TAMPA, Fla. – Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is embarking on an exciting new chapter with a nearly $40 million investment and a new park president at the helm.
Under the leadership of Jeff Davis, the park is set to unveil significant additions and upgrades, including the debut of Wild Oasis at Jungala in May, new animal encounters, elevated dining options, enhanced guest experiences and a major transformation of Adventure Island, the theme park said in a news release.
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“The additions and improvements will be made across our infrastructure, operations, staff recruiting, equipment, as well as adding to our aesthetics with more beautiful gardens and plant life,” Davis said. “New animal arrivals are also in the plans, such as the reimagined meerkat habitat, set to open this summer to inspire awe and wonder for all who visit. This is an exciting time for the park, and these investments will make it better than ever before.”
- Explore Wild Oasis: Inspired by lush rainforests, families will encounter new animals along with exploring interactive climbing structures, cool off at an immersive splash pad. Thrill-seekers can take adventure to new heights aboard the all-new Tree Top Drop, a 35-foot drop tower.
- New animal experiences: Guests will also see many recent investments in the animal habitats throughout the park, such as a new climbing structure for the new troop of chimpanzees, accessibility features to accommodate the geriatric, all-female Asian elephant herd, and a beautiful new giraffe barn. New species coming to the park—including capybaras, giant anteaters, squirrel monkeys, and meerkats are expected to arrive this spring.
- Bold new culinary experiences: New Executive Chef Lavon Smith brings an exciting culinary vision to the park with newly opened full-service venues like Treetop Kitchen, offering guests a vibrant culinary adventure inspired by global cuisine spanning the regions of Africa and South America.
- Year-round entertainment, new shows, and summer nights spectacular: Set to return on select dates from May 23 to Aug. 10, Summer Nights will light up the park with extended hours. This year’s event features an all-new nighttime spectacular, high-energy live shows, and exciting ways to enjoy fan-favorite entertainment like Rhythm of Nature—the only year-round ice-skating show at a theme park in North America.
- New rides at Adventure Island: As part of the recent investments, families can embark on an aquatic adventure at the brand-new interactive splash and play area, Castaway Falls—a multi-level play area featuring exciting water elements and cascading slides.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay annual pass members will be the first to explore Wild Oasis before it opens to the public. Annual passes for 2025 are on sale starting as low as $15.75 per month with no down payment.