| Sea World, Orlando |
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| Sea World in Orlando Florida packs a magic that can not be compared to the old Aurora, Ohio park. Unlike its former Ohio relative, Sea World Orlando does not only possess the qualities of an aquatic zoo, but it also provides some world class thrills and great scenery to boot. If thats not enough to satiate your desires of thrills and spills, the park is owned by Annheuser Busch and provides a great selection of beers towards the back of the park next to their Clydesdale Horses exhibit. Did I forget to mention that Sea World has its own multi-day park hopper program like its nearby neighbor Disney World (which is a mere 3 miles away)? The parks that are included in the park hopper pass include Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Sea World Orlando, Wet N' Wild, Universal Studios, and Islands of Adventure. If the 5 day park hopper pass is a bit too much to swallow or to heavy a weight in your wallet you can find out more about Sea World's multi-day deals by clicking here. |
| The lovable mammal found in the above picture can be found in one Sea World's interactive exhibits known as Dolphin Cove. The large number of dolphins that live in this small cove are constantly watched over by trainers both on the shore as well as on the water in canoes. Everyone at the park is free to interact with the dolphins (no extra charge), but the line is drawn when people want to jump in and swim with the dolphins. It might not be allowed at Sea World's Dolphin Cove, however one of the park's latest additions was Discovery Cove in which for a hefty price you can get your feet wet and swim with the dolphins all day, scuba dive in Discovery Cove's man-made barrier reef, and swim through a cave to the park's very own bird aviary in which you become immersed in a world of interactive color with a wide variety of birds. Prices for Discovery Cove range from $129 to $399 depending upon which if the 3 packages you purchase. The prices may seem atrocious, but there aren't any lines for you to wait in since Discovery Cove will only admit approximately 1,000 guests a day and is guarenteed to be an experience you will not forget. To learn more about Discovery Cove you can click here. |
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| Trip Planner Facts |
| Date Visited: March 24, 2003 App. Time Spent In Park: 9 hours Individual Attractions and Ratings Are As Followed. Dolphin Cove: 5/5 (No Wait) Despite the crowds around this pool, its pretty easy to get to the front and pet a dolphin, do not pass this attraction up, you'll miss a rare opportunity. Key West Fest: 4.5/5 (Dolphin Show, See Scheduled Times) A delightful show for people of all ages with a beautiful Dolphin Stadium and a great view of Journey to Atlantis in the background. Hit the shows to early though and you'll fry in the Florida sun. Manatees the Last Generation: 1.5/5 (No Clue) We couldn't even find the entrance for this exhibit. You can view the manatees from above the tank, but the building itself left us wondering, where was the entrance and what is this thing? Journey To Atlantis: 5/5 (0-30 Minute Wait) This is the thrill attraction that you don't want to miss. Gorgeous outdoor theming, great indoor dark ride, water ride,...and a rollercoaster??? You'll love it. Kraken: 2.5/5 (45 Minute Wait) If the line is short you can hit it, otherwise I'll just say don't waste your time. The three below ground level drops are bland, with the exception of the last one (pictured at left). There are better B&M Floorless Coasters out there. Don't waste your time here. Great entrance theming however. Pacific Point Reserve: 3/5 (No Wait) Something smells fishy. The Sea Lions, Otters, and random birds assorted in this small exhibit are rather bland. However be prepared for a scare if you are holding food in your hand. The birds in this area are mean. Penguin Encounter: 3/5 (5-10 Minute Wait) Very very slow line but the conveyor belt helps keep the crowd moving. An enjoyable encounter for all ages. Clyde & Seamore Take Pirate Island: 1/5 (Sea Otter Show, See Scheduled Times) The mime wandering around before the show began was much more entertaining. The animals missed their cues (as can be expected) and the human roles were sub-par. Just like the Kraken, hit if you have extra time, otherwise walk on by. Turtle Point: 1/5 (No Wait) Seriously if you've know what a turtle looks like, you won't be impressed. Take a nap instead. |
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| Stingray Lagoon: 3/5 (No Wait) Another petting attraction. Tropical Reef: 3.5/5 (No Wait) This small and cramped aquarium houses some gorgeous fish that are definitely worth seeing. Dolphin Nursery: 2.5/5 (No Wait) Its nearly impossible to find. Go to Dolphin Cove instead of wasting your time trying to hunt it down in its secluded spot. Sharks: 4.5/5 (No Wait, Slow Moving Crowd) Great exhibit with a plexiglass walkthrough tunnel in the middle of the shark tank. The slow moving crowds are pressed onward once again through the use of conveyor belts. Theres even a restraunt there that allows you to dine while watching the sharks. Expect long waits for the restraunt however. Clydesdale Hamlet / Annheuser Busch Hospitality Center: 3/5 (No Wait) This walk-through stable and grounds is a gorgeous presentation of the Clydesdales and is offset by the luxurious dining area of the Hospitality Center. Shamu Adventure: 5/5 (No Wait, See Scheduled Times) A very majestic show that is perfect for all ages. its a great way to end your day, and your view of the park from the upper stadium seats is superb. Look for Kraken in the distance. Wild Arctic: 3.5/5 (30+ Minute Wait) The motion simulator has its illness inducing effects, but the blast of cold air that you receive after exiting the ride, as well as the numerous amiunts of animal exhibits make the wait worthwhile. Pets Ahoy, Cirque De La Mer, Sky Tower Ride, and Paddle Boats: N/A |
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| Closing Statement: The park's lush scenery, ample attractions, and delicious food make this park as appealing as a $3,000 engagement ring. Overall I feel it is safe to say that the park deserves a 8.5/10 Rating. |
| Pros: Beautiful Scenery, Short Lines, Interactive Exhibits, and attractions for everyone in the family. Cons: Kraken doesn't crack it, very easy to lose your sense of direction, the lake- side shore is under construction |
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