Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Phoenix Rising soars to the top of the must ride list

Theme park fans crave new thrills and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Phoenix Rising is the latest ride that satisfies that feeling. Similar to the mythical bird referenced in the name, this coaster soars to deliver an experience that everyone will want to ride.

Over the years, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has expanded its attractions. While some experiences blend the theme park’s connection to its animal encounters, the newest offering takes flight on a different path. The family coaster is the ride that ensures everyone can feel that wind in their face and their stomach drop on every banking turn.

Billed as North America’s tallest and longest inverted family coast, this coaster is meant to be a bridge for the younger riders to experience some bigger thrills. With a height requirement of 42 inches, it allows the younger park guests to graduate from the Sesame Street stage to something with a little more adrenaline forward.

Riders soar, twist, and turn across Pantopia. The ride reaches speeds up to 44 mph. Whether riders keep their hands up in their suspended seat or hold on tightly, that flying feeling is clear. It might not necessarily be on the wings of a Phoenix, but it is close to a mythical flight.

Additionally, there is a storyline woven into the ride. There are four different versions, fire phoenix, ice phoenix, jungle phoenix and sea phoenix. Many people will ride, and ride again, to experience them all.

The addition of a family coaster is smart for Busch Gardens. While its sister park, SeaWorld Orlando opened Penguin Trek earlier this summer, theme parks appreciate that these transitional coasters are vital for the family guests. Finding rides that are engaging for all ages is key to keeping them coming back time and again.

Phoenix Rising is open now. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay features a wide array of attractions, including thrill rides, animal experiences, and food events. For more information on the theme park, operating hours, and tickets, please visit its website.