Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
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Nighttime Fun
In addition to its regular productions, SeaWorld stages a few shows only season-
ally, including
Mistify,
a nighttime spectacular combining fireworks and foun-
tains on the lagoon. During summer months, guests are treated to the
special-effects extravaganza nightly. While not on the same level as Disney's
nighttime spectaculars, it adds an entertaining element to the experience—
especially for those who prefer to visit well into the evening hours. If you're din-
ing at the Spice Mill restaurant in the Waterfront, you can even enjoy dinner with
the show.
Marine Mammal Keeper Experience
Frommer's Rating:
A for trainer wannabes
Recommended Ages:
13-adult
This 9-hour program (starting bright and early at 6:30am) allows guests to work side by side
with a trainer, preparing meals and feeding the animals, and learning how to care for and
interact with dolphins, beluga whales, sea lions, and walruses. The cost is $399 (with tax),
which includes 7 days of consecutive park admission, lunch, a career book, and a T-shirt.
Note:
You must be at least 13 years old and able to climb, as well as able to lift and carry 15
pounds of critter cuisine. Call
&
800/432-1178
(hit “5,” when prompted) for reservations.
Penguin Encounter
Overrated
Frommer's Rating:
C; B for young kids
Recommended Ages:
All ages
Here you are transported by moving sidewalk through Arctic and Antarctic displays.
You'll get a glimpse of penguins as they preen, socialize, and swim at bullet speed in their
22°F (-6°C) habitat. You'll also see puffins and murres in a similar, separate area. While
it gives you a nice view of the penguins (and they are always a hit with the kids), the
surroundings around the viewing area leave a bit to be desired, especially among so many
other elaborate and well-done exhibits.
Pets Ahoy!
Frommer's Rating:
B
Recommended Ages:
All ages
Eighteen cats, 12 dogs, three pot-bellied pigs, and a horse are joined by birds and rats to
perform comic relief in a 25-minute show held several times a day. Almost all of the stars
were rescued from animal shelters.
Shamu's Happy Harbor
Kids
Frommer's Rating:
A for kids
Recommended Ages:
3-12
This recently expanded 4-acre play area has a four-story net tower with a 35-foot crow's-
nest lookout, water cannons, remote-controlled vehicles, nine slides, a submarine, and a
water maze. It's one of the most extensive play areas at any park and a great place for kids
to unwind. Bring extra clothes for the kids (and maybe for yourself, too) because it's not
designed to keep you dry. Smaller kids will require close supervision, however, as they can
easily get lost in all the action—and unlike many other play areas in other parks, there
are several escape routes here. Options that will assuredly entertain little ones include the
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