Busch Gardens – The Dark Continent Map and Brochure (1984 – 2024)
Location: Tampa, Florida
Years Active: 1959 – Active
Busch Gardens is the name of two amusement parks in the United States, owned and operated by SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment.
The original park is in Tampa, Florida, and the second park is in Williamsburg, Virginia. There were also previously Busch Gardens parks in Van Nuys, Los Angeles, California (1964–1979) and Houston, Texas (1971–1973). The “Busch Gardens” name was earlier used to refer to the gardens developed by Adolphus Busch near his home in Pasadena, California, which were open to the public from 1906 to 1937.
The Busch Gardens amusement parks were initially developed as marketing vehicles for Anheuser-Busch and featured hospitality houses with samples of Anheuser-Busch products. They also included stables that housed many of the company’s Clydesdale horses, which have been associated with Anheuser-Busch since 1933.
Eventually, rides and attractions were added to the parks and, over time, were developed into full theme parks while still promoting Anheuser-Busch. Busch Entertainment Corporation, now called SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, was created as a subsidiary of Anheuser-Busch Companies to run the various parks in 1959.
Busch Gardens – The Dark Continent Map 2024
In 2024, Busch Gardens – The Dark Continent introduced Wild Oasis, a new family-focused area. The addition included a water play zone, an elevated climbing canopy, a drop tower ride, and an animal encounter featuring capybaras. This expansion marked the most notable change for the park in 2024, combining new attractions with interactive wildlife experiences.
Printable Busch Gardens – The Dark Continent Map PDF 2024
Busch Gardens – The Dark Continent Map 2023
Busch Gardens – The Dark Continent Map 1985
Busch Gardens – The Dark Continent Brochure 1985
Busch Gardens – The Dark Continent Brochure 1984
FAQ
Why was Busch Gardens called the dark continent?
Busch Gardens Tampa was originally called “The Dark Continent” to reflect its African safari theme when it opened in 1959. The name aimed to evoke adventure and mystery, but was later dropped due to its outdated and colonial connotations.
What is the hardest ride in Busch Gardens?
The hardest ride at Busch Gardens Tampa is generally considered to be Iron Gwazi, a hybrid roller coaster with a 91° drop, speeds up to 76 mph, and intense airtime hills and inversions. It is the tallest and fastest hybrid coaster in North America.
What new attraction is opening at Busch Gardens Tampa in 2025?
In 2025, Busch Gardens Tampa is set to open Phoenix Rising, a new family-friendly suspended roller coaster. Located in the Pantopia section, it will feature smooth gliding motion, twists, and immersive theming, offering thrills suitable for a wider age range.
What ride did Busch Gardens shut down?
Busch Gardens Tampa shut down the ride SandSerpent in 2023. This wild mouse-style coaster, originally opened in 2004, was removed to make space for new attractions, including the upcoming Phoenix Rising in 2025.
