DarKoaster, North America’s First All-Indoor Straddle Coaster, Launches This May at Busch Gardens Williamsburg
- Beginning May 11, Members will receive exclusive early ride access on one of the most anticipated coasters of 2023
- DarKoaster opens to the public on Friday, May 19 with a grand opening ceremony
- Now through April 23, guests can save up to 20% on Memberships during the Spring Sale and get $20 for free to spend in the park
- While riding DarKoaster, thrill seekers embark on snowmobiles to discover a mysterious phenomenon inside the walls of the iconic Oktoberfest Castle
- Celebrate with the DarKoaster Black Lager, a collaboration with The Virginia Beer Company, brewed for Busch Gardens Williamsburg
WILLIAMSBURG, VA. (April 20, 2023) – Busch Gardens Williamsburg announced that DarKoaster, North America’s first all-indoor straddle coaster, will be available exclusively to Members for early ride access on select dates starting May 11. The park’s tenth roller coaster will open to all park visitors on May 19. Voted one of the most anticipated roller coasters of 2023 by USA Today, DarKoaster is an unprecedented, family-friendly addition to Busch Gardens’ thrill ride portfolio.
Thrill seekers experiencing DarKoaster will embark on snowmobiles to discover a mysterious phenomenon inside the walls of the iconic Oktoberfest castle. Building upon the legacy of Curse of DarKastle, a supernatural force is imminent as explorers discover that they are evading more than just a raging storm. With a 48” height requirement, this attraction is perfect for the whole family to conquer together.
Manufactured by Intamin Worldwide, Busch Gardens’ newest family thrill is a steel coaster design with four accelerating launches and over 1,400 feet of track. As the weather strikes, riders will race through total darkness to evade the elements, experiencing a total of 2,454 feet of track.
To commemorate the opening of DarKoaster, Busch Gardens collaborated with The Virginia Beer Company to develop the DarKoaster Black Lager, a limited-release beer. At 5.2% ABV, this all-new brew is a traditional German-style Schwarzbier with hints of chocolate and coffee notes. Featured at Busch Gardens Williamsburg, this limited-edition pour will be available on draft and in commemorative cans to visitors 21 and up beginning on DarKoaster’s Opening Day.
“DarKoaster is an unprecedented addition to Busch Gardens’ lineup of thrills. As the park’s tenth coaster, this attraction will immerse riders like never before in an all-new dark ride experience, said Kevin Lembke, Busch Gardens Williamsburg Park President. “We are excited to open DarKoaster on May 19, pairing with the launch of the exclusive DarKoaster Black Lager. It’s a privilege to partner with The Virginia Beer Company, a staple to Williamsburg and the craft beer community.”
Busch Gardens Spring Sale
For a limited time only, visitors can save up to 20 percent on the purchase of a Busch Gardens Membership and receive early ride access on DarKoaster starting May 11. Plus, from now through April 23, receive $20 for FREE to spend in the park. Members get unlimited visits to experience seasonal events throughout the year and unbeatable benefits including FREE parking, FREE guest tickets, in-park discounts, exclusive Member events and monthly rewards. Current rewards include $10 in FREE Busch Gardens Bucks, one FREE Food & Wine Festival item and more.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg was voted one of the best theme parks of 2022 by USA Today. To be the first to know about event details and specials, follow Busch Gardens Williamsburg on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
About Busch Gardens Williamsburg
Busch Gardens® Williamsburg is an action-packed European-themed adventure park with 17th century charm and 21st-century technology, boasting more than 100 acres of family fun. Home to top-rated roller coasters, more than 50 rides and attractions, live stage shows, monthly special events and delicious culinary experiences. For more information, visit www.BuschGardens.com Busch Gardens is owned by SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: SEAS), a leading theme park and entertainment company providing experiences that matter and inspiring guests to protect animals and the wild wonders of our world.
About The Virginia Beer Company
Established in 2016 in the heart of Williamsburg, The Virginia Beer Company prides itself on exceptional quality across an array of small batch ales and lagers. But at the heart of our business lies a foundation beyond brewing: Beer · People · Purpose. Our commitment to community is what drives us. We believe that our brews are only as good as the people with whom we share them. We’ve worked to create a dynamic environment in which to enjoy a rotation of recipes that reflect the positive spirit of our brewery. Drinking good beer together, we can help accomplish great things…and we look forward to sharing a round of beers & cheers together soon!
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