SeaWorld is a premier destination for aquatic adventures, education, and entertainment. Offering a unique blend of marine life encounters, thrilling rides, and immersive experiences, SeaWorld Orlando promises visitors an unforgettable journey into the depths of the ocean’s wonders.
When combined with its neighbor Discovery Cove and Aquatica, it forms Seaworld Parks and Resorts Orlando, an entertainment complex consisting of the three parks and many neighboring hotels and eateries.
A Glimpse into SeaWorld’s History
Founded in 1973 by George Millay, SeaWorld Orlando has evolved into a world-renowned marine park dedicated to conservation, education, and family fun. Over the decades, SeaWorld has continually expanded its offerings, enriching the visitor experience while maintaining a steadfast commitment to marine life preservation and rehabilitation.
Encounters with Marine Life
Marine Exhibits
At SeaWorld Orlando, visitors have the opportunity to encounter an astonishing array of marine life up close. From majestic dolphins and playful sea lions to graceful manta rays and awe-inspiring sharks, the park’s diverse exhibits showcase the beauty and diversity of the ocean’s inhabitants. Guests can marvel at the grace of bottlenose dolphins in Dolphin Cove, observe the playful antics of sea lions at Pacific Point Preserve, or venture into the depths of the ocean in Shark Encounter.
Animal Interactions
For those seeking a more immersive experience, SeaWorld offers a range of animal interaction programs. Guests can participate in dolphin feeding sessions, snorkel alongside tropical fish in the park’s serene lagoons, or embark on behind-the-scenes tours to learn about the care and conservation efforts dedicated to SeaWorld’s marine residents.
Thrills and Adventures
Signature Rides
In addition to its marine exhibits, SeaWorld Orlando boasts an impressive collection of exhilarating rides and attractions. Thrill-seekers can brave the towering heights of Mako, Orlando’s tallest, fastest, and longest roller coaster, or experience the pulse-pounding excitement of Kraken Unleashed, a virtual reality coaster that transports riders to the depths of the ocean.
Family-Friendly Attractions
For families with young children, SeaWorld offers a variety of interactive experiences and kid-friendly attractions. From the whimsical wonders of Sesame Street Land to the aquatic adventures of the Penguin Trek, there’s something for guests of all ages to enjoy.
Conservation and Education Initiatives
Beyond its entertainment offerings, SeaWorld Orlando is deeply committed to conservation and education. Through partnerships with leading research organizations and marine conservation groups, SeaWorld plays a vital role in raising awareness about the challenges facing marine ecosystems and promoting sustainable practices to protect our oceans for future generations.
SeaWorld’s Themed Areas
Unlike most other theme parks, SeaWorld Orlando is not fully divided into dedicated themed “lands” or sections. There are instead individually themed attractions and select themed areas of the park including the following:
Port of Entry
Port of Entry, the main entrance of the park features a Florida-inspired theme with lush tropical landscaping and a large artificial freshwater marina with a Shamu-themed iconic lighthouse. The theme of the main entrance area integrates into the nearby Key West at SeaWorld area with similar architecture and landscaping.
Sea of Shallows
This area showcases most of the shallow water sea animal exhibits at the park as well as the Dolphin Theater.
- Key West at SeaWorld
Key West at SeaWorld is designed to mimic the appearance of the city of Key West, Florida with architecture and landscaping reminiscent of the area. Animal exhibits in this portion of the park include cownose rays, southern stingrays, green sea turtles, hawksbill sea turtle, loggerhead sea turtle, Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, greater flamingos, West Indian manatees, American alligators and brown pelicans. The stingray and dolphin habitats offer opportunities for guests to feed the animals.
- Stingray Lagoon
Experience the Stingray Lagoon for a unique encounter. Interact with over a hundred stingrays gliding through shallow waters. Guests can gently pet them and purchase food for direct feeding. Stingrays, known for their tranquility, offer a serene experience at SeaWorld Orlando. Highly recommended!
- Dolphin Cove
Enjoy the antics of gregarious dolphins as they gracefully frolic above and below the glistening surface. At certain times each day, seize the opportunity to engage with these charismatic marine mammals in interactive encounters that promise unforgettable memories.
Sea of Legends
Thrill-seekers, brace yourselves for an exhilarating adventure in this dynamic area centered around two iconic roller coaster rides: Journey to Atlantis and Kraken. With their pulse-pounding twists and turns, these attractions promise an adrenaline-fueled experience that will leave you craving for more.
- Journey to Atlantis
Water ride enthusiasts will be thrilled by the unique experience offered by this mythical paradise. Combining elements of flume rides and roller coasters, the attraction promises exciting surprises as riders journey through the sunken city. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure that ignites the senses and leaves a lasting impression.
- Kraken
SeaWorld Orlando’s Kraken® is a unique roller coaster inspired by legendary sea monsters. It’s Orlando’s only floorless coaster, where riders’ feet hang as they zoom above the track at speeds over 150 feet high.
Sea of Ice
Sea of Ice, originally named Antarctica, is themed around the Antarctic continent. Formerly home to Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, this attraction has been closed and will be the new home of Penguin Trek.
- Penguin Trek
Get ready for an extraordinary journey on Penguin Trek, a family launch coaster that traverses the stunning landscapes of Antarctica. Embark on your adventure aboard a snowmobile, reaching speeds of up to 43 miles per hour as you navigate through icy caverns and treacherous twists and turns. At the culmination of your expedition, you’ll encounter a genuine penguin habitat, marking the pinnacle of your exploration.
Sea of Delight
Discover The Waterfront, a charming section of Sea of Delight reminiscent of a Mediterranean seaside village. Built-in 2003, it features the Sky Tower ride seamlessly blending into the village’s ambiance. Catch the entertaining Pets Ahoy show, the park’s sole land animal performance, hosted at the Seaport Theater within The Waterfront. Outside this area, find the Sea Lion and Otter Stadium for captivating viewing experiences.
- The Waterfront at SeaWorld
Explore The Waterfront at SeaWorld, designed like a Mediterranean seaside village. Here, you’ll find shops, restaurants, and even a pearl dive exhibit. Don’t miss the park’s famous Sky Tower ride, seamlessly blending into the charming theme of The Waterfront since its opening in 2003.
- Seaport Theater
At Seaport Theater, near the waterfront, catch the engaging show, Rescue Tails. It’s an educational presentation featuring thrilling and exotic animals. Inside the theater, in the air conditioning, guests of all ages can discover fascinating facts about our beloved animals.
- Sea Lion and Otter Stadium
At SeaWorld Orlando, guests discover fascinating facts about California sea lions and Asian small-clawed otters. Thanks to a partnership with Pacific Point Marine Conservation Center, the park offers an educational demonstration featuring these captivating creatures.
- Sky Tower
SeaWorld’s Sky Tower is the tallest observation tower in Florida, and gives guests the opportunity to view SeaWorld Orlando from 365 feet up.
- Pacific Point Preserve
At Pacific Point Preserve, you’ll find California sea lions and harbor seals. Listen for the roaring sounds of sea lions nearby. Watch them swim and play in the waves, or enjoy the sun with these friendly creatures. You can also feed them during your visit.
Sea of Mystery
The Sea of Mystery is themed to explore mysteries and terrors of the deep. This area is home to Shark Encounter and the Nautilus Theater, which is used for seasonal shows and events. Mako, a steel hypercoaster, Shark Wreck Reef and Infinity Falls are also located here.
- Shark Wreck Reef
Step into Shark Wreck Reef and immerse yourself in the feeling of being underwater, surrounded by a group of sharks that have claimed a shipwrecked reef as their own. In this area, guests discover the impact humans are having on sharks and why these creatures are vital to the environment. Sharks face threats like being hunted for their fins, prized as a delicacy in some places, and getting accidentally caught in nets, with many species nearing extinction.
- Mako Hyper Coaster
Experience Mako®, an exhilarating hyper coaster inspired by the swift mako shark. Reaching speeds of up to 73 mph and heights of 200 feet, it offers a thrilling journey through an immersive shipwreck reef. Brace yourself for an adrenaline-pumping adventure!
- Shark Encounter
Embark on a captivating journey through one of the globe’s most expansive underwater viewing tunnels. Delve into a remarkable opportunity to witness prehistoric predators whose lineage dates back over 450 million years—predating even the era of dinosaurs on Earth.
- Nautilus Theater
The Nautilus Theater is an indoor venue dedicated to presenting seasonal shows. Primarily focusing on entertainment, the theater showcases performances that captivate audiences with immersive experiences rather than educational content.
- Infinity Falls
Experience Infinity Falls™ at SeaWorld® Orlando for an exhilarating rafting adventure through meticulously crafted tropical ruins-themed surroundings. Encounter surprise geysers, navigate roaring rapids, and experience one of the tallest drops of its kind.
Sea of Power
Seaworld’s Sea of Power is the host area for their killer whale shows, featuring the Shamu Stadium at its centerpiece. Adjacent to it is the Wild Arctic indoor pavilion, which houses beluga whales, Pacific walrus, and harbor seals. Shamu Stadium presents “Orca Encounter” as its main show, along with seasonal presentations.
- Shamu Stadium
Many consider Shamu Stadium to be the main attraction of Sea World. It’s where you can see the famous killer whale shows… a beautiful musical experience with perfect coordination between the animals and their trainers. Be aware, if you sit very close, you will get wet! Arrive early to get a good seat, and enjoy the show!
- Wild Artic
Experience close encounters with walruses, beluga whales, and limited-time Magellanic Penguins on a fascinating journey through the Arctic. Explore a frozen wonderland and encounter extraordinary belugas, colossal walruses, and shy harbor seals up close.
- Pipeline Surf Coaster
Experience the power of the ocean like never before on Pipeline, a unique surf coaster. Feel the rush as you ascend 110 feet at 60 mph and sense every twist and turn as if you’re riding the waves, thanks to innovative seats. Enjoy the thrill of this seventh coaster added to Orlando’s Coaster Capital.
- Sesame Street Land
Sesame Street Land, formerly known as Shamu’s Happy Harbor and Sea of Fun, is a children’s area next to Shamu Stadium. It offers family activities like Super Grover’s Box Car Derby and a water play area. It’s the only part of SeaWorld Orlando themed after the educational TV show, Sesame Street.
The Details
Here’s everything you need to know before you go to SeaWorld Orlando.
Address
SeaWorld Orlando
7007 SeaWorld Drive
Orlando, Florida 32821
Telephone: (407) 351-3600
Website: https://seaworld.com/orlando/
Hours of Operation
Summer Hours
Monday: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Wednesday: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Thursday: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Saturday: 9:00 am – 10:00 pm
Sunday: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Winter Hours
Monday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Tuesday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Wednesday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Thursday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Friday: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm
Saturday: 9:00 am – 10:00 pm
Sunday: 9:00 am – 10:00 pm
Always check park hours online before visiting.
Admission
General Admission (3+ Years): $139.99
SeaWorld frequently offers ticket discounts. Visit their website for more details.
Directions
From I-4 East: Take I-4 west to exit 72 (FL 528), then FL 528 to Exit 1 (International Drive), the International Drive south to Central Florida Parkway, Then west on Central Florida Parkway to SeaWorld entrance on your right.
From I-4 West: Take I-4 east to exit 71 (Central Florida Parkway), then Central Florida Parkway east to SeaWorld entrance on your left.
Accommodations
Located in the heart of the attraction area, International Drive has literally hundreds of places to stay for nearly every budget.
SeaWorld Orlando in a Nutshell
SeaWorld Orlando stands as a beacon of marine conservation, education, and entertainment. With its diverse array of marine life exhibits, thrilling rides, and commitment to conservation, SeaWorld offers visitors a truly immersive and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re marveling at the beauty of a bottlenose dolphin, soaring through the sky on a roller coaster, or learning about the importance of marine conservation, SeaWorld Orlando invites guests to embark on a journey of discovery and wonder.
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We’ve had annual passes to Disney for years. Last year we switched to SeaWorld and haven’t regretted it one bit. SeaWorld has evolved into a great theme park. Plus it’s not a zoo like Disney. Very enjoyable every time we visit!
Lots of great information. Thanks for the article.