SeaWorld is an American theme park chain with headquarters in Orlando, Florida. It is a proprietor of marine mammal parks, oceanariums, animal theme parks, and rehabilitation centers owned by SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment (one park will be owned and operated by Miral under a license).

FROM PARK TO PLANET, WE'RE HELPING ANIMALS ACROSS THE GLOBE Your visit helps SeaWorld provide $10 MILLION in donations and in-kind services every year for animal rescue and conservation efforts! Your trip to SeaWorld supports rescuing thousands of animals in need every year.

SeaWorld® opened its gates for the first time in 1964, founded by George Millay, Milt Shedd, Ken Norris and David DeMott. Originally planned as an underwater restaurant, the concept grew into a marine zoological park on 21 acres along the shore of Mission Bay in San Diego.

SeaWorld San Diego is one of the premier attractions in San Diego and a must-do for any visit to Southern California. The marine park offers incredible views of sea life and other animals through up-close and even hands-on encounters, shows and exhibits.

Guests are immersed in wonder at SeaWorld® Orlando, where the aquatic world comes alive like no place else. Experience the predator power of MAKO®, Orlando's tallest, fastest and longest coaster. Take a plunge down the world's tallest river rapids drop on Infinity Falls™. Climb aboard and ride the mighty Manta®.

27,000 animals given a second chance at life – Over the past 50 years, all three SeaWorld parks have helped rescue over 27,000 animals. Each and everyone of those 27,000 has been an animal that was sick, injured, starving, and in need of a second chance at life.

Contrary to popular belief, the animals at SeaWorld receive top-notch care. SeaWorld has five full-time trainers assigned to each whale, a local and national veterinary team and staff dedicated to maintaining every aspect of their water quality. The whales are also provided with enrichment multiple times a day.

2. 27,000 animals given a second chance at life – Over the past 50 years, all three SeaWorld parks have helped rescue over 27,000 animals. Each and everyone of those 27,000 has been an animal that was sick, injured, starving, and in need of a second chance at life.

Dawn Brancheau Brancheau, who was a highly experienced orca trainer at Seaworld, had been feeding Tilikum fish near the end of the "Dine with Shamu" show and was on the edge of the pool rubbing the orcas head. The orca then grabbed Brancheau and pulled her into the water in an incident that was caught on film.

SeaWorld Entertainment Inc. later agreed to pay $65 million to settle a lawsuit in which it was accused of misleading investors over the impact the documentary was having on its bottom line. In the face of mounting criticism, SeaWorld halted its orca breeding program and live performances featuring the whales in 2016.

SeaWorld® San Diego has a larger selection of kids' rides, but SeaWorld® Orlando has slightly better thrill rides. Regardless of which park you end up going to, your whole family will surely find plenty to enjoy.

There's water pretty much everywhere. Don't wear anything you don't want to get wet. Arrive early for the national anthem. Plus, there's so much to see in so little time.