
The amazing thrill ride lineup is getting crazier, the animals are getting a little cuter and the events are even better in 2020, because Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is adding new attractions and more to do than ever this year. Whether you're planning a day trip, a "staycation" or a week-long getaway, there are lots of new experiences you won't want to miss at Busch Gardens this year.
Iron Gwazi - New Roller Coaster for 2020
North America's tallest and the world's fastest hybrid roller coaster is opening this Spring at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. With a 206-foot tall peak, a 91-degree straight-down drop and speeds up to 76 miles per hour, Iron Gwazi is sure to be 2020's must-ride attraction in Central Florida. Designed by Rocky Mountain Construction, this massive new attraction is a hybrid coaster, meaning it has a steel track with wooden supports. Riders will travel over 4,000 feet of track and experience three thrilling inversions and 12 hold-your-breath airtime moments throughout the course! And with a height requirement of only 48 inches, this is one thrill ride the whole family will be able to tackle together.
Solar Vortex Water Slide - Opening March 14
Just in time for the Springtime Florida sun, Solar Vortex is a new family raft water slide opening at Adventure Island on March 14th. With high-banking rotations and rapid descents, Solar Vortex will send sliders on a swirling journey through two open tailspin features, a first of its kind in America. Plus, you'll be amazed by the incredible light displays of colors and patterns as you splash through the AquaLucent sections, which will utilize the sun's rays to create unique lighting effects. Located just across the street from Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, the Adventure Island water park offers 10 sliding attractions, wave pools and more. It's the perfect addition to any vacation.
Cheetah Cubs - The Most Adorable Reason to Visit
Preparing to make their debut at Cheetah Run, the newest and cutest additions to the Busch Gardens family are two precious cheetah cubs. You can find these fluffy brothers and their animal care team daily at the Animal Care Center. Stop by in the morning to learn their daily playtime schedule or check in on social media for continuing updates on the pair. You're going to want to have your camera ready, because everything they do is an "awww" moment!
Return of the Food & Wine Festival
Tampa's favorite festival is back, running from February 29th through April 26th in 2020. Every weekend during the event you can indulge in over 40 tantalizing dishes and more than more than 80 fine wines, craft brews and specialty cocktails. Plus, you can catch a free concert featuring some of the biggest names in music every Saturday and Sunday evening. There's even a glorious fireworks display at the end of the night. Live entertainment and headliner concerts are included in your theme park ticket, and special food and drink sampler lanyards are available so you can make the most of your festival experience.
The Fun Continues All Year Long
In addition to the fan-favorite Food & Wine Festival, Busch Gardens offers unique experiences and special events all year long. Your family can join Elmo, Cookie Monster, Big Bird and all your favorite Sesame Street friends for Safari of Fun Kids' Weekends in May and October. Experience the endless energy of Summer Nights, going on from May 29th through August 16th. Bier Fest returns with beers from around the world in August. And Howl-O-Scream comes back to town starting in September featuring the most terrifying haunted houses you will ever experience. It's always a great time to visit, no matter the time of year!