Key Takeaways for Discovery Cove Orlando Attraction Tickets
- Discovery Cove offers an all-inclusive day resort experience in Orlando with dolphin swims, tropical snorkelling, and unlimited food and drink.
- Advance booking is essential as visitor numbers are strictly limited each day.
- Ticket options include dolphin swim packages, non-dolphin entry, and upgrades for added experiences.
- The park features a tropical aviary, lazy rivers, coral reef snorkelling, and white sandy beaches.
- Located minutes from SeaWorld and Aquatica, Discovery Cove is easily combined with Orlando’s top theme parks.
Introduction to Discovery Cove Attraction Tickets
Discovery Cove isn’t your typical theme park – it’s a tropical day resort in the heart of Orlando, Florida, where you can swim with dolphins, snorkel through a coral reef, and relax on white-sand beaches. Unlike other Orlando attractions, daily attendance is capped to ensure a tranquil, exclusive atmosphere. Booking your Discovery Cove attraction tickets in advance is essential, as places sell out quickly during peak months. A single ticket covers everything: entry, experiences, meals, snacks, and beverages, making it one of the most stress-free and rewarding days you can have in Orlando.
History & Background
Discovery Cove opened in 2000 as part of the SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment family, designed to offer guests a more intimate animal encounter compared to large-scale theme parks. The concept was unique: limit guest numbers and provide an all-inclusive experience with resort-style service. Over two decades later, Discovery Cove has consistently been rated among Orlando’s top attractions for families, couples, and animal lovers.
Why Visit Discovery Cove?
- Swim with dolphins – The signature 30-minute dolphin interaction lets you meet, touch, and swim with these incredible animals.
- All-inclusive resort – Enjoy freshly prepared meals, snacks, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages included in your ticket price.
- Tropical reef snorkelling – Glide alongside thousands of colourful fish and rays in the Grand Reef.
- Explorer’s Aviary – Step into a lush aviary where exotic birds will feed from your hand.
- Serenity Bay & Wind-Away River – Drift along a tropical river through waterfalls and hidden grottos.
- Exclusive atmosphere – With attendance capped at around 1,300 guests daily, Discovery Cove feels peaceful and unhurried compared to traditional theme parks.
Ticket Options & What’s Included
Standard Discovery Cove Package
- Admission to Discovery Cove.
- All-day access to lagoons, rivers, beaches, and aviary.
- Freshly prepared breakfast, lunch, snacks, soft drinks, and select alcoholic beverages.
- Use of snorkelling gear, wetsuits, towels, and lockers.
Discovery Cove with Dolphin Swim
- Includes everything in the standard package.
- Plus a 30-minute dolphin interaction with a trainer.
Non-Dolphin Swim Packages
- Ideal for younger children or guests who prefer not to swim with dolphins.
- Includes full access to all other Discovery Cove experiences.
Upgrade Options
- SeaVenture – An underwater walking tour with a dive helmet to explore reefs and marine life up close.
- Private cabanas – Shaded cabanas with personal service.
- Special occasion packages – Birthday and anniversary upgrades.
What’s Not Included
- Transport to and from the park.
- Souvenirs and professional photos.
- Premium experiences like SeaVenture (additional cost).
Practical Information
- Location: 6000 Discovery Cove Way, Orlando, Florida, near SeaWorld.
- Opening Hours: Typically 8:00 am – 5:00 pm. Arrive early for check-in and breakfast.
- Age Restrictions: Dolphin swim participants must be at least 6 years old. Children 6–12 must be accompanied by a paying adult.
- Accessibility: The park is wheelchair accessible, with special flotation vests and accessible paths.
- Parking: Free self-parking included with ticket.
Money-Saving Tips
- Book early – Tickets often sell out months in advance, especially during school holidays.
- Bundle with SeaWorld & Aquatica – Many tickets include 14 days’ entry to sister parks at no extra charge.
- Choose a non-dolphin package – If you’re on a budget, these tickets are cheaper but still include all-inclusive dining and access to the Grand Reef and aviary.
- Travel off-peak – Visiting midweek or outside school holidays usually means lower ticket prices.
Best Time to Visit Discovery Cove
- Spring (March–May) – Warm weather and fewer crowds than summer.
- Summer (June–August) – Peak season with higher demand, book very early.
- Autumn (September–November) – Pleasant temperatures and quieter atmosphere.
- Winter (December–February) – Cooler water temperatures, but wetsuits are provided.
What to Expect on Your Visit
- Arrival & Check-In – Guests check in from 7:00 am with ID, then enjoy breakfast before activities.
- Dolphin Experience – Small groups meet trainers for a hands-on, 30-minute dolphin interaction in shallow water.
- Snorkelling in the Grand Reef – See tropical fish, stingrays, and coral reefs in safe, clear waters.
- Wind-Away River – Float through waterfalls, caves, and tropical landscapes.
- Explorer’s Aviary – Hand-feed tropical birds in a giant free-flight aviary.
- Relaxation – White sandy beaches, hammocks, and lounge chairs are dotted throughout the park.
Get Your Tickets Here
Book Discovery Cove Attraction Tickets
From dolphin swims to snorkelling and bird feeding, Discovery Cove is Orlando’s ultimate all-inclusive day resort. Spaces are limited and sell out fast, so book your tickets early to secure your place.
FAQs
Do I need to book Discovery Cove in advance?
Yes. Daily capacity is limited to ensure exclusivity, so tickets often sell out.
Are meals included with my ticket?
Yes. Breakfast, lunch, snacks, soft drinks, and select alcoholic beverages are all included.
What should I bring?
Swimwear, ID, and personal items. Snorkelling gear, wetsuits, towels, and sunscreen are provided.
Can children swim with dolphins?
Children must be at least 6 years old, and those under 13 must swim with an adult.
Is Discovery Cove suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes. Many experiences are shallow-water or land-based, and life jackets are provided.
How long should I spend at Discovery Cove?
It’s designed as a full-day experience, from early morning check-in to closing time.
Nearby Attractions in Orlando
- Walt Disney World Resort – Just outside Orlando, the world’s most famous theme park complex with four parks and endless entertainment.
- International Drive (I-Drive) – Packed with dining, shopping, and entertainment, it’s Orlando’s tourist strip.
- Cocoa Beach – The closest beach to Orlando, popular for surfing and family days out.
- Gatorland – Known as the “Alligator Capital of the World,” with live shows and a zip line over the gator swamp.
- Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex – NASA’s hub for space exploration with rocket launches, astronaut encounters, and interactive exhibits.
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