Unleash the thrill of Busch Garden’s epic amusement park rides on this action-packed date. If all goes well, your heart will race for more reasons than one.
The Background
Voted The World’s Most Beautiful Theme Park, Busch Gardens® is a must-see. Nestled in Williamsburg, Virginia, this European-themed amusement park features over 50 rides and attractions spread across +100 acres. There’s fun around every corner, whether you’re braving the Griffon’s 205 foot drop, shopping in the French section, or toasting at the German beer hall. Don’t forget their seasonal events, including the Food and Wine Festival, 10 million-light Christmas Town, or Howl-O-Scream.
The Standout Features
Here’s why this date is a wild ride:
- Thrills = Feels: The rush of adrenaline from the rollercoasters boosts attraction. Let this scientific principle work for you.
- Let’s Get International: The park transports you to Germany, Ireland, France, and more. Discover how your date views other cultures and destinations. Shared travel perspectives are a big bonus.
- Teamwork: When you’re dreading that coaster, does your plus one calm your nerves? What’s the next plan? The visit simulates a mini vacation where you make choices together. Learn how you work as a unit.
- Have Fun: Embrace your inner child as you explore the park wonders. When you’re enjoying your time, romance can bloom.
The Experience
Date Lead Up - Stamping Our Passport
After the 2.5 hour drive, we arrive at the park around 1pm. While waiting to buy parking, we pass the time chatting. Soon enough, we leave our vehicle in the Germany lot, walk to the entrance, and scan our tickets. Past the gate, every intricate design detail transports me across the pond to a small English town. On the right, I spot horse stables with real steeds.
We learn Anheuser-Busch originally owned the park, hence the name. In 1933, August A. Busch Sr. received six Clydesdale horses and a beer wagon to toast the end of Prohibition. Soon after, management added rides and expanded into today’s full theme park. Though the brewery company no longer controls the site, the tradition of housing Clydesdales continues. Onsite tours give fun facts and close encounters with these majestic animals. We’ve barely stepped foot into this playground, and it’s already magical.
Main Event - Hitting the Sights
Eager to ride, we beeline to Germany’s indoor Verbolten coaster to warm up. As we exit, we’re stunned by the coaster’s hidden surprise. I’ve experienced nothing like it! Next, we evade a powerful ghost on jet skis at Darkoster. Still laughing from the fun, we grab a drink at Das Festhaus, a proper Oktoberfest beer hall. Here, he recounts stories of living in Berlin as we get closer. As an avid traveler myself, his similar passion is a green flag.
Then, it’s time to ride Alpengeist, one of the tallest and fastest coasters on earth with speeds up to 67 miles per hours. While awaiting the ascent, my heart pounds in my chest. Noting my slight nervousness, my date squeezes my hand. “We’ve got this,” he says with a smile, and I return the grin. Soon, I’m yelling in delight while we hurtle through six incredible inversions. When it’s over, I exclaim, “That was awesome!” and he delights at my enthusiasm.
Bidding farewell to Deutschland, we stroll to France for the Griffon. Riders pass under the bridge to the entrance, giving a fantastic view of the action. Indeed, the 205 foot drop looks insane, but worth it. This time, we hold hands on the incline, and I scream at the decent. I’m proud of us for braving the descent, and loved the thrill.
After, we treat ourselves to French fries while perusing the Paris streets. When ready, we wander through Ireland, home to the Finnegan’s Flyer ride. Traditional Irish shops bursting with Celtic goodies make me forget I’m in the States. Before long, we’re in Italy. After more awe-inspiring rides, we grab an early dinner and enjoy this country’s delicious delights. Between bites, we share our favorite moments of the day.
For the finale, we jump on 2024-restored Scotland’s Loch Ness Monster. After its launch in 1978, this ride was so legendary it became a registered landmark. At the top, bright oranges blend with radiant pinks for miles. This stunning sunset perfectly capped a wonderful day.
Date Wrap Up - One Last Tour
Afterwards, we board the train that takes us around the entire park. The lights at night create a romantic scene as I lean my head on his shoulder. Watching each country pass is the best way to summarize our journey together. Upon returning to Scotland, we disembark and exit the park. As I gaze at the lit skyline, I smile, satisfied with the day. After all, five international destinations in a few hours isn’t half bad. Who knows where we’ll go next?
The Planning
No need to figure out all the logistics. We did it for you.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best for... | ✔ A few dates in ✔ Steady couple |
| Seasons | Runs year round |
| Typical Hours | Typical hours are Mon-Thurs: 4-9pm, Fri & Sun: 2-10pm, Sat: 12-10pm. Hours vary by season, so check their park hours calendar for the most updated information. |
| Duration | ~5 hours and a ~2.5 hour drive from the heart of DC. |
| Cost | $84.99 per person, but there are often discounted tickets on their website and Groupon, some as low as $29.99 in the winter. Active military, Veterans, and their families are eligible for discounted admission with ID. |
| Website | |
| Address | Address: One Busch Gardens Blvd, Williamsburg, VA 23187 |
| Transportation | General parking starts at $32/car with preferred and VIP parking available for an increased cost. Unless you have mobility limitations, we recommend general parking which is a quick 10 minutes walk from the entrance. Purchase at the park or online to save time. |
| Attire | Wear comfortable clothes and good walking shoes. Loose articles like bags, purses, cameras, phones, hats, keys, and wallets are not permitted on major attractions. You must secure these items in a sealed pocket, waist pack (excluding Pantheon and Tempesto), locker or with a non-rider. Locker options include: All-Day Lockers located in England behind M. Sweets Confectionary and can be used for the entire day; timed Ride Lockers at major attractions throughout the park; and a Transferable Ride Locker Pass that follows you through the park. |
| To Bring | A bottle of water (one per person) and single-serve sized snacks (approx. 2 oz or less) are permitted in the park. You cannot bring a hard or soft cooler, glass containers, bags of food, picnic style meals including but not limited to sandwiches, sodas and alcohol inside. However, you can eat your own food at picnic tables outside the park, adjacent to the entrance/exit plaza. Before leaving the park, staff must stamp your hand for re-admittance. |
| Contact Info | Call (757) 229-4386 or use the Contact Form |
| Special Features | Book one of the park's many popular add-on tours, including Animal Encounters with Clydesdale horses, an elite VIP tour, roller coaster enthusiast tour, wine tasting, the Burgermeister's Hideaway Cocktail Experience, and more. |
| Special Considerations | Guests with medical diets should speak with a Team Member for assistance before entering the park. Check out the Food Allergen FAQs page or contact AllergenFriendlyBGW@seaworld.com for related questions. |
| Rescheduling & Cancellation Policies | Call 757-229-4386 between 9AM and 6PM to change your reservation to a different date at no cost if rebooked at least 24-48 hours before your reservation (product-dependent). Tickets are nonrefundable, nontransferable, revocable, and may not be redeemed for cash. |
| Weather Policy | Learn more about their Weather-or-Not Assurance policy. |
The Pre- and Post-Date Options
Typically, we list bonus activities here in case you want to extend your time together. However, this date is already the full package. With a host of food, drink, shows, rides, and other events, Busch Gardens will meet all your needs for a jam-packed day!