Close Banner
GET MY TICKETS
Home / Blog / Expert Tips & Tricks / Our Ultimate Guide to SeaWorld Orlando

Our Ultimate Guide to SeaWorld Orlando

by Li S. as Mommy Frog on April 6, 2026
Orlando

Inside This Post

Grab your fins because today, we're talkin' all about SeaWorld Orlando. Home to aquatic animals and the coolest coasters, you'll have a splish-splashin' good time at this marine park. Plus, for the kids, you can explore Sesame Street Land, which is packed with family-friendly rides, character interactions and more. SeaWorld Orlando hosts fun events all year long, so there's always something hoppening. Upgrade your park experience with exclusive animal encounters or a Quick Queue pass for select rides. From arriving at the park to the top experiences you need to try, we've got the ultimate guide to SeaWorld Orlando below. Let's dive in!

FAQs

  • Where is SeaWorld Orlando? SeaWorld Orlando is located at 7007 SeaWorld Drive, Orlando, FL 32821, between other major theme parks in Orlando.
  • How many rides are at SeaWorld Orlando? SeaWorld has nearly 20 rides and attractions, ranging from thrilling roller coasters to family-friendly rides.
  • How much is parking at SeaWorld Orlando? Parking rates may depend on the season, starting at $37 for general parking.
  • What time does SeaWorld Orlando open? SeaWorld generally opens at 9 a.m. daily, but the park's closing time may vary. Always double-check the schedule on SeaWorld's website!

Ultimate Guide to SeaWorld Orlando - Dolphins at SeaWorld Orlando

Undercover Tourist is now including a FREE $20 DiningDollars.com credit to each ticket purchased for all United Parks & Resorts, including SeaWorld (Orlando, San Diego, San Antonio), Busch Gardens (Tampa Bay, Williamsburg), Discovery Cove, Sesame Place (San Diego, Philadelphia), Aquatica (Orlando, San Antonio), Adventure Island and Water Country USA. You can save up to 15% off toward the purchase of discount gift cards for United Parks & Resorts on DiningDollars.com. To learn more, hop over to our Dining Dollars guide.

Overview of SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando opened in 1973 and became SeaWorld's third park, after SeaWorld San Diego and SeaWorld Ohio (which closed in 2000). Since then, SeaWorld San Antonio and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi have joined the lineup. Visiting the West Coast? Check out our tips to maximize your time at SeaWorld San Diego!

But back to the East Coast. SeaWorld Orlando is home to tons of rides (including the thrilling Pipeline: The Surf Coaster), entertaining shows and, of course, one-of-a-kind animal exhibits that are famous the world over. In this ultimate guide, we cover everything you need to know about getting there and what to see (and do) when you arrive.

SeaWorld Orlando Map 

SeaWorld Orlando sees approximately four to five million guests per year, making it one of the top 10 most visited theme parks in the country! To handle that kind of tourism, the park needs to be big … and you can bet it is! SeaWorld Orlando is approximately 200 acres. For size comparison, you would need just over 13 NYC Central Parks to match SeaWorld Orlando's size!

If you want to start your day with the animal exhibits, head left after entering, as most are on that side of the park. Along your way, you'll come upon the stingray lagoon, dolphin encounter and sea lion feeding spot. To your right is where you'll encounter Sesame Street Land and the brand-new Sea Quest Legends of the Deep (opening 2026). We highly recommend you download the SeaWorld Orlando official park mobile app for access to the map, showtimes and other amenities. This app is available on both the App Store and Google Play.

Planning Your Visit to SeaWorld Orlando

Here's everything you need to know to plan the perfect day at SeaWorld Orlando!

Ultimate Guide to SeaWorld Orlando - Lighthouse

Tickets 

Need tickets? You're in luck because Undercover Tourist offers discount tickets to SeaWorld Orlando that will make every frog leap for joy! SeaWorld Orlando offers several ticket options, including single and multi-day tickets. Look out for limited-time offers that include all-day dining (deals are subject to change). SeaWorld Orlando also offers any-day tickets, which offer flexibility and expire within one year of purchase.

Want unlimited visits to the park? Now’s your chance to get the Fun Card. With this, you can enjoy unlimited visits to SeaWorld Orlando throughout all of 2026 (subject to blackout dates). There are also annual passes available, starting at $15 a month (prices may vary):

  • Bronze Pass: Up to 10% in-park discounts and visits for 12 months
  • Silver Pass: Up to 20% in-park discounts, 3 free guest tickets, free general parking and visits for 12 months
  • Gold Pass: Up to 30% in-park discounts, 5 free guest tickets, free preferred parking and visits for 12 months
  • Platinum Pass: Up to 50% in-park discounts, 8 free guest tickets, free preferred parking and visits for 12 months

Depending on the pass you choose, benefits could include digital downloads, reserved show viewing and free Sky Tower rides.

Park Hours 

Park hours typically vary. While SeaWorld Orlando generally opens at 9 a.m. daily, the park closes at either 7 p.m., 8 p.m. or 9 p.m. at night, depending on the time of year or what's going on. Always check SeaWorld's app or website ahead of time to plan your day.

Arriving at SeaWorld Orlando in Florida

SeaWorld Orlando is located in Orlando, Florida, approximately 5.3 miles from Walt Disney World and 7.8 miles from Universal Orlando Resort. For those planning a trip, you’ll want to utilize one of the Official Hotel Partners for complimentary shuttle transportation to and from SeaWorld, as well as Aquatica and Discovery Cove, such as the Fairfield Inn & Suites Orlando at SeaWorld. Psssst: Undercover Tourist can save you money on your hotel stay! Book now to save some green.

Both general and preferred parking are available to guests, usually starting at $37. Guests can purchase parking passes before their visit. There is also a pick-up/drop-off area near the park entrance for those taking a ride share or taxi.

SeaWorld Orlando Rides and Attractions

Ultimate Guide to SeaWorld Orlando - Pipeline

SeaWorld Orlando is home to 19 rides and attractions, including:

*additional fees may apply

As you can see, SeaWorld Orlando is pretty much split between teen and tadpole-friendly offerings. While Tad likes to take a splash on Infinity Falls — an exhilarating water rapids ride that cools us down on those humid Florida days — Lily likes to take a ride on Super Grover’s Box Car Derby, a child-friendly coaster over in Sesame Street Land.

Of course, we can’t froget all the amazing animal exhibits and encounters to enjoy at this famed aquatic park, either! There are so many!

Hop around the park to check out the following animal experiences:

Using Quick Queue at SeaWorld Orlando

For fast (and unlimited) front-of-the-line access to the most in-demand rides at SeaWorld Orlando, be sure to take advantage of Quick Queue Unlimited. Prices start at $30.18 for select dates (Undercover Tourist can save you money). To enjoy this in-park benefit, all year round, check out the Year-Round Quick Queue! Reserved seating and viewing of the Sesame Street Parade are also available. For more info on using Quick Queue, hop over to our guide.

Entertainment at SeaWorld Orlando

Ultimate Guide to SeaWorld Orlando - Sea Lion and Otter Spotlight

The shows at SeaWorld Orlando are unlike anywhere else in the world! I mean, they’d have to be: they have a whale! At Flippers, Facts and Fun: The Sea Lion Experience, you’ll learn about the two most adorable California sea lions around: Clyde and Seamore. Watch as they (and their friends) teach you all about their natural environment and the beautiful connection they share with us humans.

Over at Dolphin Adventures, you can learn all about the integral role bottlenose dolphins play in our planet’s oceans and the traits they’ve developed over the years to help them survive and thrive. Last but not least, come face-to-face with one of the ocean’s fiercest predators: an orca! The Orca Encounter is a show unlike any other, where you get to see these magnificent creatures hunt and play. Just keep in mind, you may get wet depending on where you're sitting.

While the shows mentioned above are included with the price of admission, you can pay a bit extra for special animal encounters, including dolphins, penguins, beluga whales, sea lions and more.

Sesame Street Land at SeaWorld Orlando

If you’re traveling with tadpoles, they’ll love meeting Cookie Monster, Elmo and all their favorite characters at Sesame Street Land. Take a walk down the famous street and enjoy tadpole-friendly rides such as the Sunny Day Carousel and the Cookie Drop! There are seven rides and attractions in total, including:

  • Abby’s Flower Tower
  • Elmo’s Choo Choo Train
  • Cookie Drop!
  • Slimy’s Slider
  • Rubber Duckie Water Works
  • Rosita’s Harmony Hills
  • Sunny Day Carousel
  • Super Grover’s Box Car Derby

Dance along with Big Bird, Elmo and their friends as they float by in the Sesame Street Parade! The parade does not occur daily, so check your app to plan accordingly. When available, the Sesame Street Parade usually takes place at 2:30 p.m. Reserved viewing is available.

Ultimate Guide to SeaWorld Orlando - Interactive Play in Sesame Street

With interactive play areas, including the Two-Headed Monster Pipe Telephone and Bert and Ernie’s Doorbell, there is so much for your little froglet to enjoy! Interactive experiences include the aforementioned and the following:

  • Bike Shop Tricycle Challenge
  • Elmo’s Window
  • Yip Yap’s Mail Slot
  • Sesame Street Apartment Intercom
  • Cookie Monster’s Foodie Truck Challenge
  • Laundromat
  • Oscar’s Trash Can
  • Backstage Queue Warm-Up
  • Create-A-Monster

Best of all, did you know that tadpoles under 5 are free to enter? Just register for the Free Preschool Card.

Shopping and Dining at SeaWorld Orlando

Whether you’re in the mood to dine with sharks, grab a chicken sandwich on the go, or enjoy an adult beverage to beat the heat, SeaWorld Orlando offers plenty of dining options that will keep any frog happy!

Ultimate Guide to SeaWorld Orlando - Dockside Pizza Co

Your dining options include:

Quick Bites: 

Restaurants: 

Full-Service Bars: 

Celebrating your tadpole’s birthday? Book a Breakfast with Elmo & Friends — an all-you-can-eat buffet featuring everyone’s furry friends! Looking for an immersive experience unlike any other? Dine with Orcas is calling! Enjoy an outdoor, 3-course prix fixe meal with unlimited soft drinks and magnificent views!

There are plenty of shopping options, too. Find the perfect souvenir at Coconut Bay Traders and make your own furry companion at Build-A-Bear Workshop. For the Sesame Street fan, check out Hooper’s Store for plush characters and clothing, and for the turtle lover, Trek Treasures has got your name on it!

Store options at SeaWorld Orlando include:

  • Build-A-Bear Workshop
  • Coconut Bay Traders
  • Exit Gifts
  • Expedition Odyssey Gifts
  • Fins Gifts
  • Flamingo Pointe
  • Glacial Collections
  • Glacial Supply
  • Golden Seahorse Gifts
  • Guy Harvey Store
  • High Surf
  • Hooper’s Store
  • Kraken Gifts
  • Oyster’s Secret
  • SeaWorld Rescue Store
  • SeaWorld Store
  • Shoppes at Waterfront
  • Trek Treasures
  • Whitewater Supply

Special Events at SeaWorld Orlando

Ultimate Guide to SeaWorld Orlando - Rave Yard at Howl-O-Scream

Fun can be had all year round at SeaWorld Orlando! In 2026, take part in the following celebrations:

  • Jan. 30, 2026 - May 17, 2026: Seven Seas Food Festival, including the Seven Seas Food Festival Concert Series and a 5K Run (April 25)
  • Feb. 3, 2026: Elmo’s Birthday Celebration
  • Feb. 12-22, 2026: Mardi Gras
  • Feb. 14, 2026: Valentine’s Day Dinner at Shark’s Underwater Grill
  • March 5-17, 2026: St. Patrick’s Day Celebration
  • May 5, 2026: Cinco de Mayo
  • May 9-10 and 16-17, 2026: Viva La Música
  • May 15-16, 2026: Guy Harvey Weekend
  • May 22 - Aug. 30, 2026 (select days): Electric Ocean
  • May 22 - Aug. 30, 2026 (select days): Ignite with NEW DRONE SHOW
  • July 4 - Aug. 23, 2026 (weekends only): Bands, Brew & BBQ
  • July - August 2026: Bands, Brew & BBQ Concert Series
  • Aug. 29 - Nov. 1, 2026: Halloween Spooktacular
  • Sept. 4 - Oct. 31, 2026: Howl-O-Scream
  • Nov. 6 - Jan. 3, 2027: Christmas Celebration

Also, on the first Saturday of each month, enjoy ASL Saturdays. On these days, guests will have access to American Sign Language (ASL)-interpreted shows and presentations. Private events can also be booked, including for conventions, large groups and business meetings. Who says a work trip has to be boring?

Tips for Visiting SeaWorld Orlando

Here are our tips for visiting SeaWorld Orlando:

  • If visiting with children, visit Sesame Street Land early in the morning when the crowds are the lowest.
  • Bring extra clothing because you may get wet at certain animal encounters.
  • Bring your debit or credit cards — SeaWorld Orlando is a completely cashless park.
  • Check the forecast ahead of time. SeaWorld does offer a Weather-or-Not Assurance program in the event of rain, lightning, extreme heat, wind, snow or hail that impacts the ability to enjoy the parks.
  • Pay for parking ahead of time.
  • Book with Undercover Tourist and save some money on your park visit!

SeaWorld Orlando has two sister parks: Discovery Cove and Aquatica. We have two helpful guides to help you plan: The Frog Family's Guide to Discovery Cove Orlando and Everything You Need to Know About Aquatica Orlando — check them out!

Well, there you have it — everything you need to know about visiting SeaWorld Orlando. Have you ever visited? If not, what are you looking forward to most? Let us know in the comments. 

Related: Our Top SeaWorld Orlando Tips for Your Next Visit

Related: Our Ghoulish Guide to Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld Orlando

Hoppy planning!

Written and reviewed by the Undercover Tourist Content Team
View Comments

Leave a comment

About Undercover Tourist

Undercover Tourist is the leading supplier of online discount tickets to Orlando, Florida-area attractions, including Walt Disney World® Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld® Orlando, LEGOLAND® Florida Resort and more.

Sign Up for Our Newsletter

Get the inside scoop on theme park news, planning tips, concert and sports announcements, special offers and much more!

Park Plans

Our step-by-step guides will save you up to 4 hours a day.