Sea World

Location: San Antonio, TX
Open: through - through late December with varying operating hours and days - Check their website for calendar.

My family and I traveled to Sea World for a little fun.  We stayed at the Embassy Suites in San Antonio, so my kids could have their "own room".  From the hotel, the park was less than an hour drive.  My children waited with anticipation to see all the sea animals. 

When we got there, we saw the wild dolphin in an open tank.  It was really impressive.  They were close enough to almost touch them.  Next, we couldn't wait to take the kids to see the shark tank.  It was really cool.

Then, we noticed that the "Dolphins and Whales" show was about to start.  So, we ventured down the long path to the show.  The shows at Sea World are simply amazing.  They really involve the audience members.  The auditorium seats are also marked "Splash Zones", so you know where to sit if you want to get wet (or stay dry).  The show consisted of Beluga whales, dolphins, and amazing acrobats/stunts people.  My kids thought it was very exciting. 

After that, we went to the "Shamu and Friends" show.  It is a very impressive what these huge animals can do in the water.  My kids enjoyed getting splashed by the whales. Prepare to get wet if you sit in the Soak Zone!

Lastly, we spent the remainder of the day at Sea World's on-site water park.  The temperatures were close to 100 degrees.  The kids were starting to complain, so why not spend the hot day swimming.  There is so much to please the guests at the water park.  Lazy river, slides, wave pools, kiddie playground...name-it; they have it.  Our kids had a wonderful day, refreshed from swimming.  These are great memories to us!

You can purchase Day Passes, Multi-Day Passes or Season Passes to Sea World.  If you think you'll be back several times in a year, the Season Passes are the way to go.

Here is a list of helpful hints:

1.  First and foremost, get a hold of a map and schedule (before you get to the park).  Prioritize what you want to see and do.  Make a general plan.  There is so much to do.  You can get very overwhelmed if you don't have a plan.

2.  Bring a stroller if you have a child who occasionally wants to be held.  This park is huge!  You will do a lot of walking.  They rent out strollers and wagons.  But why pay money, when you can bring your own.  Or better yet, wait to go until they are old enough to walk!

3.  Bring a backpack.  You can put several snacks, drinks, first aid, etc.  You can rent a locker.  We ended up renting 2 lockers.  One near the front entrance.  One near the water park.

4.  Stay hydrated!  Especially in the heat of summer, you can become overheated!  I ended up in the first aid station.

5.  Wear tennis shoes, but pack sandals.  Or, if you have comfortable sandals (that can get wet)-wear these!  We had to purchase sandals at the water park because we wore tennis shoes.

6.  Give choices for your kids on things they want to do.  That way they feel like they have a bit of control.  It is their vacation too!

7.  They sold these water fans there for about $15.  Because of the heat, all the kids wanted one.  I have seen these same fans at Walmart for $5.  If you think your child will want one, pack it in your backpack. 

8. Check out Sea World's website - they have a list of "Insider Tips."  They suggest things like bring a disposable water-proof camera if you sit in the "Soak Zone" at Shamu Stadium.

9. Last but not least, look for coupons.  These places tend to be pricey.  However, there are always coupons, or deals to make it affordable.  I hear the Entertainment Book has Sea World coupons.  And sometimes you can find them in the newspaper too.

Have a fun and memorable time,

 
 
Katy, AroundTownKids Mom-on-the-Go

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