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Busch Gardens Tampa Bay location & how to get there

Where is Busch Gardens Tampa Bay located

Address: 10165 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612, United States | Find on Maps

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is one of the top-rated Busch Gardens locations, known for its thrilling rides, wildlife exhibits, and African-themed landscapes. The park is just 15 mins northeast of Downtown Tampa, near the University of South Florida.

How to get there from Downtown Tampa by public transport

By bus

  • Route: HART Bus Route 5 or 18
  • Travel time: Around 40–45 mins
  • Cost: Approximately $2 per person
  • Boarding point: Marion Transit Center (Downtown Tampa)
  • Nearest stop: 40th Street & Bougainvillea Avenue

By train

  • Route: Tampa’s Amtrak Station is downtown, and while there isn’t a direct train to the park, you can take a short taxi, bus, or rideshare ride from there.
  • Travel time: 25–30 minutes total
  • Cost: $15–$25 via rideshare or taxi

By taxi

  • Route: I-275 N → Busch Blvd E
  • Travel time: 20–25 mins (depending on traffic)
  • Cost: $25–$40
  • Drop-off point: The**** Busch Gardens guest drop-off area is near the main entrance

How to get there from Downtown Tampa by car

By car (self-drive)

  • Route: Take I-275 N, then exit onto Busch Blvd E toward 40th Street
  • Travel time: 20 mins under normal traffic conditions

Parking information

  • Main Parking Lot | Find on Maps
  • Preferred Parking | Find on Maps
  • Accessible parking | Find on Maps
  • Daily fee: Around $35 for standard vehicles
  • Preferred parking: Around $50 for standard vehicles

How to get to Busch Gardens from nearby airports

Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)

  • Route: I-275 N → Busch Blvd E
  • Travel time:
    • From Tampa International Airport (TPA): 25–35 mins
    • From St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE): 40–50 mins
  • Cost: $30–$50 depending on surge and traffic
  • Drop-off point: Busch Gardens main entrance

Taxi

  • Route: I-275 N → Busch Blvd E
  • Travel time: 25–35 mins from TPA
  • Cost: $55–$70 flat rate
  • Drop-off point: Main guest entrance

Shuttle or private transfer

  • Route: Pre-booked transfers from Tampa International or Orlando area hotels
  • Travel time:
    • From TPA: 30 mins
    • From Orlando: 1 hour 15 mins
  • Cost: $25–$40 (shared) | $90–$150 (private vehicle)
  • Drop-off point: Busch Gardens guest area

Compare your transport options

Transport modeFromTotal costTravel timeDistance to parkFlexibilityBest for

Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)

Downtown/Airport

$25–$50

20–35 mins

8–15 miles (13–24 km)

On-demand

Most visitors; quick & direct

Taxi

Downtown/Airport

$40–$70

20–35 mins

8–15 miles (13–24 km)

Available at all times

Travelers without apps

Public bus

Downtown Tampa

$2

40–45 mins

9 miles (14 km)

Fixed route

Budget-conscious travelers

Private Transfer

TPA/Orlando

$90–$150

30–75 mins

10–80 miles (16–129 km)

Pre-booked

Families or groups

Rental car

Airport/Downtown

$60–$100 per day (+parking)

Varies

10–80 miles (16–129 km)

Full control

Those planning trips in the area

Hotel Shuttle

Select partner hotels

Complimentary/low-cost

10–20 mins

1–5 miles (1.5–8 km)

Fixed schedule

Hotel guests staying close by

Good to know

  • Tampa traffic can get busy around rush hours, especially near I-275 and Busch Blvd, so plan extra travel time.
  • Public transport is the cheapest option but takes longer. It’s great for solo or budget travelers.
  • Standard parking costs around $35 per day. Preferred and oversized parking are extra.
  • Several nearby hotels provide free shuttle service to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, including Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tampa–USF/Busch Gardens, and Hampton Inn & Suites Tampa Busch Gardens Area.

Getting around the park

Walking

Busch Gardens is a large park, but it’s walkable and well-marked. Expect plenty of shaded pathways and rest areas along the way.

Park tram

Complimentary trams operate between the parking lot and the park entrance throughout the day, making it easy to move around if you’re carrying bags or visiting with kids.

Accessibility services

Those with mobility challenges can use wheelchair rentals and accessible entrances at all major attractions within the park. Guest Services can also assist with route planning.

Frequently asked questions about Busch Gardens Tampa Bay location & address

Where is Busch Gardens Tampa Bay located?

​Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is located at 10165 N McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612, just northeast of Downtown Tampa. It’s part of the University area and easily accessible from major highways like I-275 and I-75.

Is Tampa Bay the only Busch Gardens location?

No, there are two Busch Gardens locations: one in Tampa Bay, Florida, and another in Williamsburg, Virginia. Both parks feature thrilling rides, family attractions, and animal encounters but have unique themes and experiences.

How far is Busch Gardens from Downtown Tampa?

The park is about 9 miles (14 km) from Downtown Tampa, roughly a 20-25 min drive depending on traffic. It’s close enough for a quick day trip or a fun weekend getaway.

Which airport is closest to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay?

The nearest airport is Tampa International Airport (TPA), located about 16 miles (26 km) away. The drive takes around 25–30 mins by car, taxi, or rideshare.

Can I use public transportation to get to Busch Gardens?

Yes, you can take HART Bus Routes 5 or 18 from Downtown Tampa to stops near the park. It’s an affordable option, though travel times may be longer during peak hours.

Does Busch Gardens Tampa Bay offer EV charging stations?

Yes, electric vehicle charging spots are available in select parking areas. Just ask an attendant for directions.

How do I get to Busch Gardens from Orlando?

Take I-4 W to I-75 N, then exit 265 to Busch Blvd. The journey takes about 75–90 mins by car.

Can I walk to Busch Gardens from the University of South Florida?

Yes, it’s less than 2 miles away and walkable in about 20–25 mins.

Does Busch Gardens Tampa Bay offer free parking?

No, general parking costs around $35 per day, with preferred options available at a higher rate.

Do nearby hotels provide shuttles to Busch Gardens?

Yes, several nearby hotels like Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tampa–USF/Busch Gardens and Hampton Inn & Suites Tampa Busch Gardens Area, offer free daily shuttles. It’s an easy and convenient way to reach the park without worrying about parking.

What’s the best way to get to Busch Gardens for first-time visitors?

If it’s your first visit, a rideshare or hotel shuttle is the most convenient option. You’ll be dropped right at the main entrance, saving you time and parking hassles.

More reads

About the park

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