A World-Famous Attraction
If you like amusement parks, you’re definitely in luck if you are a Hampton Roads resident, because you are practically within shouting distance of world-famous Busch Gardens Williamsburg.
Honored as “The World’s Most Beautiful Theme Park” for nine years running, Busch Gardens has just opened for the 2018 season. If you haven’t yet visited this famed local attraction, be prepared to be amazed by all the sights, sounds and color. Although BGW is widely known for its innovative roller coasters, you don’t have to board a single ride to enjoy the park’s festive ambience.
Turning vision into reality
In the early 1970s, Anheuser-Busch began development of the property following negotiations between August Busch II and Colonial Williamsburg Chairman Winthrop Rockefeller, who was also governor of Arkansas at the time. The park opened in 1975, and the adjacent Water Country USA was added to the theme park experience in the 1990s.
Horticulturists will enjoy strolling through the gorgeous garden-like environment. Animal lovers can see and even interact with many kinds of birds and animals from lorikeets and eagles to wolves and Clydesdale horses. The park is an active contributor to wildlife conservation.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg is divided into countries, such as England, Ireland, Germany, Italy and France, each of which offers traditional food and music. Children have their own special rides and attractions in Sesame Street® Forest of Fun™. Special musical performances by nationally known artists are scheduled throughout the season, but there are many Broadway-style shows to be enjoyed any time you visit the park. The latest attraction, located in Ireland, is Battle for Eire, a virtual reality motion simulator ride.
Continuing entertainment
Like a chameleon, the park changes its effervescent personality come mid-September, when Howl-O-Scream begins, with all its Halloween devilry. However, the ghosts, goblins and witches recede into the shadows when the holiday season arrives along with the wildly popular Christmas Town with its millions of lights; seasonal food, drink and shopping; and holiday-themed shows and rides.
Over the years, millions of tourists have made Busch Gardens Williamsburg the focal point of their vacations—but now that you are within shouting distance, you can visit the World’s Most Beautiful Theme Park any time you choose.
Learn more at https://buschgardens.com/