Let’s face it; ecotourism is a major moneymaker, and theme parks all over Orlando have taken full advantage of this fast growing market. Destinations such as Disney’s Animal Kingdom, SeaWorld, and Busch Gardens have tried to combine a naturalistic animal experience with thrilling rides with varying levels of success. Other parks in Florida, including Epcot and Marineland Florida, even offer dolphin encounters, where you can get a hint, if only a small one, into the world where these amazing creatures live.
Although many theme parks have tried to incorporate animal experiences as well as rides and shows, the No. 1 amusement park in the world, according to the 2014 TripAdvisor® Travelers’ Choice Awards, has committed itself to creating an immersive experience where the animals are the attraction.
Available now through December 2014, Floridians can take advantage of an exclusive offer on a getaway where they can immerse themselves in an unforgettable day at Discovery Cove® in Orlando swimming with dolphins, snorkeling with thousands of tropical fish and dozens of rays while also encountering curious marmosets and hand-feeding exotic birds. The all-inclusive day resort offers a Dolphin Swim Day Resort package for $219 plus tax and a Day Resort package without the dolphin swim experience, for $149 plus tax.
Plus, for an additional $49, guests can enhance their day by adding SeaVenture, an underwater walking tour where participants will feel right at home under the sea surrounded by thousands of tropical fish and rays and get up close to sharks.
Residents also receive unlimited admission to SeaWorld® Orlando and Aquatica, SeaWorld’s Waterpark, through January 31, 2015, where they can enjoy upcoming family-friendly events like SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration®. For the first time ever, guests can also embark on an adventure to Busch Gardens® Tampa for a $25 package upgrade. Unlimited park admission is also available through January 31, 2015.
Across the street from Discovery Cove is Aquatica, SeaWorld’s Waterpark, offering everything from high-speed water slides and exhilarating wave pools, to tranquil beaches and remarkable animal habitats. All-new is Ihu’s Breakaway Falls™, where guests can brave a watery free-fall on Orlando’s the tallest, steepest and only multi-drop tower slide.
Guests who upgrade their package to visit Busch Gardens® Tampa can also get the chance to experience Falcon’s Fury™, North America’s tallest freestanding drop tower at 335 feet. Like its bird of prey namesake, at the ride’s highest point, riders will pivot 90 degrees in midair to a facedown dive position. An instant later, they’ll plunge 60 mph straight down.
For more information visit DiscoveryCove.com or call 1-877-434-7268.