Busch Gardens Williamsburg: Award Winning Fun


Busch Gardens Williamsburg is one of the nation's most honored theme parks, winning the title of the Most Beautiful Theme Park for 15 consecutive years and named the world's Favorite Theme Park as well.

This lovely property encompasses about 100 acres, organized into six old world "countries". Each is comprehensively themed, with appropriate restaurants, shops, shows and attractions. Over forty rides, including several world class roller coasters, compliment the lovely landscaping. Several water rides and a comprehensive children's area round out the thrill rides at the park.

Eight different shows are presented in the different lands, each complimenting the theme of the area. You can catch a great Italian musical show while dining on authentic Italian dishes in "Italy". The German area features a rousing show called "This is Oktoberfest". Of course, German delicacies are featured nearby. In the Irish section, a family friendly show called "Pet Shenanigans" will delight young and old alike. Nearby, the "Secrets of Castle O'Sullivan" features human performers, great special effects and a rainbow.

Capitalizing on the popularity of young adult literature, Busch Gardens Williamsburg recently added "R. L. Stine's Haunted Lighthouse", touted as a 4-D, multi-sensory experience featuring Lea Thompson and Christopher Lloyd. Another show, "Imaginique" is reminiscent of the popular "Cirque de Soleil".

Busch Gardens Williamsburg is home to some renowned roller coasters as well. The Loch Ness Monster has set the standard for roller coasters for over 20 years, and the suspended "Big Bad Wolf" was a family favorite of ours for a long time. "Apollo's Chariot,", one of the newer hyper coasters is highly rated as is "Alpengheist," a new inverted hyper coaster named one of the world's 20 best roller coasters.

Another fantastic ride is "Escape from Pompeii", a water ride with great atmosphere and special effects. The Rhine River cruise lets park visitors experience a relaxing recreation of the Rhine River in Germany.
For the more adventurous, there is the new "Curse of DarKastle", a simulator housed in an elaborately designed Barvarian castle. Another simulator, "Corkscrew Hill," features a leprechaun and an enchanted trip through the Irish countryside.

As in Tampa, Busch is dedicated to conservation in Williamsburg. A walk through aviary, a habitat for the endangered American Eagle, and a habitat featuring bald eagles and wolves are available for family visits, as are the world famous Clydesdales. Land of the Dragons, in the German section, is a themed area for children, featuring several scaled down rides, a live show and a three story tree house.

Whatever your tastes, Busch Gardens Williamsburg provides a well-planned, clean and enjoyable family experience. The awards and accolades this park have received are certainly deserved!