A Five-Star Roller Coaster Experience

Are you the kind of roller coaster fan who makes special pilgrimages to theme parks around the country to test out the latest and greatest? Add two more to your list—the newest roller coasters at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg this summer are waiting to give you a five-star roller coaster experience! 

DarKoaster

Busch Gardens is a European village-themed park, with different sections representing different countries and cultures. Each ride, therefore, has a story and theme, and DarKoaster, North America’s first all-indoor straddle coaster, is no different. 

The story is set around haunted medieval ruins in Octoberfest village. King Ludwig’s abandoned fortress resurfaces as strange weather patterns have been recorded near the cursed castle grounds. Riders must be brave as they embark on snowmobiles in this dark expedition to discover the mysterious phenomenon. A supernatural force is imminent as explorers discover that they are evading more than just a raging storm.

Now, the stats: Your snowmobile travels across 2,454 feet of track, as you race through total darkness while changing course to avoid the elements. As dangerous weather strikes, you’ll encounter four accelerating launches on this family-friendly, five-star roller coaster texperience.

Even more exciting: After your ride, you can refresh your senses with a DarKoaster-themed beer. To celebrate the opening of this unique coaster, Busch Gardens collaborated with local brewery The Virginia Beer Company to develop DarKoaster Black Lager, a limited-release beer with hints of chocolate and coffee notes. This limited-edition pour is available on draft and in commemorative cans to visitors 21 and over at BarKastle and the Brauhaus Craft Bier Room! Prost! 

Pantheon

Of course, there is a whole selection of thrilling roller coasters on which to test your bravery, including Pantheon, which was one of the world’s most anticipated coasters of 2022. Hope over to the park’s Festa Italia village and climb aboard the world’s fastest multi-launch roller coaster. Going with the theme of Italy’s history, you’ll harness the speed and strength of five of the greatest Roman Gods on this record-breaking coaster that stands 180 feet tall with a top speed of 73 mph, and features a 95° drop, 4 launches, 5 air-time hills and 2 inversions. 

After you collect yourself, take a stroll and enjoy all of the rides, shows, food, and kid-friendly attractions around the world’s most beautiful theme park. When the sun goes down, experience Summer Nights, when the park transforms for a new level of summer fun. Glittering coasters, atmospheric family-friendly live entertainment including award-winning shows, and specialty menus are happening every night through August 13! Get your tickets here.

There are amazing theme parks all around the country, all with different rides and vibes. Busch Gardens in Williamsburg is home to the world’s most beautiful—truly a five-star roller coaster experience!