Swim with Dolphins in Orlando

For most of us, vacations only come around once a year. So you really want to make sure you choose the right destination and the right activities for you and your family to enjoy. But that can be easier said than done!

Most people choose an overall vacation goal (have fun in a warm climate), then spend days, weeks or even months researching where they can be in a warm, tropical climate but that also offers a ton of fun activities their family might enjoy. Oh, and some place the entire family can agree on!

We think we have a better option. Simply read this entire article. We’ll give you just the right destination, plus share some of the absolute best activities for you to enjoy and we’ll even give you some accommodation options. Sound good?

Okay, here’s a clue about where you’ll be going and what you’ll be doing: you’ll be swimming with dolphins near Orlando!

Most of us know that Orlando, Florida is the theme park capital of the world, boasting parks like Universal, Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay, Walt Disney World and SeaWorld, to name just a few! But what you may not be aware of is that Orlando offers visitors thrills of all sorts.

For instance, it’s a fantastic shopping destination, home to not one but TWO awesome outlet shopping malls. If you are a foodie, you’ll love that Orlando has hundreds of dining options for budgets of all sizes. You’ll find everything from steakhouses to Italian, Asian to American cuisine.

For those traveling without children, you’ll have access to Orlando’s wonderful nightlife. CityWalk at Universal Orlando Resort is a great spot that has a lot of bars, as does pretty International Drive. Coming with kids? Well then besides the amazing theme parks, you’ll have other options (we’ll cover some specifics in just a bit) of fun activities to do with your kids.

And we’ll bet you didn’t know that Orlando offers some pretty fun and unique nature experiences. In fact, the state of Florida has some of the most incredible wildlife in the entire country. While in Orlando, we definitely recommend you try an air boat ride through some of the local swamps to catch a glimpse of some gators.

Of course, we can’t talk about unique encounters with wildlife without mentioning perhaps the biggest thrill to be had in Orlando, and that is swimming with dolphins!

Orlando Dolphin Swim Programs: Experience Unforgettable Encounters

Are you one of those people that has always dreamed of swimming with dolphins? What is it about these creatures that makes so many of us fall completely in love with them, even before we’ve met one in person?

Well to start, dolphins are incredibly smart. If you think interacting with dogs is fun, just wait until you interact with a dolphin. You’ll swear they are even smarter than people. And you may be right!

There’s also the fact that they seem to have an amazing sense of humor. They actually seem to WANT to make you laugh and have a good time. Their playful antics are sure to put a smile on your face.

If you and your family want to get in on the fun, then we encourage you to head to Discovery Cove in Orlando to make some memories that will last a lifetime. Here are some of the dolphin programs offered at the facility:

The Signature Dolphin Swim Program

If you’re ready for thrills, then book your slot now to experience the Dolphin Swim Program. This fun program begins with an interactive orientation where you’ll learn all about dolphins and their wild habitat, how they hunt, communicate and what they eat in a typical day. Spoiler alert: They eat A LOT!

Should you have any questions, there will be time for a Q&A. When all questions have been answered, it will be time to slide into the warm water and wait for your dolphin pals to show up.

When the dolphins have been released into the pool, you will begin to feel the excitement in the air. You’ll also probably notice large ripples forming on top of the water and those ripples will be aiming right for you!

Before long, a shiny dolphin head with *POP* out of the water right in front of your face and you’ll be looking right at a “grinning” dolphin face. At this point you’ll giggle like you haven’t giggled since you were 10-years-old!
You’ll get to spend some time getting acquainted with your new dolphin pal. You can hug them, kiss them and watch them frolic about in the water showing off for you.

But the fun is really just getting started, because before long, you’ll get to experience cool interactions with the dolphin like the foot push and amazing dorsal fin pull that will make you feel like you’re flying!

To participate in this program, everyone in your party must be 8 years of age or older and strong swimmers.

Book Your Dolphin Swim

Trainer for a Day

Have you always wondered how trainers got dolphins to do all those stunts and acrobatics? Well, you’ll get an exciting behind the scenes look during this cool program.

When you add on this program to your signature dolphin swim program, you’ll get a second deep-water interaction that includes a private photo session with two dolphins! You’ll get to see things that many visitors to the Discovery Cove facility don’t get to see.

You’ll also get to be involved in some pretty special meet-and-greets with tropical birds and small mammals. Your trainer will take you through the Explorer’s Aviary where you’ll see colorful exotic birds. You’ll also be able to feed the fish in the Grand Reef. And finally, you’ll have the opportunity to have a private session at the facility’s otter habitat in Freshwater Oasis.
This is a magic-filled day you won’t want to miss! And speaking of magic…

Book Your Trainer of the Day

Discovery Cove – A Magical Place

Discovery Cove is a unique all-inclusive resort where magic happens and memories that last a lifetime are made. Not only is the facility beautifully maintained and landscaped, but the animals are respected and properly cared for.

The facility, which is really a breathtaking tropical atmosphere, restricts the number of guests allowed at the park each day, so you get a more intimate experience. You won’t have to wait in long lines at the lagoons and waterways at the park, you’ll be able to get right in on the action.

The facility has a large resort pool as well as a tropical river you and your family can swim in to cool off. You’ll be able to snorkel with vibrant tropical fish and rays in The Grand Reef, wade beside adorable otters in the Freshwater Oasis and hand-feed parrots, toucans and other exotic birds in the Explorer’s Aviary.

And of course, there are the pretty lagoons where you can interact and swim with the dolphins in Orlando.

The facility also offers guests freshly prepared food, unlimited snacks and beverages, free equipment rentals and a souvenir snorkel. There is also free use of towels, showers, locker rooms and more!

When you are not having thrills of a lifetime, you may want to relax in one of many comfy lounge chairs and hammocks throughout the resort.

Your Guide to Getting to Discovery Cove: Plan Your Visit

The Discovery Cove facility is located in Orlando and will be easy to get to if you are staying in the area. You have a few options of getting to and from the facility.

Rent a Car

If you are flying into Orlando and plan on doing many day trips, then you may be planning on renting a car for your stay. Driving to the facility will be relatively easy, depending on time of day and how much traffic you experience.

Taxi

Getting a taxi at your hotel will be very easy and you can simply take that to the facility. If you are traveling with a large party, you may want to book a taxi van or schedule one through Lyft or Uber.

Shuttle

The following three accommodations offer a free shuttle service to and from the dolphin facility. Other hotels in the area may as well so you may want to give them a call and inquire.

Map

Top Accommodations in and Around Orlando: Stay in Comfort

When it comes to comfortable and relaxing accommodations, Orlando, Florida has no shortage of options. Here are a few we recommend.

Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld

If you think you will also want to spend time at SeaWorld during your vacation, then this hotel makes a lot of sense as it’s right next door to the park! And if you are traveling with little ones that never seem to run out of energy or a desire to have fun, the hotel even has its own Aqua Zone Water Park. While the kids can splash around in water, adults can splash around in a handcrafted cocktail and some sushi and relax at the Mist Sushi + Spirits Bar.

Guestrooms have been recently renovated and are clean, spacious and comfy. There is a fitness center and patio with fire pits to relax at nighttime and remember all the thrills you had that day. Should the kids STILL not want to go to bed, you can enjoy Netflix streaming services back up in your room as well as inspiring views of SeaWorld.

6677 Sea Harbor Drive
Orlando, FL 32821
(407) 351-5555

DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld

Orlando is home to the world’s largest DoubleTree hotel, set amid 28 tropical acres off International Drive. If you stay here you’ll be in the center of it all, yet will feel like you are in your own little secluded tropical heaven.

You and your family will enjoy clean and comfortable rooms, two pools, a fitness center and even a warm welcome cookie. Who doesn’t love the idea of a warmed welcome cookie upon check-in?

There are also a few good dining options right on site so you don’t have to leave the hotel if you don’t want to. Laguna, a causal space serves breakfast, lunch and dinner (think steaks, seafood and sandwiches). Gourmet pizzas can be had at Alberto’s Pizzeria, and the California-inspired Sanoma Bar called Barefoot Bar offers wine and tapas.

All-in-all, this hotel is a great option for those who want comfort and convenience at a fair price.

10100 International Dr
Orlando, FL 32821
(407) 352-1100

Fairfield Inn and Suites Orlando at SeaWorld

This hotel has been recently renovated and is even more inviting than ever! The hotel is right next door to Discovery Cove as well as SeaWorld and other parks, so it’s very convenient.

Comfy rooms, free wi-fi, movable workstations with ergonomic chairs are just some of the amenities here. There is also a cool game room with arcade games your kids will love.

The outdoor pool has a kid’s splash zone for kids and a poolside bar for adults. The poolside Splash Bar & Grill offers a complimentary breakfast buffet each morning to fill up on and fuel yourself for the day’s adventures. At night, head back to the restaurant for some burgers and pizza.

And to work all of these calories off, you can hit the gym that offers cardiovascular equipment and free weights.

10815 International Dr
Orlando, FL 32821
(407) 354-1139

Top Things to Do In and Around Orlando: Explore the Magic

Well, we highly recommend that you put “Swimming with dolphins” on the top of your activities list! But, we would be remiss if we did not share a few other fantastic activities for you and your family to enjoy in the Orlando area. And no, we’re not going to list the obvious theme park activities here. We want to introduce you to some cool activities you may not be aware of.

Madame Tussauds Orlando

Ever wanted to get up-close-and-personal to your favorite celebrities? Well now you can. Sort of. At Madame Tussauds wax museum, you can take selfies with some of your favorite stars like Taylor Swift, Mohamed Ali and even Batman and Wonder Woman.

8387 International Dr
Orlando, FL 32819
(855) 450-0581

Orlando International Premium Outlets

If you are into hitting the outlet malls to find some great bargains, then you’ll want to head to Orlando’s Premium Outlet malls. Spanning over 773,586 square feet the outlet center is only a few minutes from the biggest theme parks. Shop from over 180 designer and name-brand stores including Calvin Klein, Karl Lagerfeld, Tory Burch, Polo Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Steve Madden, Salvatore Ferragamo, Michael Kors, Coach, kate spade New York, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, St. John Outlet and more! There are also 20 dining options to grab some lunch and refuel.

5269 International Dr
Orlando, FL 32819
(407) 352-9600

Sleuths Mystery Dinner Shows

If you like the idea of dinner theater we highly recommend the Sleuths Mystery Dinner Shows. There is comedy mixed with mystery and intrigue to bring you laughs and interest. You’ll enjoy appetizers, salad, choice of delicious dinner (Cornish Hen, Cheese Lasagna with or without Meatballs or Prime Rib for an additional charge), choice of mystery dessert and unlimited beer, wine and soft drinks. The show is really unique and memorable, and great for people of all ages!

8267 International Dr
Orlando, FL 32819
(407) 363-1985

Essential Local Information for Orlando: Plan Your Adventure

Weather

When most people go on vacation, they try and plan their trip around the weather. Who wants to spend the entire trip stuck inside because of rain or, worse, hurricanes!
Florida offers some pretty spectacular weather year-round, though there are some months that should be avoided. Typically in Orlando, the summers are hot and sticky and pretty oppressive. Of course, hurricane season in Florida is between June and October, with the peak being August and September. While Orlando is not a coastal area, it can be very much impacted by major storms. So these would be two months to skip coming here.
That being said, winter and spring are great times to come here. The weather is mild, generally staying in the low to mid 70s during the day and dipping down into the 50s at night.

Festivals & More!

There is always some kind of fun to be had in Orlando. From sporting events to festivals, concerts and outdoor festivities, there is always something going on. You can visit this link to view some of the activities that may be going on when you visit.

Helpful Travel Links

Orlando Chamber of Commerce

Orlando International Airport

Visit Orlando

If you are headed to Florida for a vacation this year, there is no shortage of fun and magic to be had in Orlando. Just be sure to head to Discovery Cove to swim with dolphins and make memories that will last a lifetime.