Addons for a December trip?

[slpeters]

So we will likely be going to SeaWorld for a day--either December 7th or 8th (Friday or Saturday). Our main goal is the Christmas stuff, but we've actually never been there before. We're not really big coaster people but would like to do the Christmas shows and to the extent it is possible do the other rides and see the animals.

My question is what are people's take on the extras: quick queue, reserve seating, all-day dining? They all seem reasonably priced but I feel like it may turn out we just don't really benefit from them that much. Any thoughts?

 

[CynBeth]

The holiday stuff is not until at night so during the day you will have time to see other shows and animals plus rides. I recommend getting the reserved holiday show seating package which doesn’t come out until a few months before. You can book it on the website. Some of the shows are popular and tend to fill up plus the way the show times are spaced some are not close to each other and you have to rush. We did it that way the first time and ever since we get the package. This way it guarantees a seat in the package area which is a good location. If I remember correctly you get discounts at some of the food places. If you are driving it is good to pay a little extra for preferred parking. We purchase that when we pay for our regular tickets online. It is not much more than the standard and it is a great location.

 

[CAPSLOCK]

If you aren't doing the roller coasters (which are fantastic!) I wouldn't bother with quick queue.

Arriving early (by opening time Fri, a bit before Sat) gets you a nice parking spot without paying for premier, and let's you do the other rides without long lines, as well as getting more show time options to plan out your day (they space shows such that it is hard to get to them all).

Note you probably won't have time to do all the shows and see all the animal exhibits, so figure out your priorities and then build from there if you end up with extra time.