Thanks to Busch Gardens' Fun Card, Florida residents have an advantage over our counterparts elsewhere in the nation. For the price of one admission, we can spread the fun throughout the year.
That's good because there is so much to see and do that one trip is usually not enough.
Every theme park has roller coasters. Busch Gardens has six. There are metal monsters Kumba and Montu, the dueling woods of Gwazi, old favorites Scorpion and Python, plus the Cheetah Chase for the kids.
Not into thrill rides? See KaTonga, a Broadway-type show of musical tales from the jungle at the Moroccan Palace Theater. Dine at the refurbished Desert Grill restaurant, experience the new 4-D Haunted Lighthouse or gaze at exotic African animals and other wildlife.
The Land of the Dragons is a must-visit for younger children; however, bring a change of clothing and shoes as the kids get very wet.
The water rides provide a wonderful respite from the heat; the park has three: Stanley Falls Flume, Tanganyika Tidal Wave and the Congo River Rapids.
Busch Gardens
WHERE: Corner of Busch Boulevard and 40th Street, Tampa.
WHEN: Open every day, but park hours vary. Call (888) 800-5447.
COST: A Fun Card costs $59.95 for adults and $49.95 for children ages 3-9; purchase once and come back throughout the year as many times as you like. Some special events are excluded. For a one-day visit, pay $53.95 for adults or $44.95 for children 3-9, 2 and younger are free. Parking is $7.
