10 Tips for SeaWorld San Antonio's Aquatica ~ San Antonio, TX

I have always been a big fan of SeaWorld San Antonio.  I think their park is educational, fun, and great for all the ages of my kids.  But when it came to visiting their water park, Aquatica, I thought "what's the point?  I'm sure it's just a tiny little park to cool you off." And for the past 2 years, I focused all my time spent there on the SeaWorld side.

I couldn't have been more wrong.

Luckily, my friend talked me into going to Aquatica with our kids last week and I was blown away with how much there was to do!  My 5 year old is a beginning swimmer (finally without his floaties!) and I loved that there were many smallish slides for him to enjoy.  My big kids were left satisfied too with a giant wave pool, several high-speed tube rides and a lazy river that goes into a bird aviary.  we all had such a good time that I was kicking myself for not coming sooner.

In fact, we liked it so much, we went back that Sunday to ride more rides.  With a little planning, we accomplished more and I wanted to give y'all some tips in case you go.

So I wanted to convince y'all of 2 things when it comes to Aquatica:

1. Yes, it is absolutely worth the additional ticket price to get into Aquatica.  You have to pay admission into SeaWorld and then Aquatica (2 prices).  Or if you are reading this in August 2014 and have a season pass, take advantage of their "Bring a Friend Free" promotion.

2. It is possible to do both Aquatica & SeaWorld in one day and I can show you how:

Here are 10 Tips for SeaWorld San Antonio's Aquatica

1. Get to the parks 30 minutes before they open.  By the time you park, haul your stuff out of the car, wait in line to get into SeaWorld and then wait in line to get into Aquatica, it will be opening time.  We arrived at 10 am and rode all the rides we wanted to at Aquatica by 11:30 am.

Seriously folks, 7 water rides in an hour and a half because there were no crowds. Take a look at this picture at 10:00 am

And the same spot at 12:00 pm

2. Pick a group of chairs when you arrive.  Grab a spot where you want your central location to be  and lay out a few towels.  In the 2 days were were there this past weekend, no one touched out stuff.  Everyone was very respectful of the lounge chairs.  There are lots (I mean LOTS) of chairs all over the park to choose from. You can even go back by Roa's Aviary for a quiet spot if you like.

3. Ride Stingray Falls first.  This ride's line consistently grew as the day progressed.  It's a really cool ride that goes under the stingray tank so it is not to be missed.  Go first when their is little to no wait because it's a popular one!

4. Go in the morning to Roa's Aviary.  Lucky for us, we visited this new attraction in the morning when the birds were hungry.  When you are there, you can get a free cup of food to feed the birds.  On the second day we visited, by the time we got over to it, all the birds were full and not coming anywhere near us.

5. Rent a Locker.  For complete peace of mind, lock up your iPhone and wallet.  It initially costs $18 but get $10 back when you return the key.

6. Animal Encounters all over the park.  Just like in SeaWorld, Aquatica is full of animals to get to see up close.  Make sure to take the time to pet the stingrays (and you can go in the water with them for an additional fee), see the giant tortoises, and gorgeous birds.  You may catch an animal handler walking around with an animal too.

7. No need to bring floaties or PFD for children - they have plenty all over the park.  I loved that I could put one down in one area of the park and grab another on the other side.  There were always plenty to choose from.

8. Splurge & Rent a Cabana - If you want to go all out, you can rent a cabana for the whole day.  It has comfy chaise lounges and a ceiling fan.  And it comes with a waiter - closest thing to being at a resort on the beach you get in Central Texas.

9. Cashless Wristband.  There are a great way to not worry about having cash or a credit card with you when you want to purchase something.  I saw lots of people with these wristbands and they all said it worked great.

10. Bring your GoPro and capture some sweet movies.  The real reason we went the second day was to take out GoPro camera with us on the slides.  We got some terrific footage like this:



I hope I have convinced you to give Aquatica a try - with the animals and wide variety of slides, you can certainly spend all day there. But if you only have one day to do both parks, get to Aquatica right when they open. You will have most of the fun done by mid-afternoon which gives you hours left to go ride your favorite rides and see your favorite shows at SeaWorld San Antonio!

Disclosure:  I am a member of the SeaWorld Wildside Blogger team and have been provided with season passes to SeaWorld & Aquatica.  I was not paid for this article. All opinions are my own.

SeaWorld San Antonio August Deals

SeaWorld San Antonio & Aquatica have some fan pretty fantastic deals going on this last month of summer.  If you haven't had a chance to get down to spend the day at either of these parks, how's this for motivation??

Sesame Street Breakfast:

Start your day at SeaWorld with breakfast with Elmo and all his Sesame Street friends. Think of all the fun picture opps!!  Receive a FREE child’s reservation with the purchase of a full-paid adult reservation. Available through August 17, 2014.

Dine with Shamu: 

How much fun would it be to have lunch with Shamu?  You are in your own private area that is usually reserved for SeaWorld trainers too!  Receive a FREE child’s reservation with the purchase of a full-paid adult reservation. Available through August 22, 2014 (excludes Saturday reservations).

Aquatica Splash Pass:

Each SeaWorld Texas Fun Card holder and SeaWorld Texas Annual Pass Member can log on to PassMemberUpdates.com with their barcode to purchase (1) $15 Splash Pass for unlimited visits to Aquatica through the end of the 2014 season. Once they purchase and print their Splash Pass, they will not have the option to purchase any more. Available for purchase through September 1, 2014.

Bring a Friend FREE to both parks!

SeaWorld + Aquatica Fun Cards/Annual Passes & Platinum Passes Members  can log on to PassMemberUpdates.com with their barcode and print one (1) FREE single day admission ticket for a friend to visit both SeaWorld AND Aquatica on the same day (Must be purchased and redeemed by August 24, 2014).

Additionally, Pass Members can SAVE $25 on tickets for friends and family! Login now through August 16, 2014 to purchase these discounted tickets. Limit 6 per order. Does not include Aquatica, SeaWorld's Waterpark™.

If you are planning to go, make sure you check out my friend's great list of tips for SeaWorld too!

Other Fun Articles on SeaWorld San Antonio:
10 Fun Ways to Get Wet at SeaWorld San Antonio

SeaWorld San Antonio's Aquatica
SeaWorld San Antonio - Know Before You Go!
SeaWorld San Antonio - The Animals!
SeaWorld San Antonio - The Rides!
SeaWorld San Antonio - For Kids!

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Universal Orlando & Harry Potter: What's to be Expected at Diagon Alley?

When I was 28 years old, my sister-in-law handed me Harry Potter & Sorcerer's Stone and told me I HAD to read it.  I looked at her like she was joking - a kids' book?  No thanks.  Luckily, curiosity got the best of me and I ended up loving each and everyone of the books.  J.K. Rowling did a masterful job of making Harry Potter's world come to life for me thought her books.  And Universal Orlando recreated that world masterfully.

I felt transformed when I stepped into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at the Island of Adventure at Universal Orlando Resort just a few weeks ago.  When I crossed through the gates into Hogsmeade and passed the engine of Hogwarts Express, I just stood there gaping.  The details are amazing - shop windows are filled with treats from the books, stands sell pumpkin juice and butter beer and the employees are dressed perfectly.

The first ride we rode was Harry Potter & the Forbidden Journey, where you are whisked around Hogwarts on a "broomstick".  I had never ridden a ride of such magnitude - it was outstanding.  The ride hits you with every sense - you feel the heat from the dragon's breath, the motion as you soar above the castle - this is a ride not to be missed.

My son had the opportunity to be picked for a wand at Ollivander's Wand Shop.  We were all amazed at how the various "wrong" wands messed up the shop - it was too fun.

And then I tried the butter beer - oh my - have you ever wanted to try something for YEARS and then have the experience be even better than what you imagined? This frothy drink tastes like a butterscotch candy.  I sipped it as I walked around all the shop windows, admiring the Owlpost, Honeydukes, and Dervish & Banges - where you can pick up any gift for the Harry Potter fan.

Our experience at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter was amazing - we honestly could have spent all day there.  That said, with the highly anticipated opening of Diagon Alley this summer, I wanted to share with you all what is to be expected.  Will it be just as good as Hogsmeade? Given Universal's standards, I expect it will.  Here are all the details I have received from Universal Orlando:

• Diagon Alley will be located within Universal Orlando’s second theme park, Universal Studios, and will create new experiences based on the signature areas of London, Diagon Alley and Knockturn Alley.
• Discover the darker side of magic in Knockturn Alley, the darkest of dark places that features Borgin and Burkes – a shop specializing in the Dark Arts that will offer a wide variety of Dark objects, such as Death Eater masks, skulls, and other sinister items
• Explore some of Diagon Alley’s famous shops, including:  
• Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, a vibrant shop featuring novelty items, magical jokes, and toys inspired by the books and films that will amaze the mischievous child in everyone. 
• Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions, where guests will find a variety of wizardwear from Hogwarts school uniform ties, scarves and jumpers, to authentic wizard’s robes and character costume.  
• Magical Menagerie, which features a collection of plush animals, such as owls and Hippogriffs. 
• Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment, where guests can grab wizarding essentials such as telescopes, binoculars, armillary spheres, compasses, magnifying glasses and hourglasses. 
• Quality Quidditch Supplies, offering a wide assortment of apparel and equipment including Quidditch sweaters, brooms, Golden Snitches, Bludgers, Bludger bats, Quaffles and more. 
• Scribbulus, featuring authentic writing implements and products such as feather quills, ink and inkwells, bookmarks, journals, parchment paper, seals, stationery sets and postcards 
• Experience groundbreaking new, multi-dimensional thrill rides, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts & Hogwarts Express

Hogwarts Express

• Board the Hogwarts Express and journey between London’s King’s Cross Station (located in Universal Studios Florida) and Hogsmeade Station (located in Universal’s Islands of Adventure). The journey will be filled with views of London and the British countryside – as well as a few surprises. Park-to-park admission is required. 
• Transport from the Muggle world to the wizarding world as you pass through the brick wall at King’s Cross Station to arrive at Platform 9 ¾
• Sit in one of the train’s cabins with your family and friends and actually riding the Hogwarts Express – just as your favorite characters did in the Harry Potter films
• See Hagrid come alongside the train on his flying motorbike, Buckbeak the Hippogriff swoop gracefully over the black lake, the Weasley twins on brooms and up to their usual antics, the Knight Bus swerving through London traffic – and other special moments and surprises.

Take a look at the sneak peek that Universal Orlando put out about Hogwarts Express:

Harry Potter and The Escape from Gringotts

• Ride focuses on that iconic moment from the Harry Potter film series where Harry, Ron and Hermione break into one of the most guarded places in the wizarding world – Gringotts bank – to retrieve a magical object that will help defeat Lord Voldemort.
• Marvel at the 60-foot, fire-breathing Ukrainian Ironbelly dragon atop Gringotts Wizarding Bank
• Tour Gringotts bank and pass through the marble hall where you’ll see goblins hard at work
• Race through a labyrinth of underground Gringotts vaults
• Encounter the villainous Death Eater, Bellatrix Lestrange, as she attempts to send you to your doom
• Come face to face with He Who Must Not Be Named

After watching this quick movie about Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, I can not wait to ride it:

What I love is hearing that Universal’s Creative team works closely with the Warner Bros. production team from the Harry Potter films to create Diagon Alley and the rides that will be there.  The Creative team has gone to great lengths to ensure the experience is true to the books and films.  Everything about the train to the shops is detailed and taken from the books and film....down to the Hogwarts Express whistle.

As much as I loved Hogsmeade, I know that I will feel the same about Diagon Alley.  I love that there are masterful people that can take a book or a movie and bring you into the story and allow you to experience something you enjoyed so much, as I did the Harry Potter series.  And of course, I am extremely grateful to my sister-in-law for introducing me to that "children's book" years ago.

Disclosure: My family and I were provided admission to the Universal Orlando Resort.  I was not paid for this article.  My opinion is my own.

Day 12: LEGOLAND- Can We Stay Here Forever Mom?

Finally, the day had come that my 10-year old son had looked forward to the most.  LEGOLAND!  Heading into another full day in Southern California, I don’t know if we knew what to expect of LEGOLAND.  We have a LEGOLAND park up in Dallas, but it is nothing like what we experienced here.

LEGOLAND California is HUGE – and filled, I mean FILLED with stuff to do.  Not only is it a massive theme park, but it has the SEALIFE Aquarium and a Water Park to boot.  We decided to take our time, stroll thru and do what we wanted to do.

All the advice we had received was to do Miniland first, before it got too crowded.  I had seen and read lots on Miniland before the trip – everyone said it was incredible and it really is.  The detail that goes into all of these models were amazing.

We saw various American cities complete with moving parts – vehicles, water fountains, a marching band – we could have walked through here all day and still not seen all the details.

So now that I’ve taken the kids to see Washington D.C., we can cross it off our list right?

LEGOLAND also has a Star Wars Miniland that kept my boys (big and small) occupied.  I was more enthralled with the full-sized X-Wing made out of LEGO bricks.  It is the world’s largest constructed LEGO model, made out of  5,335,200 LEGO bricks.  It was just presented in NYC a few months ago and they just hauled it out here on 6 semis.

The thing I like the most about LEGOLAND was the rides.  There were plenty of rides that fit my 4-year old’s speed.  He loved flying the airplanes, driving the cars, riding the small roller coasters.  He laughed his way through the park, wanting to do MORE, MORE!

The big kids enjoyed some rides too –especially the Knight’s Tournament – upside down???

And I got to enjoy more unique food.  These are Granny’s Apple Fries – French fried granny smith apples with vanilla whip cream.  YUM!  We’re just going to start calling this the “Unique Theme Park Snacks of Southern California Tour”.

It was a great day – we loved the pace we took.  We didn’t get to see it all –I can see why multiple days or an annual pass would really come in handy here.

We did visit the “Big Shop” on our way out of the park.  I was a little fearful that we would be in here forever with my LEGO lovers.

Well, ok, maybe we did a bit of damage…….

Day 10: Why Doesn't Buzz Talk Mom?

We were up EARLY today.  After yesterday’s parking debacle, we were determined to be at California Adventure early.  We had a mission today.  We HAD to ride Radiator Springs Racers in Cars Land.  We had heard the horror stories before coming – how the lines are hours long and Fast Passes were gone by 10 am. 

So we had a plan – the gates opened at 7:30 am and we were lead down the street to a “holding area” until the park opened at 8 am.  We were escorted into Cars Land by both Mater and Lightning McQueen right at 8.  From the looks of it, Cars Land was amazing, but we were funneled through the end of it to get on the ride, so we didn’t have a chance to really enjoy walking down the street and seeing it all.

But. We made it onto the ride first thing.  We waited maybe 10 minutes and then rode what was to become one of our favorite rides in the park.  Radiator Springs Racers takes you on a leisurely drive, through town, and then you get to race another car.  Again, I can’t say it enough,  Disney does everything SO WELL.  We loved the ride so much, we were able to get TWO more sets of Fast Passes and ride it again.

Whew! That was down, now we felt we could relax and enjoy the day.  We took a walk down Main Street in Radiator Springs, checking out Flo’s V8 Café, Sarge’s Supply House, Cozy Cone Motel, and more when we came across this guy:

“Hi Lightning!!!” – My son went NUTS!!  He was thrilled to meet him.  I actually have a picture of him with his arms around his hood, hugging him.  Meet Lightning McQueen – Check!

California Adventure is divided up into regions of California – and it is a great park.  The rides are different than Disney, and most are not available in the Florida parks, so we felt like we were at a whole different park, unlike yesterday.  For the most part, we all enjoyed the rides with little to no wait time.  We utilized the Fast Passes when we needed them but most of the time, we walked on.

We loved the themeing of the California Boardwalk and spent most of the afternoon there.  There we lots of rides that my little on could enjoy.  And he also was able to run into this guy.

Buzz Lightyear is another one of his favorites.  He had his pin on his lanyard and showed it to him right when he walked up.  Buzz was “excited” and did a pose like the pin.  Then my guy asked, “Where’s his voice?  Why is he not talking??” Um – I let the handlers take that one.  (Something about saving it for the parade?)  It was one of those moments my guy talked about the rest of the day.  He also met Woody and Jake from the Neverland Pirates.  He didn’t want to meet Mickey yesterday – these were his “guys”. 

I had to try Red’s Apple Freeze – another sought-after snack – from the Cozy Cone Motel.  It was delicious – frozen apple cider with a marshmallow taste – but it didn’t top my Dole Whip. 

We also lucked out and rode both of the fiercest rides twice – California Screamin’ and Tower of Terror.  For those of us who like thrill rides, these were both excellent.

Lastly, we took all the advice we had received and gotten Fast Passes for World of Color.  These passes allow you into a reserved section to see this show.  All I knew is that is was a water show.  I half-heartedly wanted to watch it – really, I wanted to shop.   But I am SO glad I did.  World of Color is so much more than a “water show”.  This half-hour show has to be one of the best we have ever seen.  Scenes from Disney movies are projected onto the water.  Water jets make the water spray in different shapes, intervals, and heights.  And there is so much mood-envoking color.  This show alone was worth the price of admission in my book. All of us enjoyed it.  Except my 4 year old.  Two days at Disney and he was out.  Oh well, I guess that is reason enough to come again, right?

Summer Nights at SeaWorld San Antonio

There are 90 nights of summer to have fun at SeaWorld San Antonio and it kicks off this weekend with Summer Nights!  Three great new shows have been added to all the already amazing entertainment that SeaWorld offers.  My daughter & I were invited last night to see all three and I have to say, they are fantastic - if you weren't planning on a trip to SeaWorld this summer, these 3 shows may change your mind!


Pets Ahoy
Pets Ahoy opens June 8 in the newly-renovated Sea Star Theater.  This comical show features over 130 rescued animals - yes! rescued from shelters across the country, many of which were in San Antonio!  The show is adorable, featuring dogs, cats, birds, pigs, and even a skunk!  It is heart-warming and makes you want to go home and start teaching your pets some tricks.

After the show, you can meet some of the stars - they love to give kisses!!

And on a side note - you can some some of the amazing conservation efforts that SeaWorld does on the outside of the theater.  Look for the big silver silo - it's job is to collect the 1600 gallons of conservation that the 600-seat air conditioned theater makes each day.  They use that, along with other silos across the park, to water the landscaping.  Way to go SeaWorld!

Opens June 8 - various times throughout the day

Island Nights
Each night at Aquatica, as the sun sets, the beach comes alive with Island Nights.  With Polynesian dancers and music, fun beach games and more, this "show" allows you to participate.  The San Antonio band, Desert Polynesian, is really good - they set the mood perfectly.  My daughter enjoyed limboing and hula hooping yet she shrunk way down in her chair when it came to asking for volunteers to learn to hula.  She enjoyed watching the 2 grown men try it out!

Island Nights is available for guests at Aquatica. You can purchase food & drink tickets for island-inspired concoctions.  It's a really fun experience to close your day at Aquatica.

June 8 - August 25 & August 31 - September 1
Sunday - Friday - 7:00 - 8:45 pm 
Saturday - 7:00 -9:45 pm

Sol Celebration
This dance party has to be the coolest way to end a full day at SeaWorld or Aquatica.  It's colorful, loud, and full of energy.  Even the most tired guest will find themselves dancing along.  The singers & dancers are great.  It is set right at the front entrance of the park and there is not a bad seat as the dancing goes on all around you.

Personally, I love stuff like this - we both thought it was a fun way to send you home and say thanks for spending your day at SeaWorld.  In my opinion, it's worth hanging out for!

Finale Show - each night 15 mins before the park closes

Other Fun Articles on SeaWorld San Antonio:
Yes! You Should Take Your Toddler to SeaWorld
10 Fun Ways to Get Wet at SeaWorld San Antonio

SeaWorld San Antonio's Aquatica
SeaWorld San Antonio - Know Before You Go!
SeaWorld San Antonio - The Animals!
SeaWorld San Antonio - The Rides!
SeaWorld San Antonio - For Kids!

Should I Take my Toddler to SeaWorld San Antonio?

Over the past few years, I have been asked several times, "Should I take my little ones to SeaWorld San Antonio?  Is it worth it?" 

And I answer with an Emphatic YES every time!! 

We love SeaWorld and used to go several times over the summers, but when my youngest came along, we stopped going.  We thought it would be too hard with a little one, that he wouldn't get anything from it.

That couldn't have been further from the truth.  He enjoys the parks so much, that I kick myself for waiting so long.

And so now I've made it my mission to make sure that all my friends don't hold back from going because they think their child may be too young to enjoy it.  It's free for children 2 and under, but that the last reason you should take them.  

Here's why you SHOULD take your toddler to SeaWorld San Antonio!

Fun Play Areas! Kids of all ages love to run & play in SeaWorld San Antonio's Bay of Play.  From splash pads, to kid-sized rides, to ginormous playscapes...there is so much to do here.  It truly is a pint-size theme park.  If you are coming during the summer months, try to hit this area early on, as most of it received full sun and gets more & more crowded as the day progresses.

Meet Fun Characters! Bay of Play is also the place to meet these fun Sesame Street characters.  Several time throughout the day, you can meet all of them on stage or one on one in the "Big Bird's 1-2-3 Smile with Me!" area.  Last year, when my little one was 2 and very shy of these characters, Elmo took his time and did his very best to put a smile on his face.

Experience their first theme park ride!  SeaWorld San Antonio has a terrific selection of rides to go on as a toddler.  Lines are short in the mornings when it's not as hot and little brother gets to experience his first ride in a safe environment.  Our guy laughed and giggled at the butterflies in his stomach - precious memories to be made!

And even more geared toward the younger ones,  SeaWorld San Antonio hosted "Just for Kids!" Each Saturday in April.  Look for similar events geared toward little ones in the future.

Experience the Animals Up Close! My little man just loved seeing the penguins, dolphins, sharks, and more up close and personal last summer - so much so that it was the first thing he asked to see this spring when he went. Children are fascinated with these sea animals, especially when they don't live that close to water, and SeaWorld San Antonio has several different ways to experience and learn about them.

Watch the shows! I didn't think my toddler would sit through one of the animal shows at SeaWorld San Antonio but he was fascinated.  He loved watching the whales leap out of the water at the One Ocean show, the dolphins gracefully fly through the air in Azul, and laughed along with the seal and walrus in the Cannary Row Caper.  Don't worry about keeping them entertained while you wait for the show to begin - they have terrific pre-show entertainment!

Take a break in the shade!  If you have bigger kids (or adults) that want to experience some of the bigger rides, there is a great playground under a grove of trees that is the perfect spot to let your little one run around.  Lots of benches to sit for a moment and cool off with a cold drink.

Fun Food for Little Ones!  SeaWorld caters to our little eaters with fun presentations like the one above.  They also offer special snacks that we only get here - shamu-shaped ice creams or lemon icees are our favorites.  For a special treat, you can book a meal with Shamu or Breakfast with Sesame Street.

Create a memory.  Out of all the fun we had that day with our toddler, the thing that I enjoyed the most was the family time we experienced. We turned our phones off and played with our children. We created fun memories together - thanks to all the fun experiences SeaWorld San Antonio provides.

Other Fun Articles on SeaWorld San Antonio:
10 Fun Ways to Get Wet at SeaWorld San Antonio

SeaWorld San Antonio's Aquatica
SeaWorld San Antonio - Know Before You Go!
SeaWorld San Antonio - The Animals!
SeaWorld San Antonio - The Rides!
SeaWorld San Antonio - For Kids!

My family and I were invited to visit the parks and were provided our entry as a 2013 SeaWorld Wildside Blogger.  I was not financially compensated for this post.  All opinions of SeaWorld  San Antonio are strictly my own based on my experience.