SeaWorld is an iconic name in the Florida theme park landscape. Since its grand opening in 1973, it has become synonymous with awe-inspiring marine animal presentations and world-class rollercoasters., However, it’s so much more than that – SeaWorld’s parks provide experiences that matter while educating and inspiring guests of all ages to care about the natural world.
SeaWorld in Orlando and Busch Gardens in Tampa Bay both offer enriching up-close animal encounters and thrilling attractions.
SeaWorld is one of the largest marine animal rescue organisations in the world and has rescued over 41,000 animals in the past 60 years. with the goal of rehabilitation and returning them to their natural environment.
Meanwhile, over at Busch Gardens, they care for over 200 species including giraffes, rhinos, elephants, tigers, and much more. Part theme park, part natural wonder, this 335-acre space is not only a place to ride some of the best coasters in the Sunshine State, but it’s also a place to experience their world-class animal treatment facilities.
Commitment to Animal Welfare
The overall mission of the parks is to foster conservation awareness and inspire visitors to preserve wild animals and the natural world. The safety and care of all the animals that reside at SeaWorld Parks, including the animals’ mental and physical health, are paramount.
SeaWorld Parks is independently certificated and accredited by leading global animal welfare organisations, including American Humane, the Association of Zoos & Aquariums and the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums.
So, with a visit to one of these parks, you can feel safe and secure in the knowledge that the dedicated team members have the animals’ welfare as their top priority.
Rehabilitation and Conservation Efforts
Rehabilitation and conservation are central to SeaWorld Parks. At Busch Gardens, you will find a state-of-the-art Animal Care Centre, where hundreds of poorly animals are looked after. Open daily from 10am-5pm, guests can observe first-hand animal care, experiencing everything from x-rays to surgeries.
In addition to this, SeaWorld Parks also extend their commitment to the cause by supporting a variety of conservation groups and programs via the SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Conservation Fund. They also collaborate with scientific institutions and participate in field research, helping to develop strategies which protect marine ecosystems and address threats such as pollution and habitat loss.
Best Thrill Rides in Orlando
Beyond animal welfare and education, SeaWorld Parks offer some of the best rides and attractions in Florida…
SeaWorld Orlando Attractions
Adrenaline seekers will love
SeaWorld’s Mako roller coaster, renowned for being one of the tallest and fastest in the region. Pipeline and Ice Breaker are just another couple of hair-raising roller coasters on offer. Or if you want a little cooling off, the whitewater rafting adventure Infinity Falls is sure to do the trick. Beyond the thrills, there are also plenty of shows on offer from the Orca Encounter to
Dolphin Adventures. Then head to Seaport Theatre for Rescue Tails, where you’ll hear inspiring stories about the rescue of these incredible creatures. And for any little ones onboard, take a trip to Sesame Street Land, where you can have meet and greets with the whole gang, from Big Bird to Elmo, and the Cookie Monster.
Busch Gardens Attractions
Offering award-winning safaris, high-octane rides, and family-friendly shows based on exotic exploration across the globe, Busch Gardens combines both fun-filled entertainment and animal conservation under one roof.
If you’re looking for roller coaster thrills, Busch Gardens has plenty of them. The recently opened Serengeti Flyer and Iron Gwazi take guests to new heights, while Cobra’s Curse is Florida’s first family spin roller coaster. And watch out for Phoenix Rising this summer, the tallest and longest inverted family coaster in North America.
Forward Thinking Fun
This year marks the 60th anniversary of SeaWorld, with the first opening in San Diego in 1964. And we all know how much theme parks love a birthday. Celebratory highlights include new shows, presentations, and parades, where you can join Shamu and crew on an interactive parade filled with colourful floats, music, and a whole host of fun. You will also want to check out the highly anticipated ride, Penguin Trek this summer, and the groundbreaking new cirque-style show. And what’s a birthday without snacks and gifts? Be sure to get your hands on the limited-edition food and beverage options, collectables, and memorabilia that will mark SeaWorld’s milestone throughout the year.
Ready to get entertained and educated on your SeaWorld adventure? Check out our award-winning Orlando holidays to SeaWorld area hotels and resorts.