SeaWorld Orlando Adventure Park455

Once a side-trip for visiting families, SeaWorld has become a full-fledged destination of its own for tourists and area residents. The original, and still best reason, to visit the park is to meet Shamu, the world's most famous killer whale. With amazing acrobatics worthy of applause for 3000 pound+ entertainers, be ready to really experience the show if you're sitting in the first few rows (you're definitely going to get wet)!

Believe, Shamu's heart-touching production, gives the trainers a few minutes in the spotlight as they tell the audience how much these creatures mean to them - and to the world. But the kids will only really care when the killer whales start jumping into the air, and it really is a site to behold (those who have been paying attention to the story will probably want mom and dad to buy them a Believe necklace, though).

The park's black-and-white stars are also showcased in Shamu Rocks, a rock 'n' roll-inspired multimedia show featuring awesome visual effects and music mixes by Savage Garden, Jennifer Lopez, Rascal Flatts, Shakira, and others.

Other popular attractions include Shamu's Happy Harbor, a huge kids' play area with rides geared toward younger guests (height restrictions do apply) and a great place for parents to recover in the shade; Wild Arctic, home to polar bears, walruses, and seals in a very un-Florida like fifty degree environment; the open-air, dangling-feet Kraken roller coaster; and the 400-foot tall landmark, The Sky Tower, where you can see downtown Orlando and the other area theme parks.

SeaWorld is also quickly becoming known for its myriad of stage shows including Odyssea, a Cirque du Soleil-like circus with acrobatics, great music and a fantastic set and the new Blue Horizons show that features dolphins, a rainbow of exotic birds and a cast of divers that plunge into the pools.

Take advantage of the park's special ticket offers, which frequently include "two-days for the price of one" deals that let you spread out your fun. Florida residents can receive unlimited entry to the park for the price of one day's admission.

Arrive as early as you can, both to the park and any of the animal shows. Seats fill fast! And, if you have an autograph hound and don't mind tripping over little feet, Shamu & Crew characters are usually found near the front gate before lunch.

Strollers and lockers are available for rental. Diaper-changing and nursing areas are also located within the park. The Baby Care Center is located in Shamu's Happy Harbor.

Special Programs and Camps: SeaWorld offers a number of different Day Camps and Resident Camps for kids from five to 18. Up Close Tours, Sleepovers, Birthday Parties and even a Beluga Whale swim and feed make up some of the unique opportunities at the park. Visit the website or contact the park for additional information or to make reservations.