Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Busch Gardens Williamsburg, located in Williamsburg, Virginia, is consistently ranked among the most beautiful theme parks in the world. With detailed European theming, a scenic forested setting, and a blend of world-class coasters and live entertainment, the park delivers thrills and atmosphere in equal measure.

History & Background

The park opened in 1975 as part of the Anheuser-Busch family of parks, originally named Busch Gardens: The Old Country. Its immersive theming, attention to landscaping, and cultural influences set it apart from other U.S. parks. Now operated by SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, it continues to grow with new coaster additions and high-production seasonal events.

Ticket Prices & Packages

• 1-Day Tickets: ~$85–$110 depending on season

• Multi-Park Options: Combine with Water Country USA or other SeaWorld parks

• Membership Passes: Offer free parking, food/merch discounts, and guest tickets

• Quick Queue: Skip-the-line pass for coasters and shows

• All-Day Dining Deal is also available

Buy Tickets Here

Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit

Busch Gardens is open from March through early January, with major seasonal events.

Typical hours: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, extended during festivals and holidays.

Best times to visit:

• Weekdays in late April or May

• September for lower crowds and cooler temps

• November/December for holiday lights without long lines

Top Rides & Attractions

• Pantheon – Multi-launch coaster themed to Roman gods

• Griffon – Dive coaster with 205-foot vertical drop

• Verbolten – Indoor/outdoor launch coaster with surprise drop

• Alpengeist – One of the world’s tallest and fastest inverted coasters

• Apollo’s Chariot – Hypercoaster known for smooth airtime

• Loch Ness Monster – Classic Arrow coaster with interlocking loops

• Escape from Pompeii – Water ride with fire, ruins, and a splash finale

Themed Areas & Shows

• England – Park entrance with Big Ben, shops, and the Globe Theatre

• France – Home to the Griffon and the Royal Palace Theater

• Germany – Oktoberfest rides, Verbolten, Das Festhaus shows

• Italy – Roman ruins, Pantheon, Escape from Pompeii

• Ireland – Celtic Fyre show, wolf exhibit, and relaxing paths

• Scotland – Highland Stables and scenic landscaping

• New France (Canada) – Woodsy frontier zone with food and coasters

Live shows and musicians rotate seasonally. Don’t miss Celtic Fyre or OktoberZest.

Animal Encounters

• Wolf Haven – Grey wolves in a naturalistic habitat

• Eagle Ridge – Home to rescued bald eagles

• Clydesdales and Stables – Draft horses and petting zoo

• Animal Ambassador Meet & Greets – Regular sessions at designated times

Seasonal Events

• Food & Wine Festival (Spring–Early Summer)

• Summer Nights (July–August) – Night shows and fireworks

• Howl-O-Scream (Fall) – Haunted houses and scare zones

• Christmas Town (Winter) – Over 10 million lights, festive rides, and seasonal food

Dining Options

• Das Festhaus – Bavarian-style food hall with shows and German classics

• Marco Polo’s Marketplace – Pasta, pizza, and Mediterranean fare

• Grogan’s Grill – Shepherd’s pie and pub-style entrees

• Squire’s Grille & Trappers Smokehouse – Sandwiches, burgers, and smoked meats

• Sweet treats, beer gardens, and food kiosks are located throughout every country

All-day dining is available and saves money if you’re spending a full day.

Hotels & Accommodation

No on-site hotels, but plenty of nearby lodging in Williamsburg, Yorktown, and Newport News:

• Courtyard by Marriott Williamsburg Busch Gardens Area – Closest modern hotel

• Kingsmill Resort – Upscale riverside resort nearby

• Best Western Historic Area Inn – Budget-friendly, family-focused

• Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg – Indoor water park resort ~15 minutes away

Many offer combo packages and park shuttles.

Getting There & Parking

Address: 1 Busch Gardens Blvd, Williamsburg, VA 23185
Located just off I-64, about 10 minutes from Colonial Williamsburg and 1 hour from Richmond or Norfolk.

• General Parking: $30

• Preferred Parking: $45

• RV/oversized vehicle parking available

• Free shuttles to the main gate from a lot

Tips for Visiting

• Ride Pantheon and Griffon early before the lines spike

• Use the Busch Gardens app to check showtimes, ride wait times, and mobile ordering

• Consider Quick Queue during weekends and holidays

• Dress in layers — forested terrain and seasonal temps vary

• Visit during Christmas Town if possible — it’s one of the best light displays in the U.S.

Useful Links

• Busch Gardens Williamsburg on Wikipedia

• Tickets & Packages

• Park Map & Mobile App