How To Visit Busch Gardens Williamsburg On A Budget

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Theme parks can be expensive.

And, you know this because you’re looking at how to save money on visiting one.

In landing here, researching how to save your coin, I raise a toast to you, friend. We’re like minded in how to get the most for your money, especially when the parking fees alone start at $30… and the tickets average $90… so we’re at $120 for a single soul to get through the entry turnstiles.

And, that doesn’t touch where you’re going to sleep at and what you’re going to eat.

I think we both prefer the sound of $25 off of ticket prices and complimentary shuttle services to the park from your hotel–with said hotel including a price match offer so you’re getting the lowest price possible for your room.

And, we can just go ahead and say, you don’t need to buy a quick queue (jump the line pass). You just need to know the right days and times to ride your favorite attractions with the shortest lines.

Theme park trips shouldn’t be for the rich or obliterate your savings, so let’s dissect how to visit the World’s Most Beautiful Theme Park on a budget!

Related Reading: Best Hotels Near Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Busch Gardens Discount Tickets

The first step to visiting Busch Gardens Williamsburg on a budget is to purchase affordable tickets.

Easier said than done, right? Not necessarily.

The regular Busch Gardens Williamsburg tickets price range from $80 to $100 on average, which can quickly add up if you’re traveling with a group or family.

However, there are several ways to score Busch Gardens Williamsburg discount tickets to save some cash.

One option is to purchase your tickets in advance. This not only guarantees your entry for the day you plan to visit but also allows you to take advantage of money-saving deals and discounts available online only.

You can save up to $25 on Busch Gardens Williamsburg tickets. These tickets are good for one year from the date of purchase and can be fully refunded with free cancellation up to 24 hours before your trip. (This exclusive deal is available to anyone through that link.)

Another way to save on tickets is if you are an active-duty military personnel. Busch Gardens Williamsburg offers six discounted tickets to be used within six months from the date of purchase.

Periodically, Busch Gardens Williamsburg extends this offer to veterans as well.

Keep in mind, concerning all tickets, that as of currently, children 5 and under are able to visit Busch Gardens Williamsburg for free!

Best Hotels Near Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Choosing the right hotel can also help you save money when visiting Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Staying in a hotel near the park and taking advantage of shuttles can help null parking fees, which start at $30. 

The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Williamsburg is a top choice for hotels near Busch Gardens Williamsburg. It’s the closest hotel to the park and offers shuttle service to the park.

Booking your stay at the DoubleTree comes with perks like free cancellation, a price match, and discounts on your stay.

Your reservation will go towards the Booking rewards program that allows you to earn points towards future trips.

Additionally, the Country Inn & Suites Williamsburg East by Radisson is another close option that offers quality lodging at an affordable price. 

Booking your room at the Country Inn includes the perks mentioned previously like free cancellation and a price match. Plus, by booking through this link, you can take advantage of exclusive deals on your stay.

Both of these hotels provide easy access to the park while helping you save on transportation and parking fees.

Busch Gardens Williamsburg Parking

If you choose to drive to Busch Gardens, be prepared to shell out some cash for parking. Parking at Busch Gardens Williamsburg costs $30 and can go up to $60 depending on the type of parking you choose. Fortunately, there are several ways to cushion that blow.

One route is to stay at a hotel near the park (like the aforementioned DoubleTree) that offers shuttle service. This way, you can avoid driving to the park altogether and save on parking fees.

Another option is to carpool with friends or family. If you split the cost of parking among several people, it can significantly reduce the cost per person.

If you’re carpooling with a season passholder, they’ll be able to get free parking for your group with their pass.

Related Reading: Easy Guide To Parking At Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Food At Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Outside food and drinks are not allowed within Busch Gardens Williamsburg unless they’re for a medical necessity. However, the park has decorated picnic areas in some of its parking lots for visitors who have brought their own lunches.

Packing Food For Busch Gardens

Packing food for your theme park day is a great way to save money! Just make sure you pack non-perishable bites or bring a cooler to keep your lunch from spoiling.

If you’re aiming for something substantial, sandwiches or wraps are easy to pack and won’t spoil if left in a cooler or insulated bag. Opt for protein-rich fillings like turkey or peanut butter to keep you satisfied throughout the day.

Pack plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the day and consider packing sports drinks or drink mixes that can easily be added to water bottles.

Non-perishable snacks, such as granola bars, trail mix, or fruit snacks are a nifty option too. These snacks won’t spoil if left in a hot car until you’re ready to eat.

Eating In Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Busch Gardens Williamsburg is known in the theme park industry for their culinary prowess. Just note that the excellent cuisine comes at a cost ranging between $14-$20 on average.

The hallmark restaurants at Busch Gardens are Das Festhaus, Trapper’s Smokehouse, and Marco Polo’s Marketplace. Respectively, these dines serve German fare, smoked and barbecued meats, and Italian classics.

Typically, the portion size on the plates served could be shared between two people. Alternatively, one person may be satisfied ordering from the kid’s menu (in terms of serving size).

It’s a great way to save money and even try out several of the restaurants without killing your wallet. And, who could complain about splitting a plate of smoked brisket for lunch and then cannelloni for dinner?

Likewise, there are options to graze around the park at eateries like Beste Brezeln & Bier (hot pretzels) in Germany and Les Frites (fries with premium toppings) in France.

Note: Free water cups are available at any restaurant or concessions areas within the park.

Medicinal Snacks & Drinks

If you or anyone in your group has a medical condition that requires specific snacks or drinks, be sure to pack those! For example, if someone in your group has low blood sugar, bring a juice box to prevent hypoglycemia.

It’s important to note that while Busch Gardens Williamsburg does not allow outside food to be brought into the park, snacks and drinks for medical purposes are allowed, so don’t hesitate to pack those!

Tips For Visiting Busch Gardens Williamsburg

It’s important to plan ahead and make the most of your time at the park. Going to the park on the right days can help you avoid long lines and the need to buy a quick queue. (And avoid preemptively buying a quick queue just to show up on a slow park day with no lines.)

Here are some tips to help you plan the best day to go to Busch Gardens Williamsburg to get the most value for your money.

What Is The Best Time To Go To Busch Gardens Williamsburg?

The best time to go to Busch Gardens Williamsburg is on a weekday! Weekdays are typically less crowded than weekends, so you can avoid long lines and have a more enjoyable experience. The only exception is when a major holiday like the Fourth of July or Christmas Eve falls on a weekday.

How Early Should I Get To Busch Gardens Williamsburg?

You should get to Busch Gardens Williamsburg when the park opens at 10am to take advantage of the short ride lines in the early morning. Lines for popular rides tend to be shorter early in the morning and even after dinner time.

Bonus: If you’re not much interested in fireworks, head to your favorite attraction while everyone else is watching the show. Some rides operate during the fireworks and for the ones that are closed during them, they’ll have short waits upon reopening.

Take advantage of the nonpeak times and during firework shows to enjoy short lines!

What Happens If It Rains At Busch Gardens?

Rainy days can be a blessing in disguise at theme parks since many people will avoid going. If you don’t mind getting a little wet, you can often enjoy shorter wait times and less crowded attractions.

The park will stay open during the rain and rides do still run in the rain as long as there’s not lightning in the area. So if anything, all rides just become temporary water rides with little to no lines!

What Free Things To Do Are There At Busch Gardens Williamsburg?

Not everything comes at an extra cost! Busch Gardens Williamsburg offers plenty of shows, events, and attractions that are included with the cost of admission.

Be sure to catch a performance of Celtic Fyre, a critically acclaimed show located in the Ireland hamlet. Events like Howl O Scream and Summer Nights include extra attractions, parades, and shows at no additional cost.

Age Limit For Free Admission

As noted above (but mentioned again so no one accidentally pays for an unnecessary ticket), children 5 and under can enter the park for free. However, children aged 6 and above need to have tickets.

Medical Food & Drinks

Another repeated note because of its importance, medically necessary food and drinks are allowed to be brought into Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Please don’t forget to pack them!

Busch Gardens Williamsburg FAQs

Lastly (but not least), here are some quick answers for the most frequently asked questions regarding Busch Gardens Williamsburg:

Is It Worth Going To Busch Gardens Williamsburg?

Absolutely! Busch Gardens is a world-class theme park with a great array of roller coasters, renowned entertainment productions, and a versatile culinary landscape.

It’s filled to the brim with old world European charm and has been rated as the World’s Most Beautiful Theme Park since 1990. You’ll be in for a fun day at Busch Gardens Williamsburg!

What Is The Slowest Day At Busch Gardens Williamsburg?

Weekdays and rainy days are the slowest days at Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Anytime most people will be at work or anytime the forecast calls for a wash (but not lightning), the park will be far less busy.

Is One Day Enough For Busch Gardens Williamsburg?

Yes! Even if you’re going to the park on a sunny Saturday (the busiest days at Busch Gardens), if you hit your favorite rides early in the morning and around dinner time, you’ll be able to experience the majority of attractions.

Now, could you do two days at Busch Gardens? Yes, and you won’t find yourself too hard pressed on time. But, one day is enough for Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Just time your rides right!

How Long Should I Spend At Busch Gardens Williamsburg?

If you can hold out, you should spend the full day, open to close, at Busch Gardens Williamsburg. That way you’ll have plenty of time to experience everything you wanted to without being on a shortage of time.

Summary

Congratulations!

You’re now equipped with all the tips and tricks you need to have an amazing day at Busch Gardens Williamsburg without breaking the bank.

Remember these key takeaways:

• Purchase discounted tickets in advance for up to $25 off.
• Choose a hotel near the park with shuttle service to save on parking fees.
• Visit on weekdays, rainy days, and during off-peak hours for shorter lines (no quick queue needed).
• Consider sharing a plate at the park’s restaurants or packing a lunch to eat in the picnic area outside.
• Enjoy free shows, attractions, and special events included with the price of admission.

Planning ahead is key, so be sure to take advantage of discounts and book your hotel early!

Have a fantastic time at Busch Gardens Williamsburg! (and ride Verbolten for me)

What’s your favorite money saving hack for when you visit Busch Gardens Williamsburg?

For more Busch Gardens travel guides, you can also check out:

• All Busch Gardens Williamsburg Roller Coasters Ranked
• The Top 5 Hotels Near Busch Gardens Williamsburg
• What To Bring To An Amusement Park
• Best Historic Hotels Near Colonial Williamsburg

Thanks for reading!