Your Best Tips for Visiting SeaWorld Orlando for Toddlers
SeaWorld Orlando is a great place for families with smaller children. With spectacular shows, captivating aquariums, and tons of animals, it’s a memorable vacation for kids of all ages. If you’re planning a trip, here are my SeaWorld Orlando tips for visiting with toddlers (and older kids too).
Thank you to SeaWorld Orlando for providing my family with free tickets. All opinions are my own.
Planning a trip to Orlando theme parks? Check out my guides to Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World for more information.
See the Shows
SeaWorld Orlando has so many incredible live shows that really give you an up-close look at these magnificent animals. We loved One Ocean in Shamu Stadium which featured the iconic killer whales. One was even named Kayla!
My preschooler loved watching the whales splash and jump out of the water. We also enjoyed the Dolphin Days show. This one showcases the trainers in the water with the animals and even includes a surprise fly-in from a few feathered friends.
Visiting SeaWorld with young kids is a blast, especially when you sit in the splash zones. Just be prepared to get wet! SeaWorld Orlando with small children is full of excitement and wonder.
See the Animals
There are tons of exhibits at SeaWorld Orlando showcasing all types of aquatic animals. We loved the dolphins, sea lions, stingrays, sharks, and penguins. The penguin habitat at Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin was so neat and freezing cold! A nice break from the Florida heat.
We also loved the Wild Arctic exhibit, where we saw polar bears and beluga whales, and the Mako shark encounter tunnel (both were in AC).
Little Kid Attractions at SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld Orlando has so many fun attractions perfect for little kids. One of our favorites is Sesame Street Land. Your little ones can meet their favorite Sesame Street characters like Elmo, Big Bird, and Abby Cadabby. They can even watch a Sesame Street show and join in a parade! The Sesame Street Bay of Play is another great spot with lots of interactive play areas and small rides.
If your kids love getting wet, the splash pad area is a must-visit. It’s a great way to cool off on a hot day. The Dolphin Nursery is also a perfect place for younger children to get up close to baby dolphins. They can watch them swim and play, and learn about these amazing animals.
For a bit of a thrill, Shamu Express is a kid-friendly roller coaster that’s exciting but not too scary. There are also other small rides in Shamu’s Happy Harbor that are perfect for little feet. Don’t forget to check the height requirements to ensure your little ones can ride.SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld Orlando Baby Care Center Review
When visiting with little kids, you have to make a stop at the SeaWorld Orlando Baby Care Center. Equipped with a kitchen with microwave and bottle warmer, changing facilities, private nursing room, and restrooms with kid-sized toilets, this space provides lots of comfort when traveling with young kids. The Baby Care Center is located in Shamu’s Happy Harbor near the kiddie rides like Shamu Express.
What to Do if it Rains
Often during the summer months, central Florida has thunderstorms daily. Luckily SeaWorld has a “Sunny Day Guarantee”. You can read more about it here. When we visited, it started raining around 3 pm and didn’t stop until the park closed. Fortunately, we had a few umbrellas and a stroller cover to keep us nice and dry.
While all rides close down if there is rain or lightning nearby, the animal encounters do not. If you find yourself facing a stormy afternoon, check out the indoor attractions to make the most of your time at the park.
Unfortunately, we didn’t get to test out any of the kiddie rides at Happy Harbor due to inclement weather. If you have young children and are traveling there during the summer, be sure to ride these first to avoid afternoon thunderstorm closures.
Important Tips for SeaWorld Orlando with Toddlers
Be aware that outside food is not permitted, though they will let you bring in baby food items. Utilize the child swap feature if you and other members of your party want to ride ‘adult’ rides. This means everyone will wait in line (with the baby) together. You will swap right near the ride entrance to allow everyone to ride while someone swaps taking care of the baby.
Handheld infants are not allowed to ride ANYTHING, even the kiddie rides. They must be able to take three controlled steps by themselves to demonstrate control to ride.
Tips for Visiting SeaWorld Orlando in Florida
Wear Sunscreen
The Florida sun can be intense, so it’s crucial to apply sunscreen regularly to protect your family’s skin. Bring a high SPF sunscreen and reapply every couple of hours, especially after water activities or sweating.
Dress for the Weather
Florida is known for its warm, often hot, weather. Dress in lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes as there’s a lot of walking involved. Hats and sunglasses are also a must to protect against the sun.
Prepare for Possible Rain
Florida weather can be unpredictable with sudden rain showers, especially in the summer. Bring ponchos, umbrellas, and a stroller cover to keep your little ones dry. Check the weather forecast before you go and plan your day accordingly.
Stay Hydrated
The heat can be draining, so make sure everyone drinks plenty of water throughout the day. You can bring refillable water bottles and use the water fountains around the park to stay hydrated.
Bring a Change of Clothes
With splash zones, water rides, and the chance of rain, it’s a good idea to have a change of clothes for your little ones. This ensures they stay comfortable and dry.
Use a Stroller or Wagon
There’s a lot of ground to cover at SeaWorld Orlando, and little feet can get tired quickly. A stroller or wagon is essential for giving your kids a place to rest and for carrying your bags and supplies.
Plan for Nap Times
If your children still nap, plan your visit around their nap times. SeaWorld has plenty of shaded areas where you can take a break, and the Baby Care Center is a great spot for a quiet rest.
Check the Show Times
Download the SeaWorld app or grab a schedule when you enter the park to keep track of show times and plan your day around the live shows you want to see.
Use Preferred Parking
If you want a convenient parking spot close to the entrance, consider upgrading to preferred parking. It’s a great way to save time and energy, especially with young kids in tow.
Look for the Best Deals
Check online for tickets and packages to find the best deals. SeaWorld often has promotions, especially during Black Friday and other special events. If you (or your spouse) is a Veteran, be sure to check out special summer promotions for free tickets! If you have a preschooler, read more about a special pass for them below.
SeaWorld Toddler Pass
While children 3 and under enter for free at SeaWorld, there is a preschool pass that you can register for. Kids 5 and younger get into SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica Water Park FREE for the entire year!
Advanced sign-up on their website and proof of age via Birth Certificate are both required. Sign-ups are only available for a limited time only. Check this page to get your FREE Preschool Card.
Seasonal and Special Events at SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld Orlando offers a variety of seasonal events throughout the year that are perfect for kids of all ages. Here are some of the highlights:
Seven Seas Food Festival: Held in the spring, this event features delicious food and drink options from around the world, along with live music and entertainment. It’s a great way to enjoy some tasty treats while exploring the park.
Electric Ocean: During the summer, SeaWorld transforms into a glowing wonderland with Electric Ocean. Enjoy nighttime shows, dance parties, and a spectacular fireworks display. It’s a perfect way to end a fun-filled day at the park.
Halloween Spooktacular: In the fall, SeaWorld hosts Halloween Spooktacular, a family-friendly event with trick-or-treating, Halloween-themed shows, and fun activities. Kids can dress up in costumes and meet their favorite Sesame Street characters in their Halloween outfits.
SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration: The holiday season at SeaWorld is magical with SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration. The park is adorned with festive decorations, holiday shows, and even snow! Kids can meet Santa, see a special Christmas-themed Shamu show, and enjoy seasonal treats.
New Year’s Eve at SeaWorld: Ring in the new year with a special celebration at SeaWorld. The park stays open late, and there’s a fantastic fireworks display to welcome the new year in style.
Summer Nights: Throughout the summer, SeaWorld extends its hours for Summer Nights. Enjoy special evening shows, nighttime rides, and a lively atmosphere perfect for families.
Special Events: Keep an eye on SeaWorld’s calendar for other special events like the Sesame Street Party Parade, where you can see all your favorite Sesame Street characters in a lively and colorful parade.
These seasonal and special events make SeaWorld Orlando a perfect place to visit any time of the year. Each event offers unique experiences that add even more magic to your visit.
Final Tips for SeaWorld Orlando with Toddlers
Be sure to download the SeaWorld app to keep track of show times, park open/close, and see an interactive map right on your phone. SeaWorld Orlando offers FREE WiFi when inside the park. My phone was dead by the end of the day between checking the app and taking lots of photos/videos. Bring a portable charger with you to keep your battery life up.
Invest in a souvenir cup. They include free refills all day at various stations throughout the park, and $1 goes to the SeaWorld conservation fund, you can’t beat that!
SeaWorld Orlando for toddlers and young kids is lots of fun. Start planning your SeaWorld Orlando vacation today for a great time with the whole family!
