Busch Gardens Williamsburg Debuts New Country

On May 19, 2001 Busch Gardens became just a wee bit greener with the debut of "Ireland", the sixth "country" of this popular European-themed park. "Ireland delivers an unparalleled journey for our guests in 2001," says Daniel Brown, executive vice president and general manager of Busch Gardens Williamsburg. "The combination of European charm and mythical folklore, along with Ireland's reputation for hospitality made it a natural choice for Busch Gardens Williamsburg."

The moment you enter the Busch Gardens' hamlet of Killarney you'll feel that festive Irish spirit. First stop should be the Abbey Stone Theatre, the home of the Irish Thunder Dance show. This show features the energetic and original dances of Busch Gardens' 21 high stepping Irish Dancers. Ask a cast member at the entrance for directions to the accessible seating, or for information about assistive listening devices.

Next stop, Corkscrew Hill; a 4 D adventure experience that invites guests to experience life in a world ruled by roaming giants. The good news is that Corkscrew Hill was built to be accessible. All guests enter the ride at the same accessible main entrance, as there's no longer a need for wheelchair-users to use a separate entrance. In order to ride Corkscrew Hill, you must be able to sit upright unassisted, as this thrill ride does take some dips and turns. In other words, you need to be able to hang on!

No trip to Ireland would be complete without time to shop for Waterford crystal and Belleek china. Guests can choose from a bevy of accessible shops at Busch Gardens' Ireland, including the Emerald Isle Shop, the Toys of the Leprechaun Shop, and the Pot o'Gold Magic Shop. And for a taste of traditional Irish food, stop in at the accessible Grogran's Grille and Grogan's Pub. All in all, Busch Gardens' Ireland is an entertaining and accessible addition to the top-rated theme park.

Of course, Busch Gardens is more than just "Ireland"; and throughout the park, access is well defined. For example instead of stating that certain rides are not appropriate for wheelchair-users; Bush Gardens posts signs that list the motor skills necessary to ride each specific ride. In other words, wheelchair users are not just lumped together in one big category. The staff seems to recognize that wheelers can (and do) have different levels of mobility.

Although the Busch Gardens' staff will assist with transfers, they will not lift guests into rides. The will help steady the ride, hold the wheelchair, or give other assistance that does not involve physically moving the guest. Guests must be able to transfer to rides independently, or with assistance from somebody in their party.

Visitors can pick up a Busch Gardens Access Guide at the main entrance or at guest relations. This helpful resource includes a map of the accessible route, the locations of accessible toilets, and access information about rides, attractions, shops, shows and restaurants throughout the park. In many cases wheelchair-users can enter rides at the exits; however specific access instructions are posted at each ride.

Guests who do not use a mobility aid, but who feel they cannot wait in the main que lines for rides, should report to the main first aid station. This includes guests with sensory, cognitive and hidden disabilities. The first aid staff will evaluate each case on an individual basis, and issue special access passes as needed. Additionally, wheelchair and scooter rentals are available at Banbury Cross, near the front gate. They are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Advance reservations are not accepted.

Busch Gardens Williamsburg is located off Interstate 60, just south of Colonial Williamsburg. The accessible Relax and Ride shuttle bus stops at Busch Gardens and at the major hotels in the Williamsburg Area. All buses are lift-equipped and the fare is a very reasonable $1. For route, schedule or access information call (757)259-4115 or visit www.relaxandride.com. For more information on Busch Gardens Williamsburg, visit www.buschgardens.com.

Busch Gardens in located in Williamsburg, Virginia. Nearby attractions include colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown.

Read more about Williamsburg area attractions in the Summer 2001 issue of Emerging Horizons.