If you want to explore the area around Camp Cardinal, Busch Gardens is a great place to start. The amusement park offers thrilling rides, great food, fine culture and fun for everybody!
1. It’s super close by.
Sixteen miles. That’s all that separates you here at Camp Cardinal from Busch Gardens. Located right in the heart of Williamsburg, it’s only a 25 minute drive. Making the short trip with the whole family is a breeze.
2. They’ve got TONS of awesome rides.
Whether you’re in the mood for a thrilling roller coaster, a refreshing water ride, or a relaxing spin on a carousel, they’ve got something for everyone to enjoy. Speaking of roller coasters… they just re-opened their newly restored “Loch Ness Monster,” the oldest coaster in the park.
3. Want live entertainment? Look no further.
Plays? Check. Musicals? Yep. Concerts? You know it. Whether you’re in the mood for Irish dancing, Italian ballads, jukebox musicals or even performances from your favorite artists and tribute bands, they’ve got you covered.
4. Their “Summer of Wonder” is just beginning.
School’s out, the days are longer, and the weather is sunnier… perfect conditions for Busch Gardens’ two-month-long “Summer of Wonder” festival. Celebrate the season with fine arts, lively music, and great food!
5. They’ve got rides and attractions for even your littlest ones.
At Busch Gardens, the kids can play with Elmo and Cookie Monster at the Sesame Street Forest of Fun, explore the climbing nets and treehouse of the Land of the Dragons, and even ride child-sized versions of the larger attractions.
6. It’s been voted “The Most Beautiful Theme Park in the World” for a reason.
The scenery of the park is home to some of the most beautiful sights in the world! Admire the beautiful flowers and foliage that bloom in the summer, enjoy a cruise on the shimmering blue river, and even take in the landscape of the whole park from above on the leisurely Skyride.
7. The park is perfect for animal lovers.
Horses and birds and wolves, oh my! You can get an up-close look at Clydesdale horses at the Highland Stables, visit birds of prey and lorikeets alike at the aviary, and even witness the majesty of the grey wolf. Not into those? Don’t worry, they’ve also got sheep, cattle, foxes, reptiles, dogs, and even rats!
8. From snacks to feasts, there’s plenty to satiate your hunger.
Calling all foodies. Want a hearty German meal? Das Festhaus has got you covered. Draft beers and Irish snacks? Grogan’s Pub is the way to go. How about some classic barbecue? Trapper’s Smokehouse is the place to be. In the mood for dessert? Visit Josephine’s Creamery de Chocolate for some of the best ice cream in Virginia.
9. In the mood to learn something? Take one of their invigorating tours.
If you want to know the ins and outs of how roller coasters work, take the Roller Coaster Insider Tour. If you want to learn about trains and steam engines, take the Railroad Tour. If you want to get up close and personal with some animals, take the Highland Coo Tour. Don’t want to do any of those and just want to enjoy some great food and beverages? Go on the Food & Wine Crawl.
10. Souvenirs! Hand-made crafts! Gifts! If you want it, they’ve got it.
The park boasts a wide range of shopping opportunities, with treasures for everyone to find. Peruse the shops for authentic European items such as Irish crystal, German steins, or Italian masks, or pick up some Busch Gardens memorabilia and apparel to show off your love for the rides. There’s also plenty of toy shops for the kids!
The park is located at 1 Busch Gardens Boulevard, Williamsburg, VA 23185. You can buy tickets here.
