15 Tips for Busch Gardens Williamsburg (2025)

These tips for Busch Gardens Williamsburg cover everything you need to know, from the best food and rides, parking, best time to visit & more.

Busch Gardens Williamsburg, located in Virginia, is a premier theme park that combines thrilling rides, diverse culinary offerings, and immersive European-themed landscapes. For thrill-seekers, Virginia needs to be on your USA bucket list, as this is an overlooked park but just as good as places like Universal Studios Orlando or Hollywood and the parks at Walt Disney World.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned guest, this guide provides essential tips to enhance your experience, covering aspects from travel logistics to the best attractions and dining options.

Tips for Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Best time to visit Busch Gardens Williamsburg

To optimize your Busch Gardens experience, consider the following:​

• Spring (April to June): The park is less crowded, and the mild weather is ideal for enjoying outdoor attractions. However, be mindful of the potential for cooler temperatures and occasional rain.​ Our best tips for Busch Gardens Williamsburg is to visit during this quieter time.
• Fall (September to October): Similar to spring, fall offers pleasant weather and moderate crowds. The park’s Halloween events, such as Howl-O-Scream, add seasonal excitement.​
• Summer (July to August): Expect higher temperatures and larger crowds due to school vacations. It’s advisable to arrive early to beat the heat and long lines.​
• Winter (November to December): Busch Gardens transforms for the Christmas Town celebration, featuring festive lights and holiday-themed shows. While some rides may be closed, the seasonal decorations offer a unique experience.​

Seasonal Events and Festivals

One of the best ways to experience Busch Gardens Williamsburg is to visit during one of its seasonal festivals, similar to the festive events at Dollywood.

These events, such as Howl-O-Scream (fall), Christmas Town (winter), and Springfest (spring), add a special touch to your visit, with themed decorations, exclusive food and drink options, and unique entertainment.

Check the Busch Gardens website for a calendar of events and plan your trip around one of these festivals for a truly memorable experience.

Getting to Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Busch Gardens Williamsburg is situated approximately 150 miles southeast of Washington, D.C., making it accessible by car, train, or air.​

• By Car: From Washington, D.C., take I-95 South to Exit 74 for Route 199 East toward Williamsburg. The drive typically takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions.​
• By Train: Amtrak offers service to Williamsburg’s Transportation Center from various locations. Upon arrival, you can use local taxi services or ride-sharing apps to reach the park, approximately a 15-minute drive away.​
• By Air: The nearest major airport is Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF), about 20 miles from the park. Alternatively, Norfolk International Airport (ORF) is approximately 50 miles away. From either airport, car rentals or shuttle services are available to reach Busch Gardens.​

Parking Options

When looking at tips for Busch Gardens Williamsburg, we have to look at parking. It is straightforward, with several options to suit different preferences and budgets:​

• General Parking: Priced at $20 per vehicle, general parking requires a tram ride to the park entrance, adding a few extra minutes to your arrival.
• Premium Parking: At $40 per vehicle, premium parking is closer to the entrance, reducing walking time.
• Preferred Parking: For the closest proximity, preferred parking is available at a higher rate. It’s advisable to check the official website for current pricing and availability.​

Best Rides at Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Busch Gardens Williamsburg boasts a variety of rides catering to thrill-seekers and families alike. Here are some must-try attractions as part of these tips for Busch Gardens Williamsburg

• Loch Ness Monster: An iconic coaster featuring interlocking loops, offering a classic thrill experience.
• Apollo’s Chariot: A hyper coaster known for its smooth ride and exhilarating drops, providing a weightless sensation.​
• Griffon: A dive coaster that suspends riders before a thrilling drop, offering breathtaking views and excitement.​
• Alpengeist: An inverted coaster set in a snowy Alpine village, featuring high-speed twists and turns.​
• Verbolten: A multi-launch coaster that combines storytelling with thrilling ride elements, including unexpected drops.​

What to eat at the park

The park offers a diverse array of dining options, reflecting its European themes. Here are some notable eateries.

• Das Festhaus: Located in the Oktoberfest area, this restaurant serves traditional German fare such as bratwurst, schnitzel, and pretzels, accompanied by live entertainment.​
• Trapper’s Smokehouse: Situated in the New France section, it offers hearty barbecue dishes, including smoked ribs and pulled pork sandwiches.​
• La Belle Maison: Found in the France area, this eatery provides French-inspired cuisine, including crepes and croissants, in a charming setting.​
• The Royal Palace: Located in the England section, it offers a variety of British dishes, including fish and chips and shepherd’s pie.​
• Wings of the World: In the Italy area, this spot serves a variety of wing flavors and other American favorites, perfect for a quick bite.​

What to Pack

Preparing appropriately for your visit ensures a comfortable and enjoyable day at the park:​

• Comfortable Footwear: With extensive walking involved, supportive shoes are essential.​
• Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Check the forecast and dress in layers to adapt to temperature changes. Rain ponchos or umbrellas are advisable during the rainy season.​
• Sunscreen and Hats: Protect yourself from sun exposure, especially during summer months.​
• Reusable Water Bottles: Stay hydrated throughout the day. Note that while one bottle of water per person is allowed, larger coolers and picnic-style meals are not permitted inside the park. 
• Portable Chargers: Ensure your devices remain powered for photos, navigation, and emergency contact.​

Where to Stay Near Busch Gardens Williamsburg

While there are plenty of places to park at the park itself, staying nearby for a night or two can make your visit even more relaxing and enjoyable. Here are a few of the best hotels near Busch Gardens Williamsburg:

1. The Williamsburg Lodge
   Located about 10 minutes from Busch Gardens, this hotel offers luxury accommodations and is known for its charming, historic style. It’s a great option if you want to combine your theme park visit with a more upscale and relaxing experience. The hotel also offers amenities like a full-service spa, making it perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring the park.
2. Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg
   If you’re traveling with children, the Great Wolf Lodge is an excellent choice. This family-friendly resort features an indoor water park, making it a fantastic option for a more immersive and playful vacation. Located just a few miles from Busch Gardens, it offers themed rooms and a variety of activities for kids of all ages.
3. Holiday Inn Express Williamsburg
   For a more budget-friendly option, the Holiday Inn Express is a convenient choice with a complimentary breakfast and modern rooms. It’s only a short drive from the park, making it a practical base for your theme park adventures. It’s a good balance of comfort and affordability.
4. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson
   Another good option for families and those on a budget, the Country Inn & Suites offers spacious rooms, a complimentary breakfast, and an outdoor pool. It’s located just a few minutes away from Busch Gardens and provides a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere for visitors.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Arrive Early: To maximize your day, arrive at the park before opening time. This allows you to experience popular rides with shorter wait times.​

• Utilize the Park’s Transportation: Busch Gardens offers a train and a skyride to help guests navigate the expansive park efficiently. These can be great for saving time between sections of the park, especially if you’re looking to avoid long walks during the day. Be sure to check the park map for transportation schedules and routes.

• Use the Busch Gardens App: The official Busch Gardens Williamsburg app is invaluable for making the most of your visit. It offers real-time updates on ride wait times, show schedules, dining options, and park maps. You can also use it to find the nearest restrooms and view current wait times for the rides.

• Take Advantage of Fast Lane: If you’re planning to visit during peak times, or if you’re simply looking to maximize your ride time, consider purchasing the Fast Lane pass. This allows you to skip regular lines for many of the park’s most popular attractions, such as Apollo’s Chariot, Griffon, and Verbolten.

• Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks: Busch Gardens Williamsburg is a large park with many exciting and thrilling rides. While it’s tempting to rush from one attraction to the next, don’t forget to take regular breaks, especially in the summer heat. There are plenty of shaded spots, water fountains, and snack stands where you can cool down and hydrate.

• Don’t Miss the Shows: In addition to its rides, Busch Gardens Williamsburg is known for its entertaining live shows. These are perfect for taking a break from the rides and enjoying some downtime. Popular shows like Britmania, which celebrates British rock music, and Fiends, a Halloween event favorite, offer unique experiences that are a hit with visitors of all ages. Be sure to check the daily schedule when you arrive to see what performances are available.

• Plan for Souvenir Shopping: Busch Gardens Williamsburg offers an extensive range of themed merchandise, from custom apparel to unique keepsakes. Popular items include limited-edition pins, plush toys, and T-shirts showcasing the park’s iconic rides and attractions.