Distance Between Tropicana Field and Busch Gardens

Planning Your Tampa Bay Sports and Theme Park Trip

If you’re visiting Florida’s Gulf Coast and want to catch a Rays game at Tropicana Field and then hit the roller coasters at Busch Gardens, you’ll need to factor in a drive of about 55 miles (roughly 88 kilometers) between the two venues.

The Route

• Tropicana Field is located in downtown St. Petersburg, on the Pinellas Peninsula.
• Busch Gardens Tampa Bay sits in northeast Tampa, just off I-275 and I-4.

The most direct route typically takes I-275 north across the Howard Frankland Bridge into Tampa, then I-4 east to the Busch Gardens exit (Exit 6). Under normal traffic, the trip takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, but rush hour or game-day congestion can add significant time.

Tips for Travelers

• Allow extra time if traveling on weekends, holidays, or when the Rays have a home game.
• Consider using the Selmon Expressway (FL-618) as an alternative if I-275 is backed up.
• Parking at both venues is ample but can fill early on busy days; arrive early or use ride-share services.

Whether you’re chasing a home run or a thrill ride, the two attractions are close enough for a same-day adventure—with a little planning.