One of the Most Anticipated Coasters in the World Awakens at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

TAMPA, Fla. (January 20, 2022) – Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will open Iron Gwazi, the world’s fastest and steepest hybrid coaster, exclusively for Pass Members on select dates starting February 11 before the ride opens to all park visitors on March 11. After presenting their Annual Pass, eligible riders will be among the first to conquer the record-breaking thrills of Iron Gwazi. Guests can go online to get more information on exclusive Pass Member previews.

Being North America’s tallest hybrid coaster, this ride takes thrills to new heights, plunging riders from a 206-foot-tall peak down a 91-degree drop and reaching top speeds of 76 miles per hour. Iron Gwazi is Busch Gardens’ tenth coaster and an exhilarating addition to the park’s collection of thrill rides. Riders will experience a dozen airtime moments, including three inversions, while racing along more than 4,000 feet of steel track. With a 48” height requirement, this invigorating attraction is a ride the whole family can conquer together.

“The incredible anticipation for Iron Gwazi is shared by both our guests and Ambassadors, and we are beyond excited to open this amazing coaster,” said Neal Thurman, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Park President. “Iron Gwazi diversifies our thrill ride portfolio and is an impressive addition to the Tampa skyline. Combining classic elements of a wooden coaster with a smooth, steel track will provide thrill seekers with an unforgettable experience.”

Manufactured by Rocky Mountain Construction, the newest addition at Busch Gardens is a wood and steel hybrid coaster design, combining the innovation of a steel coaster and the nostalgia of a wooden coaster. While elements of Gwazi, the classic wooden coaster, are integrated into the new ride, all-new thrill components and a reimagined track layout take Iron Gwazi to another level.

In addition to the record-breaking Iron Gwazi coaster, two new slides will debut at Adventure Island in 2022. Rapids Racer and Wahoo Remix will open this spring at Adventure Island, one of USA Today’s 10Best Water Parks.  

THE BEST WAY TO PLAY – Buy a Busch Gardens Annual Pass and be among the first to ride the most anticipated hybrid coaster in the world!  For even more fun, guests can add Adventure Island to enjoy three new attractions across the two Tampa parks.  Along with priority access to Iron Gwazi and Adventure Island’s new attractions, Annual Pass Members also receive 12 months of visits with special benefits including exclusive ride opportunities, FREE parking, up to six free guest tickets, savings on merchandise, and more! 

In addition to the unbeatable benefits of a Busch Gardens’ Annual Pass, guests can also take advantage of these all-new thrills with a 2022 Fun Card. Right now, guests can visit both parks again and again for just $120.99. Plus, thrill seekers can receive a complimentary one-time Quick Queue for Iron Gwazi when they purchase a Fun Card by January 30 and visit by February 20.

To be the first to know about event details and special offers, visit BuschGardensTampa.com and follow Busch Gardens Tampa Bay on Facebook, Twitter ,Instagram, and TikTok.