Sand Serpent

Comprehensive Guide to Visiting Sand Serpent, Tampa, United States

Publication Date: 17/08/2024

Introduction to Sand Serpent in Tampa

Welcome to the comprehensive guide to visiting Sand Serpent at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. This guide aims to provide an in-depth look at the history and legacy of Sand Serpent, a beloved roller coaster that thrilled visitors for nearly two decades. Originally introduced as Wild Izzy in Busch Gardens Williamsburg, the ride underwent multiple relocations and rebrandings before finding its final home in Tampa, Florida, as Sand Serpent. This guide will walk you through its fascinating journey, from its origins to its closure, and provide valuable visitor information, travel tips, and insights into nearby attractions. Whether you’re a theme park enthusiast or simply curious about historical rides, this guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay (bgtsafari.com, wikipedia.org, bgthistory.com).

Introduction
History of Sand Serpent
Visitor Information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion

Introduction

Welcome to the comprehensive history of Sand Serpent, a beloved roller coaster that once thrilled visitors at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. This article delves into the origins, evolution, and ultimate closure of this iconic ride. Whether you’re a theme park enthusiast or simply curious about historical rides, this guide covers everything you need to know, including visitor information and travel tips.

History of Sand Serpent

Origins and Early Years

The Sand Serpent roller coaster, originally known as Wild Izzy, began its journey at Busch Gardens Williamsburg in Virginia. It was introduced in 1996, named after Izzy, the mascot of the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia. The ride quickly gained popularity among visitors for its thrilling wild mouse design, characterized by sharp turns and sudden drops (bgtsafari.com).

In 1997, the ride was renamed Wilde Maus and continued to operate under this name until 2003. During this period, it maintained its status as a beloved attraction, drawing in crowds eager for its unique experience. However, in 2003, Busch Gardens Williamsburg decided to remove Wilde Maus to make way for a new dark ride called Curse of DarKastle (bgtsafari.com).

Relocation to Busch Gardens Tampa

Following its removal from Busch Gardens Williamsburg, the roller coaster was relocated to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay in Florida. It reopened in February 2004 under the new name Cheetah Chase, replacing the defunct Crazy Camel flat ride that had been part of the Timbuktu section since 1980 (wikipedia.org). The relocation was part of a broader effort to revitalize the park’s attractions and offer visitors new experiences.

Rebranding to Sand Serpent

In 2011, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay introduced a new roller coaster called Cheetah Hunt. To avoid confusion between the two similarly named rides, Cheetah Chase was rebranded as Sand Serpent. This name change marked the beginning of a new era for the roller coaster, now situated in the Pantopia section of the park, which was renamed with the introduction of Falcon’s Fury, the park’s signature drop tower (bgthistory.com).

Technical Specifications and Design

Sand Serpent was manufactured by Mack Rides and designed by Werner Stengel, a renowned roller coaster designer. The ride featured a maximum height of 45.9 feet (14.0 meters), a total length of 1,213.9 feet (370.0 meters), and a maximum speed of 28 miles per hour (45 kilometers per hour). The ride duration was approximately 1 minute and 50 seconds, with no inversions, making it a family-friendly attraction suitable for a wide range of visitors (wikipedia.org).

Operational Challenges and Refurbishments

Over the years, Sand Serpent faced several operational challenges that required periodic refurbishments. On January 2, 2017, the ride closed unannounced and was later added to the park’s list of attraction refurbishments with a completion date of “To Be Determined.” Testing of the ride began in early May, and it reopened on May 12, 2017 (bgthistory.com).

In June 2017, a permit was filed with the City of Tampa to enclose Sand Serpent and its queue inside a new structure. The proposed structure would encompass over 5,000 square feet and reach 64 feet in height at the tallest point. Testing of the site included four borings to determine if the plot of land could support the added weight of the structure. Updates to the permit application the following month noted that the building would be air-conditioned. However, the park never officially announced any work, and the permit eventually expired without further progress (bgthistory.com).

Final Years and Closure

Despite its popularity and historical significance, Sand Serpent’s journey came to an end in 2023. On June 15, 2023, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay announced in a Facebook post that Sand Serpent would be closing, with its last day of operation on July 9, 2023. Pass members received exclusive early morning access to ride Sand Serpent from June 30 to July 4, 2023. As part of the announcement, a point-of-view (POV) video of the ride was shared, allowing fans to relive the experience one last time (bgthistory.com).

Legacy and Significance

Sand Serpent holds a special place in the history of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Its journey from Busch Gardens Williamsburg to Tampa Bay, along with its multiple rebrandings, reflects the dynamic nature of theme park attractions and the continuous efforts to keep them relevant and exciting for visitors. The ride’s closure marked the end of an era, but its legacy lives on in the memories of those who experienced its thrilling twists and turns.

The roller coaster’s history is a testament to the evolution of theme park attractions and the importance of adapting to changing visitor preferences. Sand Serpent’s story also highlights the challenges and complexities involved in maintaining and refurbishing amusement park rides, ensuring they remain safe and enjoyable for all.

For those who had the opportunity to ride Sand Serpent, it will always be remembered as a unique and exhilarating experience that contributed to the rich tapestry of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s attractions. As the park continues to evolve and introduce new rides, the legacy of Sand Serpent will undoubtedly inspire future generations of thrill-seekers and theme park enthusiasts.

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Tickets

For those planning to visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, the park typically opens at 10 AM and closes at 6 PM, though these hours can vary depending on the season and special events. It is advisable to check the official Busch Gardens Tampa Bay website for the most current information.

Tickets for Busch Gardens Tampa Bay can be purchased online or at the gate. Online purchases often come with discounts and special offers. Annual passes are also available for frequent visitors, providing unlimited access to the park and other benefits.

Accessibility

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is committed to providing an enjoyable experience for all guests. The park offers various accessibility services, including wheelchair rentals, accessible restrooms, and assistance for guests with disabilities. Detailed information can be found on the park’s official website.

Travel Tips

Arrive Early: To make the most of your visit, arrive early to avoid long lines and enjoy the park’s attractions with fewer crowds.
Stay Hydrated: Florida’s weather can be quite hot, so be sure to stay hydrated throughout your visit. Water stations are available throughout the park.
Plan Your Day: Take a look at the park map and plan your day around showtimes and attraction wait times to maximize your experience.

Nearby Attractions

While visiting Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, consider exploring other nearby attractions such as the Florida Aquarium, Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo, and the Museum of Science and Industry. These attractions offer additional entertainment and educational experiences for visitors of all ages.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What were the Sand Serpent’s operating hours?

A: Sand Serpent typically operated during Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s regular park hours, which generally span from 10 AM to 6 PM.

Q: Is there a replacement for Sand Serpent at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay?

A: As of now, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has not announced a specific replacement for Sand Serpent. However, the park frequently updates its attractions, so stay tuned for future announcements.

Conclusion

Sand Serpent’s story is a fascinating chapter in the history of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Its journey from Virginia to Florida, multiple rebrandings, and eventual closure reflect the ever-changing landscape of theme park attractions. While Sand Serpent may no longer be in operation, its legacy continues to inspire and entertain. For more updates on Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and other historical rides, be sure to download the mobile app Audiala, check out related posts, and follow us on social media. Happy adventuring!