Busch Gardens Williamsburg

The Basics

Busch Gardens Williamsburg’s sprawling grounds offer nine restaurants, a variety of shopping destinations, and Broadway-style entertainment. There are also myriad rides like roller coasters and water slides for the thrill-seekers, scenic train rides and an aerial skyride for those looking for something more relaxing, and a whole range of kid-friendly attractions—like mellow rides larger-than-life Sesame Street characters—to delight the youngest visitors.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Busch Gardens is a wonderful activity for families and theme park lovers visiting the Williamsburg/Richmond/Washington DC area.

• Water Country USA, the affiliated water park, is 3 miles down the road from Busch Gardens and is open seasonally.

• Children ages 5 and under enter the park for free.

• Hotel and tour packages offer discounted rates.

How to Get There

Busch Gardens is located in Williamsburg, Virginia, about an hour west of Richmond or 2.5 hours south of Washington DC by car. There is ample on-site parking.

When to Get There

Busch Gardens operates different attractions and events depending on the season, with water slides open in the summer and special holiday events throughout the year; check the website for up-to-date information. Williamsburg can have extreme seasons, so check the weather and come prepared.

Animal Rescue and Conservation

In addition to the wide variety of rides, shopping, eateries, and events at Busch Gardens, the park also runs a large animal rescue, conservation, and education program. Eagle Ridge is home to rescued American bald eagles, and Highland Stables celebrates Scottish traditions with Clydesdale horses and border collies showing off their skills. The park also has Lorikeet Glen, a free-flight aviary full of colorful birds, and Wolf Haven, where you can learn about the mysterious creatures and how you can help to maintain their natural habitats.

How much is Busch Gardens Williamsburg parking?

Parking passes at Busch Gardens Williamsburg start from US$30 per day—you can buy them online in advance or when you arrive at the park. Other parking options include Preferred Parking (closer to the entrance) from US$40, VIP Reserved Parking from US$50, and Multi-Day Parking (which includes Water Country USA) from US$55.

Is Busch Gardens Williamsburg still requiring reservations?

No, you don’t need advance reservations for Busch Gardens Williamsburg. You can buy admission tickets and parking passes on arrival, though you might still want to save time by reserving online in advance. It’s also recommended to reserve tours and experiences that often sell out, such as fast-track passes.

How long does it take to walk through Busch Gardens Williamsburg?

Walking around Busch Gardens Williamsburg takes about 1.5 hours—you’re likely to cover a distance of about 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) or an average of 5,675 steps. Of course, you’ll want plenty of time to enjoy the different rides and attractions, so plan for at least 4-6 hours.

What days are least busy for Busch Gardens Williamsburg?

The least busy days at Busch Gardens Williamsburg tend to be Tuesdays and Wednesdays, when you can expect shorter wait times. To escape the crowds, avoid holiday weekends or consider visiting on a rainy day (rides remain open unless the weather gets really bad). Alternatively, visit in the early morning or evening.

Can I bring a small backpack to Busch Gardens Williamsburg?

Yes, you can bring a small backpack into Busch Gardens Williamsburg—provided it doesn’t contain prohibited items such as weapons, glass bottles, or food. All bags and backpacks will be inspected by security guards when you enter the park, and you won’t be able to take your bag on any rides.

Do you need advance tickets for Busch Gardens Williamsburg?

No, you don’t need an advance reservation for Busch Gardens Williamsburg—you can buy all admission tickets, parking passes, and tours at the park’s Welcome Center. However, reserving your tickets online will save you time on arrival—it’s recommended to book fast-track passes in advance to avoid disappointment.

Ways to explore

Most visitors spend an entire day exploring the sprawling grounds of Busch Gardens Williamsburg. This theme park offers a variety of rides—from roller coasters for thrill-seekers to mellow rides with larger-than-life Sesame Street characters to delight the youngest visitors. In addition to restaurants and shops, there’s Broadway-style entertainment on stage and the chance to learn about different animals, such as Clydesdale horses.

Family trips often combine a visit to Busch Gardens Williamsburg with a tour of Colonial Williamsburg, including ghost tours; a visit to Water Country USA, the local water park; or even a haunted pub crawl in Williamsburg.

Accessibility

Accessible parking and restrooms are available. The park has some hills and cobblestones, which could present challenges for wheelchairs. Download the Ride Accessibility Program ahead of a visit to learn about accessibility for individual rides throughout the park.

Age limits

None to enter, but individual rides do have height requirements

What to pack

Refillable water bottle, sunscreen

What to wear

Comfortable, not open-toe shoes; waist pack (or plan to store personal items in a locker while riding rides)

Not allowed

Outside food, beverage, or coolers; glass bottles; sharp objects; weapons; costume masks

Amenities

Parades, restaurants, gift shops, live entertainment

Address 

Busch Gardens is located in Williamsburg, Virginia, about an hour west of Richmond or 2.5 hours south of Washington DC by car.

Driving

There’s ample parking on-site at Busch Gardens Williamsburg. From Virginia Beach and Norfolk, take I-64 West to exit 243A and follow signs to the park entrance at 1 Busch Gardens Boulevard.

Public transportation

Local bus service WATA offers transportation to Busch Gardens for visitors who are staying in Williamsburg. Rideshares and taxis can also drop off and pick up at the park.

Best times to visit

To maximize time at the park, arrive for opening, typically at 10am during the main season (opening hours vary throughout the year).

Best days to visit

Choose to visit on a weekday, if possible, for a quieter experience. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are known to have the shortest lines for rides.

Best months to visit

Summer holiday weekends, including Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Labor Day, plus seasonal events like Howl-O-Scream and Christmas Town weekends, are some of the most crowded times at the park; skip these events to skip the crowds. Weekdays in May, June, and September offer pleasant weather and smaller crowds.

Special events

Enjoy events throughout the year, including seasonal celebrations of Halloween (Howl-O-Scream), a Mardi Gras celebration, and a Food & Wine Festival. Check out the park’s event page for details on outdoor concerts, events for kids, a beer festival, and more.