Discovery Cove Orlando
Discovery Cove Orlando has been open since the summer of 2000, but still remains sort of a hidden gem, especially if you have never experienced its wonder. I can remember visiting when I was younger and being so enamored by the beauty of the park and forever changed by the magical encounters with the dolphins. The park expanded in 2011 and added The Grand Reef, which is now one of my absolute favorite areas of any park in Orlando. The best thing about Discovery Cove is that it runs by reservation only and allow about 1,300 guests at a time, so it feels very exclusive. If you have never been, you are certainly missing out on one of the most magical adventures that Orlando has to offer. I am here to give you everything that you need to know for your first time when Visiting Discovery Cove Orlando with Kids.
Where to Stay When Visiting Discovery Cove Orlando
While there is an abundance of places to stay in Orlando, there are a very few that really take resort staying to another level. Our recent experience at the Wyndham Grand in Orlando was nothing short of exceptional! We had one of the best times ever at the Wyndham and the kids have been asking to back again ever sense. We will certainly be sure to visit them again on our next trip to Discovery Cove Orlando. If you would like to know more about our stay at the Wyndham Grand Bonnet Creek Orlando, see my detailed Post HERE.
What to bring to Discovery Cove
- Photo ID: This is necessary for anyone 18 years and older.
- Credit card: If you would like to charge optional in-park services or any souvenir purchases.
- Clothing: You will need a comfortable bathing suit and a set of dry clothes and swim diapers or diaper protectors for the littles.
- Water Shoes: These are not included at the park, but can really come in handy in several areas.
- Completed Waivers: These are required for anyone under 18 years of age Waivers can be accessed here.
What NOT to bring
- Jewelry: Anything that cannot be untied or unclasped you can keep on.
- Sunscreen: They provide reef-safe sunscreen for you everywhere in the park.
- Outside food or drinks: This is not allowed, and not at all necessary. Drinks are included all day and upgraded drink packages are available.
- Flotation devices: No noodles, swim fins, sand toys, or any scuba equipment are permitted, as they include everything you need.
- Snorkeling Gear: They provide masks, snorkels, and carrying bags in several areas of the park to grab and go.
Checking into Discovery Cove Orlando
Discovery Cove opens at 7:00 a.m. and closes at 5:00 p.m. daily. I would plan to arrive as early as possible to get a start on your fun-filled day. The included breakfast will be ready to serve as soon as you enter the park, so you can fuel up for your first adventure.
Tickets for Discovery Cove
Day Resort Admission (start at $224, Florida Resident $179.20)
With a Day Resort Admission to Discovery Cove Orlando you will get the all-inclusive amenities. plus full access to The Grand Reef, Freshwater Oasis, Explorer’s Aviary and Serenity Bay. There is more than enough to do for an entire day with this admission, but does not include a dolphin encounter.
Signature Dolphin Swim Package (start at $324, Florida Resident $259.20)
This package allows for you to have a one on a lifetime dolphin experience, which I highly recommend! Not only do you get in the water with them, but you get to touch, ride, and interact with them in some pretty cool ways. You also get to enjoy the all-inclusive amenities mentioned above in the Discovery Cove Day Resort Packages. You will not regret upgrading to this package once you experience these amazing creatures up close!
**Note that guests ages 2 and under are free with a full paid adult, but reservations are required.
What is Included with Admission?
- Freshly cooked food, unlimited snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, and a selection of beer and wine.
- You are provided with either a swim vest or a wet suit, a snorkel and mask, lockers and towels.
- There are private indoor and outdoor showers available around the park.
- Throughout the park, special sunscreen that is safe for all animal habitats is provided for all guests.
- All-day self-parking at Discovery Cove is complimentary and the lots are all fairly close to the park entrance.
- Each guest will receive a personalized Discovery Cove ID card with a lanyard to keep.
What is Included with the Dolphins Swim Package?
The dolphin swim experience is what Discovery Cove Orlando is all about. It all starts by selecting a specific starting time for your group prior to your visit. Once in the park, the experience all begins with your group meeting near the lagoons for a quick video and instructions on what to expect, as well as rules to follow while in the water with the dolphins. Staff will teach you and your family all about dolphin habits, their behaviors, how they communicate, and other great facts about these amazing creatures. After training, your group will take a short stroll to one of their gorgeous lagoons where you will prepare to meet your dolphin, so exciting! Then, each group member will get a chance to interact with your dolphin (or if you’re lucky maybe two) in a very unique and personal way. After everyone has been introduced and gets to know the dolphin a bit, it’s time to take a ride of a lifetime and get a kiss.
Dining at Discovery Cove Orlando
The Grand Reef
Want to capture your own underwater photos and video? I swear by this underwater camera and it is one of my favorite things to bring on vacation with me. Perfect for getting those special moments of your family.
Serenity Bay
Wind Away River
Freshwater Oasis
Asian Clawed Otters
The Asian small-clawed otters are located in their own hidden enclosure that can only be accessed by swimming into a small cave. The viewing can be done above and below the water, so be sure to bring your mask and snorkel when you head there. A special viewing area also sits right outside the cave and requires small ones to climb up a rock to peer into the den. There are also daily feeding times that are posted around the park and in front of the exhibit.
Marmoset Island
Marmoset Island is just outside the otter exhibit right in the middle of Freshwater Oasis. The tiny little island is the habitat for the cutest arboreal marmosets. Their island is bamboo forests, rock towers and ropes for them to climb and swing, and lots of trees for them to play and rest. The best time to see the marmosets seemed to be during their schedule feeding times or just before when they start stirring in anticipation. This was one of our favorite activities.
Explorers Aviary
Explorers Aviary was actually closed during our visit and will be undergoing enhancements through mid-April 2022. It is a home to hundreds of colorful birds that will fly above and around you. There will also be an opportunity to meet them up close as they eat fruit from your hand.
Activities for Younger Kids
Beaches and Waterways
Younger kids will love playing in the sand and can do so in pretty much every area of the park. They can also splash in the water at some of the pools and rivers edges while supervised. There are lifeguards all over the place and they are very actively communicating with guests to make sure everyone is staying safe.
Closeups with Animals
At the Conservation Kiosk near the Freshwater Oasis, smaller children have a chance to get up close to animals like armadillos, sloths, birds and other very interesting animals. We had the opportunity to see and learn about the Frogmouth Bird and it was fascinating!
Go to More Parks
Discovery Cove Orlando is part of SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens in Tampa, which are both awesome parks for little ones. You have the option to add tickets to those parks to your package when purchasing your Discovery Cove admission. Check out more fun things to do at Busch Gardens with kids HERE.
Age Restricted
- Children must be 6 years of age or older to Swim with Dolphins, Feed Rays, and participate in Animal Trek.
- Children must be 10 years of age or older to Swim with Sharks or participate in SeaVenture.
Shopping around Discovery Cove
If you forget something, the shops around the park have a selection of swimwear, hats and sunglasses available for purchase. There are also some pretty cool souvenirs to bring home as a reminder of your amazing day at Discovery Cove Orlando.
Upgrades at Discovery Cove Orlando
Cabanas and Day Beds
Private Cabana includes (start at $199):
The cabanas are such a good option for larger families and those with babies. Having a private and shaded spot to relax, change, and enjoy your meals is very nice. Each cabana is tucked away in its own little cove and have curtains that can completely enclose for more privacy.
Our Perfect Day Itinerary at Discovery Cove Orlando
8am Start with Breakfast
8:30am Explore the Park
9am Swim in the Grand Reef
9:30am Dolphin swim
10am Self-Serve Snacks and Drinks
11am Relax in Cabana
12pm Snorkel at Grand Reef
1pm Lunch at Laguna Grill
1:30pm Relax on Wind Away River
2pm Otters at Fresh Water Oasis
2:30pm Marmoset Island Feeding
3pm Waterfalls at Serenity Bay
3:30 Self-Serve Snacks and Drinks
4pm Hammock at the Cabana
4:30pm another Swim at Serenity Bay
5pm Park Closed, picked up Photos and said Goodbye
I hope that you enjoyed The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Discovery Cove Orlando and that you too get to experience it soon with your family!
If you want more Family Travel Guides, visit my Travel Blog or click on some of the other links below:
Visiting Costa Rica – A Family Travel Guide
Visiting Anna Maria Island – A Family Travel Guide