Top 5 Rides for Short "Big" Kids at Busch Gardens Williamsburg

by Micaela Williamson

The dreaded 41 inches bracelet....

This past spring, my children and I went to Busch Gardens Williamsburg to check out the new London Rocks show and spend the day going on some of our favorite rides.  My 4 1/2 year old was so excited, but when it was time to get measured, he received the dreaded striped bracelet.  Yes, he was 41 inches...just one inch under the 42 inches requirement to go on a lot of the "big kid" rides.  I was alone with my kids so there was no way to "divide and conquer" with my spouse.  Luckily, Busch Gardens Williamsburg has some great ride options for the whole family to enjoy together.  There's no need for older siblings to be bored! 

Here are our top five favorite ones:

Elephant Run

Courtesy of Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Located in Festa Italia, this ride is actually pretty fast and fun.  Note, it changes names to "Reindeer Run" during Christmas Town.  Everyone will be laughing out loud!

Rider Requirements: Must be 38" to ride alone; Walking to 38" must be accompanied by a supervising adult. Hand-held infants are not permitted to ride. 

Le Scoot

This classic log flume ride is thrilling with a couple of big drops but still safe and fun for younger children seeking a little more adventure.  Insider tip: the front of the boat gets wetter than the back!  This ride is only open in during the spring and summer seasons. 

Rider requirements: Walking to 46" can ride with a supervising adult.   

Grover's Alpine Express

Courtesy of Busch Gardens Williamsburg Media Room

When we were there, we saw teenagers riding this! Even though it's located in the Sesame Street area, this is a great beginner roller coaster that still picks up enough speed for older children to enjoy.  My kids wanted to go on it multiple times in a row!

Rider requirements: Children 38" and taller may ride with a supervising companion ages 14 and older, and children 41" and taller may ride alone.

Der Wirbelwind

Courtesy of Busch Gardens Williamsburg Media Room

Soar above the park and reach some serious height!  Der Wirbelwind boasts special double swings where a parent and smaller child can sit together. The smaller child is secure with an extra harness, similar to a child's car seat.  If you are not afraid of heights, this is a great one to try.  

Rider requirements:  Children 40"-48" must be accompanied by a supervising companion and ride in the double swing; 48" or taller can ride alone.

Le Catapult

Courtesy of Busch Gardens Williamsburg

 Looking like you may crash into the wall is part of the fun! Riders are jolted around on this take on an amusement park classic.  Definitely expect a lot of giggles!

Rider requirements:  Children walking to 46" must be accompanied by a supervising adult. Those 48" or taller can ride alone.

There are many more rides, attractions, and shows at Busch Gardens Williamsburg for those not tall enough for or those not interested in the thrill rides.  This list is just a sampling of rides older and younger kids may enjoy experiencing together.  For more information, please visit the official Busch Gardens Williamsburg website. 



Disclosure:  I am an official blogger and ambassador with Busch Gardens Williamsburg.  My family receives free admission and special perks for sharing our experiences.  All opinions are my own.