If you love coasters, Busch Gardens Tampa is one of the best parks in Florida, and honestly it flies under the radar compared to Orlando. Here is where to spend your time and how to skip the lines.

Iron Gwazi

Start here. Iron Gwazi is the tallest and fastest hybrid coaster in North America, hitting 76 mph with a 91-degree first drop that genuinely floats you out of your seat. The airtime on the second half is relentless. This ride gets the longest lines in the park, so ride it first thing at rope drop or grab it late in the evening. Right now wait times are sitting around 2 minutes on average with peaks near 5, which is basically a walk-on, so take advantage.

Phoenix Rising

The newest coaster, and a great family-friendly one. Phoenix Rising is a suspended launch coaster with your feet dangling, and the swooping layout near the Serengeti feels faster than its stats suggest. It is a perfect second ride while the crowds are still light. Kids who are not quite ready for Iron Gwazi will love it.

Serengeti Flyer

This is not a coaster, it is a giant screaming swing, and it is more intense than it looks. Serengeti Flyer launches you up to 135 feet and about 68 mph at the peak of each swing. Sit on the outer edge for the most hang time. The views over the animal plains are incredible on the way up.

Falcon's Fury

A 335-foot drop tower that tilts you face-down before dropping. Standing at the top staring straight at the ground is the scariest part, and the freefall is over fast. Ride it at sunset for the view across the whole park.

Congo River Rapids

When the Tampa heat hits in the afternoon, this is your reset button. You will get soaked, no question, so plan for it or bring a poncho. Save it for the middle of the day when the sun is worst.

SheiKra

Do not skip SheiKra just because it is older. This dive coaster hangs you over a 90-degree drop for a few agonizing seconds before plunging 200 feet. The floorless trains and the splashdown finale make it a classic.

Cheetah Hunt

A long, triple-launch coaster that weaves through the whole back of the park. It is smooth, fast, and one of the most re-rideable coasters here. Great for racking up laps when waits are low.

When to go

Weekday mornings are gold. Get to the gate before opening, sprint to Iron Gwazi, then work your way through Cheetah Hunt and SheiKra before the day-trippers arrive. Afternoons heat up fast in central Florida, so that is when you hit the water rides and the animal exhibits. With waits this short right now, you can knock out every major coaster in a single day and still have time for seconds.