SeaWorld offers a more laid back and relaxing atmosphere than the other theme parks in Orlando as well as the opportunity to view fish, birds and many other creatures that live in the ocean or by the sea. Although SeaWorld does have two very popular rollercoaster rides, the main emphasis here is on wildlife and conservation.

The park is built around a lagoon and has several areas where guests can feed and interact with dolphins and sea lions. The killer whale, Shamu, is the park's most famous animal. He can be seen with his family, which has whales of all ages, including babies. Shamu stars in the newest show, Believe, which has whales swimming and interacting with their trainers. Another popular show is Blue Horizon, featuring birds, dolphins, and whales.  Other shows include Odyssea, an acrobatic comedy performance; Pets Ahoy, showcasing cats, dogs, skunks, pigs and birds, all of which have been rescued from animal shelters; and Clyde and Seamore, an amusing sea lion show.

Among the rides offered are Kraken, a hair raising rollercoaster resembling a dragon in all its fury; Journey to Atlantis, a thrill-ride that splashes its riders into the water; and Wild Arctic, a simulated helicopter ride into a snowy remote Arctic station, where guests can see Arctic animals in a specially climatized environment.  In Shark Encounter, visitors walk through a transparent tunnel in a gigantic tank containing sharks and other dangerous sea creatures.

In addition, there are leisure areas for children to play in, as well as a boardwalk on the lake with restaurants and shops.

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Directions: If on I-4 heading west, take exit 72 onto the Beeline Expressway. If heading east, take exit 71.  After this take the next exit to International Drive and follow the signs for SeaWorld.

URL: http://www.seaworld.com