Construction Update: All-new Loch Ness Monster opens at Busch Gardens Williamsburg on May 10
Busch Gardens’ signature Loch Ness Monster roller coaster will open on May 10, 2024, following a full restoration (including a surprise visit from the Loch Ness Monster herself) and we were invited to see the progress.
By Melody Matheny
The 49-year-old Loch Ness Monster coaster at Busch Gardens Williamsburg is currently undergoing a major makeover that includes replacing 900 feet of the ride’s iconic yellow steel track, along with new queue elements, a new soundtrack and audio equipment, new theming elements along the ride track, and new interactive elements inside the cave portion of the ride.
The storyline of this much loved ride has had a bit of redevelopment as well:
A great many researchers and adventurers are traveling from far and wide to camp out and search for Nessie. You become part of a team. You’ll receive your assignment when you reach the field office (in the queue). Upon reaching the debarkation zone (the load station), your ‘boat’ will be raised and made ready by jib hoists throughout the station. You will then go on a wild ride chasing Nessie through the waters and attempt to have a direct encounter. When you return back to the station, you and your team “report” if you saw Nessie or not.
“For several decades, Loch Ness Monster has been a fan-favorite attraction for millions of guests,” said Kevin Lembke, president of Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water Country USA. “With a 48-inch height requirement, the whole family can make memories together while conquering Loch Ness Monster: The Legend Lives On.”
Note from the architect: Be sure to keep an eye out for Easter eggs throughout the queue.
The Loch Ness Monster is the only roller coaster in the world that is still in operation with interlocking loops. This classic ride has been recognized as a historical landmark by the American Coaster Enthusiasts. For a limited-time, guests get visit the all-new Sighting Center in the park’s Scotland area for a walk through experience featuring archival photos, attraction milestones, and more. The Loch Ness Monster Sighting Center will be open daily now through April 21, 2024.
Busch Gardens Members will get exclusive early ride access before Loch Ness Monster: The Legend Lives On opens to the public on May 10, 2024. Guests who are not already Members can save up to 20% on Busch Gardens and Water Country USA Memberships during a limited-time flash sale.
Other Busch Garden Updates
The Squires Grille restaurant in the England area of the park has undergone renovations as well, with an expected May opening date. The restaurant will feature new menu items, new theming elements, enhanced architecture, and a beautiful stained glass feature in the facade. In this iteration, the funnel cake and ice cream sales will be combined into one unit on one side of the restaurant. Outdoor seating in the plaza will also be returning.
Directly facing Squires Grille, the Big Ben clock tower has also undergone upgrading with new trim, windows, and clock motor. The adjacent restrooms feature new tile, fixtures, and a updated theme.
Click here for more information.
