With nearly $40 million in capital investments and new park leadership, the iconic Florida theme park, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, is gearing up for an action-packed year, adding attractions, immersive animal experiences, new culinary concepts and a major expansion at sister water park Adventure Island.
New in 2025: Wild Oasis at Jungala
Debuting in May, Wild Oasis at Jungala is Busch Gardens’ latest family-friendly zone with a rainforest-themed environment that combines animal encounters with interactive climbing structures, splash zones and a new ride, Tree Top Drop. The area will also feature a scavenger hunt and hands-on play areas for younger visitors.
“Guests of all ages will make unforgettable memories,” said Jeff Davis, Park President of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Adventure Island, in a press statement. “This is an exciting time for the park, and these investments will make it better than ever before.”
Busch Gardens is home to more than 16,000 animals across 200+ species, and 2025 will bring even more to explore. Expect to see new animals, including capybaras, giant anteaters, squirrel monkeys and a reimagined meerkat habitat.
Other updates include a new giraffe barn, upgraded climbing structures for the chimpanzee troop and improved accessibility for the park’s elderly all-female Asian elephant herd, adding both depth and enrichment to the park’s AZA-accredited care model.
A major culinary refresh is also underway. Under the guidance of Executive Chef Lavon Smith, the new Treetop Kitchen will serve globally inspired dishes from Africa and South America. Guests can also enjoy bold new flavors from the Caribbean and India during the 2025 Food & Wine Festival, which now includes Friday concerts in addition to weekends.
From Summer Nights (May 23– Aug 10) with extended hours, nighttime coasters and fireworks, to the only year-round theme park ice-skating show in North America—Rhythm of Nature—entertainment continues to elevate the Busch Gardens experience.
Adventure Island Upgrades Add More Splash
Adventure Island also benefits from the new wave of investment. The latest addition, Castaway Falls, is a multi-level splash zone with water features and slides for all ages. More attractions and summer events are on the horizon, with announcements expected later this spring.
For more information, visit buschgardens.com.
