before you go

Coordinates | 37.2707° N, 76.7075° W

Baton Rouge to Williamsburg | 1,082.3 miles

Driving Time | 16 hours, 13 minutes

Why Busch Gardens Williamsburg? | Fill your summer with family fun as you ride on thrilling coasters, indulge in delicious sweet treats and savory eats, and experience live performances that will leave you on the edge of your seats at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Virginia. Whether you choose to fly or drive, this is one family vacation that has a little something for everyone.

where to STAY

A stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Williamsburg begins with deliciously warm chocolate chip cookies, and we’re not joking! This modern family-friendly hotel offers stylish guestrooms, an assortment of amenities, and a shuttle service to and from Busch Gardens. There’s indoor and outdoor pools, a 24-hour fitness center, game room, and an Internet café to help keep everyone connected.

where to eat

Marco Polo’s Marketplace

Pick up some food for every member in the family as you enjoy the park at this market-style restaurant. From Hearthstone oven pizzas and paninis to a cannoli customization station and cakes, there’s an assortment of flavors that will tempt your tastebuds, whether you’re looking for sweet or savory.

Das Festhaus

If entertainment is what you seek, see a lively show in the park’s iconic festival hall as you dine on authentic German food, including sausages, potato salad, hot red cabbage, and seasoned corned beef piled high on freshly baked rye bread. If you’re looking for a little something different for the younger members of the family, there’s always pizza, sandwiches, and delicious torte cake.

La Cucina

When it comes to pizza, you can’t go wrong, especially when you’re bouncing from one ride to the next. Have a quick lunch at this pizza-friendly restaurant when you’re on the move. There’s freshly-made Italian favorites, including Artisan cheese and pepperoni pizza, an assortment of sub sandwiches, and delicious salads topped with chicken tenders.

Things to Do

Whether you’re riding the Escape from Pompeii Water Ride or watching those who are, there’s a way for everyone to get in on the fun. Riders will enjoy a leisurely boat ride through the ruins of Pompeii before the city suddenly turns explosive, creating a water-filled thrill that will leave you drenched. If you plan on sitting this one out, you get the chance to spray unsuspected riders as they pass by.

Have a splashing good time on Le Scoot. This log flume ride plunges 50 feet, and it’s the perfect ride to hop on when you and your family need to cool off from the heat. If you need another way to relax, you can take a load off as you ride the Le Catapult Scrambler Ride. You’ll swing, rock, and ricochet from corner to corner on this classic amusement ride.

Explore the whimsical, mythological land of Land of the Dragons. The youngest guests in your party can enjoy fun that is just the right size for them. Featuring kid rides, splash areas, and fun playgrounds, you will want to make this area of the park your first stop of the day. Busch Gardens fans recommend wearing bathing suits, so they can fully enjoy the water fun.

At Busch Gardens, the Sesame Street gang is always there to greet you. The Sesame Street Forest of Fun is just for children and their families. The area features family-friendly rides and playgrounds, and your crew can meet their favorite Sesame Street characters. Take part in a memorable sing-a-long, dance-along with Elmo, Cookie Monster, and all their furry friends, but be sure to bring your camera.

Rest your feet as you sit back and enjoy some live entertainment that will amaze and inspire your entire family. Throughout the year, the park puts on a variety of shows, including Celtic Fyre, Howl to Coexist, Let’s Play Together, Sunny Days Celebration, and More…Pet Shenanigans.

Stop by Eagle Ridge to meet the American Bald eagles; spend some time at Highland Stables to take part in a celebration of Scottish traditions, while also checking out the regal Clydesdale horses; stroll through Lorikeet Glen to see the colorful birds as they glide down to greet you; and see the mysterious gray wolves in Wolf Valley.

Busch Gardens was designed with your children in mind. As you explore the park, keep an eye out for all of the rides with a “K” logo. This special designation means that the ride is in fact KIDsiderate. Also, you’ll want to visit a Height Check Station to make sure that everyone in your crew can ride. Best of all? There are family dryers in the park to help dry you off and warm you up after the water rides. ■