We don't always do the "other side of Orlando" on our trips to Disney, but the last few years, we have been including Sea World. We've had such a good time, that we've gone the last three summers! This past July, we not only did Sea World, but we also did Discovery Cove. It was amazing! We had the best time ever! Swimming with the dolphins was oh so cool!!!
We loved seeing Shamu and the sea lions - especially the "preshow", but the show my DD loved the most was "Pets Ahoy". They have many different animals (that they've gotten from animal shelters) and they put on this little show doing all sorts of tricks. It really is a cute show!
If your family likes animals, especially sea animals - you would really have a good time at Sea World!