If you love Disney World and SeaWorld, you will love the magic of Discovery Cove Orlando. This theme park creates a unique experience with its day-long adventure, combining elements of education and entertainment into several different attractions.
Things to do at Discovery Cove
To start your day, you will watch an informative video, and talk with a trainer. Next, you will have several choices: the Dolphin Swim, Tropical Reef, Serenity Bay, Wind-Away River, and many more.
Should you choose to do the Dolphin Swim, Discovery Cove Orlando’s “Dolphin Swim Experience” reports that you will experience 30 minutes of playing with the magnificent creatures. Numbers are limited however: only six to eight guests are allotted to one trainer at a time, and all participants must be at least six years of age.
If you loved swimming with the dolphins, or think you will, then you will enjoy the Tropical Reef adventure. Snorkel with thousands of different tropical fish, and stingrays, and check out the remains of a shipwreck.
Want to stay in the water, but not tire yourself out with more swimming? Lazily swim down Wind-Away River and enjoy the waterfalls, beaches, rain forest, rocky terrain and underwater cave. It hardly takes effort and your surroundings are beautiful. With so much to see in the Tropical Reef and Wind-Away River, you are apt to spend a lot of time here, but be sure to check out the other amazing opportunities that Discovery Cove Orlando has in store.
Explorer’s Aviary is home to free-flight tropical birds for your viewing pleasure. Included in the cost of admission is some food to be able to feed these beautiful birds, allowing you to see these magnificent creatures at a much closer distance. If you are lucky, you can even hold them too.
Also check out Serenity Bay. You will be amazed by how surreal this area is, with its pool and natural sandy beaches and waterfalls. It truly is serene, and perfect for those with children too. Lounge on the beach, and relax as your children play in the pool that is easily within your view.
When you are hungry, Discovery Cove’s “Your All-Inclusive Day” recommends dining first-class and enjoying a freshly prepared meal, or finding the snacks and drinks that are located throughout the park. For guests over 21, your all-inclusive day also includes premium Anheuser-Busch products.
Where is Discovery Cove?
Discovery Cove is located adjacent to SeaWorld in Orlando, Florida, at 6000 Discovery Cove Way. For more details, see Discovery Cove’s “General Park Info.”
Discovery Cove’s Times and Dates of Operation
Discovery Cove Orlando opens at 9 a.m. and closes at 5 p.m., with check-in at 8 a.m. Dates of operation are available at CAA’s “Discovery Cove – Orlando, Florida.” (As pointed out by a reader/”Guest,” your browser may give a warning about this link since it is an https page. Please note, however, that it is secure and safe to view.)
Costs and Deals on Tickets for Discovery Cove Orlando
There are two types of daily admission packages, and a “Trainer for a Day” package from which you can choose. The first of the two packages includes the dolphin swim, whereas the second option does not. The all-inclusive package costs anywhere between $199-299, depending on availability and month/season.
According to “General Park Info” cost of admission includes the use of lockers, wetsuits, towels and a mask during your stay, free parking, shower amenities, a souvenir snorkel, complimentary entry photo, continental breakfast, lunch, and all drinks and snacks. In terms of activities, basic admission covers access to Explorer’s Aviary, Tropical Reef, Serenity Bay, Wind-Away River and a fourteen-consecutive day pass to either SeaWorld, Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa, or Aquatica. For an additional cost/the first package, you can also swim with the dolphins.
To ensure all visitors have a relaxing and fun experience free of crowds, Discovery Cove Orlando limits admission to just one thousand visitors a day. As a result, this adventure is by reservation only. During peak times (summer/holidays), it is highly advisable to book at least 30 days in advance to ensure you get the day that you want.
For dates of operation and a pricing calendar, see CAA’s “Discovery Cove – Orlando, Florida.” For more details, see Discovery Cove’s “Packages & Pricing.”
At Discovery Cove Orlando, it is easy to get caught up in one attraction and spend more time than initially planned at that single place. To ensure you get the best experience possible, begin your day with the activity you want to do the most, then follow-up with the others.
Check the weather prior to going. The better the weather, the more enjoyable the experience.
Discovery Cove Orlando tries to accommodate for everyone. For Kosher and Vegetarian meals, please request ahead of time.
Also note, that all-day self parking is included in the cost of admission, with no additional charge, and that no food or drinks (of your own) are allowed within the park.
Accommodations while Visiting Discovery Cove
A great way to find accommodations while visiting Discovery Cove Orlando, as well as nearby attractions such as SeaWorld and Disney World, is to look at the listings on Expedia.ca. You can narrow your searches, finding something suitable for your comfort and price range.
Discovery Cove Orlando is a great opportunity for family, friends, and couples. It provides visitors with unique experiences, allowing you to get right up close to magnificent creatures, and not only have fun, but actually learn while doing it. So relax, have fun, and see what Discovery Cove Orlando has in store for you today.
