SeaWorld San Diego, Marine mammal park and theme park in Mission Bay, San Diego, United States
SeaWorld San Diego is a marine mammal park, oceanarium and aquarium on 22 acres (8.9 ha) in Mission Bay Park, San Diego. Its grounds hold 19 aquariums, animal habitats, shows and rides, among them the 320-foot Skytower built in 1968 and the Ocean Explorer children's area. A faux submarine facade painted pale grey, marked "576", rises over a curved pool with a deck gun and portholes.
SeaWorld San Diego opened on March 21, 1964, founded by UCLA graduates Milton Shedd, Ken Norris, David Demott and George Millay after plans for an underwater restaurant were dropped. The 22-acre park drew over 400,000 visitors in its first year. Harcourt Brace Jovanovich bought the company in 1976, Anheuser-Busch in 1989, and Blackstone in 2009; in 2024 the operator became United Parks & Resorts.
The name reflects its coastal setting and mission to connect people with sea creatures. Open enclosures and aquarium windows let visitors observe dolphins, sea lions, and other marine life up close while staff share details about their behavior and needs.
All pathways accommodate wheelchairs and connect the different zones without steep slopes. Summer brings longer opening hours, and holidays feature additional events and performances.
A rescue team works year-round along the coast, bringing injured or orphaned animals to the on-site center for treatment. Since opening, more than 20,000 seals, dolphins, and whales have returned to the ocean after successful care.
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