the following day.[254] Starting in June 2002, the park was the first Florida to offer a second day free entrance when it rained during a guests stay.[255] In August, the park indicated it would replace its Dolphin Theater with a 4D film theater.[256] Several projects were proposed to open during the 2003 season, including a white rhino habitat, an add-on zoo keeper experience, a revitalized Timbuktu area with the Das Festhaus restaurant being rethemed, and the premiere of the 4D film, Haunted Lighthouse. A new logo would also be introduce to phase out an old one used for 20 years prior.[257] General manager Carson was replaced by Dan Brown in mid-May.[258] The 4D film debuted in the newly constructed 750-seat theater in May, with the Timbuktu revamp and the Kasbah restaurant scheduled to open soon after.[259][260][261] The 26-acre (11 ha) area for the three white rhinos from South Africa debuted in June.[262][263]

Starting in June 2003, Busch Gardens introduced the "Summer Nights" event offering extended hours during the summer season nights.[264] The park began construction in late-2003 on its parking lot to accommodate new tunnels to be built under McKinley Drive for easier access to the park. With August Busch III taking more interest in the Anheuser-Busch parks to help in monetary gains, Busch Gardens also announced an overhaul to its entertainment options. During this time, park officials formally scrap the hotel entertainment complex plan.[265] Busch Entertainment stated it would move its wild mouse roller coaster, Wild Maus, from Busch Gardens Williamsburg to its Tampa park and replace the Crazy Camel trabant flat ride.[266]

A SheiKra train entering the second drop into a tunnel

The Kasbah restaurant would be renamed the Desert Grill in 2004.[267] The wild mouse roller coaster, Cheetah Chase, opened in February.[268] The park announced in October the construction of SheiKra, a 200-foot (61 m) steel roller coaster to be located in the Stanleyville section and built by Bolliger and Mabillard.[269] In January 2005, the park implemented fingerprint scans to replace ticket photo identification, deployed kiosks for self-service, and a new entrance. A gift shop in the bird gardens was reintroduced as the Xcursions shop. In addition, construction on the road tunnel for transportation trams and parking were completed and opened on January 7.[270] SheiKra opened on May 21, becoming the tallest roller coaster in Florida and the first Dive Coaster model built in the United States. A barbeque restaurant also opened within the confines of the Stanleyville section.[271][272]

Beginning in 2006, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay began marketing itself in the short term as Busch Gardens Africa, with its sister park Williamsburg having similarly adopted "Europe" to its name. The name change came as part of an effort to distinguish both parks as unique from each other and to drive more visitors. However, the use of Tampa Bay would still be used in local marketing.[273][274] By 2006, the park had also updated five activity areas.[275] A new 4D film, Pirates 4-D, debuted in the Timbuktu Theater on February 18, replacing the Haunted Lighthouse.[276] After 30 years of operation, the Python roller coaster closed on October 31, for a planned expansion in 2008. The closure included part of the Congo section surrounding the roller coaster, including the Claw Island exhibit and a restaurant.[275][277]

The park's bird show in the Bird Gardens ended in 2007, after 48 years of production. The bird show would later be replaced by an animal show titled, Critter Castaways.[278] The roller coaster, SheiKra, closed temporarily in May 2007 and reopened in June with floorless trains.[279][280] Busch Gardens revealed its plans in September to build a $16 million dollar section, named Jungala, where the Python roller coaster once stood. The 4-acre (1.6 ha) land would house several animal habitats, involving Bengal tigers, Tomistoma, flying foxes, gibbons, and orangutans. The area would also host several attractions that included a "mini space shot", a sit-down zip line, a play area, educational areas, and restaurants.[281] General manager was taken over by Donnie Mills, as Brown left for a position at Busch Entertainment in December.[282][283]

The Jungala play pavilion

Jungala opened on April 5, at a higher estimated cost of around $40 million. The park section was marketed for age groups between older adolescents and young teenagers, who would be too young for their SheiKra roller coaster but too old for the Land of the Dragons area.[284][285] Belgian brewer InBev was reported in May to make a potential bid for Anheuser-Busch. The bid by InBev came when consolidation of companies was largely taking place and amid national competition for Anheuser-Busch. The Belgian brewer considered the sale of the Busch Entertainment division to help fund its buyout of Anheuser-Busch, which composed of ten theme parks including Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.[286][287][288] InBev formally proposed its bid to Anheuser-Busch's board of directors on June 11.[289] By June 26, Anheuser-Busch contemplated restructuring and dropping some of its assets, such as Busch Entertainment, to strengthen its profitability and rationalize its refusal of InBev's bid.[289][290][291] The next day, InBev filed suit to prepare a facilitated takeover bid of Anheuser-Busch through the removal of its board of directors.[289][292] InBev formally drafted its takeover bid on July 7,[289][293] placing speculation as to a possible buyer for Busch parks, anticipated changes to park operations, and its identity.[294]

A friendly agreement between Anheuser-Busch and InBev was negotiated on July 13, forming Anheuser-Busch InBev.[289][295] In the deal, InBev reaffirmed the merger would be funded by the sale of subsidiary assets, which added into the uncertain future of Busch Gardens Tampa park. It was theorized the Busch Entertainment parks may form their own company, be sold off independently, or be bought together. Potential buying participants were speculated, to be the Blackstone Group, Cedar Fair, Parques Reunidos, and Six Flags, as all were operating parks domestically or globally.[296][297][298] In early August, it was reported that the Blackstone Group, operating Merlin Entertainment, and Parques Reunidos, were emerging to bid for the Busch parks.[299][300] Talks of the acquisition were ongoing in November, with industry officials signaling a deal might take place during summer in 2009.[301] As part of its plan to sell off Busch parks, Anheuser-Busch InBev ceased free beer samples for guests at the beginning of 2009, having been in place since the parks opening.[302] The park also deemphasize Anheuser-Busch products by reducing, removing, or replacing several offerings.[303] For the park's 50th anniversary, park officials asked the public to bring in memorabilia to be displayed in a temporary historic museum. The building that housed the former Akbar's Adventure Tour simulator ride and U.S. Horseshow Jumping Hall of Fame was turned into a museum in March, with guest and corporate contributions displayed.[304][303]

In June 2009, it was anticipated the Busch Gardens Tampa park would replace its Land of the Dragons area with a Sesame Street area as its Williamsburg sister park had completed.[305][306] Busch Gardens revealed in August it would build the kids area, with the plans calling to enlarge the section, add a roller coaster for kids, and retheme several attractions to fit the Sesame Street theme.[307] Rumors of Busch Gardens' sale were reported in September, as the Blackstone Group was becoming more prominent to purchase the parks[308] with a deal close in October.[309] Anheuser-Busch InBev announced it would sell Busch Entertainment to the Blackstone Group on October 7.[310] The acquisition saw the Clydesdale horses removed, but allow the continuation of the Busch Gardens name, as well as previous programs, employees, and leadership from before its purchase.[311][312][313] Busch Gardens Tampa Bay began to be operated by the renamed SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment division in December, with the last Anheuser-Busch symbols from the park taken out.[314]

2010–present: New ownership and additions

[edit]
The Sesame Street Safari Fun section

General manager Mills was replaced by Jim Dean in the role as park president in February 2010.[315][316] The Mystic Sheiks of Morocco band ceased performances in 2010,[121] and a new 4-D film based on the Sesame Street cast would debut in the Timbuktu Theater, replacing Pirates 4-D.[317] The Sesame Street section opened as Sesame Street Safari of Fun on March 27, on a 2.5-acre (1.0 ha) area.[318][319] A walk through kangaroo enclosure, titled the Walkabout Way, opened in the Bird Gardens area on June 14.[320][321] Busch Gardens announced two attractions for the coming year on October 13, with an Intamin-made launched roller coaster named Cheetah Hunt located in the former monorail station and a cheetah enclosure titled Cheetah Run.[322][323]

Busch Gardens disclosed on May 16, 2011, a replacement to the old rhinoceros enclosure with a 16,000 sq ft (1,500 m2) Animal Care & Nutrition Center.[324] Cheetah Hunt and its associated Cheetah Run enclosure opened on May 27.[325] Disney discontinued their Grad Night event in 2011, leading to Busch Gardens to pick up its own event for graduating local high schools.[326][327]

The Pantopia section, with the carousel and Falcon's Fury drop tower

Busch Gardens opened its Animal Care Center on January 23, 2012, at an estimated cost of $5 million in the Nairobi section.[328][329][330] A winter event, titled Christmas Town premiered in November and would continue on into December.[331][332] SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment changed the logo and slogan of its Busch Gardens parks in February 2013, choosing a "coaster tree" to represent the park's environment and rides.[333] The Stanleyville Theater was enclosed in 2013.[334][335] The Sandstorm orbiter flat ride would close in June,[336] which would make way for a 335-foot (102 m) drop tower named Falcon's Fury to open within the next year. The Intamin-made drop tower would be located in the Timbuktu section and drop riders face down.[337][338] The park's Crown Colony restaurant closed indefinitely by mid-2013, with industry observers citing budget cuts and slow attendance for the change in operation.[339][340] Busch Gardens later revealed in November a retheme of the Timbuktu section into "Pantopia", where Falcon's Fury would be located. The Pantopia section would feature a vibrant color pallet for existing buildings, introduce a new story line for the fictional land and refreshments, keep existing rides, and open with the drop tower.[341][342]

The animal show, Critter Castaways, in the Bird Gardens Theater would be moved to the Pantopia Theater following the former theater's closure in February 2014,[343][344] which was subsequently demolished having been at the park since its opening.[278] Within the same month, the park opted into Tampa's City Pass alongside other local zoos and aquariums.[345][346] Falcon's Fury was delayed from its initial opening date on May 1,[347] though, the Pantopia section officially opened.[348][349] The drop tower would later open on September 2, after varied soft-openings.[350] The safari attraction Rhino Rally permanently closed in September.[351] The park would disclose in December that wooden roller coasters Gwazi would close in the coming months due to rising costs in operation and feedback from guests.[352] Gwazi closed on February 1, 2015, after 15 years of operation.[353] A new attraction for the Egypt section was disclosed in February 2015, to come the next year.[354] A replacement of the park's Bands, Brew, and BBQ event debuted in March, as the Food and Wine Festival.[355] Busch Gardens formally announced its Egyptian addition in May as Cobra's Curse, a spinning roller coaster to debut the following year.[356][357] The previous Desert Grill reopened as the Dragon Fire Grill on June 1.[358]

The Tanganyika Tidal Wave closed on April 10, 2016, with no plans to replace the attraction.[359] The former Crown Colony opened with the addition of a new restaurant in May.[360] The spinning roller coaster, Cobra's Curse, opened on June 17, in the Egypt section of the park adjacent to Montu.[361] The Jambo Junction animal center closed indefinitely on December 9, due to corporate layoffs.[362] Stewart Clark replaced Dean as Busch Gardens President in January 2017 following the formers departure to become President of Orlando's SeaWorld parks.[363][364] Free beer samples returned to the park in May 2018, being hosted within the former Hospitality House since renamed to the Garden Gate Cafe.[365] A Premier Rides triple-launch roller coaster, named Tigris, was announced in September to open the following year.[366][367]

Iron Gwazi's lift hill and inversion

The park later announced in March 2019 the replacement for Gwazi as Iron Gwazi, a Rocky Mountain Construction conversion of the wooden roller coasters into a steel roller coaster.[368][369] Busch Gardens opened Tigris, its ninth roller coaster, on April 19.[370] Iron Gwazi, was expected to be completed by Spring 2020, however, due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Florida, the park temporarily closed from March 16 to June 11, to assist in slowing down the exposure of guests.[371][372] As a result of the pandemic, the opening of Iron Gwazi was initially delayed until 2021.[373] SeaWorld Entertainment parks as a whole saw a 96% drop in attendance figures.[374]

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay named Neal Thurman as its new president in August, amid Clark leaving to pursue a role at SeaWorld Entertainment in September.[375][376] Iron Gwazi, after several months of previews, opened on March 11, 2022.[377][378] A new entrance plaza, entertainment, and pass member lounge were planned in April to come during the season.[379] In October, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay announced the Serengeti Flyer, a Screamin' Swing, which debuted in Spring 2023.[380][381] The former Garden Gate Cafe reopened as the Springs Taproom in January 2023.[382] The wild mouse roller coaster closed and was subsequently removed in July.[383][384] It was replaced by Phoenix Rising which opened on July 21, 2024, as the park's tenth roller coaster.[385]

Park layout and attractions

[edit]
Train cars from the Serengeti Express in the foreground with the Skyride in the background
See also: List of attractions at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Morocco

[edit]

The park's main entrance themed after the country of the same name. Treats can be purchased at the Sultan's Sweets and the Zagora Cafe. The Moroccan Palace is located here, as well as the outdoor Marrakesh Theater.

  • Gwazi Gliders, a small hang glider flat ride relocated from the Congo section's defunct Pygmy Village kids' area.[389]
  • Myombe Reserve, a 3-acre (12,000 m2) home for six western lowland gorillas and nine chimpanzees located in Nairobi, opened in 1992.[390]
  • Moroccan Palace, A palace themed theater nearby Myombe Reserve chimpanzee entrance. It is home for Busch Gardens's newly award-winning ice skating show, Turn It Up! The Hottest Show On Ice.
  • Iron Gwazi, a hybrid wooden-steel roller coaster. In 2019, Busch Gardens Tampa announced that a new hybrid coaster would be built on the space where Gwazi once stood. It was built by world-famous roller coaster manufacturer Rocky Mountain Construction. Upon its opening, it became North America's tallest hybrid coaster as well as the world's fastest and steepest hybrid coaster.

Sesame Street Safari of Fun

[edit]

Former "Land of the Dragons" children's section of the park. Land of the Dragons, which itself replaced the Dwarf Village in 1995, was replaced by Sesame Street Safari of Fun on March 27, 2010. It contains all the attractions from Land of the Dragons which are now re-themed.

  • Telly's Jungle Jam, an interactive play area.[391]
  • Rosita's Djembe Fly-Away, a swing ride.[392]
  • Bert & Ernie's Watering hole, a water play area.[393]
  • Air Grover, a children's roller coaster.[394]
SheiKra, the first Dive Coaster in North America, seen descending its first drop

Stanleyville

[edit]

This section of the park is named after the city in the Democratic Republic of the Congo that was originally known as Stanleyville (now Kisangani). It is home to one of the park's water rides, Stanley Falls Flume. It is also home a Premier Rides Sky Rocket II named Tigris, and SheiKra, which was the first and only Bolliger & Mabillard Dive Coaster in the United States until the addition of Griffon at the sister park Busch Gardens Williamsburg. The section opened in 1973 with the addition of the Arrow Dynamics Log Flume, Stanley Falls. The African Queen Boat Ride opened in 1977 as Busch's version of Disney's Jungle Cruise. The African Queen featured live animals, including alligators, crocodiles, rhinoceroses and spider monkeys. A South American macaw rode on each boat. In 1989, the African Queen Boat Ride was converted into Tanganyika Tidal Wave with the addition of a 55-foot (17 m) drop that generates a large splash. The section remained unchanged until 2005 when SheiKra opened and the surrounding area was renovated.

Congo

[edit]
Kumba, a signature roller coaster to the park upon opening, entering the first interlocking corkscrew

This section, themed to the jungles of Congo (including both the Republic of the Congo and the Democratic Republic of the Congo), contains two of the park's rides, Kumba, a Bolliger & Mabillard Sit-Down roller coaster and Congo River Rapids, an Intamin River Rapids ride. In November 2006, Congo underwent a major renovation, including the removal of the park's Arrow Dynamics Corkscrew roller coaster, Python. Other former Congo attractions include the Swinging Vines, a family swing flat ride which closed in the early 1990s and the Monstrous Mamba octopus flat ride which closed in the late 1990s. The Pygmy Village kids area featuring three children's rides, a teacup ride, a kiddie swing ride relocated to Sesame Street Safari of Fun and the Gwazi Gliders moved to Morocco.

  • Kumba, meaning roar in Swahili, is a 143-foot (44 m) steel sit-down roller coaster with seven inversions. Built in 1993 by Bolliger & Mabillard, it remains a popular ride today. The ride was repainted in 2010, and again in 2019.[397]
  • Congo River Rapids, an Intamin River Rapids ride, opened in 1982. The queue also houses a Komodo dragon exhibit.[398]
  • Ubanga Banga Bumper Cars, a bumper cars ride.[399]

Jungala

[edit]

Opened on April 5, 2008, Jungala is a 4-acre (16,000 m2) family attraction featuring up-close animal encounters. Another attraction is Tiger Trail, which is a walkthrough with tigers where there is also a glass turret where guests can look out right in the middle of the tiger enclosure. During the Kareebu Jungala atmosphere show, stiltwalkers perform with puppets and interact with guests in the heart of Jungala.[400]

  • Orangutan Outpost, a tree-top observation platform to watch and interact with Bornean orangutans. As of 2017, Busch Gardens has 6 orangutans including 3 males and 3 females.
  • Tiger Lodge and Tiger Trail, Observation areas, trails and a bridge to watch and interact with tigers. Busch Gardens has at least 10 tigers. On March 31, 2013, Bzui, a female Malayan tiger, gave birth to three cubs sired by Mata. She had two males and one female. The males were named Bundar (meaning round)[401] and Rukayah (meaning delicate).[401] The female was named Cinta (meaning love).[401] As of 2024, the park is home to only three tigers which include Zahra (the oldest and is a Bengal tiger), Bandar (who is a Sumatran tiger), and Asmara (who is a Malayan tiger).
  • Kulu Canopy, a multi-species habitat for white-cheeked gibbons named Milo (black) and Kodo (yellow), flying foxes (fruit bats) and false gharial - a reclusive and very rare crocodilian native to Indonesia and Malaysia.[402]

Pantopia

[edit]
Falcon's Fury, added in 2014, as viewed from the ground with the gondola ascending

A section originally themed after the malls and bazaars of Africa that opened up in May 1980 as Timbuktu. The Phoenix, an Intamin Looping Starship was built in 1984, and removed in 2018. It was replaced by Phoenix Rising, the first Bolliger & Mabillard Family Inverted Coaster to open in the United States. Sand Serpent (formerly operating at Busch Gardens Williamsburg as Wild Izzy, later Wild Maus, then Cheetah Chase' when moved to Florida), was a Mack Rides Wilde Maus that opened in Florida in 2004 and closed in 2023. The section was renovated in 2003. Elements added during this facelift included the enclosing of the Timbuktu Theater, which replaced the park's Dolphin Theater with an indoor 4-D movie theater. The dolphins retired to other locations. The 4-D theater premiered with "R.L Stine's Haunted Lighthouse" film in 2003, followed by "Pirates 4-D" in 2006 and "Sesame Street Presents: Lights! Camera! Imagination!" in 2010. In 2004, Das Festhaus was transformed into the Desert Grill. In September 2014, Falcon's Fury, a 335-foot Intamin Sky Jump, opened. Replacing the former Sandstorm orbiter flat ride. This section of the park was re-themed to Pantopia[403] alongside the opening of Falcon's Fury.

  • Pantopia Theater, an indoor theater that originally housed Opening Night Critters with the opening of Pantopia in 2014. In Spring 2019, it is now home to Critters Inn Charge after Opening Night Critters closed.[404]
  • Caravan Carousel, a carousel with horses, camels, and chariots.[405]
  • Falcon's Fury, an Intamin Sky Jump that has a speed of 60 miles per hour (97 km/h) and tilts 90 degrees towards the ground. It is the tallest free-standing drop tower in North America at 335 feet (102 m).[406]
  • Phoenix Rising, a B&M, family inverted roller coaster with an over-banked curve that brings riders close to flipping upside down above the rides' entrance sign. It is Busch Gardens' newest operating roller coaster and North America's tallest and longest family inverted roller coaster.[407]

Nairobi

[edit]

Named after the capital of Kenya, animals like alligators and crocodiles can be observed here up close. In Curiosity Cavern, guests can view mammal and reptile exhibits. Visitors to Nairobi can meet the Animal Ambassadors who travel the country and make educational appearances at Jambo Junction.[408] The area also contains Myombe Reserve, a tropical rainforest that is home to western lowland gorillas and chimpanzees.[390] In 2012 the Animal Care Center opened, allowing guests to observe actual veterinary procedures, as well as meet the stars of Wildlife Docs, Busch Gardens' Saturday morning television show.[409] The main train station at Busch Gardens is located at Nairobi. Another popular attraction here is the Asian elephant exhibit. Nairobi used to have a safari truck ride called Rhino Rally, similar to Kilimanjaro Safaris at Walt Disney World. The attraction closed in 2015 and was replaced in 2023 by Serengeti Flyer.

  • Animal Care Center, a nearly 16,000-square-foot (1,500 m2) attraction, allows visitors the chance to view the Busch Gardens' veterinarians at work in a new state-of-the-art veterinary hospital.[410] The major visitor aspects of the facility include a nutrition demonstration kitchen, treatment rooms, a clinical lab and an interactive diagnostic activity. Behind the scenes the veterinary hospital also includes the animal nutrition center, animal recovery and holding rooms and vet offices. The park's former animal care center was located behind the scenes.[411]
  • Elephant Interaction Wall, the Nairobi section of the park has five female and one male (arrived from the Calgary Zoo in 2013) Asian elephants. The females are named Tina who is 53 years old, Rosie who is 50 years old, Simba who is 52 years old, Carina who is 48 years old and Carnaudi who is 30 years old. There are daily interactions at the Elephant Interaction and Husbandry Wall or during the Elephant Keeper Experience.[412]
  • Serengeti Flyer, a tall, intense S&S Sansei Screamin' Swing that opened in 2023. Initially, in the morning hours, the ride runs “mild mode”, in which it only features half the height and speed, while in the afternoon, it runs “wild mode” in which it reaches its maximum height and speed. However since late 2023 the ride runs in "wild mode" only.

Edge of Africa

[edit]
Crown Colony House

Edge of Africa, otherwise known as Cheetah Hunt Plaza, is the smallest section of the park. It features a restaurant, The Serengeti Overlook Restaurant and Pub, the Cheetah Hunt roller coaster, and the Skyride station.

  • Cheetah Hunt, an Intamin Blitz coaster that opened in 2011. The roller contains 3 launches, a Windcatcher Tower and a heartline roll inversion. A suspended monorail which took guests around the Serengeti Plain previously occupied Cheetah Hunt's station but had sat empty since the attraction closed in 1999.[413][414]
  • Cheetah Run, an animal exhibit located next to Cheetah Hunt. It replaced the Clydesdale Hamlet.[415] In May 2011, Cheetah Run opened. Cheetah Run is home to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay collection of cheetahs. There are running demonstrations and Meet a Keeper sessions throughout the day. In addition, the exhibit has interactive screens with cheetah facts.[416] One of Cheetah Run's most notable residents is Kasi, a male cheetah, who was paired with Mtani, a female Labrador Retriever, from 2011 to 2013 when they were young. Mtani now lives with a zookeeper and Kasi has been paired with a female Cheetah.[417] As of 2013, Busch Gardens has 14 cheetahs.

Egypt

[edit]
Montu, being the fastest and tallest inverted roller coaster upon opening, seen making its way through the last series of corners

Bedouin tents, authentic handicrafts and art create an Egyptian marketplace feel. The primary attraction of the Egypt-themed area is Montu, an inverted steel coaster. Tut's Tomb, a former audio guided walk-through tomb excavation closed in Winter 2013 and the interior was gutted to make way for the queue for Cobra's Curse. The former Golden Scarab Gift Shop was converted into a gift shop at the exit of the attraction.

Animal habitats

[edit]

Busch Gardens is Tampa's largest zoo, with more than 200 species of animals.[420]

Animal Care Center

[edit]

Facility that allows visitors to view animal care being conducted from treatments to x-rays.[421]

  • The Wildlife Docs, an Emmy nominated television series that follows animal caretakers treating more than 12,000 different animals living in Busch Gardens Tampa.[422]

Bird Gardens

[edit]

A free flight aviary that shows over 500 tropical birds from around the globe including parrots, flamingos and others.[423] The original section of the park opened in 1959. The area for the most part remains mostly gardens and animal exhibits. A staple attraction that once stood in this section was the brewery. However, the brewery closed in 1995 and Gwazi now sits where the brewery was located. In 2014, the Bird Gardens theater was demolished and the outdoor show (Critter Castaways) was relocated inside the Pantopia Theater under the new name "Opening Night Critters". This ran until December 2018. A show showcasing animals that have a brought in to a facility and taken to (Seaworld Entertainment) Known as Rescue Tales which was already at Seaworld Orlando was coming to Busch Gardens. Which, as of (April 2023), is still running at the park.[424][425]

  • Walkabout Way, themed as an Australian outpost, opened in June 2010. This area allows guests to hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies, and see animals including kookaburras, magpies, black swans and tawny frogmouths. A male kangaroo, Horatio, arrived at the park in early 2014.[426] This experience is open to all guests 5 years of age or older.[427][426]
  • Lory Landing, an open aviary habitat that invites guest to walk around and be visited by lorikeets. Purchasing nectar is an optional part of the habitat, providing an experience of hand-feeding the birds.[428]

Edge of Africa

[edit]

Opened in 1997, Edge of Africa is a walk-through attraction where guests can observe African animals. Among the exhibits are a Nile crocodile named Sobek, meerkats, two prides of lions, a pack of spotted hyenas, three hippos named Moyo, Kita and Devi, vultures, and a troop of lemurs.[429]

The three newest members of the lion pride include a male named Kembe and two females named Shaba and Shtuko. They arrived at the park as cubs in 2013 from a zoo in Africa. Another pride of lions at the park include a male named Simon and two females named Rose and Iris. Iris and Rose are unable to have cubs as they have been spayed. As of 2024, Rose is the only surviving lion.

The hippos Moyo and Kita are never exhibited together, being father and daughter, and being unaware of this would try to mate with each other. Therefore, both are rotated into the exhibit and holding area day by day to avoid accidental inbreeding.

The Serengeti Plain

[edit]

In 1965, the park opened its Serengeti Plain animal habitat, the first of its kind to offer animals in a free-roaming environment. Over the years, the habitat has expanded from 29 acres (12 ha) to its current size of 65 acres (26 ha).[430] It is home to the Grévy's zebra, Grant's zebra, Grant's gazelle, Thomson's gazelle, sable antelope, reticulated giraffe, Ankole-Watusi, addax, waterbuck, greater kudu, southern white rhinoceros, common eland, impala, common ostrich, and lowland nyala.[431] A secluded area of this region is home to a solitary female eastern black rhinoceros named Jody.[432]

Events

[edit]

From January to March, Busch Gardens hosts a weekly concert series which invites popular bands either in big band music or pop to perform classic or contemporary songs.[433]

(Previously called Bud & BBQ and Bands, Brew & BBQ) For the months of March & April, Busch Gardens hosts a series of concerts in Gwazi Field, mostly from classic rock and country music acts. Sometimes the event includes alternative rock, pop, hip hop and R&B acts as well as comedians. Also, there are special culinary offerings that include a variety of ethnic food and wine samplings from various local vendors along the walkway from the Gwazi Roller Coaster to the gate in Gwazi Field. The documentary film Blackfish and a subsequent online petition led to several popular musical groups cancelling performances at SeaWorld and Busch Gardens "Bands, Brew & BBQ" event in 2014.[434][435][436] This caused the removal of the event in Tampa, which was replaced by the annual Food and Wine Festival, resembling the one currently at Epcot in Walt Disney World Orlando. In March, several Latin music acts are hosted on the stage in Gwazi Field. There is a similar culinary setup with special offerings for the concert days as there is for Bands, Brew & BBQ.[437] During summer months, the park stays open later and includes concerts by performers like David Cassidy and Starship with Mickey Thomas. The park's Independence Day festivities add fireworks to the entertainment lineup.[438]

In 2010, Busch Gardens added a new nighttime show called Kinetix, the first special effect-heavy show put on in Gwazi Field. Also, they added many new special effects (i.e. Strobe, Lighting, Fog) to the existing rides just for the Summer Nights season. Kinetix discontinued after the 2016 Summer Nights.[439] Since 2017, Busch Gardens Summer Nights now includes party zones where guests can dance with Party Starters and DJs to the music and compete for special prizes. The most major party zones are ¡Fiesta Festa! in the Cheetah Hunt Plaza and Tigris's Party Zone (formally Viben Village) in Stanleyville. On every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night, guests can compete in the "Dance Challenge" at Gwazi Park to win four free tickets to Adventure Island as well as a fireworks show directly afterward. In 2022, Busch Gardens Summer Nights was officially renamed to "Busch Gardens Summer Celebration," following general renovations to the park.

Every September and October since 2000, Busch Gardens is transformed into Howl-O-Scream. This event contains haunted houses, scare zones and shows.[440] Howl-O-Scream is one of the top rated Halloween events in the United States. Howl-O-Scream has featured some attractions of the park turned into "horrified" attractions at night. This includes Serengeti Safari Tours, which was turned into Evening Serengeti Safari Tours and Curiosity Caverns, which was turned into Dark Cavern, both in 2000. In 2012, Howl-O-Scream celebrated 13 "unlucky" years.[441]

From November to December, theaters throughout the park are transformed into Christmas-themed shows (Like Christmas On Ice in the Moroccan Palace) in celebration of the holiday season for an event called Christmas Town. The park is decorated with over a million Christmas lights and theming. At Snow World, guests may play in snow and ride down ice slides. This event was first introduced in 2012. At Santa's House, guests may bring their little ones and have pictures taken with Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, and Santa's Elves next to the Nairobi Train Station which circles around the Serengeti Plain as the Christmas Town Sing Along Train featuring select Christmas carols and songs. Guests may also meet the stars from Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer over in Rudolph's Winter Wonderland since 2016. Two Christmas Town princesses can be spotted in the Icy Forest (Ice Princess), and the poinsettia trees (Poinsettia Princess) which guests can also have pictures taken. Princess Fae, a sugarplum princess made her debut during the 2019 Christmas Town season. The poinsettia, sugarplum and icy princesses can also be seen together there near closing time.[442]

During New Year's Eve, Busch Gardens celebrates the new year by hosting live music throughout the park, thrill rides opened through the night and fireworks located at the Gwazi Field. Including a park-wide countdown to the new year.[443]

Awards and recognition

[edit]

Rankings

[edit]

The following is a list of roller coasters at Busch Gardens Tampa that have placed on Amusement Today's award or nomination list, along with the highest ranking and year awarded or nominated. Busch Gardens Tampa has also been nominated for best landscaping in 1998 and 2007.[444][445]

Steel

[edit]

Wood

[edit]

Attendance

[edit]
2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018
4,410,000[451] 4,100,000[452] 4,200,000[453] 4,284,000[453] 4,348,000[454] 4,087,000[454] 4,128,000[455] 4,252,000[456] 4,169,000[457] 3,961,000[458] 4,139,000[459]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "TEA/AECOM 2021 Global Attractions Report" (PDF). Themed Entertainment Association. 2022. Archived (PDF) from the original on May 24, 2023. Retrieved October 17, 2022.
  2. ^ Brezina-Smith, Veronica (May 24, 2019). "Busch Gardens, Adventure Island attendance grows". Tampa Bay Business Journal. American City Business Journals. Archived from the original on September 9, 2020. Retrieved August 26, 2020.
  3. ^ "Florida May Be Brewery Site". Miami Daily News. April 11, 1957. Archived from the original on February 7, 2021. Retrieved January 7, 2021 – via Newspapers.com.
  4. ^ "New Brewery Eyes Tampa for New Plant". The Tampa Daily Times. April 12, 1957. Archived from the original on May 18, 2022. Retrieved January 7, 2021 – via Newspapers.com.
  5. ^ Fellows, Bob (June 21, 1957). "Reports Budweiser Plant To Be Built Here Unconfirmed". Tampa Morning Tribune. The Tribune Company. Archived from the original on May 18, 2022. Retrieved January 7, 2021 – via Newspapers.com.
  6. ^ "Busch Firm Denies Tampa Site Rumor". St. Petersburg Times. June 21, 1957. Archived from the original on February 10, 2021. Retrieved January 7, 2021 – via Newspapers.com.
  7. ^ "Tampa Lands Another Big One". Tampa Morning Tribune. The Tribune Company. July 26, 1957. Archived from the original on May 12, 2022. Retrieved January 7, 2021 – via Newspapers.com.
  8. ^ "Anheuser-Busch OKs Tampa Brewery Site". Miami Daily News. Archived from the original on May 13, 2022. Retrieved January 7, 2021 – via Newspapers.com.
  9. ^ a b "Busch Opens Brewery Today In Tampa". St. Petersburg Times. Times Publishing Company. March 31, 1959. p. 13. Retrieved January 7, 2021 – via Newspapers.com.
  10. ^ a b c "Busch Gardens Dedicated". The Tampa Times. Tampa Publishing Company. March 31, 1959. p. 1. Archived from the original on January 9, 2021. Retrieved January 7, 2021 – via Newspapers.com.
  11. ^ MacIntosh 2011, chpt. 2.
  12. ^ a b McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 11.
  13. ^ "N. Jersey Firm To Market Spent Grains Of Brewery". The Tampa Tribune. February 8, 1959. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  14. ^ a b "New Busch Plant To Start Brewing Beer Within Week". The Tampa Tribune. March 7, 1959. Archived from the original on June 1, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  15. ^ a b c "Budweiser To Dedicate Busch Gardens". The Tampa Times. March 30, 1959. Archived from the original on June 1, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022.
  16. ^ Klein, Frank (May 21, 1959). "Tampa Bay Business". The Tampa Tribune. Archived from the original on June 1, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  17. ^ "Brewery Tour Schedule Set For June 1". St. Petersburg Times. May 29, 1959. Archived from the original on June 1, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  18. ^ a b "Anheuser-Busch Opens Brewers To Visitors". The Tampa Times. Tampa Publishing Company. June 1, 1959. p. 20. Archived from the original on January 9, 2021. Retrieved January 7, 2021 – via Newspapers.com.
  19. ^ "Anheuser-Busch Opens New Brewery To Public Tours". The Tampa Tribune. June 2, 1959. p. 25. Retrieved January 7, 2021 – via Newspapers.com.
  20. ^ "Budweiser To Dedicate New Gardens". The Tampa Tribune. March 31, 1959. Archived from the original on June 1, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  21. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 20.
  22. ^ "1,600 Attend Busch Gardens Opening Fete". St. Petersburg Times. June 2, 1959. Archived from the original on June 1, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  23. ^ a b "New Busch Brewery Unveils Gardens". St. Petersburg Times. April 1, 1959. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  24. ^ a b "Be Our Guest at Busch Gardens". The Tampa Times. June 13, 1959. Archived from the original on June 1, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  25. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, pp. 15–16.
  26. ^ Knight, George (April 1, 1959). "Great Grandson Unveils Adolphus Busch Marker". The Tampa Tribune. Archived from the original on June 1, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  27. ^ Kay, Russel (April 14, 1959). "Florida Industries Develop Attractions". The Orlando Sentinel. Archived from the original on June 1, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  28. ^ a b Emmons, Earl (October 24, 1970). "Busch To Add Amphitheater, African Railway Attraction". The Tampa Tribune. Archived from the original on June 7, 2022. Retrieved June 7, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  29. ^ Denley, Bob (July 21, 1959). "350,000-Barrel Capacity Boost". The Tampa Tribune. Archived from the original on June 1, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  30. ^ "$5 Million Tampa Busch Addition Set". St. Petersburg Times. July 22, 1959. Archived from the original on June 1, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  31. ^ "Strictly by the Bird". The Tampa Tribune. February 9, 1960. Archived from the original on June 1, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  32. ^ a b "Unique Space Frame To Open on Tuesday". The Tampa Tribune. March 18, 1960. Archived from the original on June 1, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  33. ^ a b c "Geodesic Dome Built for Birds at Gardens Herre". The Tampa Tribune. March 20, 1960. Archived from the original on June 1, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  34. ^ a b "Busch Putting Giant Escalator in Gardens". The Tampa Tribune. October 23, 1960. Archived from the original on June 1, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  35. ^ a b "Brewery Makes Changes". The Tampa Times. October 22, 1960. Archived from the original on June 1, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  36. ^ "Stairway To Stars Escalator Opening Today". The Tampa Times. March 22, 1961. Archived from the original on June 1, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  37. ^ "Budweiser To Open 'Stairway to Stars'". The Tampa Tribune. March 22, 1961. Archived from the original on June 1, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  38. ^ "Penguins At Busch Gardens". The Evening Tribune. April 19, 1961. Archived from the original on June 1, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  39. ^ Inglis, Tom (May 16, 1962). "Anheuser-Busch Expansion Revealed". The Tampa Times. Archived from the original on June 2, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  40. ^ O'Connor, Tom (May 26, 1962). "Busch Plans $4 Million Expansion of Gardens". The Tampa Tribune. Archived from the original on June 2, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  41. ^ "$4 Million Expansion Program Announced For Busch Gardens". St. Petersburg Times. May 26, 1962. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  42. ^ "Busch Gardens is having a bird population explosion lately". The Tampa Tribune. October 25, 1962. Archived from the original on June 2, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  43. ^ "Gardens To Get Monorail". The Tampa Times. January 24, 1963. Archived from the original on June 2, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  44. ^ "Busch Gardens Gets Its Own Monorail". Orlando Sentinel. January 26, 1963. Archived from the original on June 2, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022.
  45. ^ "Busch To Add $1 Million Restaurant to Gardens". The Tampa Tribune. December 27, 1963. Archived from the original on June 2, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  46. ^ "Busch Gardens Swiss Chalet Being Built". St. Petersburg Times. December 28, 1963. Archived from the original on June 2, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  47. ^ "Land Purchase Set By Anheuser-Busch". St. Petersburg Times. April 15, 1964. Archived from the original on June 2, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  48. ^ "Tampa Bay Briefs". The Tampa Tribune. April 15, 1964. Archived from the original on June 2, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  49. ^ "Business Briefs". The Tampa Tribune. July 18, 1964. Archived from the original on June 5, 2022. Retrieved June 4, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  50. ^ Davis, Virginia (September 23, 1964). "Busch Monorail Work Starts Soon". The Tampa Times. Archived from the original on June 2, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  51. ^ Davis, Virginia (October 1, 1964). "Busch Special Train Runs Late". The Tampa Times. Archived from the original on June 2, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  52. ^ "A New 'Old' Chalet". The Tampa Times. October 2, 1964. Archived from the original on June 2, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  53. ^ a b "Busch Gardens Plans for 2 Million Winter Visitors". The Tampa Tribune. September 12, 1965. Retrieved June 2, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  54. ^ Schwallie, Terry (September 12, 1965). "Delegates' Wives Will Get Acquainted". The Tampa Tribune. Archived from the original on June 2, 2022. Retrieved June 2, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  55. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 21.
  56. ^ a b Raymond, Steve (November 4, 1965). "Busch Adds $248,000 Industrial Park Tract". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Retrieved October 21, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  57. ^ Davis, Virginia (February 8, 1965). "Busch Gardens Has Become Top Attraction in Southeast U.S." The Tampa Times. p. 13-C. Retrieved October 21, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  58. ^ "Busch Gardens trackless transportation construction, 1966". The Bradenton Herald. July 15, 1966. p. 1-B. Archived from the original on October 21, 2022. Retrieved October 21, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  59. ^ "Busch Gardens Adding Trackless Shuttle Trains". Fort Lauderdale News. August 7, 1966. p. 19E. Archived from the original on October 21, 2022. Retrieved October 21, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  60. ^ "Busch Charges for Parking". The Tampa Times. August 26, 1966. Archived from the original on June 3, 2022. Retrieved June 3, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  61. ^ Raymond, Steve (September 14, 1966). "Busch Opens Skyrail". The Tampa Tribune. Archived from the original on June 2, 2022. Retrieved June 2, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  62. ^ Lane, Elvis (September 11, 1966). "Tampa Await New Monorail". Orlando Sentinel. Archived from the original on June 2, 2022. Retrieved June 2, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  63. ^ Lane, Elvis (September 14, 1966). "Tampa Monorail In Use". Orlando Sentinel. p. 2-A. Retrieved June 2, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  64. ^ "Once-Condemned Animals Arrive At Busch Gardens". The Tampa Tribune. November 14, 1966. Retrieved June 3, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  65. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 26.
  66. ^ Emmons, Earl (March 27, 1969). "Gardens To Build Zoo". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1-B. Archived from the original on June 5, 2022. Retrieved June 4, 2022 – via Newspapers.com. Emmons, Earl (March 27, 1969). "Gardens To Build Zoo". The Tampa Tribune. p. 3-B. Archived from the original on June 5, 2022. Retrieved June 4, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  67. ^ Staff (March 27, 1969). "Busch Plans 2 1/2-Acre Zoo For Gardens". St. Petersburg Times. Archived from the original on June 5, 2022. Retrieved June 4, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  68. ^ "Tampa's Busch Gardens Shuffles Management". The Tampa Tribune. May 13, 1969. Archived from the original on June 5, 2022. Retrieved June 4, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  69. ^ "New Manager Is Announced For Tampa's Busch Gardens". St. Petersburg Times. May 14, 1969. Archived from the original on June 5, 2022. Retrieved June 4, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  70. ^ "Busch Names Manager". The Tampa Tribune. May 30, 1969. Archived from the original on June 5, 2022. Retrieved June 4, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  71. ^ "Busch Gardens Manager Resigns". St. Lucie News Tribune. February 4, 1970. Retrieved June 4, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  72. ^ "Illinois Indicts Tampa Man". Fort Lauderdale News. February 4, 1970. Archived from the original on June 5, 2022. Retrieved June 4, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  73. ^ "Beer Firm Plans Tampa Compound For Wild Animals". News-Press. May 27, 1970. Archived from the original on June 7, 2022. Retrieved June 7, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  74. ^ "Busch plans to rival Disney". The Tampa Times. May 26, 1970. Retrieved June 7, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  75. ^ "Busch Gardens To Detail Major Expansion Program". The Tampa Tribune. May 27, 1970. Archived from the original on June 7, 2022. Retrieved June 7, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  76. ^ a b Blackman, Ben (June 5, 1970). "Busch unveils expansion: Brewing company enters 'outdoors'". The Tampa Times. p. 1-A. Archived from the original on June 7, 2022. Retrieved June 7, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.; Blackman, Ben (June 5, 1970). "Busch unveils expansion: Brewing company enters 'outdoors'". The Tampa Tribune. p. 17-A. Archived from the original on June 7, 2022. Retrieved June 7, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  77. ^ a b "Busch To Expand Gardens". The Miami Herald. June 6, 1970. Archived from the original on June 7, 2022. Retrieved June 7, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  78. ^ Purvis, Bill (June 6, 1970). "Vast Busch Gardens Expansion Detailed". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1-A. Retrieved June 7, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.; Purvis, Bill (June 6, 1970). "Vast Busch Gardens Expansion Detailed". The Tampa Tribune. p. 4-A. Archived from the original on June 7, 2022. Retrieved June 7, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  79. ^ DeGennaro, Jim (August 1, 1970). "Public Scales Walls of Boma". The Tampa Tribune. Archived from the original on June 7, 2022. Retrieved June 7, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  80. ^ a b Myers, Tom (August 4, 1970). "Busch Gardens No Longer Free". Florida Today. Archived from the original on June 7, 2022. Retrieved June 7, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  81. ^ "Suds and Scenery". Florida Today. August 9, 1970. Archived from the original on June 7, 2022. Retrieved June 7, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  82. ^ Jones, Dick (August 6, 1970). "Area businesses hit by re-routing of Busch traffic". The Tampa Times. Archived from the original on June 7, 2022. Retrieved June 7, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  83. ^ "Busch Gardens Expansion Set". The Naples Daily News. October 25, 1970. Retrieved June 7, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  84. ^ "Busch Gardens Turns To Train". St. Petersburg Times. October 25, 1970. Archived from the original on June 7, 2022. Retrieved June 7, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  85. ^ "Busch Gardens Names New GM". The Tampa Tribune. April 15, 1971. Archived from the original on June 7, 2022. Retrieved June 7, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  86. ^ "Newest Busch Attraction is Trans-Veldt Railway". St. Petersburg Times. July 4, 1971. Archived from the original on June 7, 2022. Retrieved June 7, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  87. ^ "Railway Operating At Busch Gardens". News-Press. July 4, 1971. Retrieved June 7, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  88. ^ "New Attraction At Busch Gardens". The Bradenton Herald. July 10, 1971. Archived from the original on June 7, 2022. Retrieved June 7, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  89. ^ "Busch plans 'treetop' viewing". The Tampa Times. January 15, 1972. Archived from the original on June 7, 2022. Retrieved June 7, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  90. ^ a b Dodge, Richard (June 20, 1972). "Tampa hails new Busch attractions". The Tampa Times. Archived from the original on June 8, 2022. Retrieved June 7, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  91. ^ "Busch Gardens Opens Newest Attractions". The Naples Daily News. June 22, 1972. Archived from the original on June 8, 2022. Retrieved June 7, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  92. ^ a b McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 32.
  93. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 31.
  94. ^ Yogman, Ron (March 28, 1973). "Busch Gardens Expansion Will Cost $6.5-Million". St. Petersburg Times. Archived from the original on June 14, 2022. Retrieved June 14, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  95. ^ a b Bertke, Roy (March 28, 1973). "Busch Gardens Additions Set". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1-A, 7-A. Archived from the original on June 14, 2022. Retrieved June 14, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  96. ^ "Busch Gardens Travel Park Is Now Open". The Naples Daily New. May 13, 1973. Archived from the original on June 14, 2022. Retrieved June 14, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  97. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, pp. 33–34.
  98. ^ "A Steep Ride At Busch Gardens". St. Petersburg Times. June 7, 1973. Archived from the original on June 14, 2022. Retrieved June 14, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  99. ^ "Busch Gardens New Area Open". The Naples Daily News. June 17, 1973. Archived from the original on June 14, 2022. Retrieved June 14, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  100. ^ Kennedy Wynne, Sharon (June 5, 2019). "What a wild ride: Look back at 60 years of Busch Gardens thrill rides". Tampa Bay Times. Times Publishing Company. Archived from the original on October 14, 2020. Retrieved August 28, 2020.
  101. ^ "Petit Boosted By GMAC". St. Petersburg Times. April 2, 1974. Archived from the original on June 14, 2022. Retrieved June 14, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  102. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 35.
  103. ^ "Busch Gardens "Africa In Florida"". Orlando Sentinel. January 12, 1975. Archived from the original on June 14, 2022. Retrieved June 14, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  104. ^ "Busch Gardens Officially Opens Moroccan Village". The Tampa Tribune. April 17, 1975. Retrieved June 14, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  105. ^ a b "Another touch of Africa added to Suncoast". St. Petersburg Times. April 18, 1975. Archived from the original on June 14, 2022. Retrieved June 14, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  106. ^ "Moroccan Village". The Tampa Times. April 16, 1975. Retrieved June 14, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  107. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 41.
  108. ^ Costello, Harry (September 25, 1975). "Busch Gardens plans $7.6 million expansion program". The Tampa Times. Retrieved June 14, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  109. ^ "Board Okays Expansion Of Busch Gardens". Orlando Sentinel. September 25, 1975. Archived from the original on June 14, 2022. Retrieved June 14, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  110. ^ Deibler, Dan (September 26, 1975). "Python Is Coming ... Busch Gardens To Add New Thrill Ride". The Tampa Tribune. Archived from the original on June 14, 2022. Retrieved August 29, 2020 – via Newspapers.com.
  111. ^ a b c Bertke, Roy (November 28, 1975). "Busch Gardens Unveils New African Theme". The Tampa Tribune. Retrieved June 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  112. ^ Cosford, Bill (January 8, 1976). "Busch Gardens is heck of a way to run a brewery". The Bradenton Herald. Archived from the original on June 14, 2022. Retrieved June 14, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  113. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, pp. 41–42.
  114. ^ Hoffman, Ken (August 11, 1977). "Selling The Dark Continent". Florida Today. Archived from the original on June 16, 2022. Retrieved June 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  115. ^ "Africa Goes Latin". The Tampa Tribune (Advertisement). November 2, 1975. Archived from the original on June 16, 2022. Retrieved June 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  116. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 42.
  117. ^ "Busch Gardens unveils completion of expansion". The Tampa Times. July 26, 1977. Archived from the original on June 16, 2022. Retrieved June 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  118. ^ a b Nolte-Watts, Carolyn (July 29, 1977). "Tigers: The big cats are the crowd pleasers at Busch Gardens 'Congo' addition". St. Petersburg Times. Times Publishing Company. Retrieved August 23, 2020 – via Google News.
  119. ^ a b c McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 43.
  120. ^ a b McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, pp. 42–44.
  121. ^ a b McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 48.
  122. ^ Rand, Sumner (September 11, 1977). "Africa, Busch gardens style". Orlando Sentinel. p. 3-H. Archived from the original on June 16, 2022. Retrieved June 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  123. ^ a b Glamsch, Panky (July 27, 1977). "Busch Gardens' Congo Measures Up". The Tampa Tribune. Archived from the original on June 16, 2022. Retrieved June 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  124. ^ a b c McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, pp. 45–46.
  125. ^ "The Dark Continent Adds African Queen". The Tampa Tribune. July 26, 1977. Archived from the original on June 16, 2022. Retrieved June 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  126. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 46.
  127. ^ Deibler, Dan (May 10, 1978). "Busch Launches Expansion of Dark Continent". The Tampa Tribune. Archived from the original on June 17, 2022. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  128. ^ Costello, Harry (May 17, 1978). "Theme park expansions mark battle to bring in tourist dollar". The Tampa Times. Archived from the original on June 17, 2022. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  129. ^ Costello, Harry; Peck, Jon (May 18, 1978). "Busch may add dining facility". The Tampa Times. Archived from the original on June 17, 2022. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  130. ^ Aldrich, Harold (June 19, 1978). "Busch buys land next to brewery". The Tampa Times. Archived from the original on June 17, 2022. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  131. ^ "More Busch Gardens Construction". The Tampa Tribune. November 11, 1978. Archived from the original on June 17, 2022. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  132. ^ a b Hice, Joe (February 5, 1979). "Busch Gardens to get $18.5 million Timbuktu attraction". The Tampa Times. Archived from the original on June 17, 2022. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  133. ^ Evertz, Mary (February 6, 1979). "Busch Gardens announces new water, festival hall projects". St. Petersburg Times. Archived from the original on June 17, 2022. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  134. ^ Phillips, Lynn (February 6, 1979). "Busch Gardens plans expansion". Orlando Sentinel. Archived from the original on June 17, 2022. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  135. ^ "Busch Gardens Marks 20th Year With $18.5-Million Expansion". Fort Lauderdale News. February 6, 1979. Archived from the original on June 17, 2022. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  136. ^ Hice, Joe (April 5, 1979). "Is Busch Gardens planning an on-site luxury hotel?". The Tampa Times. Archived from the original on June 17, 2022. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  137. ^ Hice, Joe (April 10, 1979). "$20 million resort hotel planned at Busch Gardens". The Tampa Times. p. 1-A. Archived from the original on June 17, 2022. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  138. ^ Costello, Harry (November 11, 1981). "Busch Officials Say Hotel Still In The Plans". The Tampa Tribune. Archived from the original on June 17, 2022. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  139. ^ Evertz, Mary (October 15, 1979). "Tampa's African veldt is growing rapidly". St. Petersburg Times. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  140. ^ Phillips, Lynn (December 7, 1979). "One more time". Orlando Sentinel. p. 66. Archived from the original on June 17, 2022. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  141. ^ "Busch Forms New Company". St. Louis Post-Dispatch. January 4, 1980. Archived from the original on June 17, 2022. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  142. ^ "Business Capsules: Name change". The Tampa Times. January 10, 1980. Archived from the original on June 17, 2022. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  143. ^ "Discover old Africa". The News Tribune. April 6, 1980. p. 2. Retrieved June 20, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  144. ^ a b McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 57.
  145. ^ Maynard, John (January 26, 1980). "Busch Gardens Hoopla Opens New Timbuktu Attraction". The Tampa Tribune. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  146. ^ Lake, Lenora (January 26, 1980). "Timbuktu ...And Dinah, Too". The Tampa Tribune. Archived from the original on June 17, 2022. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  147. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, pp. 49–55, 64.
  148. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 54.
  149. ^ Nordhoff, Geoff (November 11, 1981). "Gardens plans $6 million Congo River Rapids". The Tampa Times. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  150. ^ Ritchie, Lauren (November 11, 1981). "Busch Gardens to open a new river ride in June". Orlando Sentinel. Archived from the original on June 17, 2022. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  151. ^ Smith, Jeff (January 23, 1982). "Old Swiss House set for major renovations". The Tampa Times. Archived from the original on June 17, 2022. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  152. ^ Huntley, Helen (June 30, 1982). "White tigers an instant hit at Busch Gardens". St. Petersburg Times. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  153. ^ Smith, Jeff (May 27, 1982). "New Congo River Rapids expected to increase Busch Gardens crowds". The Tampa Times. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  154. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, pp. 57–58.
  155. ^ a b Ruth Kilpatrick, Anita (December 12, 1983). "The little folks have a big time at Dwarf Village". St. Petersburg Times. Archived from the original on June 17, 2022. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  156. ^ "New Dwarf Village". The Courier-Journal. October 23, 1983. Retrieved June 18, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  157. ^ "Busch Gardens' belly dancing newest wriggle". Kingsport Times-News. July 24, 1983. Archived from the original on June 18, 2022. Retrieved June 18, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  158. ^ "Dwarf Village opens at Busch Gardens". The Bradenton Herald. September 9, 1983. Archived from the original on June 17, 2022. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  159. ^ Smith, Jeff (November 6, 1983). "Busch Gardens to be Busch Gardens again". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1-E, 5-E. Archived from the original on June 17, 2022. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  160. ^ Lou Janson, Mary (June 6, 1984). "'Phoenix' gives park riders a rise". The Tampa Tribune. Retrieved June 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  161. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 63.
  162. ^ "Injured American eagles living at Busch Gardens". St. Lucie News Tribune. February 22, 1985. Archived from the original on June 18, 2022. Retrieved June 18, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  163. ^ "Busch Gardens elephants have never had it so good". Florida Today. May 16, 986. Archived from the original on June 18, 2022. Retrieved June 18, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  164. ^ Szymanski, David (August 22, 1986). "The Dark Continent finds the spotlight". The Tampa Tribune. Archived from the original on June 18, 2022. Retrieved June 18, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  165. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 65.
  166. ^ Sanders, Jacquin (December 10, 1986). "It's a rare bird that isn't moved by animal babies". St. Petersburg Times. Archived from the original on June 18, 2022. Retrieved June 18, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  167. ^ "Busch Gardens now features birds of prey". St. Lucie News Tribune. May 15, 1987. p. 16. Archived from the original on August 14, 2022. Retrieved August 14, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  168. ^ Loft, Kurt (October 9, 1987). "Panda pair definitely on the way". The Tampa Tribune. Archived from the original on June 19, 2022. Retrieved June 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  169. ^ "Busch Gardens opens exhibit on two pandas". The Naples Daily News. November 17, 1987. Archived from the original on June 19, 2022. Retrieved June 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  170. ^ Hill, John (October 19, 1987). "Pandering To Chinese Pandas". Orlando Sentinel. p. 11. Archived from the original on August 14, 2022. Retrieved August 14, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  171. ^ Burkins, Glenn (April 9, 1988). "Female panda leaves for the motherland". St. Petersburg Times. Archived from the original on June 19, 2022. Retrieved June 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  172. ^ "Ling Ling's tenure at Busch Gardens comes to an end". Tallahassee Democrat. October 4, 1988. Archived from the original on June 19, 2022. Retrieved June 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  173. ^ Herman, Jeff (July 27, 1987). "Park officials pledge safety as monorail service to resume". The Tampa Tribune. Archived from the original on June 19, 2022. Retrieved June 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  174. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 25.
  175. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 17.
  176. ^ Valente, Mickie (December 5, 1988). "Pondering a post-panda future". The Tampa Tribune. p. 14-D. Retrieved June 20, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.; Valente, Mickie (December 5, 1988). "Pondering a post-panda future". The Tampa Tribune. p. 15-D. Archived from the original on June 20, 2022. Retrieved June 20, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  177. ^ Stidham, Jeff (May 19, 1989). "Busch Gardens adds koalas, water ride". The Tampa Tribune. Archived from the original on June 21, 2022. Retrieved June 20, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  178. ^ Vaughan, Vicki (May 22, 1989). "Busch Gardens plans to add 'cute and cuddly' koala pair". Orlando Sentinel. Archived from the original on June 21, 2022. Retrieved June 20, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  179. ^ Maguregui, John (June 16, 1989). "Park's new ride creates splash". The Tampa Tribune. Archived from the original on June 21, 2022. Retrieved June 20, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  180. ^ a b McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 70.
  181. ^ Hickman, Breuse (July 28, 1989). "New ride makes splash at Busch Gardens". Florida Today. Archived from the original on June 24, 2022. Retrieved June 24, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  182. ^ Stidham, Jeff (June 28, 1989). "Koalas debut at Busch Gardens". The Tampa Tribune. Archived from the original on June 21, 2022. Retrieved June 20, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  183. ^ Feeney, Kathy (August 10, 1989). "Clydesdales horse around at Tampa's Busch Gardens". The Tampa Tribune. Archived from the original on June 21, 2022. Retrieved June 20, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  184. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 72.
  185. ^ Szymanski, David (April 10, 1991). "Theme park plans for future expansions with land buys". The Tampa Tribune. pp. 1, 8. Archived from the original on August 9, 2022. Retrieved August 9, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  186. ^ Szymanski, David (April 10, 1991). "Theme park plans ahead with land buys". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 9, 2022. Retrieved August 9, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  187. ^ Feeney, Kathy (March 16, 1990). "Fictional group's respite for travelers to open next week at Busch Gardens". The Tampa Tribune. p. 5. Retrieved August 8, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  188. ^ Clarke, Jay (April 29, 1990). "For dining atmosphere, Crown Colony has a real zoo". Miami Herald. pp. 4K. Archived from the original on August 9, 2022. Retrieved August 8, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  189. ^ Szymanski, David (May 16, 1991). "Busch Gardens ride is next best thing to being there". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 9, 2022. Retrieved August 9, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  190. ^ Ovack, Kathleen (May 25, 1991). "A jarring journey — without even leaving the room". St. Petersburg Times. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 9, 2022. Retrieved August 9, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  191. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 73.
  192. ^ a b Vaughan, Vicki (October 21, 1991). "Busch Gardens Goes Ape". Orlando Sentinel. p. 12. Retrieved August 11, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  193. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 74.
  194. ^ Lammers, Dirk (June 17, 1992). "Busch Gardens goes ape in new exhibit". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Retrieved August 11, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  195. ^ "Busch Gardens Creates 'New' Olympic Village". Indian River Press Journal. July 12, 1992. p. 10C. Archived from the original on August 11, 2022. Retrieved August 11, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  196. ^ Szymanski, David (July 12, 1992). "A Golden Opportunity". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 11, 2022. Retrieved August 11, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  197. ^ a b Lammers, Dirk (November 11, 1992). "Busch Gardens plans to build Southeast's biggest roller coaster". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Retrieved August 11, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  198. ^ Vaughan, Vicki (November 16, 1992). "Kumba Coasting To Busch Gardens". Orlando Sentinel. p. 13. Retrieved August 11, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  199. ^ a b Jackson, Tom (April 21, 1993). "A scream come true". The Tampa Tribune. p. 2. Retrieved August 11, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  200. ^ Backman, Lisa (November 30, 1994). "Theme park to update playground". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 15, 2022. Retrieved August 15, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  201. ^ Laskowski, Erin (November 23, 1994). "Ice show brings Tinsel Town to Tampa". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on October 19, 2022. Retrieved October 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  202. ^ Albright, Mark (June 21, 1995). "Disney enters Busch Gardens' jungle". St. Petersburg Times. p. 6A. Archived from the original on August 15, 2022. Retrieved August 15, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  203. ^ Shenot, Christine (June 24, 1995). "Competitors don't fear new parks". Orlando Sentinel. p. C1, C9. Retrieved August 15, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  204. ^ a b Edelson, Nona (May 10, 1995). "Dragons a monster attraction". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 15, 2022. Retrieved August 15, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.; Edelson, Nona (May 10, 1995). "Dragons a monster attraction". The Tampa Tribune. p. 2. Archived from the original on August 15, 2022. Retrieved August 15, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  205. ^ Backman, Lisa (February 17, 1995). "Busch parks add new attractions". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 15, 2022. Retrieved August 15, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  206. ^ a b Backman, Lisa (May 10, 1995). "Park to add Egypt-themed attraction". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 14, 2022. Retrieved August 14, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  207. ^ Albright, Mark (May 11, 1995). "Busch Gardens silent on expansion plans". St. Petersburg Times. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 14, 2022. Retrieved August 14, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  208. ^ Backman, Lisa (August 24, 1995). "Busch ride aims to leave you hanging". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Retrieved August 15, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  209. ^ Albright, Mark (August 24, 1995). "Coaster tops Busch expansion". St. Petersburg Times. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 15, 2022. Retrieved August 15, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  210. ^ Albright, Mark; Burney, Teresa (October 26, 1995). "Busch to shut down its Tampa brewery". St. Petersburg Times. p. 1A. Archived from the original on August 15, 2022. Retrieved August 15, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.; Albright, Mark; Burney, Theresa (October 26, 1995). "Busch to shut down its Tampa brewery". St. Petersburg Times. p. 7A. Archived from the original on August 15, 2022. Retrieved August 15, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  211. ^ M. M. Neusner, Noam; R. Parker, Karlayne (October 26, 1995). "Busch will close brewery". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 15, 2022. Retrieved August 15, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  212. ^ M. M. Neusner, Noam (November 14, 1995). "Busch Gardens adds 'wild' ride". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 15, 2022. Retrieved August 15, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  213. ^ Clancy, Carole (December 23, 1996). "Busch to brew beer again in Tampa". Tampa Bay Business Journal. American City Business Journals. Archived from the original on July 25, 2015. Retrieved August 15, 2022.
  214. ^ a b Backman, Lisa (May 15, 1996). "Busch Gardens hopes Montu sweeps visitors off their feet 5". The Tampa Tribune. p. 5. Retrieved August 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  215. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 79.
  216. ^ a b Wilkens, George (May 16, 1996). "$10 million Montu a high roller". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 17, 2022. Retrieved August 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  217. ^ Staff (June 12, 1996). "Park alliance adds Busch Gardens". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 17, 2022. Retrieved August 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  218. ^ Backman, Lisa (June 30, 1996). "Theme parks check out hotel business". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 17, 2022. Retrieved August 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  219. ^ Backman, Lisa (August 24, 1996). "Busch Gardens reserves room for hotel". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 17, 2022. Retrieved August 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  220. ^ Backman, Lisa (October 8, 1996). "Busch charts new path". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 17, 2022. Retrieved August 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  221. ^ Albright, Mark (October 8, 1996). "Park to offer more of Africa". St. Petersburg Times. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 17, 2022. Retrieved August 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  222. ^ Norris, Kim (December 5, 1996). "Busch Gardens manager transferred to Virginia". St. Petersburg Times. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 17, 2022. Retrieved August 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  223. ^ McEwen, Tom (February 9, 1997). "Civic leader Fincher bids farewell". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 17, 2022. Retrieved August 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  224. ^ Jordan Spitz, Jill (July 4, 1997). "Out of Africa: Busch Gardens expansion has feel of a safari". Orlando Sentinel. p. 34. Archived from the original on August 17, 2022. Retrieved August 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  225. ^ Sidime, Aissatou (July 1, 1997). "Busch brings its animals even closer". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Retrieved August 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  226. ^ Albright, Mark (December 4, 1997). "Park adds to prices, offerings". St. Petersburg Times. p. 1E. Archived from the original on August 17, 2022. Retrieved August 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  227. ^ a b Sidime, Aissatou (June 3, 1998). "Busch plans huge hotel, entertainment complex". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 17, 2022. Retrieved August 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  228. ^ Albright, Mark (December 4, 1997). "Park adds to prices, offerings". St. Petersburg Times. p. 2E. Archived from the original on August 17, 2022. Retrieved August 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  229. ^ Sidime, Aissatou (April 4, 1998). "New Egypt area to feature games". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 17, 2022. Retrieved August 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  230. ^ Sidime, Aissatou (March 11, 1998). "Parks go for new thrills". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 17, 2022. Retrieved August 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  231. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 81.
  232. ^ Aissatou, Sidime (May 6, 1998). "Busch says future has bird's-eye view". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 17, 2022. Retrieved August 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  233. ^ Albright, Mark (July 16, 1998). "Details about a new roller coaster at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, 1998". St. Petersburg Times. p. 1. Archived from the original on November 16, 2020. Retrieved August 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  234. ^ Thorner, James (September 11, 1989). "African animals get retirement home". St. Petersburg Times. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 17, 2022. Retrieved August 17, 2022.
  235. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 40.
  236. ^ Schweitzer, Sarah (May 14, 1999). "Road ends for Busch Gardens monorail". St. Petersburg Times. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 17, 2022. Retrieved August 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  237. ^ Sidime, Aissatou (May 14, 1999). "Busch retires animal park's old monorail". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 17, 2022. Retrieved August 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  238. ^ A. Stefani, Kelly (June 18, 1999). "Get on the fast track". St. Petersburg Times. p. 4T. Archived from the original on September 28, 2022. Retrieved August 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  239. ^ O'Brien, Tim (July 20, 1998). "Two Beastly Heads To Do Battle At Busch Gardens". Amusement Business. 110 (29). The Nielsen Company – via Gale.
  240. ^ Albright, Mark (October 18, 1999). "Busch Gardens gets the Halloween spirit". St. Petersburg Times. p. 3. Retrieved September 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  241. ^ Davis, Cary (October 7, 1999). "East Pasco gets wild neighbors". St. Petersburg Times. p. 1. Retrieved August 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  242. ^ Thompson, Bill (October 7, 1999). "Busch Gardens grows". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on August 17, 2022. Retrieved August 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  243. ^ Thompson, Bill (October 7, 1999). "Busch Gardens grows". The Tampa Tribune. p. 8. Retrieved August 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  244. ^ a b Albright, Mark (April 10, 2000). "Expansion Seeks Harvest Of Visitors". St. Petersburg Times. pp. 8E-10E. Archived from the original on September 15, 2022. Retrieved September 15, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  245. ^ a b Barker, Tim (March 3, 2000). "Getting your attention". Orlando Sentinel. pp. C1, C6. Retrieved September 15, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  246. ^ a b Haber, Gary (January 4, 2001). "Floridians can again pay for day, stay the year at Busch Gardens". The Tampa Tribune. pp. 1, 4. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  247. ^ Harrington, Jeff (May 11, 2000). "Charging Ahead". St. Petersburg Times. pp. 1E, 6E. Archived from the original on May 5, 2022. Retrieved May 5, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  248. ^ "Rhinos to star in park attraction". East Manatee Herald. May 11, 2000. p. 6. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  249. ^ Zhao, Yilu (June 23, 2000). "Out of the ordinary". St. Petersburg Times. pp. 1E-2E. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  250. ^ Haber, Gary (June 23, 2000). "Busch reopens Serengeti". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 16, 2022.
  251. ^ Breen, Shannon (October 12, 2000). "Busch Gardens digs up Howl-O-Scream". St. Petersburg Times. p. 3T. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  252. ^ M. Revelle, Jill (August 13, 2000). "Terror-able actors wanted at Busch Gardens". The Tampa Tribune. p. 8. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  253. ^ Graham, Kevin (July 26, 2001). "Driver, track blamed for Rhino Rally accident". St. Petersburg Times. p. 3B. Retrieved September 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  254. ^ Witsil, Frank (September 12, 2001). "Theme Parks, Malls Close As A Precuation". The Tampa Tribune. p. 6. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  255. ^ Johnson, Robert (June 13, 2002). "Rainy days don't get Busch Gardens down". Orlando Sentinel. pp. C1-C2. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 16, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  256. ^ Jacobs, Cherie (August 14, 2002). "Reeling In The Thrills". The Tampa Tribune. pp. 1, 9. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  257. ^ Jackovics, Ted (January 18, 2003). "New Views At Busch". The Tampa Tribune. pp. 1, 4. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  258. ^ Jackovics, Ted (August 7, 2003). "Busch Gardens Chief Shares Homecoming". The Tampa Tribune. pp. 1, 8. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  259. ^ Persaud, Babita (May 1, 2003). "Spooky yarn part of theme park's new look". St. Petersburg Times. pp. 1B, 7B. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  260. ^ Norton, Wilma (May 29, 2003). "Busch Gardens' new beacon beckons". St. Petersburg Times. p. 37W. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  261. ^ I. Patrick, Keisha (June 23, 2003). "Shrek's wedding reception one wild ride". St. Petersburg Times. p. 1D. Retrieved September 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  262. ^ "Habitat for the humongous". St. Petersburg Times. June 20, 2003. p. 3B. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  263. ^ "White Rhinos Now Roam Plains At Busch Gardens". The Tampa Tribune. June 20, 2003. p. 2. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  264. ^ Epsky, Ruth (June 14, 2003). "The Gardens At Night". The Tampa Tribune. p. 2. Retrieved September 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  265. ^ Albright, Mark (November 6, 2003). "A Show Here, A Show There". St. Petersburg Times. pp. 1E, 6E. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  266. ^ Albright, Mark (December 8, 2003). "Hand-me-down coaster rolling into Busch Gardens". St. Petersburg Times. p. 3D. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 27, 2020 – via Newspapers.com.
  267. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 53.
  268. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 86.
  269. ^ Albright, Mark (October 28, 2004). "A sky-high nose dive". St. Petersburg Times. Archived from the original on May 16, 2008. Retrieved September 17, 2022.
  270. ^ Albright, Mark (January 7, 2005). "Get into Busch Gardens in a flash". St. Petersburg Times. pp. 1D-2D. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  271. ^ Loft, Kurt (May 20, 2005). "The Science Of SheiKra". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Retrieved September 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  272. ^ Tatangelo, Wade (May 20, 2005). "SheiKra coaster opens at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay". The Bradenton Herald. p. 8. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  273. ^ Diamong, Randy (April 13, 2006). "Busch Has Name For Success: 'Africa'". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  274. ^ Albright, Mark (April 13, 2006). "Logo's crux: Parks are continents apart". St. Petersburg Times. pp. 1D-2D. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  275. ^ a b Albright, Mark (October 28, 2006). "Last run: Busch Gardens' original thrill will be gone". St. Petersburg Times. pp. 1D-2D. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  276. ^ Diamond, Randy (February 18, 2006). "Pirates Invade Busch Gardens". The Tampa Tribune. pp. 1-2. Archived from the original on October 22, 2022. Retrieved October 22, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  277. ^ "Busch Gardens closes Python". Orlando Sentinel. October 31, 2006. p. C3. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  278. ^ a b McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 14.
  279. ^ "By The Numbers ..." The Tampa Tribune. June 1, 2007. p. 19. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  280. ^ Albright, Mark (June 16, 2007). "SheiKra ups shriek factor". Tampa Bay Times. pp. 1D. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  281. ^ Albright, Mark (September 7, 2007). "Ferocious fun, Busch-style". St. Petersburg Times. pp. 1D-2D. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  282. ^ Powers, Scott (November 7, 2007). "SeaWorld reels in new GM from Tampa". Orlando Sentinel. pp. C1-C2. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  283. ^ Jackovics, Ted (December 15, 2007). "Main Attraction". The Tampa Tribune. pp. 1-2. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 17, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  284. ^ Jackovics, Ted (April 4, 2008). "Jungala: Eye Of The Tiger, Inches Away". The Tampa Tribune. pp. 1, 14. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 12, 2008 – via Newspapers.com.
  285. ^ Albright, Mark (April 4, 2008). "Ferocious Fun". St. Petersburg Times. pp. 1D, 6D. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 18, 2022.
  286. ^ Jackovics, Ted (May 28, 2008). "Busch Bid May Spin Off Parks". The Tampa Tribune. pp. 1-2. Retrieved September 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  287. ^ "InBev Reportedly Brews Anheuser-Busch Deal". The Tampa Tribune. May 24, 2008. p. 2. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  288. ^ McWilliams, Jeremiah (May 24, 2008). "Will A-B be swallowed by InBev?". St. Louis Post-Dispatch. p. A33. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 19, 2022.
  289. ^ a b c d e "InBev's Pursuit Of Anheuser-Busch". St. Louis Post-Dispatch. July 14, 2008. p. A6. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  290. ^ Ross Sorkin, Andrew (June 26, 2008). "Anheuser to Reject InBev Offer". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Archived from the original on September 19, 2022. Retrieved September 19, 2022.
  291. ^ "Brewer May Shed Parks". The Tampa Tribune. June 27, 2008. p. 2. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  292. ^ McWilliams, Jeremiah; Tomich, Jeffrey (June 27, 2008). "Brewery decides to fight". St. Louis Post-Dispatch. pp. A1, A5. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  293. ^ McWilliams, Jeremiah (July 8, 2008). "Busch IV vs. Busch IV". St. Louis Post-Dispatch. pp. A1, A4. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  294. ^ Jackovics, Ted (July 8, 2008). "Buyers Scarce For Busch Parks". The Tampa Tribune. pp. 1-2. Retrieved September 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  295. ^ McWilliams, Jeremiah; Tomich, Jeffrey; Tablac, Angela (July 14, 2008). "Farewell To The King". St. Louis Post-Dispatch. pp. A1, A7. Retrieved September 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  296. ^ Schneider, Jacob (July 15, 2008). "Glass Half-Full Or Half-Empty?". The Tampa Tribune. pp. 1, 4. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  297. ^ Jackovics, Ted (July 15, 2008). "Brewer's Purchase Clouds Park's Future". The Tampa Tribune. p. 4. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  298. ^ Albright, Mark (July 15, 2008). "New owner will decide if theme parks, beer mix". St. Petersburg Times. pp. 1A, 7A. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  299. ^ Mullins, Richard (August 5, 2008). "Firm May Want To Buy Busch Parks". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Retrieved September 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  300. ^ Schneider, Jacob (August 13, 2008). "Attracting Attention". The Tampa Tribune. pp. 1-2. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  301. ^ Albright, Mark (November 20, 2008). "If Busch Gardens is for sale, who's interested?". St. Petersburg Times. pp. 1A, 12A. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  302. ^ Garcia, Jason (January 6, 2009). "No free beer?! It's last call at SeaWorld". Orlando Sentinel. pp. A1, A4. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  303. ^ a b Albright, Mark (March 27, 2009). "Park's proud legacy". St. Petersburg Times. pp. 1B, 7B. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  304. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 89.
  305. ^ Jackovics, Ted (June 23, 2009). "Muppets joining Busch performers". The Tampa Tribune. pp. 1, 8. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  306. ^ "Dragons Out, Big Bird In At Busch Gardens". St. Petersburg Times. June 23, 2009. p. 4B. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  307. ^ Albright, Mark (August 28, 2009). "Busch has big plans for Sesame Street kid area". St. Petersburg Times. p. 5B. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  308. ^ "Rumors return of Busch parks sale". St. Petersburg Times. September 11, 2009. p. 4B. Retrieved September 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  309. ^ Garcia, Jason (October 6, 2009). "Deal likely today for Busch's 10 parks". Orlando Sentinel. p. B7. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  310. ^ "Investors snatch up Busch parks for $2.3B". Florida Today. October 8, 2009. pp. C7-C8. Retrieved September 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  311. ^ Jackovics, Ted (October 8, 2009). "Busch Gardens sold". The Tampa Tribune. pp. 1, 9. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  312. ^ Albright, Mark (October 8, 2009). "In $2.7B deal, brewer sells Busch Gardens". St. Petersburg Times. pp. 1A, 7A. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  313. ^ Gallagher, Jim (October 8, 2009). "A-B sells its theme parks to equity firm". St. Louis Post-Dispatch. pp. A1, A13. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 19, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  314. ^ Albright, Mark (December 2, 2009). "Blackstone buys Busch Gardens". St. Petersburg Times. p. 5B. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 20, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  315. ^ "Former local Busch exec named as company COO". Daily Press. February 16, 2010. p. A8. Archived from the original on September 24, 2022. Retrieved September 24, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  316. ^ "Dean to lead Busch Gardens". The Tampa Tribune. February 16, 2010. p. 1. Retrieved September 24, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  317. ^ Behnken, Shannon (February 26, 2010). "Sesame Street safari to let kids in free for '10". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on October 22, 2022. Retrieved October 22, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  318. ^ Gaddis, Beth (March 26, 2010). "Sesame Street area opens Saturday". The Tampa Tribune. pp. 10, 12. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 20, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  319. ^ Bevil, Dewayne (April 9, 2010). "How to get to Sesame Street? West on I-4". Orlando Sentinel. p. M33. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 20, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  320. ^ "Australia comes to Tampa". Orlando Sentinel. June 14, 2010. p. B3. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 20, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  321. ^ Kennedy Wynee, Sharon (November 8, 2020). "Revisiting Busch Gardens History". St. Petersburg Times. pp. L48. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 20, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  322. ^ Albright, Mark (October 13, 2010). "Busch Gardens' Cheetah Hunt coaster to launch riders to 60 mph three times". St. Petersburg Times. Archived from the original on March 3, 2016. Retrieved September 20, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  323. ^ Garcia, Jason (October 14, 2010). "Additions at 2 other theme parks up ante". Orlando Sentinel. pp. A1, A4. Archived from the original on September 20, 2022. Retrieved September 20, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  324. ^ "Busch Gardens To Add Behind-The-Scenes Look". St. Petersburg Times. May 16, 2011. Archived from the original on August 13, 2020. Retrieved September 21, 2022.
  325. ^ Mount, Mackenzie (May 27, 2011). "Cheetah Hunt inspired by 'Star Wars'". The Tampa Tribune. Archived from the original on March 29, 2022. Retrieved March 29, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  326. ^ Mullins, Richard (July 14, 2011). "Busch Gardens to offer Grad Nite for high school seniors". The Tampa Tribune. p. 7. Archived from the original on September 21, 2022. Retrieved September 21, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  327. ^ "Busch Gardens Tampa Bay to offer Grad Nite". Tallahassee Democrat. July 14, 2011. p. 3. Archived from the original on September 2, 2024. Retrieved September 21, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  328. ^ Staff (January 13, 2012). "A wild view of checkups". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on September 2, 2024. Retrieved September 21, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  329. ^ Cairns Pastor, Courtney (January 22, 2012). "Parks and rehabilitation". Tampa Bay Times. p. 4. Archived from the original on September 21, 2022. Retrieved September 21, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  330. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 92.
  331. ^ Cruz, Georgina (November 4, 2012). "Theme parks put on holiday cheer". Orlando Sentinel. p. F2. Archived from the original on September 21, 2022. Retrieved September 21, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  332. ^ Staff (December 1, 2012). "Park adds chill to thrills". The Tampa Tribune. p. 1. Archived from the original on September 21, 2022. Retrieved September 21, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  333. ^ Staff (February 8, 2013). "Busch Gardens Unveils New Logo and Tagline". Archived from the original on September 22, 2022. Retrieved September 21, 2022.
  334. ^ Bevil, Dewayne (May 24, 2013). "'Madagascar Live! Operation: Vacation'". Orlando Sentinel. p. M31. Archived from the original on September 21, 2022. Retrieved September 21, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  335. ^ Lambert, Marjie (May 19, 2013). "Theme parks transforming attractions". The Tampa Tribune. p. 7. Archived from the original on September 21, 2022. Retrieved September 21, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  336. ^ "Sandstorm ride at Busch Gardens closes". Port Charlotte Sun. June 4, 2013. p. A13. Archived from the original on September 21, 2022. Retrieved September 21, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  337. ^ Jackovics, Ted (June 12, 2013). "Falcon's Fury". The Tampa Tribune. pp. 1, 10. Archived from the original on September 21, 2022. Retrieved September 21, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  338. ^ Bevil, Dewayne (June 12, 2013). "Strap in and face your fear of falling". Orlando Sentinel. p. B2. Archived from the original on September 21, 2022. Retrieved September 21, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  339. ^ Thurston, Susan (July 25, 2013). "Busch to shut 2 restaurants". Tampa Bay Times. pp. B4-B5. Archived from the original on September 22, 2022. Retrieved September 22, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  340. ^ "Busch park plans restaurant hiatus". The Tampa Tribune. July 25, 2013. p. 3. Retrieved September 22, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  341. ^ Staff (November 23, 2013). "Busch Gardens to get makeover". The Tampa Tribune. p. 3. Retrieved September 21, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  342. ^ Bevil, Dewayne (December 5, 2013). "Busch Gardens takes plunge, axes Timbuktu for 'Pantopia'". Orlando Sentinel. p. A10. Retrieved September 21, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  343. ^ "Busch Gardens closing Critter Castaways show". The Tampa Tribune. January 23, 2014. p. 3. Retrieved September 23, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  344. ^ Thurston, Susan (February 6, 2014). "Timbuktu to vanish from Busch map". Tampa Bay Times. pp. T16. Retrieved September 23, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  345. ^ Jackovics, Ted (February 27, 2014). "Bay area attractions partner with CityPass". The Tampa Tribune. pp. 1, 6. Retrieved September 23, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  346. ^ "CityPass offers visitors 5 Tampa Bay locations". Port Charlotte Sun. February 27, 2014. p. A16. Retrieved September 23, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  347. ^ Jackovics, Ted (April 19, 2014). "Busch Gardens delays opening of new thrill ride". The Tampa Tribune. pp. 1, 6. Retrieved September 23, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  348. ^ Staff (April 26, 2014). "Pantopia to open anyway". Tampa Bay Times. p. B2. Retrieved September 23, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  349. ^ "Busch Gardens hopes Pantopia, opening today, gives park a lift". Orlando Sentinel. May 1, 2014. p. A10. Retrieved September 23, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  350. ^ C. Hammett, Yvette (September 3, 2014). "Falcon's Fury takes the plunge". The Tampa Tribune. pp. 1, 4. Retrieved September 23, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  351. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez 2017, p. 85.
  352. ^ C. Hammett, Yvette (December 24, 2014). "Say goodbye to Gwazi". The Tampa Tribune. pp. 1, 4. Retrieved September 23, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  353. ^ McMorrow-Hernandez, Josh (January 31, 2015). "Busch Gardens' Gwazi roller coaster's final run Sunday (w/video)". Tampa Bay Times. Archived from the original on December 10, 2017. Retrieved April 14, 2017.
  354. ^ "New attraction coming to Busch Gardens". The Tampa Tribune. February 13, 2015. p. 2. Retrieved September 23, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  355. ^ Lambert, Marjie (March 29, 2015). "Busch Gardens Tampa Bay courts foodies with new festival". Port Charlotte Sun. p. A37. Retrieved September 23, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  356. ^ Griffin, Justine (May 29, 2015). "Busch to unleash Cobra's Curse". Tampa Bay Times. p. T9. Retrieved September 23, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  357. ^ C. Hammett, Yvette (May 29, 2015). "Busch building spin coaster". The Tampa Tribune. pp. 1, 8. Retrieved September 23, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  358. ^ Kennedy Wynne, Sharon (June 2, 2015). "Busch Gardens opens new market-style restaurant Dragon Fire Grill". Tampa Bay Times. Archived from the original on July 5, 2015. Retrieved September 23, 2022.
  359. ^ Erik (April 11, 2016). "Tanganyika Tidal Wave Closing At Busch Gardens Tampa". Behind the Thrills. Retrieved September 26, 2022.
  360. ^ Erik (May 26, 2016). "Walls come down on Cobra's Curse at Busch Gardens Tampa!". Behind the Thrills. Retrieved September 26, 2016.
  361. ^ Volland, Alexa (June 17, 2016). "Cobra's Curse ready to strike". Tampa Bay Times. p. B2. Retrieved September 26, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  362. ^ Griffin, Justine (December 9, 2016). "Busch Gardens shutters exhibit amid layoff news". Tampa Bay Times. p. B4. Retrieved September 24, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  363. ^ Griffin, Justine (January 5, 2017). "Busch Gardens chief trades parks". Tampa Bay Times. p. B4. Retrieved September 26, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  364. ^ Dineen, Caitlin (January 5, 2017). "SeaWorld names new chief for its Orlando parks". Orlando Sentinel. p. A12. Retrieved September 26, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  365. ^ Putterman, Samantha (May 2, 2018). "Cheers! Busch Gardens is giving away free beer for entire summer". The Bradenton Herald. p. A8. Retrieved September 25, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
  366. ^ Brezina-Smith, Veronica (September 12, 2018). "Busch Gardens' roaring new roller coaster, Tigris, will feature Florida's tallest launch tower (Video)". Tampa Bay Business Journal. American City Business Journals. Archived from the original on August 3, 2022. Retrieved December 29, 2018.
  367. ^ Brezina-Smith, Veronica (September 13, 2018). "Busch Gardens CEO and designer: What you need to know about the new ride and what will replace Gwazi (Video)". Tampa Bay Business Journal. Retrieved September 26, 2022.
  368. ^ Wynee, Sharon Kennedy (March 1, 2019). "Busch Gardens will add two new roller coasters by 2020, including this just-announced Gwazi replacement". Tampa Bay Times. Times Publishing Company. Archived from the original on March 2, 2019. Retrieved March 1, 2019.
  369. ^ Andrew (March 1, 2019). "Busch Gardens' Gwazi Conversion to become World's Fastest, Steepest Hybrid Coaster". Coaster101. Archived from the original on March 6, 2019. Retrieved March 4, 2019.
  370. ^ Daly, Sean (April 19, 2019). "Triple Launch roller coaster Tigris opens for guests at Busch Gardens Tampa on Friday". WFTS. Retrieved August 28, 2020.
  371. ^ "Busch Gardens, Adventure Island and SeaWorld closing to prevent spread of COVID-19". WTVT. March 13, 2020. Retrieved August 28, 2020.
  372. ^ Deerwester, Jayme (June 11, 2020). "SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay reopen with masks, temperature check requirements". USA Today. Gannett. Retrieved August 28, 2020.
  373. ^ Russon, Gabrielle (August 10, 2020). "SeaWorld delays new roller coasters until 2021 but keeps holiday events on schedule". Orlando Sentinel. Retrieved August 28, 2020.
  374. ^ Cridlin, Jay (August 10, 2020). "Busch Gardens, SeaWorld attendance drops 96 percent due to coronavirus". Tampa Bay Times. Times Publishing Company. Retrieved August 28, 2020.
  375. ^ Brezina-Smith, Veronica (August 19, 2020). "Busch Gardens Tampa Bay names new president". Tampa Bay Business Journal. American City Business Journals. Retrieved August 28, 2020.
  376. ^ Carter, Ashley (August 18, 2020). "Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Taps New Park President". Bay News 9. Retrieved August 28, 2020.
  377. ^ Rice, Katie (March 3, 2022). "Busch Gardens removes beams from Iron Gwazi after a guest reports hitting one". Orlando Sentinel. Tribune Publishing. Archived from the original on March 4, 2022. Retrieved March 3, 2022.
  378. ^ Carter, Ashley (March 11, 2022). "Iron Gwazi opens at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay". Bay News 9. Archived from the original on March 11, 2022. Retrieved March 11, 2022.
  379. ^ Carter, Ashley (April 11, 2022). "Busch Gardens to get new entrance, other enhancements this year". Bay News 9. Retrieved August 17, 2022.
  380. ^ Kennedy Wynne, Sharon (October 11, 2022). "Wild new Busch Gardens attraction will swing riders at more than 60 miles per hour". Tampa Bay Times. Archived from the original on October 11, 2022. Retrieved October 12, 2022.
  381. ^ "We Rode the New Serengeti Flyer at Busch Gardens, Opening Today!". WFTS. February 27, 2023. Retrieved July 17, 2023.
  382. ^ Kennedy Wynne, Sharon (January 3, 2023). "Original Busch Gardens Hospitality House gets makeover as taproom". Tampa Bay Times. Retrieved January 3, 2023.
  383. ^ Staff (June 15, 2023). "Busch Gardens retiring to SandSerpent roller coaster after nearly 20 years". WTVT. Retrieved June 15, 2023.
  384. ^ Marden, Duane. "Sand Serpent - Busch Gardens Tampa (Tampa, Florida, USA)". Roller Coaster DataBase. Archived from the original on December 15, 2018. Retrieved February 4, 2019.
  385. ^ "Busch Gardens debuts new Phoenix Rising roller coaster". Fox 13 News. July 17, 2024.
  386. ^ "Steam Locomotive Information". Steam Locomotive Information. Retrieved November 5, 2018.
  387. ^ "Serengeti Railway". SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. Archived from the original on September 13, 2015. Retrieved September 13, 2015.
  388. ^ "Skyride". SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. Archived from the original on September 11, 2015. Retrieved September 13, 2015.
  389. ^ "Gwazi Gliders Review – Busch Gardens Tampa". Total Orlando. Archived from the original on May 31, 2016. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
  390. ^ a b "Myombe Reserve". SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. Archived from the original on September 7, 2015. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
  391. ^ "Telly's Jungle Jam Review – Busch Gardens Tampa". Total Orlando. Archived from the original on April 19, 2017. Retrieved November 5, 2018.
  392. ^ "Rosita's Djembe Fly-Away Review – Busch Gardens Tampa". Total Orlando. Archived from the original on March 4, 2016. Retrieved November 5, 2018.
  393. ^ "Bert and Ernie's Watering Hole Review – Busch Gardens Tampa". Total Orlando. Archived from the original on March 4, 2016. Retrieved November 5, 2018.
  394. ^ "Air Grover". SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. Archived from the original on September 7, 2015. Retrieved September 13, 2015.
  395. ^ "SheiKra". SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. Archived from the original on September 16, 2015. Retrieved September 13, 2015.
  396. ^ "Stanley Falls". SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. Archived from the original on September 9, 2015. Retrieved September 13, 2015.
  397. ^ "Kumba". SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment. Archived from the original on September 16, 2015. Retrieved September 13, 2015.
  398. ^ "Congo River Rapids". SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment. Archived from the original on September 9, 2015. Retrieved September 13, 2015.
  399. ^ "Busch Gardens Tampa Bay - Ubanga-Banga Bumper Cars - Attraction & Ride Details". Parks Info 2 Go. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
  400. ^ "Jungala". SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment. Archived from the original on September 9, 2015. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
  401. ^ a b c "It's tiger time at Busch Gardens in Tampa". Tampa Bay Times. July 23, 2013. Retrieved January 11, 2019.
  402. ^ Klinkenberg, Jeff (April 2, 2008). "Busch Gardens' Jungala meets your wildest dreams". Tampa Bay Times. Times Publishing Company. Archived from the original on March 4, 2016. Retrieved November 5, 2018.
  403. ^ Bevil, Dewayne (November 22, 2013). "Busch Gardens: Timbuktu turning into 'Pantopia'". Orlando Sentinel. Archived from the original on November 8, 2014. Retrieved November 5, 2018.
  404. ^ Perry, Anthony. "A Behind the Scenes Look at Pantopia Theater – Busch Gardens Tampa". Busch Gardens Tampa Blog. SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. Archived from the original on July 21, 2014. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
  405. ^ "Grand Caravan Carousel Review – Busch Gardens Tampa". Total Orlando. Archived from the original on March 4, 2016. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
  406. ^ "Falcon's Fury". SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. Archived from the original on September 9, 2015. Retrieved September 13, 2015.
  407. ^ "'Phoenix Rising': Busch Gardens opens new family-friendly roller coaster". ABC Action News Tampa Bay (WFTS). July 17, 2024. Retrieved August 9, 2024.
  408. ^ "Jambo Junction". SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. Archived from the original on September 5, 2015. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
  409. ^ "The Wildlife Docs". SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. Archived from the original on September 15, 2015. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
  410. ^ Albright, Mark (January 12, 2012). "New attraction lets you see Busch Gardens' vets at work". Tampa Bay Times. Times Publishing Company. Retrieved July 26, 2012.
  411. ^ "Animal Care Center". SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. Archived from the original on August 23, 2015. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
  412. ^ "Elephants". SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. Archived from the original on October 1, 2015. Retrieved October 1, 2015.
  413. ^ "Cheetah Hunt". SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. Archived from the original on September 15, 2015. Retrieved September 13, 2015.
  414. ^ "Road ends for Busch Gardens monorail". Tampa Bay Times. Retrieved January 20, 2022.
  415. ^ "Cheetah Run". SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. Archived from the original on September 13, 2015. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
  416. ^ Hayes, Stephanie (May 26, 2011). "At Busch Gardens Tampa Bay's Cheetah Run habitat, the cats are a nose away". Tampa Bay Times. Times Publishing Company. Archived from the original on August 11, 2011. Retrieved August 21, 2012.
  417. ^ Chaney, Anna (March 11, 2013). "An Update from Cheetah Run". Busch Gardens Tampa. Archived from the original on March 4, 2016. Retrieved June 1, 2015. Mtani has since left her first home at Busch Gardens and traded it in for a new home. She now lives with one of our staff members and is thriving in the lap of luxury where every dog belongs - on the couch.
  418. ^ "Cobra's Curse". SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. Archived from the original on September 9, 2015. Retrieved September 13, 2015.
  419. ^ "Montu". SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. Archived from the original on September 13, 2015. Retrieved September 13, 2015.
  420. ^ "Tampa Zoo and Animal Habitats | Busch Gardens Tampa Bay". buschgardens.com. Retrieved July 11, 2019.
  421. ^ Entertainment, SeaWorld Parks &. "Animal Care Center". seaworldparks.com. Archived from the original on September 19, 2015. Retrieved September 15, 2015.
  422. ^ Entertainment, SeaWorld Parks &. "The Wildlife Docs". SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. Archived from the original on September 15, 2015. Retrieved September 15, 2015.
  423. ^ Entertainment, SeaWorld Parks &. "Bird Gardens". seaworldparks.com. Archived from the original on September 24, 2015. Retrieved September 15, 2015.
  424. ^ Entertainment, SeaWorld Parks &. "Bird Gardens". seaworldparks.com. Archived from the original on September 24, 2015. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
  425. ^ Tuttle, Brittani (November 30, 2018). "'Opening Night Critters' animal show to close at Busch Gardens Tampa". Attractions Magazine. Retrieved February 25, 2022.
  426. ^ a b Entertainment, SeaWorld Parks &. "Walkabout Way". seaworldparks.com. Archived from the original on September 7, 2015. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
  427. ^ Staff. "Busch Gardens Tampa's New Area - Walkabout Way - Featuring Kangaroos". Seaworld.com. Archived from the original on November 8, 2014. Retrieved August 26, 2012.
  428. ^ Entertainment, SeaWorld Parks &. "Lory Landing". seaworldparks.com. Archived from the original on September 21, 2015. Retrieved September 15, 2015.
  429. ^ Entertainment, SeaWorld Parks &. "Edge of Africa". seaworldparks.com. Archived from the original on September 21, 2015. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
  430. ^ "Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Fact Sheet", page 4.[permanent dead link‍] Busch Gardens, Tampa Bay. Retrieved January 31, 2010.
  431. ^ Entertainment, SeaWorld Parks &. "Serengeti Plain". seaworldparks.com. Archived from the original on September 8, 2015. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
  432. ^ "She looks after Jody, Busch Gardens' endangered black rhino".
  433. ^ "Real Music Series Adds Concerts on Select Saturdays! | Busch Gardens Tampa". www.buschgardenstampablog.com. Archived from the original on October 1, 2015. Retrieved October 1, 2015.
  434. ^ Duke, Alan. "Barenaked Ladies' SeaWorld gig is off after viewing 'Blackfish'". Retrieved December 27, 2013.
  435. ^ David, John P. (December 16, 2013). "Blackfish Backlash Continues". The Huffington Post. Retrieved December 27, 2013.
  436. ^ https://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2014/01/16/us/ap-us-travel-brief-seaworld-entertainers-canceling.html?hp [dead link‍]
  437. ^ "Busch Gardens Tampa Heats Up With Viva La Música | Busch Gardens Tampa". www.buschgardenstampablog.com. Archived from the original on October 1, 2015. Retrieved October 1, 2015.
  438. ^ Entertainment, SeaWorld Parks &. "Summer Nights". seaworldparks.com. Archived from the original on October 1, 2015. Retrieved October 1, 2015.
  439. ^ Sentinel, Orlando. "Kinetix show returns for Busch Gardens Summer Nights". Retrieved October 1, 2015.
  440. ^ Gershman, Rick (October 14, 2004). "Scare tactics". St. Petersburg Times. Retrieved June 6, 2009.
  441. ^ Staff. "Do You Dare Enter Trickster's Garden as Howl-O-Scream 2012 Celebrates an Unlucky 13 Years?". SeaWorld Press release. SeaWorld. Archived from the original on September 20, 2012. Retrieved September 14, 2012.
  442. ^ Entertainment, SeaWorld Parks &. "Christmas Town 2015". seaworldparks.com. Archived from the original on September 10, 2015. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
  443. ^ Entertainment, SeaWorld Parks &. "New Year's Eve at Busch Gardens Tampa". seaworldparks.com. Archived from the original on September 21, 2015. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
  444. ^ "Amusement Today bestows Golden Ticket Awards". Amusement Today. August 1998. p. 3B.
  445. ^ Baldwin, Tim (September 4, 2007). "Amusement Today's 2007 Golden Ticket Awards". Amusement Today. Vol. 11, no. 6.2. p. 11.
  446. ^ "Amusement Today's 1999 Golden Ticket Awards" (PDF).
  447. ^ "Amusement Today's: Golden Ticket Awards 2006" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on October 16, 2006. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
  448. ^ "Amusement Today's: Golden Ticket Awards 2017". Archived from the original on September 14, 2017. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
  449. ^ "Amusement Today's: Golden Ticket Awards 2017". Archived from the original on September 14, 2017. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
  450. ^ "Amusement Today's: Golden Ticket Awards 2007" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on May 30, 2008. Retrieved September 14, 2015.
  451. ^ "TEA/AECOM 2008 Global Attractions Report" (PDF). Themed Entertainment Association. 2008. Retrieved June 25, 2014.
  452. ^ "TEA/AECOM 2009 Global Attractions Report" (PDF). Themed Entertainment Association. 2009. Archived from the original (PDF) on June 2, 2010. Retrieved June 25, 2014.
  453. ^ a b "TEA/AECOM 2011 Global Attractions Report" (PDF). Themed Entertainment Association. 2011. Archived from the original (PDF) on October 18, 2015. Retrieved June 25, 2014.
  454. ^ a b "TEA/AECOM 2013 Global Attractions Report" (PDF). Themed Entertainment Association. 2014. Archived from the original (PDF) on June 6, 2014. Retrieved June 25, 2014.
  455. ^ "TEA/AECOM 2014 Global Attractions Attendance Report Report" (PDF). Themed Entertainment Association. 2015. Retrieved June 4, 2015.[dead link‍]
  456. ^ "TEA/AECOM 2015 Global Attractions Attendance Report Report" (PDF). Themed Entertainment Association. 2016. Archived from the original (PDF) on June 18, 2016. Retrieved June 3, 2016.
  457. ^ "TEA/AECOM 2016 Global Attractions Attendance Report Report" (PDF). Themed Entertainment Association. 2016. Archived from the original (PDF) on June 2, 2017. Retrieved June 7, 2017.
  458. ^ "TEA/AECOM 2017 Global Attractions Attendance Report Report" (PDF). Themed Entertainment Association. 2017. Archived from the original (PDF) on June 2, 2017. Retrieved May 21, 2018.
  459. ^ "TEA/AECOM 2018 Global Attractions Attendance Report Report" (PDF). Themed Entertainment Association. 2018. Archived from the original (PDF) on November 10, 2022. Retrieved March 6, 2023.

Bibliography

[edit]
[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Busch_Gardens_Tampa_Bay&oldid=1254400171#Jungala"