This is Orlando’s Only Theme Park Where You Can Truly Relax
Imagine a tranquil world where you get to swim with sting rays, walk on the “ocean” floor amongst schools of fish, see flamingos, swim past otters, and meals and drinks are included to boot, all for one price of admission. Discovery Cove in Orlando, Florida, is a surprisingly relaxing theme park. Non-existent are the lines, cranky guests, or gawking at food prices. At this Central Florida-themed entertainment experience, a water-filled oasis recharges instead of drains you, provides up-close animal education, and will leave you feeling refreshed and fulfilled for your surrounding vacation days.
Welcome to Paradise
Discovery Cove isn't your typical theme park – it's Orlando's most relaxing, interactive destination. This tropical oasis balances exciting activities with serene water elements and lush flora, creating the perfect stress-free day for visitors seeking paradise in Central Florida.
The Ultimate Lazy River Experience
The freshwater Wind-Away River offers the best lazy river experience you'll ever encounter. It's no wonder it was voted the #1 lazy river in the U.S. by readers voting for the prestigious USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. The 1,600-foot course offers ideal water temperatures, enjoyable waterfalls, and high-quality flotation devices for guests. It takes about 30 minutes to complete a circuit, an ideal and relaxing amount of time.
All-Inclusive Paradise
Your single admission price covers everything: parking, meals, drinks, snorkel gear, life jackets, lockers, and animal encounters. Unlike other theme parks with costly add-ons, Discovery Cove's all-inclusive pricing means no wallet is needed, and no annoying surprise charges will be incurred throughout your day.
Limited Capacity Equals Maximum Relaxation
Daily visitor numbers are strictly limited to maintain an intimate and relaxed atmosphere. This exclusivity means you'll never encounter crowds or long lines–just book well in advance to secure your spot in this peaceful paradise.
Five Amazing Areas to Explore
The park features five main areas: Explorer's Aviary, The Grand Reef, Freshwater Oasis, Serenity Bay, and the famous Wind-Away River. Each area offers unique experiences, from walking with tropical birds to snorkeling with rays and swimming alongside colorful fish.
Unforgettable Animal Encounters
Stand inches away from sloths, hand-feed tropical birds, and snorkel with curious stingrays in small, supervised groups. These carefully managed experiences blend education with adventure, creating moments that will stick with you long after you leave the park.
Arrive Early for Maximum Fun
Check-in begins at 7:15 AM with complimentary breakfast starting at 8:00 AM. Water activities open at 9:00 AM. The day flies by faster than expected, so arriving early ensures you can experience everything this tropical wonderland has to offer before the 5:00 PM closing time. Learn more about what your day may look like at Discovery Cove in this complete guide to the park.
Luxury Cabana Worth the Splurge
Private cabanas provide a stocked mini-fridge, snacks, a ceiling fan, a locker, and sunscreen for groups of 6-8 people (10 person max). While you may not spend much time there due to all the activities, cabanas offer the perfect retreat from Florida's intense sun and heat.
Pack Smart, Leave the Rest Behind
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, sunglasses, and a waterproof phone case – but leave jewelry, sunscreen, and towels at home. The park provides animal-safe sunscreen, towels, snorkel gear, and wetsuits, so you can pack light and focus on your experience.
Flexible Weather Policy
The park doesn't offer rain refunds, but you can reschedule 48+ hours in advance without penalty. Lightning and thunder will pause water activities for safety, so check forecasts carefully and consider rescheduling if storms are predicted for your visit day.
Safety First for Humans and Animals
Discovery Cove maintains strict safety protocols with licensed lifeguards monitoring all water areas and trained staff supervising animal interactions. The park holds multiple accreditations, ensuring both guest safety and animal welfare are top priorities throughout your visit.
Accessibility for Everyone
The park welcomes guests with mobility challenges through wheelchair-friendly pathways, special water access chairs, and accessible cabanas. As a Certified Autism Center, Discovery Cove provides sensory guides and accommodations to ensure every family can enjoy this magical experience.
Perfect Central Location
Strategically located between Disney World and Universal Studios, Discovery Cove pairs perfectly with other Orlando attractions. SeaWorld and Aquatica are right next door, while ICON Park offers evening entertainment after Discovery Cove's 5:00 PM closing time.
Money-Saving Tips and Tricks
Book weekdays or shoulder seasons for lower prices, bundle with other SeaWorld parks for savings, and watch for frequent promotional offers. Florida residents get special discounts, while military families receive well-deserved price breaks on admission.
SeaWorld & Discovery Cove Help Advance Animal Science
Since 1965, SeaWorld (which owns Discovery Cove) has helped rescue and rehabilitate more than 42,000 dolphins, whales, porpoises, seals, sea lions, walruses, sea turtles, manatees, otters, and birds. A portion of the proceeds from park entrance fees, including Discovery Cove, helps fund important research projects. Read more.
A Day You'll Never Forget
Visitors leave Discovery Cove feeling fulfilled, relaxed, and eager to recommend the experience to others. Whether you stick with included activities or add special experiences, this unique destination creates everlasting memories in Orlando's most peaceful theme park setting.
- Read more about the ins and outs of Discovery Cove
- Learn about Animal Experiences at Discovery Cove
