THRILLS, TASTES AND TUNES

By Heather Turk

Known for its riveting rides and incredible animal experiences, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will soon welcome an exhilarating new way to see one of its most beloved attractions.

Opening this spring, Serengeti Flyer offers thrill seekers the chance to view the park’s 65acre Serengeti Plain — home to many exotic African animals, including zebras, giraffes and even a male Southern white rhino calf — from 135 feet in the air. The world’s tallest and fastest ride of its kind, the screamin’ swing features dueling arms that soar progressively higher, reaching a top speed of 68 miles per hour. The jaw-dropping addition joins more than a dozen other rides at the park, including Iron Gwazi, which just opened last year. North America’s tallest hybrid coaster and the fastest and steepest hybrid coaster in the world, Iron Gwazi plunges riders from a 206-foot-tall peak into a 91-degree drop and reaches speeds of up to 76 miles per hour.

Visitors will discover even more thrills at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s animal attractions and habitats, which are home to more than 200 animal species. Several exclusive experiences are available for an additional charge, too, that give guests the unique opportunity to go behind the scenes and learn more about some of the amazing creatures that reside at the park, like the sloths, cheetahs and penguins.

Springtime also marks the return of one of the park’s most popular events: the annual Food & Wine Festival. Parkgoers can savor tastes inspired from around the globe during the flavorful celebration, which takes place select dates March 10 through May 21. Several music acts will be performing free concerts during the festival as well, including rock band Kansas on March 11 and rapper Flo Rida on March 26, making springtime the perfect time to visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. buschgardenstampa.com