I am an enthusiastic theme park nutcase. Every day is a good day for me if I get the opportunity to visit one.

But one of my best experiences was to Discovery Cove to swim with a dolphin.

Having previously been allocated a time of day for our experience, we spent the first hour or so exploring Discovery Cove and enjoying breakfast, included in the price.

We then made our way to the side of the pool where we were introduced to our instructor who gave us a short educational lesson about dolphins and included how to gently stroke and touch them.

Our dolphin then swam up to us and patiently allowed us all to stroke and feed it. A beautiful experience leaving us slightly overawed, standing in the waist deep water next our new friend.

Awesome with a capital A.

We spent the rest of the day experiencing all that Discovery Cove has to offer.

Snorkeling in The Grand Reef amongst sunken wrecks, stingrays and a vast array of colorful tropical fish is a great experience.

As is coming face to face with sharks, thankfully contained behind very thick glass.

A further option is the Sea Venture, an underwater walking tour wearing a dive helmet and surrounded by fish and other sea creatures totally oblivious to our presence.

Unwind by lying on the sandy beach at the Grand Reef, gently float along the Wind-away River or sit down and indulge in a drink, alcoholic or otherwise.

Snacks, freshly prepared breakfast and lunch are available as part of the package which admittedly is not terribly cheap but is well worth it.

Especially if you want to be voted Best Parent Ever.


If you are looking for a super cozy place to stay during your Orlando family vacation, we would love to welcome you to one of our vacation homes near Disney.

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