You may be wondering, does Busch Gardens have water rides?
If so, how many water rides are at Busch Gardens Tampa?
This Florida theme park offers three thrilling water attractions that are a must-try for any thrill-seeker.
Each ride provides its own unique experience, but be prepared to get soaked on all of them!
For the Congo River Rapids, expect to spin and bump around while getting drenched from head to toe.
Stanley Falls offers a more traditional log-flume experience with an exhilarating drop at the end.
And the Splash & Play pad is ideal for families with small children looking for some safe watery fun.
Now, let me give you everything you must know before you go!
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1. Congo River Rapids
The Congo River Rapids, which opened in 1982, takes riders on a raft through the twists and turns of a white-water river.
Jump on board and choose your adventure – do you want a quick cool-down splash or a full-on soaking?
The choice is yours…
Or perhaps, choosing the “best” seat will ultimately determine your watery adventure!
What to Expect on This Busch Gardens Tampa Water Ride
I love how the Congo River Rapids takes you on a wild ride through the jungle!
You’ll spin and swirl down a racing river and get drenched in the process.
One of my absolute fave things to do at Busch Gardens Tampa is getting soaked on the Congo River Rapids.
They’ve got spouting jets and waterfalls, plus a cool water cave that takes it to the next level!
Also, while you’re rafting down the Congo River Rapids, the people on the bridge can join in on the fun by spraying you with water jets?
It adds an extra element of excitement to the ride!
Why I Love This Busch Gardens Water Ride
The Congo River Rapids gives me so many fond memories of the days when I used to visit Busch Gardens with my family.
Even my mom, who wasn’t a fan of thrill rides, would hop on this water attraction with me and we’d just scream and laugh as we hoped we weren’t the next victims of an influx of water in our face.
It was such a fun time!
How wet do you get on Congo River Rapids?
You will get wet, possibly soaked on the Congo River Rapids at Busch Gardens Tampa.
No need to work yourself up, as the hot and humid Florida weather will have you welcoming a refreshing and thrilling adventure!
How many people can go on Congo River Rapids at Busch Gardens Tampa?
You’ll be happy to know that each raft can hold 12 passengers. So, if you have a big group, you all can ride together.
Things to Know About this Water Attraction at Busch Gardens Tampa
- Thrill Level: Moderate
- Minimum Height Requirement: 42 inches
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2. Stanley Falls Water Flume Ride
The Stanley Falls, which opened in 1973, is a classic log flume ride that drops you from heights of up to 40 feet.
After you plunge to the bottom, be prepared to get drenched on this ride as well, especially if you sit in the front row!
What to Expect on This Busch Gardens Tampa Water Ride
The Stanley Falls log flume is a traditional water ride that will not only take you through the lush landscape of Busch Gardens, it will also give you an adrenaline rush as you never know when the final big drop will happen.
You’ll climb aboard a log and travel through the jungle, navigating through twists and turns before reaching the epic finale – the 40 foot drop!
Why I Love This Busch Gardens Water Ride
The Stanley Falls experience was another one that I have great memories when it comes to growing up here in Florida.
Because it was one of the fun family rides I could sometimes talk my mom and aunties onto with me and my sisters.
Although that drop (which they could clearly see) wasn’t always helping my case, they would sometimes give into my constant nagging, lol.
Hipster Power Tip: This ride is great for those who want to experience a traditional log flume with an added thrill of getting soaked. So, try sitting in the front row for an extra wet surprise!
Things to Know About this Water Attraction at Busch Gardens Tampa
- Thrill Level: Moderate
- Minimum Height Requirement: 46 inches
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3. Splash & Play Pad
The Splash & Play Pad is perfect for families with younger children who want to participate in some water fun for hours.
This play area includes small water geysers, fountains, and more interactive water features!
What to Expect on This Busch Gardens Tampa Water Attraction
Here you can set the kids free with Bert and Ernie as they explore this awesome area of the park!
This attraction is located near the Sesame Street Safari of Fun area and provides a safe environment for your little ones to cool off from the Florida heat.
Things to Know About this Water Attraction at Busch Gardens Tampa
- Thrill Level: Low
- Minimum Height Requirement: None
Hipster Power Tip: Wear quick-drying clothing or bring a change of clothes so you can enjoy the rest of your day without feeling soggy. Don’t forget waterproof phone cases if you want to capture some memories!
My Final Thoughts on the Water Rides at Busch Gardens Tampa
If you’re looking for some fun in the sun while visiting Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, be sure to check out these three exciting water rides!
From spinning down white-water rapids to plummeting down steep drops, there’s something for everyone.
Just remember to bring extra clothes, sunscreen, and your sense of adventure!
What’s your favorite water attraction at Busch Gardens? Let us know in the comments section below.
Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!
About the Author
My name is Nikky. I’m a wife, a mother, a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, USA Today 10Best Contributor, and a writer who loves ALL things amusement park related!
Traveling alone to the parks has changed my life and I want to show how you can create your own solo theme park memories.
Connect with me on Instagram!
(Original Article Date: June 6, 2023/Updated on February 14, 2024)