It was a rough start to the summer for Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. In late June, the park made news for a violent brawl that online organizers called a “takeover” of the park.
Soar into your Sunday funday like a phoenix. 🐦🔥 pic.twitter.com/QSuGwFfp2E
— Busch Gardens Tampa Bay (@BuschGardens) July 28, 2024
After that incident, the organizers of the first event planned similar “takeovers’ on the Fourth of July weekend, but Busch Gardens made several security changes that kept guests safe.
Some guests reported seeing someone with a weapon in the park as part of the takeover. Since then, Busch Gardens has worked with Tampa Police and their security staff to change how people enter the park, and they removed a fence that was used to sneak banned items into the theme park.
Phoenix Rising is now listed in the Busch Gardens physical park map sign.
The map has yet to be updated on the website and digital app. pic.twitter.com/RlBnWNnsEi
— Jordan's Future (@CoasterExplore) July 27, 2024
Related: Police and Security Have Florida Theme Park Locked Down After Threat of Another Violent ‘Takeover’
To help change the narrative surrounding Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, the park was set to open its newest roller coaster, Phoenix Rising. However, they have had to delay the opening.
Busch Gardens tweeted, “Our Phoenix isn’t quite ready to fly. We are working to make every aspect of this ride an amazing experience for you, our most loyal guests!”
However, after a rough start to the summer, Busch Gardens has debuted its newest attraction, and it’s a hit.
Related: Florida Theme Park Faces Security Overhaul After Violent ‘Takeover’
Busch Gardens’ website describes Phoenix Rising as:
There’s nothing more exhilarating than a ride on the wings of the phoenix. Experience a fiery blaze of immersive, family-friendly excitement as you soar above the Serengeti Plain and drop into fun-filled twists and turns on the new Phoenix Rising.
Inspired by legend, this suspended roller coaster in vibrant Pantopia is packed with surprises and speeds up to 44 miles per hour. But with a height requirement of just 42”, it’s the perfect adventure for families to embark on together! Let your imagination—and your adrenaline—soar as you feel the rush of the wind and thrill of the flight.
Fans are loving the newest attraction at Busch Gardens. One review wrote:
Phoenix Rising is a great addition to Busch Gardens Tampa. A very good, fun, family coaster.
Related: Emergency Update! Another Violent ‘Takeover’ Coming to Florida Theme Park
The opening of the new coaster helps to highlight Busch Gardens’ quiet summer so far. Despite the threat of more violent takeovers, park security was able to quiet all that noise and allow guests to enjoy the park without worrying about their safety.
So, after a rough start, Busch Gardens has rebounded nicely and now has a great new addition to its theme park.
What has your experience at Busch Gardens been like this summer?