Busch Gardens Williamsburg’s all-new DarKoaster, named one of the most anticipated coasters of 2023 by USA Today, is now open to the public. Thrill seekers experiencing North America’s first all-indoor straddle coaster will embark on a family-friendly adventure to discover a mysterious phenomenon happening within the walls of Oktoberfest Village’s iconic castle. A supernatural force is imminent as explorers discover that they are evading more than just a raging storm. As the weather strikes, the straddle snowmobile-style seats allow for an immersive ride as guests lean into banks and turn across the 2,454 feet of track, encountering four accelerating launches while speeding through the elements in total darkness.
With a height requirement of 48 inches, DarKoaster is an attraction park guests can conquer together. “DarKoaster offers family-friendly thrills enhanced with a great storyline and theming, said Elizabeth Ringas, President of American Coaster Enthusiasts. “DarKoaster is the perfect addition to Busch Gardens and creates even more opportunities for fun and special memories with the family.
Opening day for Busch Gardens’ tenth and the first all-indoor coaster was marked with a Grand Opening Ceremony featuring elected officials and Busch Gardens fans. The ceremony culminated with DarKoaster’s first official ride featuring Busch Gardens’ most dedicated social fans, who have been impactful in the new attraction’s development. From voting on the names of the ride vehicles to signing thematic banners that are displayed inside the attraction, this ride was built to honor the longtime fans of the park’s history.
“Our valued Members were among the first to experience DarKoaster, and after hearing their excitement for both the ride and its thematic elements, we are thrilled to now share this one-of-a-kind attraction with all of our guests,” said Kevin Lembke, Busch Gardens Williamsburg Park President. “DarKoaster is a unique and unprecedented addition to Busch Gardens and we enjoyed recognizing our most passionate fans and local partners this morning during our opening celebration.”
Visitors can keep the celebrations going all summer long with the DarKoaster Black Lager, a limited-release beer by The Virginia Beer Company. Brewed for Busch Gardens Williamsburg, the all-new brew is a traditional German-style Schwarzbier with an opaque, black color and 5.2% ABV. Beginning today, the limited-edition pour is available on draft and in commemorative cans to visitors 21 and up.
The new thrills continue at Water Country USA, Virginia’s largest waterpark. Celebrating the start of daily operation with its debut on May 29, the all-new Riptide Race is an adrenaline-pumping water slide race that pits teams against each other in a splash to the finish line. It all starts atop a 54-foot tower, where visitors grab a two-person raft before racing through 520 feet of slide, with low walls to keep an eye on the competition. It’s a dash to the splash on Virginia’s first dueling pipeline. Members will be among the first to ride Riptide Race with exclusive slide time beginning May 27.
Clint Gamache is the owner of ThrillGeek. He started ThrillGeek to share his love of theme/amusement parks and pop culture with the world. You can find him at Halloween Horror Nights. Also, be sure to follow him on Twitter @iamcg83