A Tropical Oasis Awaits at Discovery Cove

Did you know that for the second year in a row, Discovery Cove has been named the #1 amusement park in the world? Millions voted in the 2014 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice awards.

If you haven’t been, Discovery Cove is an all-inclusive day resort experience where you’ll enjoy an opportunity to swim with dolphins, snorkel with rays and tropical fish, hand-feed exotic birds and relax in the Florida sunshine.

The highlight of a visit to Discovery Cove is the opportunity to swim with an Atlantic bottlenose dolphin during a 30-minute interactive adventure. Accompanied by a trainer, you’ll wade into shallow water where a photographer will snap photos of you interacting with the dolphin. Then you head out to deeper water for an exciting dorsal fin tow ride back to shore — so fun!

The staff limits daily attendance to around 1,300 guests, to ensure that the property doesn’t feel overcrowded. And your admission includes breakfast, lunch, snacks, as well as beverages (water bottles, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages) throughout the day. You’ll also get your own wetsuit, towel and snorkel gear to use at the park, where there are private lockers, showers and dressing rooms available.

At the Grand Reef, you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel among tropical fish, rays, and canyons inspired by reefs from around the world. You’ve also got to try out the SeaVenture. It’s an underwater walking tour with dive helmets where you get up-close and personal with unique animals, colorful schools of fish and sharks (safely behind massive panoramic windows).

Hands down the coolest lazy river I’ve ever seen, there’s a winding waterway that meanders through the park, where you’ll encounter hidden beaches, palm-covered walkways and rocky lagoons. Grab a floating device and travel through different environments: a sunny island beach, a dense tropical forest and an underwater cave. There’s also waterfalls and a bird sanctuary with exotic species.

To get a taste of the action, check out this video by Rachelle Lucas (our VISIT FLORIDA Food & Dining Insider):

If You Go: For more info visit DiscoveryCove.com or call 1-877-434-7268. Prices vary seasonally and unlimited admission to SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica is included in the ticket.