City: Tampa Bay, FL

Category: Tours & Attractions

Telephone: (888) 800-5447

Address: 10165 N. McKinley Dr.

Description: Busch Gardens has come a long way since it began in 1959 as Anheuser Busch brewery’s free gardens. The brewery closed in 1995, but Busch Entertainment Corp. eventually amassed the world’s second-largest theme park collection. In October 2009, the Blackstone Group, which owns Merlin Entertainments and half of Universal Orlando, bought Busch Entertainment Corp.Today, the African-themed Busch Gardens in Tampa lets visitors explore bat caves and bird gardens, ride body and brain boggling coaster rides, and watch 4-D comedy-adventure shows. Wear clothing that dries quickly—some rides can leave you damp or even soaking wet. Land of the Dragons is for the youngest visitors, and the Cheetah Chase’s top speed of 22 mph makes it among the tamest of coaster rides. The Serengeti Plain contains one of the largest collections of African animals outside of Africa itself. Busch Gardens is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day. Hours are extended during special events. Admission is $74.95 for adults, $64.95 for children ages three to nine. Children two and under are free. Additional charges apply to some activities. Parking starts at $11. Strollers, wheelchairs, and pet kennels can be rented. Dining options are typical, but varied.