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This information last updated 9/9/2001.
I visited the San Antonio park in late July 2001. Looking at the park map, one finds that there is an animal portion, a waterpark, and a thrill ride section which are all in their own areas, making it really feel like three separate parks sharing one entrance gate. The park is "schizophrenic" according to my friend Cindy, who along with her husband made up our touring group of three. I have to admit that while I'm not particularly keen on the idea of having roller coasters and water rides at a marine park, if it's going to happen I do approve of the way it is implemented here. Also, having experienced the heat and humidity of San Antonio in late July, I understand the logic behind the water park addition. It's just so weird seeing so many people walking around the rest of the park in bikinis and swimsuits.
Here are a few quick notes about the park:
San Antonio is something of a travel destination, though not a major one. It hosts several large-scale conventions and three Air Force bases, which of course contribute substantially to their tourism industry. Several historic hotels stand in the downtown region. Also in the downtown region is Riverwalk, a promenade along the river that is lined with shops and restaurants, and The Alamo. San Antonio is also home to Six Flags Fiesta Texas if you're wanting a full-on roller coaster park experience.
Sea World is about 15 miles outside of the downtown area, on the West side of town about 5 miles West of Loop 410 West on FM151. If you don't have a car at your disposal, you may wish to opt for a taxi. It will be a very pricey ride unless you are staying very close to the park.
Sea World San Antonio is located at:
10500 Sea World Drive
San Antonio, TX 78251-3002
Phone: 210-523-3611
Because there are several Air Force bases in the area with graduations virtually every weekend, you should make your room reservations at least a month in advance. Your chances of getting a walk-up room are pretty slim, especially at the economy motels (Motel 6, Super 8) nearer Sea World.
Since I only have visited Sea World once and San Antonio twice, I cannot make any specific hotel or motel suggestions. I have stayed at only one motel, which was the Motel 6 off I-410 West, Marbach exit. Where you stay is going to be tempered by the reason for your visit to San Antonio.
General admission is $34.95, $24.95 for children 3-11. Admission is half price if you are a pass holder at any other Anheuser-Busch theme park.
Passes good throughout the calendar year operating season are $44.95 plus tax (all ages). A two-season pass is $64.95 plus tax. Passes can be ordered by phone or on the official Sea World website.
All of the shows and exhibits can accommodate guests with disabilities. There are limitations on the rides and some of the water park features based upon your degree of mobility impairment. For example, it is recommended that you not ride the roller coasters, Rio Loco, or Texas Splashdown if you are non-ambulatory due to the awkwardness of evacuation procedures. For more information, request an Accessibility Guide from Guest Relations, the Information booth, the Front Gate Ticket Booth, First Aid, or Wheelchair Rental.
The Shows
Hey, isn't this supposed to be the primary reason people go to Sea World? For your comfort, all of the show stadiums have awnings that cover the complete seating area, with the exception of Sea Lion and Walrus Stadium whose Splash Zone is uncovered. Banana Cabana has a canopy of trees.
Shows are listed in alphabetical order.
I didn't catch the name of the show that was playing here, and it's not identified on the park map. The theatre is part of Shamu's Happy Harbor. This is a kid-oriented show that has costumed characters (Shamu, Dolly Dolphin, etc.) dancing and singing to educational songs. This is an audience participation show. Besides being invited to clap and sing along, children are pulled out of the audience to dance with the characters, though they remain on the stage with the kids in front of them.
I didn't last through the whole show. I could handle the off-key singing and silly music. The problem was the large number off poorly-behaved immature people in the area. The kids were fine. It was their PARENTS that were the problem. . .
This show stars Clyde and Seamore in a "Tool Time"-style parody. I'm none too thrilled with the California version, but the show in Texas is very good. The difference here is that they stick more to the script, thus giving more time to the animals. They also have a good preshow which you should not miss.
This show features an "Extreme Games" theme with a fair amount of action on land in addition to the stunt waterskiing and jetski riding. This show is not something that interests me, but most who watch it seem to really enjoy it. Having sat through the complete show a few times, these days I just watch parts of it from outside the stadium to see if there are any changes I need to note.
This show uses trained dogs, cats, birds, and a few other animals to entertain the crowd. We've all seen dogs that can roll over on cue, but have you ever seen a cat do likewise? There are lots of surprises in this show, but the biggest one may be that most of the animals in this show were rescued from animal shelters. They were for the most part considered "untrainable." Ha. A very cute show whose quality surprised me. Not quite a must-see, but work it into your schedule if you can.
A very predictable formula - Everyone oohs and ahhs while watching these magnificent beasts lift their multi-ton bodies out of the water. Rated by most (including me) as a don't miss.
The stadium is an interesting layout, definitely unlike the other parks. The show pool is rhombus-shaped (I hear you all running for your geometry books) with seats on either side. This has the effect of increasing the number of good-view seats, as well as giving a more intimate feeling. One of the effects of this is that instead of one whale peforming a behavior (trick), there typically will be two, one for each side of the stadium.
Newly added is a video screen and camera system (including one that is underwater) that is used throughout the show to give you a closer view of what is going on in and above the water. It is also used for instant replays of some of the funnier moments. Because of the layout of this stadium, the video screen is on one end, which means you have to totally turn your attention away from the water to see the screen.
This show takes many cues from Cirque du Soleil. It features high divers, synchronized swimmers, and the occasional visit by Pacific White-sided Dolphins and Beluga whales. Unfortunately, the animals get very little stage time and unless you sit close to the front, you will not see much of them at all. For what it is the show is good, but the animals almost seem to be a distraction.
Word of warning: There are several blue concrete boxes scattered throughout the stadium. STAY FAR AWAY from them, especially those between the sound booth and the stage, unless you wish to get DRENCHED. Not wet. Not damp. DRENCHED.
Commentary: This would be an AWESOME night show to complement a more traditional performing Belugas and dolphins daytime show. Unfortunately, other than the very expensive BIP, this is the only way you get to see the Belugas, and then for just a few seconds.
During the Summer, Sea World's hours are extended and some special nighttime shows are added. These shows are unlike those you see during the day! The 2001 season shows all had a "Hollywood" theme. The Summer night shows are the sole reason that I have continually renewed my 12-Month pass since 1992.
This show is takeoff of popular movies, including Star Wars and Forrest Gump. Both the show and the preshow are hilarious. It is definitely my favorite of the night shows at this park, and the best night show at any of the parks for the 2001 season. Ottercue!
Ice Skaters take to the stage of Gunn Meadow Theatre in a Vegas-style extravaganza that is a salute to the movies. The performers try to sing popular songs, but do a pretty poor job. The skating, costumes, sound, and lighting are all top notch. I think my favorite part was when the giant inflatable Godzilla came on stage and walked across, pausing to attack the audience.
This show is pretty similar to the daytime show as far as what happens onstage, but with a movie theme soundtrack. The lighting used during the show sets a totally different mood than the daytime show. Highly recommended.
Exhibits appear in alphabetical order.
Special note: If you purchase food at the Sea Lion or Dolphin interaction areas, NEVER hold the food out an attempt to get the animals to jump or perform other tricks. At best, you will agitate the animal (you ARE teasing it, after all). It may bite you. It may decide to take its frustration out on the other animals in the exhibit. Please, once you get the attention of the animal and it comes over to you for your picture or within touching range, give it to the animal immediately. In San Antonio, they had to remove one of their dolphins from public display because it became aggressive and started snapping at guests.
An indoor habitat featuring various species of penguins, an educational section (which I really like), and a display of Alcids including Puffins. The birds are behind glass. If you wish to take their picture, either turn off your flash, or point your camera at an angle towards the glass. If you don't, you'll get a very nice picture of your flash reflecting off the glass, but no birds. Don't say I didn't warn you.
An interesting thing about penguins: They live in the Southern Hemisphere, so our Summer is their Winter. To provide a more realistic climate, Sea World dims the lights in the exhibit for a month or so on either side of June 21st. I imagine this is a bit of a bummer for their guests, given the seasonal nature of the San Antonio park. The point of this is, using a flash when the exhibit lighting is dimmed could be rather bothersome to the animals. It is for this reason that I recommend that you either videotape your trip through the exhibit (no extra lights, please), or perhaps buy some of the postcards in the gift shop. If seeing the penguins in their full colorful glory is important to you, try to arrange your trip for early or late in the operating season.
The shark exhibit is a very interesting place to observe rather strange animal behavior. I'm not talking about the sharks; I'm talking about the humans looking at the sharks. Oh, the exhibit is fascinating, but ever since Jaws, people totally freak out when they see a real shark. In addition to sharks, you'll see Moray Eels, a living coral reef system, and other varied fish species. This is the only aquarium of any consequence in the park, though a sign tells you that two of the gift shops have some smaller aquariums.
Traffic can move pretty slowly through areas of this exhibit. Visit early in the day when the fish are active and the exhibit is uncrowded.
I won't go into my dissertation on the merits and evils of rides in a marine animal-themed park here; that will be found elsewhere.
Rides appear in alphabetical order.
At nearby Six Flags Fiesta Texas, they have a substantially similar ride named Batman. This and Batman are currently my favorite roller coasters (cringe). It is an awesome ride not for the faint of heart.
Height Restriction: Riders must be at least 54" tall. Health restrictions apply.
A six person raft-style ride that is just as generic as the others you've seen. It is a nice way to cool off on a hot day. Bring a towel into the park with you, and stash it and all your valuable electronics in a locker before riding, as you will get very wet.
A 70 MPH hypercoaster with a 15-story drop. It's fairly long but is also fairly plain. If you sit in the back rows, you will have a sore back when you get off the ride.
Height Restriction: Riders must be at least 48" tall. Health restrictions apply.
A fairly short four-person boat-in-a-flume ride with two five story drops. This one gets a long line, especially right after the Intensity Games and Shamu shows let out.
This area has several features including a wave pool, water slides, and a kids area. The entrance to the water slide is a bridge over the alligator exhibit!
For your safety, personal flotation devices are available for use for free in sizes to fit everyone from kids to adults. Lifeguards are stationed in several places. Still, please exercise common sense. Know your and your childrens' limits and abilities before using these facilities.
An adjunct to Lost Lagoon for the wee ones in your group. It features a large one-foot deep wading pool. Remember, you are responsible for your childrens' safety, please keep an eye on them!
A three-level structure designed solely for you and your friends to get totally soaked. It includes water cannons and a tub full of water that periodically overturns, soaking all those on the structure.
A four-person inflated raft water slide. This ride was not operational when I visited, but it looked fun.
An arcade with video and carnival midway-type games and a $5 motion simulator ride, next to the Great White roller coaster. No wallet comes out unscathed. You have been warned.
Need to wear the kids out? Here's the place! Sea World does a pretty fine job of designing their children's areas. They tend to be relatively safe, and well-staffed. At no time, however, should you abandon your custodial duties. YOU are responsible for the actions of the children in your care, and Sea World makes no bones about reminding you (see the reverse side of the map). But enough of that. Hopefully, you brought a swimsuit and/or a change of clothes for the kids. Turn 'em loose and watch them have a blast.
A walkway through a wooded area featuring a sculpture garden with 14 life-sized bronze statues of famous Texans.
Food at Sea World parks tends to be mediocre at best. I had a meal at every dining location except the snack carts and could not believe how good the food is at this park. The only items that were only so-so were the pizza and the hamburgers at The Oaks. Their baked goods and desserts are also quite yummy! Most of the buffeteria-style dining areas have indoor seating in air-conditioned comfort; the exception is the Barbecue location.
The best part of dine with Shamu is getting to see killer whales REALLY close-up (try within a few feet of your table), and a chance to talk to the trainers and ask a lot of questions. In other words, don't tell your small kids about it, or you'll live to regret it.
Food service is buffet-style. In San Diego, the selections are somewhat limited. I'm guessing San Antonio is going to be a similar menu. They usually have a good selection of desserts.
The price is $25 for adults. You will need to call and make your reservation at least a week in advance, I arrived on Saturday morning and headed for the Information and Reservation Center first thing only to find they were completely booked until the following Tuesday. Call (210) 523-3900 to make your reservation.
The merchandise selection in this park is superb. Shops are scattered throughout the park, typically themed to the exhibit, ride, or show nearby.
Sea World San Antonio has two different animal tours, the Behind the Scenes and Bird Adventure tours. Stop by the Information and Reservations Center just inside the main entrance for more information. Cost is $9, with a 10% discount for passholders.
For $45 plus tax, you get a four hour experience that includes feeding dolphins, sharks, stingrays, lorikeets, and yourself. This tour is billed as ideal for the person who doesn't have a lot of time but wants an immersive experience. The tour includes lunch, front of the line priveleges for one of the thrill rides, guaranteed entry to Lost Lagoon if it reaches capacity, and discounts on food and merchandise.
Have you ever wanted to get up close and personal with a Beluga Whale? How about a Sea Lion? Or are you ready to conquer your fear and get into the water with a shark? The Animal Interaction Programs allow you to don a wetsuit and enter the water with these wonderful creatures. The entire program lasts about two hours; the first part is 1-1/2 hours of classroom training on animal physiology and how you should behave around them while you're in the water. This is an extra-cost program, $125 per person. Bring your swimsuit and a credit card. For those of you not brave enough or who would just prefer to watch, observers are allowed for $42 each. Park admission is included for both participants and observers. Passholder discounts apply.
The interaction programs are available year-round, even when the park is not open to the general public. There's no wonder why - these very popular programs are VERY profitable. The minimum age for participation in the programs is 10 years, and there are minimum height requirements that vary according to the program. An adult must accompany children under 18 years old.
I believe that the programs can make accommodations for those with disabilities. Remember, I'm not Sea World's spokesman, so you should call them to inquire about your specific needs.
Call (210) 523-3900 for Interaction Program details.
This is my second most Frequently Asked Question next to "How can I swim with the dolphins?". Camp SeaWorld is an immersive experience with programs that last from one day to one week and are targeted to a variety of age groups. Newly added for those of us who are children at heart but haven't been a child for several decades is a program for adults (19+). Generally, the Camp programs include meals and a T-shirt. The programs typically include visits to the Animal Care area and may include the opportunity to feed and/or interact with a variety of animals including sharks and dolphins. Because the program details and costs are varied, a complete description is beyond the scope of this guide. Please contact Sea World San Antonio directly at (210) 523-3606 or (800) 700-7786 for more information regaring Camp SeaWorld.
The Alamo is in the downtown area, West of the Riverwalk. You can get through it very quickly if you wish, but figure on 3 or 4 hours to soak it all in.
Maybe it's a bit touristy, but I really enjoyed my strolls along the river. I didn't have a single bad meal. There's plenty of selection in the shops. The lighting and the nighttime ambience are just so romantic. They have barge-like boats that motor up and down the river. Some are conducting tours, while others can be chartered to stop dockside at many of the restaurants, which will bring your meal right out to the table on your boat. It's a great place to be with your significant other. It's also not a bad place to hang out with your buddies.
I'll be blunt: I don't know a thing about it. If you head on over to the rec.roller.coasters newsgroup, I'm sure that many of the locals will be more than happy to give you their subjective opinions. I may visit SFFT the next time I go to San Antonio. It's research, right? :-)
