Busch Gardens with an 8 year old this Friday

Question

I will be taking my daughter to Busch Gardens this Friday. She is tall enough to go on the rides, but doesn’t want to go on stuff that goes upside down. It looks like the only two that don’t go upside down are Cheetah Hunt and Phoenix Rising. Am I correct? Also should I still buy the fast pass? Does it work for most rides, not just the crazy coasters? Thanks for the help.

Answer

It sounds like you're planning an exciting day at Busch Gardens with your daughter! You're correct in noting that Cheetah Hunt and Phoenix Rising are among the rides that don’t go upside down. Here's a more detailed look:

For an 8-year-old who doesn’t want to go upside down, in addition to Cheetah Hunt and Phoenix Rising, there are a few other rides she can enjoy that don't involve inversions:

Falcon's Fury - While this is a thrilling drop tower ride, it does not go upside down. It may still feel intense due to the free fall, so it might be worth checking with her if she’s comfortable with the height and drop.
SheiKra (without inversion option) - While SheiKra does have inversions, it's sometimes possible to opt for the "no inversion" seating option, where you still get the same thrilling experience but without the loop.
Jungala area attractions - This area has several gentler attractions that do not involve inversions and could be a good option for more relaxed fun, like the Wild Surge, a fun family ride.
Safari of Fun - Perfect for younger children, this area has several attractions like carousels and spinning rides that don’t involve upside-down elements.

Regarding the Fast Pass: Yes, the Fast Pass can be a great option, especially on busy days like Fridays. The Fast Pass will allow you to skip the regular lines at most rides, including many of the coasters and popular attractions, not just the upside-down ones. It’s particularly helpful if you want to make the most of your time and avoid long wait times.

Keep in mind that the Fast Pass does not apply to all rides—some smaller attractions and specific shows may not be included. However, for rides like Cheetah Hunt, SheiKra, and other major attractions, it will help significantly reduce wait times, making your visit smoother and more enjoyable.

Lastly, if you're going on a Friday, you might find that the park is less crowded than on weekends, but it’s always good to plan ahead, especially with kids, so you don’t miss out on your favorite rides. Consider arriving early to make the most of your day.

Enjoy your trip to Busch Gardens! With the right mix of rides and Fast Pass, it should be an unforgettable experience for both of you!