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Busch Gardens hours & best times to visit

Today

Open 10:00–18:00

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Park

Nov 6 TO Nov 13 Timings

Days (Nov 6 TO Nov 13)

TIMINGS

Monday10:00–18:00
Tuesday10:00–18:00
Wednesday10:00–17:00
Thursday10:00–17:00
Friday (Today)10:00–18:00
Saturday10:00–20:00
Sunday10:00–20:00

Nov 14 TO Nov 23 Timings

Days (Nov 14 TO Nov 23)

TIMINGS

Monday10:00–18:00
Tuesday10:00–18:00
Wednesday10:00–18:00
Thursday10:00–20:00
Friday10:00–21:00
Saturday10:00–22:00
Sunday10:00–21:00

Nov 24 TO Nov 30 Timings

Days (Nov 24 TO Nov 30)

TIMINGS

Monday10:00–21:00
Tuesday10:00–21:00
Wednesday10:00–21:00
Thursday10:00–21:00
Friday10:00–22:00
Saturday10:00–22:00
Sunday10:00–21:00

Dec 1 TO Dec 6 Timings

Days (Dec 1 TO Dec 6)

TIMINGS

Monday10:00–18:00
Tuesday10:00–18:00
Wednesday10:00–18:00
Thursday10:00–20:00
Friday10:00–21:00
Saturday10:00–22:00
Sunday10:00–22:00

Dec 7 TO Dec 18 Timings

Days (Dec 7 TO Dec 18)

TIMINGS

Monday10:00–20:00
Tuesday10:00–20:00
Wednesday10:00–20:00
Thursday10:00–20:00
Friday10:00–21:00
Saturday10:00–22:00
Sunday10:00–21:00

Dec 19 TO Dec 25 Timings

Days (Dec 19 TO Dec 25)

TIMINGS

Monday09:00–22:00
Tuesday09:00–22:00
Wednesday09:00–20:00
Thursday09:00–22:00
Friday10:00–22:00
Saturday09:00–22:00
Sunday09:00–22:00

Dec 26 TO Dec 31 Timings

Days (Dec 26 TO Dec 31)

TIMINGS

Monday09:00–22:00
Tuesday09:00–22:00
Wednesday09:00–12:00
Thursday09:00–22:00
Friday09:00–22:00
Saturday09:00–22:00
Sunday09:00–22:00

Best time to visit the Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Park

Weekday vs Weekend

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Pleasant
Crowded
Very Crowded
Closed

Peak season vs low season

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Off Season
Moderate Season
Peak Season

How long should I spend at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

To explore all the best attractions at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, plan to spend at least one full day exploring the park. From adrenaline-pumping roller coasters like Iron Gwazi and SheiKra to wildlife safaris and shows, there’s plenty to see and do. If you want to take your time with all the attractions and catch every performance, consider visiting over two days, especially during busy seasons.

Frequently asked questions about Busch Gardens hours

What time does Busch Gardens open?

The park opens between 9am and 10am daily, giving you a full day of rides, shows, and animal encounters. Arriving early helps you beat the crowds and enjoy popular attractions with shorter lines.

What time does Busch Gardens close?

​Busch Gardens Tampa Bay usually closes between 6pm and 10pm, depending on the season and special events. It’s best to confirm the exact closing time on the day of your visit while planning your day.

Is Busch Gardens open year-round?

Yes, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is open all year long, offering unique events every season. Some rides or exhibits may close temporarily for refurbishment or weather-related reasons.

When is the best time to visit Busch Gardens?

If you prefer fewer crowds and shorter lines, plan your visit on weekdays between Tuesday and Thursday. For livelier vibes, weekends and holidays bring more shows and extended hours.

What’s the best time of day to arrive at Busch Gardens?

Get there as soon as the gates open for cooler weather and fewer people. It’s the perfect time to ride the big coasters or head to the Serengeti Safari before crowds build up.

Does Busch Gardens stay open late during special events?

Absolutely! During Howl-O-Scream and Christmas Town, the park stays open late into the night with themed entertainment and after-dark experiences.

Is it worth staying until closing time?

Definitely. The last hour before closing is usually quieter, and nighttime lighting gives the park a completely different feel.

Do Busch Gardens hours change in bad weather?

They can, especially during heavy rain or lightning. The park may temporarily close outdoor rides for safety, but indoor attractions and shows often stay open.

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About the park

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