Colorful amusement park featuring a blue building, palm tree, roller coaster tracks, and visitors walking around.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: A Snack Lover’s Guide to the Best Bites

Author: Karyn Locke

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, a popular Florida theme park known for its thrilling rides and fun animal encounters, is also great for food enthusiasts. Beyond the classic park fare, Busch Gardens offers various snacks catering to every palate and dietary preference. From sweet treats to savory bites, here’s a guide to the best snacks you can enjoy during your visit.

If you’re a foodie, planning a visit to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay should include test-driving the snacks,  but where to even begin to narrow them down? Right here! Keep these close when visiting the thrill-ride park to tick them off your tasty treat list. 

Sweet Indulgences

Marcus Quigmire from Florida, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

If you like snacks on the sweet side, here are the best ones to try:

  • Ice Cream: Busch Gardens boasts one of the best theme park sundaes, happily. You’ll want to head to the Ice Cream Parlor at the Moroccan Village. With a simple name, the Brownie Supreme, it’s filled with several large scoops of your choice of ice cream and a giant brownie on top.
  • Candy Apples: A classic theme park treat, candy apples are available in various flavors and coatings, including caramel, chocolate, and sprinkles. You can find them at Sultan’s Snacks near the park’s entrance. 
  • Baked Goods: The park offers a variety of baked goods, including cookies, brownies, and pastries. Look for stands that offer freshly baked treats throughout the day.
  • Funnel Cakes– Part crunchy, part, tender, there’s nothing like a fresh funnel cake to keep you satiated until you can have a bigger meal. Where to find them? Visit Coaster Coffee Company for massive portions. 
  • King Cake Cinnamon Rolls: served during Mardi Gras in the park, complete with colorful sugars, the decadent snack is worth making a beeline for. 

Savory Bites

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Don’t have a sweet tooth? Not a problem. Here are the best of Busch Gardens’ savory treats. 

  • Pretzels: A classic snack that pairs well with mustard or cheese (or both together. I’m not here to judge.), pretzels are a great option for a quick and satisfying bite and will hold you over until your next meal. Head to Twisted Tails Pretzels to get one in traditional or cinnamon sugar. 
  • Popcorn: Choose from classic buttered popcorn or try a flavored variety like caramel or kettle corn. For me, it’s the delicious scent that makes me realize that I want some even though I’m not hungry. What can you do?
  • Corn Dogs: A popular theme park food, corn dogs are a classic American treat that is perfect for a quick and tasty snack that’s on the heartier side. 
  • Nachos: Satisfy your craving for crunch with a plate of nachos topped with cheese, salsa, and other toppings.

Healthy Options

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If you’re looking for lighter fare, there are a few choices for you:

  • Fresh Fruit: The park offers a variety of fresh fruits, including apples, bananas, and grapes. It’s a healthy and refreshing snack option. My opinion here, but if you have small children, I’d pack it for them and save some cash. Ditto for food allergies. 
  • Trail Mix: A mix of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit, trail mix is a nutritious and filling snack. Again, you could always bring some from home, but it is offered. 
  • Salads: If you’re looking for a healthier meal, consider a salad from one of the park’s restaurants.
  • Smoothies: Enjoy a refreshing smoothie made with fresh fruit and yogurt. For me, smoothies are a great breakfast option. 

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