SEA LIFE® Orlando

The basics

Eighteen distinct areas create SEA LIFE Orlando, offering opportunities to see dozens of diverse exhibits like local wildlife in the Everglades and the only 360° Ocean Tunnel in Florida. Most areas are included in your general admission ticket, except for the behind-the-scenes tour. There are daily public talks and feedings with SEA LIFE Orlando staff, usually around mid-day. Little kids will especially love the interactive Sub-Aquatic Play area and Sea Treasures gift shop.

Things to know before you go

• Some tanks have QR codes that play educational videos about the animals.

• You can book a behind-the-scenes tour and fish feeding for an additional fee.

• The Coastal Rockpool Exhibit lets you touch sea stars and anemones, so clean your skin of artificial lotions and scents beforehand.

How to get there

SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium is in ICON Park, a free-to-enter entertainment complex between International Drive and Universal Boulevard. There is a designated free parking garage on-site, though it could fill up on peak days like weekends. Thankfully, city buses stop at ICON Park, rideshares are readily available, and if all else fails, you can walk to SEA LIFE Orlando from the many hotels nearby.

When to get there

ICON Park tends to get busiest on weekends and evenings, and the queues for the SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium tend to fill up quickly. Most of the queue stretches outside the building, and with no overhead cover, you’ll have to wait in the sun or rain. It’s recommended to pre-purchase your timed-entry admission ticket and arrive as early as possible to try to get an indoor spot in the queue.

Make the most of any budget

It’s a good idea to allow extra time at ICON Park if you plan to visit SEA LIFE Orlando. Free admission to the complex will enable you to shop, dine, and play, while other attraction tickets can be purchased as a la carte. There are discounted multi-pass tickets available for a discount, meaning you can combine a SEA LIFE Orlando ticket with other attractions like Madame Tussauds or The Wheel.

How long does it take to tour Sea Life Orlando?

It usually takes one to two hours to explore the whole attraction. Generally, adults can view the space in an hour or less, while families with small kids may take longer. There is no time limit, so you can spend as long as you’d like in SEA LIFE® Orlando.

Can you go to Sea Life Orlando without booking?

Yes, walk-up tickets are available for purchase at the SEA LIFE® Orlando admissions window. They may sell out or you might have to wait to enter when it's busy. To guarantee entry, book timed tickets online in advance. Tickets from third party partners do not need a timeslot.

Is Sea Life Orlando accessible?

Yes, SEA LIFE® Orlando is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. There is a guide for parents with children on the autism spectrum, offering information on sensory processing issues and the aquarium. Wheelchairs and electric scooters are not available to rent on site. Free tickets for caregivers are available.

Can I bring food into Sea Life Orlando?

No, outside food or drink is not allowed at SEA LIFE® Orlando. There isn’t an on-site café, so plan your visit and meal times as there's no reentry. You'll find a food court in the building that houses the aquarium within the Icon Park complex, and there are nearby restaurants.

Can I bring a backpack to Sea Life Orlando?

Yes. Diaper bags, backpacks, and handbags are permitted at SEA LIFE® Orlando, but they are subject to search. Due to security concerns and the lack of locker facilities, the aquarium does not allow large bags and luggage. Strollers cannot be stored. There are lockers located in the main Icon Park building.

What is the best day to visit Sea Life Orlando?

It depends on your crowd tolerance. School field trip season—September to mid-December and January to mid-May—means large groups of kids wandering SEA LIFE® Orlando. Mornings are typically busier than afternoons, and lines are usually shorter on weekdays than weekends. The last admission is one hour before closing.