Seaworld First Timer Tips please

[sarahb74]

Hi. We (me and 2 sons aged 15 & 10) are heading to WDW and Universal for 2 weeks at the end of August. We are planning on one day at Seaworld which we have never done before. Please can you give me some hints and tips of the best way to plan the day, bearing in mind we are not really interested in the rides, just the shows and animal exhibits. I looked at the park map and thought maybe turn left when we get there and just head clockwise, does that work out ok? Is it worthwhile getting the reserved show seating? Do we have to do the ride to see the Penguins? Is the photokey worth the money if not doing the rides? All advice appreciated! Thanks

 

[VacaPlanner2012]

First and foremost, read Gina's trip reports - extremely detailed account of everything.

Your gut is telling you correctly, but a few weeks out, the website will post a schedule of showtimes. It is possible to do all of the shows, but make a plan. The online map does not do justice the length of the walk over and back to Shamu Stadium, not something you want to do more often than needed. So, plan which Shamu show and make the trek once...see Wild Arctic while you are over there. Also, don't forget there are some great aquariums with some of the rides, you don't need to ride the rides to see them.

We loved the reserved seating, but we got it free with staying at a partner hotel. It is not necessary, but it is nice. We did purchase it for the Christmas shows, but that is a little different situation than yours.

You do not have to ride the Penguin ride to see the penguins, but I will still recommend it. They have a mild side with very little movement, and the "reveal" is worth it! Also, keep in mind, it is COLD!!!!

Same thing for Wild Arctic, you do not have to ride the ride to see the Belugas and walrus.

I guess my best advice (especially taking out rides) is to look at the schedule and make a plan. The shows are so good!!! If you are a foodie, consider the all day dining plan. If not - look at Gina's new thread with pictures of the menus and see which shows are nearby the food you would like to eat. Lastly, don't rush and enjoy all of the scenery and animals.

 

[newestkg06]

We hated the Wild Arctic ride, (made us all nauseous) but the exhibits were wonderful. Your two sons don't want to do the major rollercoasters? They are pretty great. I would look into doing the dolphin encounter. It's an extra $15/pp but it was really worth it to us. If you do that, then the Photokey is worth it. Otherwise, I wouldn't bother.

 

[sarahb74]

Thanks both! That's really helpful

 

[keishashadow]

Hi. We (me and 2 sons aged 15 & 10) are heading to WDW and Universal for 2 weeks at the end of August. We are planning on one day at Seaworld which we have never done before. Please can you give me some hints and tips of the best way to plan the day, bearing in mind we are not really interested in the rides, just the shows and animal exhibits. I looked at the park map and thought maybe turn left when we get there and just head clockwise, does that work out ok? Is it worthwhile getting the reserved show seating? Do we have to do the ride to see the Penguins? Is the photokey worth the money if not doing the rides? All advice appreciated! Thanks

Another vote to include the ride with viewing the penguins along with enjoying Atlantis. It may be so hot the end of August you will welcome chance of getting wet.

be there at rope drop, one of those parks that really seems to build mid morning. Eat a big breakfast before entering the park, then hit a later lunch to try to avoid the crowds. Portions seem huge there to me and food is generally good.

Since showtimes are your main objective, plan your day accordingly but be prepared to stop & smell the roses or at least double back to visit smaller exhibits that I find especially fascinating.

I do limit one walk over/back to Shamu side and try to hit it early as the walk across the lake can get sweltering.

personally, cannot wait to see the expanded manatee area.

 

[miknsusn]

We didn't do the photokey, but I noticed there were a lot of photographers all over the park waiting to take pictures.

This past week was our first visit and my best tip is that preferred parking is a huge bargain. It only cost $3 more than regular but we got a space very close to the gate. That day my ds had a blister on his foot and some chafing issues and we were trying to minimize his steps. Regular parking was $18.

Refillable cups: 3 or more cost $9.99 each and you get free refills all day. It was so hot, we definitely got our money's worth on the cups. You could get refills of anything from the frestyle machines or icees. I do wish I had known that they came in different colors depending on where in the parks you bought them. We ended up with all 5 matching.

Final tip-if you see a souvenir you want, go ahead and buy it and lug it around. The gift shops all had different merchandise and now I am at home without a very cute mug because I thought I would pick one up at the big shop on the way out.