Do I need medical paperwork for the Ride Accessibility Program?

No. You simply visit Guest Relations at the park entrance and complete a form regarding your physical abilities and limitations. No doctor's notes or medical files are required.

Can I rent a wheelchair or ECV at the park?

Yes. Rentals are located just to the right of Guest Relations inside the main entrance. Reserving online in advance is strongly encouraged as they can sell out.

Are there rides where I can stay in my wheelchair?

Yes, notably the Serengeti Express Train (which has a wheelchair lift) and various animal exhibits and theater shows.

Who can I contact if I have specific questions about accessibility?

You can reach out to their accessibility team via email at BGT-AccessibilityServices@BuschGardens.com or by calling 813-884-4386.

Accessibility Guide to Busch Gardens Tampa: Wheelchair and Mobility

Introduction

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is an expansive, hilly park that can be challenging but is surprisingly well-equipped for guests with mobility needs. While the park’s tropical, sprawling layout includes some steep inclines and long paths, the vast majority of facilities are designed to accommodate wheelchairs and electric convenience vehicles (ECVs). Most theaters, animal habitats, and even the train ride feature dedicated accessible entrances or lifts to ensure you can experience the best of the park.

Attraction Assistance Pass (AAP)

Busch Gardens uses a Ride Accessibility Program (RAP) to help guests with disabilities navigate attractions. You do not need a traditional "front-of-the-line" pass. Instead, visit Guest Relations just inside the main entrance. You will fill out a simple form detailing your physical capabilities, such as whether you can transfer from a wheelchair or if you have specific physical limitations. Based on this, you receive a program guide that specifies which rides are safe for you to experience. It is straightforward and does not require complex medical paperwork, just an honest assessment of your physical abilities.

Wheelchair Accessible Rides

Some attractions allow you to remain in your wheelchair or ECV throughout the experience. These typically include:

Serengeti Express Train: A park staple. The train features a specialized lift on the caboose, allowing wheelchair users to board safely and enjoy the tour of the Serengeti Plain.
Skyride: Offers a great aerial view of the park. Many guests can remain in a standard manual wheelchair for this experience, though availability can be weather-dependent.
Animal Exhibits: Almost all habitats, from the bird sanctuaries to the elephant viewing areas, are paved and accessible for mobility devices.
Shows and Theaters: All major theaters feature dedicated wheelchair seating areas, usually with companion seating, ensuring you have a great view without navigating stairs.

Transfer-Required Rides

Most thrill rides, including major coasters like Iron Gwazi, SheiKra, and Montu, require a transfer. This means you must be able to move from your wheelchair into the ride seat, either independently or with the assistance of a companion.

What to expect: You will leave your wheelchair on the ride platform near the boarding area. Team members will store it and move it to the exit for you.
Pro Tip: If you have difficulty transferring, practice at home or ensure you have a strong companion who knows how to assist you comfortably. Always inform the ride operators immediately upon reaching the platform that you need to transfer so they can assist with the transition.

Practical Logistics

Parking: Designated accessible parking is available near the front of the general parking lot. Make sure your valid handicap permit is clearly displayed to be directed to the correct area.
Rentals: Wheelchair and ECV rentals are available just inside the main entrance to the right of Guest Relations. Prices typically start around $45 for wheelchairs and $90 for ECVs. It is highly recommended to reserve these online through the official website before your visit to ensure availability, as they can sell out on busy days.
Restrooms: All major restroom facilities throughout the park are ADA-compliant and spacious enough for mobility devices.

Tips for Planning

Visit on weekdays or during the off-season to experience lower crowds. Navigating a crowded midway in an ECV can be exhausting, so lighter days make the park’s long pathways much easier to manage. If you have specific questions before you arrive, email BGT-AccessibilityServices@BuschGardens.com or call 813-884-4386. The staff is very responsive and can help you map out a route that avoids the steepest hills.