Loch Ness Monster coaster is back at Busch Gardens Williamsburg

After a six-month closure, the Loch Ness Monster roller coaster is open again at Busch Gardens Williamsburg with new theming elements.

Loch Ness Monster coaster at Busch Gardens Williamsburg — _{Photos by Melody Matheny}

Loch Ness Monster Reawakens

Loch Ness Monster officially reopened to the public at the Williamsburg, Va. park on May 10, 2024 following passholder previews last week. The coaster closed for refurbishment last October.

Loch Ness Monster coaster entrance sign at Busch Gardens Williamsburg

During the coaster’s slumber, Busch Gardens crews and creatives developed new props for the queue, composed a new soundtrack, installed interactive elements inside the ride’s cave sequence, and replaced 900 feet of the coaster’s steel track. As the coaster’s promotional campaign hails, “The legend lives on.”

Loch Ness Monster coaster queue at Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Take a look in our POV video of the new Loch Ness Monster:

Loch Ness Monster, which first opened in 1978, reaches speeds of up to 60 mph and features two interlocking loops along its ride path. The attraction is a national registered landmark through American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Guests must be at least 48 inches tall to ride. Keep in mind the attraction closes one hour earlier than the rest of the park.

Riders can get into the spirit by trying the Loch Ness Libation, a beverage available during the park’s Food and Wine Festival on select dates.

Tour the New Loch Ness Queue

Last month, we got a sneak peek tour of the Loch Ness Monster construction site. See our previous story for photos of the queue and more details about the ride’s new fictional lore.