Busch Gardens Tampa
2026-08-16
Weather Forecast
96° / 77°
Hot with scattered afternoon thunderstorms
30% chance of rain
Events
Bier Fest Brews & BBQ
Summer festival at Busch Gardens Tampa featuring seasonal craft beers, beer-inspired food, and BBQ offerings. Runs on select weekends from July 25 through Labor Day weekend (September 7). Included with park admission.
More infoWild Skies Drone Show
After HoursNew nighttime drone show at Busch Gardens Tampa featuring 400 synchronized drones choreographed to music with a fireworks finale on Festival Field. Runs Friday-Sunday nights through September 6, 2026 (extended past its original Summer Nights run by popular demand). Included with park admission; weather permitting and showtimes subject to change.
More infoNational Roller Coaster Day: Roller Coaster 5K
Separate Ticket RequiredSeparately ticketed National Roller Coaster Day event at Busch Gardens Tampa: guests complete a 'Roller Coaster 5K' by riding Cheetah Hunt four times, with exclusive early ride time from 9-10am, a punch card, and a commemorative finisher medal. Registration $39.99 plus park admission (not included). Check-in begins 8:00 AM at Nairobi Gate; remaining rides can be completed until 2:00 PM.
08:00 – 14:00
More infoSunday at Busch Gardens, with Bier Fest Brews & BBQ today. Expect moderate crowds under hot with scattered afternoon thunderstorms.
Discount Tickets
Save on admission via Undercover Tourist
What to Pack
ROXUN Cooling UV Sun Protection Arm Sleeves
Thin compression sleeves that block UV and actually feel cooler than bare skin thanks to moisture-wicking fabric. Slip them on before you leave the hotel.
$7.99
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Chasesun Portable Neck Fan Rechargeable 20-Hour Runtime
20-hour battery life means this neck fan survives a full park day and still has juice for the evening parade. Quiet enough to wear on rides.
$29.99
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CamelBak Eddy+ Kids Water Bottle Bite Valve Straw
Leak-resistant and easy for little hands to operate — the bite valve means no spills in a crowded bag. BPA-free and dishwasher safe for easy cleaning between park days.
$17.00
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Gonex Packable Lightweight Daypack 20L
Folds into its own pocket for the walk in, then unfolds into a full 20L backpack once you're loaded up with ponchos, water bottles, and souvenirs. Water-resistant nylon shrugs off Florida downpours.
$19.99
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ALEVMOOM Upgraded Portable Collapsible Folding Stool with Cushion
Telescopes down small enough to clip to a bag, then pops open into a cushioned stool that holds 440 lbs. Parade routes and fireworks viewing spots get crowded fast — having a seat changes everything.
$27.88
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Dr.meter Noise Cancelling Headphones for Kids 2-Pack
Two pairs of ear protection so siblings both stay comfortable on loud rides and during evening fireworks shows. 27.4 SNR rating blocks the decibels that can tire kids out fast.
$19.99
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