SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld is a very popular theme park and marine-life zoo in Orlando, Florida. The park hosts many educational programs, shows, exhibitions and other fun experiences, making it immensely popular with families, teachers and students. This 200 acres marine life theme park, is filled with aquatic fun and thrilling adventures. This park is currently being operated and managed by the Sea World Parks and Entertainment, a subsidiary of the Blackstone Group.

Location and Directions With its main entrance on the Central Florida Parkway, SeaWorld is at a distance of about 17 miles from Orlando International Airport. 10 minutes from Downtown Orlando, the entrance is between International Drive and Sea Harbor Drive. Driving from the North (Daytona, Sanford, Universal Studios)

Fast Facts   Area 200 acres City Orlando State Florida Country United States of America Nearest Airport Orlando International Airport Distance from Orlando Airport 17 miles Built 1973 Founders A group of 1960’s UCLA students Operational Hours Opens everyday 9 am. Extended hours in summer and on holidays.

down 1-4 West on the Beachline Expressway the International Drive Exit 1 and on to Central Florida Parkway should lead you to SeaWorld. Those approaching from the East (Cocoa) are also advised to take this route. If you are approaching from the West (Tampa), take I-4 East to Exit 71 for SeaWorld exit.

History
The first SeaWorld Family Park was set up in San Diego in 1964 by a group of four UCLA graduates in an attempt to convert an unsuccessful underwater restaurant into a marine life park. The smashing success of the first SeaWorld Park prompted the founders to open another park at a different location; the SeaWorld Park at Ohio was opened in 1968, and was soon followed by the SeaWorld, Orlando, which opened up in the year 1973. Orlando was selected as an ideal location due to its pleasant climate almost all through the year. Also, with the opening of the Walt Disney parks, a large number of visitors were already visiting the city.

Landscape
SeaWorld in Orlando, unlike other theme parks has a refreshing landscape, with no broken up themed islands in the park. The main landscaping feature of the park is its pathways, which are lined up with animal enclosures. The main entrance to the park is decorated with lush tropical landscaping, which has a Florida-based theme, a huge artificial freshwater marine, and an iconic lighthouse based on a Shamu theme. The neighboring park, Discovery Cove, along with the SeaWorld, forms a greater entertainment area, which is an ideal destination for vacationers. 

Special Attractions
SeaWorld, Orlando, has many shows, exhibitions, rides, and park experiences. Live shows, animal exhibits, and the 3D computer animated films at the Theater Dome promise the visitors a great time. Some of the major attractions include:

• Shamu's Happy Harbor: This area is likely to be the favorite with kids and young children. The enclosure has a number of rides including Shamu Express, Sea Carousel, Net Climb, and Jazzy Jellies.
• Shark Encounter: This exhibit is a great hit with children and adults alike. Going through one of the largest underwater viewing tunnels of the world, this is the perfect tour for those interested in learning more about sharks.
• Sky Tower: This 400 feet tower within SeaWorld provides for a capscule ride and panoramic views. One of the best loved attractions of the park.
• Wild Arctic: This is a flight simulator of a thrilling flight across the Arctic landscape - a tryst with Beluga Whales, polar bears, and walruses right in the heart of Florida.

Activities
SeaWorld Park has a number of activities on offer. Thrill rides like Kraken- The Roller Coaster Ride, Shamu Express, and the Manta, swimming with the dolphins, and rides on water slides. The motion-stimulated journey of the helicopter at the Wild Arctic Arena is a hit with children. There is also the famous Clydesdale Hamlet, where you can learn about the beer-making process. SeaWorld has fun activities and entertainment for the entire family and for all age groups.

SeaWorld has reconstructed the marine environment in an unfettered and beautiful way. It is the perfect blend of educational resources and fun and the ideal way to reconnect with Nature. Open throughout the year, this marvelous park is not only about fun and about thrills, but also provides the ideal getaway for families with children and young adults.

Last Updated on: August 22, 2012
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