Busch Gardens and Water Country USA, Williamsburg, Virginia, has announced a two-year expansion plan including new rides and a re-envisioned village theme.
The changes begin this winter with the opening of Christmas Town: A Busch Gardens Celebration, where guests will be able to enjoy the experience the flair of an Italian Christmas in the park’s Italy section.
Planned for next spring are two towering rides that will offer riders a spectacular view of the James River. One of these, Mäch Tower, will be located in an overhauled version of the park’s Oktoberfest village and become the park’s tallest ride. The 246ft drop tower by Moser Rides will seat 30 riders and include added special effects including audio and seat vibrations.
It’s now more than 30 years since Oktoberfest debuted at Busch Gardens, and as such the park is updating the look and atmosphere of this popular area (pictured). Guests will be able to enjoy freshly-baked pretzels in a new beer garden, complete with canopies of coloured maypoles and festive banners that depict the rich heritage of Bavaria.
Over at Water Country USA waterpark, an epic new drop slide will open courtesy of ProSlide. Featuring two wave paths, Vanish Point will stand 75ft-tall and include a trapdoor start from a “skybox.”
For more than a year, enthusiasts have been speculating what would fill the space that was once home to Busch Gardens’ Big Bad Wolf suspended coaster. It has now been revealed that park will be adding a launch coaster, manufacturer to be confirmed. The ride is expected to feature many “firsts” when it debuts in the spring of 2012.
www.buschgardens.com/bgw
