>>>Busch Gardens in the Fall and Winter    In the United States, most theme and amusement parks close in the late fall and do not open again until the spring (the off-season). In the southern most areas of the country, where winter weather is not extreme, parks operate all year. The fall and winter for year round operating parks is often called the "off-season," even though it is not truly one.   For Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, from November (after Howl-O-Scream) to March is generally the "off-season." During this period, crowds are not as large as in the spring and summer, especially on weekdays. There are some exceptions however. Around Christmas and New Year's, Busch Gardens becomes very crowded. Overall, though, the fall and winter is an excellent time to visit the park without there being a billion other people. Generally speaking, weekdays are your best best if you aim to avoid huge crowds and ride rides multiple times.   One major advantage to visiting in the fall and winter is the weather. During the summer, the heat and humidity can be unbearable for those not used to it (and even for those who are). By the fall, temperatures usually have dropped into the 70's. Although central Florida does not get as cold as many parts of the country, it can be quite chilly, with lows dropping into the 30's in the wintertime. Wearing pants and a sweatshirt is fine for most days, but there are occasionally days where jackets are needed. If you like to ride roller coasters, be sure to remember that when you are going 70 miles per hour, it will feel colder. Also be sure to pack sunscreen; just because it is not hot does not mean you cannot get burned.   Fall and winter do have some drawbacks, as after all, it is the "off-season." Most other parks use the off-season as a chance to refurbish rides and attractions. With no real time off in Florida, attractions have to be closed when the park is open (called seasonal maintenance). On any particular day, a roller coaster or other attraction may not be operating. It is often hit or miss, and it is never a bad idea to call Busch Gardens to see if any major attractions will be down. Another drawback is the water rides (which are often closed for seasonal maintenance when it is cold). When it is cold, you are not (well, hopefully) going to want to get soaked on one of the many water rides. You could wear a poncho, but the cold takes most of the fun out of the rides. If you do not care for the water rides, the fall and winter is a great time to visit.   If you prefer cooler temperatures and possibly less crowded days, and do not mind risking a major roller coaster not operating, the fall and winter is the time for you. Around Christmas and New Year's, you do not have to worry about many attractions being closed. In fact, in 2004, Akbar's Adventure Tours only operated around Christmas and New Year's. Weekends in the fall and winter can and may be crowded; weekdays are usually not very busy. For those that enjoy viewing the gardens, do not worry as there are still plenty of them around in the winter. Before you go, be sure to check the weather report, because Florida is not warm year round, and dress appropriately. Last Updated: November 4th, 2005