lookingforwhattodo
Apr 2021
We traveled to BGT as a party of 9 in early April. I've been to many of the Central Florida parks over the years and BGT won me over. It may not be Disney, but its beauty and diversity of offering win out. They have rides (unique ones too - like Falcon's Fury and the upcoming Iron Gwazi) for all heights and ages. Their landscaping is beautiful and their animal encounters (like bird and kangaroo feedings) and a plus (for me, at least). They also offer shows (which, unfortunately, are not currently running due to COVID). It's like Universal's rides and Disney's theming all rolled in one - for less money!
That being said you must be aware of the crowds, especially during April spring break/Easter times. It was quite crowded during our trip and most of the major rides had posted wait times of a minimum of 45 minutes, some of even 90 minutes! It was difficult to get on even a few rides (not that ANY theme park in Florida is better in the area - if anything, in my experience, they're worse during the busy season). Their Quick Queue pass was a minimum of $100 which is exorbitant.
The parking tram took longer than usual because they're short-staffed and the safari train line was way too long. It is unfortunate they closed the Skyride and the rafting ride just due to short-staffing. With so many guests, you'd figure they have the money to hire some more operators. I would've liked those rides to be operating. I've read negative reviews that complain about long lines - I don't know what they expected - BGT is certainly not worse than Disney's notoriously long lines. I didn't notice any of the disrepairs other mentioned.
So, choose when you go carefully and if you wish to go during the busy season, I'd say go early and stay late, go slowly or splurge on the Quick Queue.