Busch Gardens at Tampa Bay

Thrill seekers of all ages will enjoy Busch Garden's jungle themed rides. SheiKra is definitely a ride for adrenaline junkies. This roller coaster climbs 200 ft. in the air and takes riders along for a fierce 90 degree drop. The Scorpion is another stinger -- the 360 degree loops and intense speed will excite roller coaster enthusiasts.
 
You might get wet on the Congo River Rapids. This family-pleasing raft ride seats about 12 as you coast through white water. 
There are plenty of play areas for older and younger kids. Visit the Tree Top Trails with 3 stories of jungle nets, ropes, bridges, crawling tubes and even a maze for older children. There's also a play area at Tree Top Trials for younger kiddos equipped with water games. Other themed play areas include King Tut's Tomb and the Land of the Dragons.

Educational and fun shows at Busch Gardens will enchant visitors. See Rock a Doo Wop, Mystic Sheiks of Morocco, Pirates 4-D, Dance to the Music and more.

There aren't only rides and shows, Busch Garden has exciting animal encounters. At the Jungala exhibit you'll see Bengal tigers and orangutans up close and personal; you can also ride a zip-line through Jungala, ride other rides and see live entertainment.

Peer at lions, lemurs, vultures, hippos, hyenas and crocodiles at the Edge of Africa exhibit. Gaze at more than 500 tropical birds in the Bird Gardens. 

Tours at Busch Gardens include the Serengeti Night Safari, the Thrill-Seekers Tour, the Jungala Insider, the Roller Coaster Insider, the Sunrise Safari and more.

- by Jessica Bates, Tampa Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)

Jessica Bates

Jessica is a freelance journalist residing in lovely southern California. She holds a bachelor's degree in English and journalism. She writes for a green living publication, which she thoroughly enjoys. Once upon a time she was an editorial board member for Steel Toe Books choosing poetry manuscripts for publication.