Sea World

Sea World – at one time I considered SW my favorite theme park. For the price, especially Florida Residents, you can’t beat it because you can return all year long. Of course like any other theme park look into the hours of operation and show time prior to your trip so you have no surprises. During holidays they may close early to host special events and also like the others weekend and holidays are the busiest. For Sea World take extra precautions for being in the sun since most shows and rides are outside. You can bring in drinks and snacks – look into the rules of the park for all of that. If you are able to look at a map prior to your outing it may help otherwise grab one on your way in. Take a moment to figure out what routes you will take keeping in mind show times of things on the top of your list. A favorite, and one that gets busy, is the dolphin feeding in Key West. You can purchase food and once they have sold the allotted amount you cannot buy anymore. This is where your patience may be tried by pushers and other crazy people trying to get a get photo of these awesome creatures. Right outside the pool area is underwater viewing. Warning – you may see much more than you want…dolphins are frisky if you know what I mean. I had to field questions from my son and niece during out time down there. Of course you have to make time to see Shamu and whatever show title they give that exhibit. Another warning – if it says Splash Zone, you will get wet, no doubt about it. Bring your own cheap $ store poncho so you can cover up you things if you plan on sitting here. If you want to get wet I suggest sitting in the splash zone towards the middle, the ends aren’t as active since the whale has to turn around. It really is an awesome thing to see humans in a deep salt water pool with killer whales. To entertain the guest while waiting they play a trivia game and scan the audience to put people on their big screen. If you want to appear, act like a fool flapping your arms around like a crazy bird and you may end up a star. You will probably embarrass those with you but oh well. Sea World has a great roller coaster, Kraken. I love big coasters and this one is a blast, yes they take your photo at the end so smile! Kid’s meals are not a bad price and they come with a cute whale carrying case but SW needs to learn most kids do not consider raisins as a dessert, they don’t consider then at all. The refillable cups are a good buy also; unless you have a stroller to push that can hold lots of drinks. If you are visiting on a day that ends with fireworks start asking employees early where the best spot is for viewing. A blanket may be a useful item to bring for that. I am one of those moms who doesn’t go anywhere without a huge beach bag. Yes I end up holding a lot but I have everything I need and a big bag is more comfortable than a smaller one. I leave room for purchases to be made, bring a change of socks, plastic bag for wet items, you name it. If you are going to be getting wet at SW don’t forget some dry items. After a half day at the park you would be amazed how great a different pair of socks feels. Put em’ on and get back out there! What would a day at SW be without seeing those famous Clydesdales and tasting beer, so if you don’t look 21 bring your id.