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Sea World Orlando

We land animals have a natural curiosity about ocean creatures because we can never live in their world. SeaWorld Orlando helps to bridge the gap, with animal encounters, exhibits, and marine-life shows that entertain as they educate. And for some land-animal kicks, SeaWorld throws a few thrill rides into the mix.

Debuting in 1973, the 200-acre Orlando theme park is the world's largest zoological park, with counterparts in Texas, California, and Ohio. Of course, its biggest star (literally) is the 25-foot, five-ton "killer whale," Shamu. But supporting cast members include dolphins, sea lions, penguins, polar bears, sharks, eels, barracuda, beluga whales, walruses, stingrays, sea turtles, birds, tropical fish, flamingos, and manatees. And don't forget the Clydesdale horses. Budweiser manufacturer Anheuser-Busch bought the park in 1989 and brought in the Clydesdales, heightening the park's appeal.

For some man-made fun, take the Journey to Atlantis, a water-flume ride that soaks its riders. Kraken (Orlando's tallest, fastest, longest, and only floorless roller coaster) will take you 15 stories high and upside-down seven times at up to 65 mph. Young visitors can opt for Shamu's Happy Harbor, where they can squirt water cannons, climb huge rope nets, and ride water slides.

Guests also can feed dolphins, pet stingrays, cheer for water-skiing athletes, take a simulated helicopter tour over the Arctic, play carnival-midway type games, and view the entire park atop the 400-foot-high Sky Tower. Food options at nine restaurants range from snacks to elegant meals, and shops with themed merchandise abound. The holidays find the park festively dressed and offering storytelling, strolling musicians, hot chocolate, eggnog, and a 42-foot-tall Christmas tree.

Location
SeaWorld Orlando is located at 7007 SeaWorld Drive, 10 minutes south of downtown Orlando and near the intersection of Interstate 4 and FL 528 (the Bee Line Expressway).

Hours of operation
The park is open year-round, starting at 9 a.m. and closing no earlier than 6 p.m. Extended hours during the summer and on holidays may include a fireworks show.

Admission

Adults	$49.95
Children (ages 3-9)	$40.95
Children (ages 2 and under)	Free

Discounts are available for SeaWorld passport holders, guests with disabilities, senior citizens, and groups of 15 or more. Parking for cars and vans in the SeaWorld lot costs $7.

Contact information and reservations

• For general information, call (407) 351-3600, toll-free from Florida (800) 327-2424, or toll-free from other states (800) 432-1178.
• Reservations are required for some extra-charge activities, including Sharks Deep Dive, (407) 363-2380 or (800) 406-2244; the Polynesian Luau, (407) 351-3600 or (800) 327-2424; Dine with Shamu, (407) 351-3600, press 3; and Trainer for a Day, (407) 370-1382.

Disabled access
All shows and exhibits are wheelchair accessible. Rental wheelchairs are available from a limited supply. Half-price discounts are available for blind, deaf, and mentally challenged visitors.

Special considerations

• You will get wet ("soaked" is more accurate) if you sit in the Splash Zone at the Shamu show and other marine animal performances.
• The Journey to Atlantis ride features two free-fall splashes and human-operated water cannons that can drench you.

Additional information

• All manatees at the park are being rehabilitated from sickness or injury before reintroduction into the wild. A portion of SeaWorld Orlando's profit goes to its rescue and rehabilitation of marine life.
• Visit the SeaWorld Orlando Web site.

Please note
Cost, hours of operation, or other information about this attraction is subject to change without notice. We suggest you confirm with the attraction prior to your visit.