If you are anything like me, excitement, risks and thrills are things that you constantly seek; from skydiving to rock climbing, I am always ready for a new adventure. When I first arrived here in Tampa, Fla., I was unsure of what kind of activities there were to partake in. Then I found out that Tampa was one of two cities home to a Busch Gardens amusement park.

Busch Gardens parks are owned and run by SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment. They’re the type of parks that promote the conservation of wildlife, which could be why Tampa’s Busch Gardens has an African theme to it. The Florida park first opened in 1959, and since then has become known for not only its rides, but for its expansive zoological institution.

The park currently has 16 different rides for all different age groups. These rides range from the SheiKra rollercoaster- more of a daredevil ride- to the Serengeti Railway, an old-fashioned train ride through the African plains. The park is constantly expanding its attractions, having recently added its newest rollercoaster, the Cheetah Hunt- intended for the adventurous.

Besides the amusement rides, the park is also home to many different animal attractions, safari tours and other exciting shows. Visitors are able to interact and observe all sorts of wildlife. My personal favorite is the giraffe feeding. Here, visitors are able to rise up to the eye level of a giraffe, feeding the animal or just simply observing its beauty. With over 2,000 different animals, I am sure there is a favorite here for everyone.

“The animal theme really connected visitors to the park,” said Lauren Luchan, a visitor of the park. “With various rides and sights, there were lots of things to take part in.”

Busch Gardens has something to offer everyone, and with promotional codes, group events and numerous park additions, visitors are promised a great experience. The park aims to continue to promote the conservation and education of wildlife, while providing an exciting, memorable time along the way.