Orlando theme parks roundup

Disney's Blizzard Beach, one of its two water parks, is a winter escape. The story behind it is a freak snowstorm melted all the snow at Blizzard Beach, and that's why there are so many waterslides. Fun fact: At Blizzard Beach, the Summit Plummet is the world's tallest freefall waterslide. Wear water shoes or flip-flops and, if you need one to store your stuff, lockers are available for rent. One ride is nearly 13 stories high with a 360-foot-long plume. You go about 50 to 60 mph. Wow! The water park features eateries, a pool bar and snack carts. Hours vary and can change because of weather. Visit http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/blizzard-beach/ .

Disney's Blizzard Beach

Take the plunge at SeaWorld's new adventure-filled water park. SeaWorld's Aquatica is an enormous water park right across the street from Shamu. Soak up some sun at Cutback Cove and Big Surf Shores, giant side-by-side wave pools. Adventurous types can brave the Dolphin Plunge, Roa's Rapids, Wanau Way and the Taumata Racer. Kids can hang out in the Walkabout Waters, Kata's Kookaburra Cove, and Loggerhead Lane, where animal lovers can check out colorful tropical fish. Of course, it wouldn't be a SeaWorld park without the animals. Watch the beautiful black-and-white Commerson's dolphins as they jump and play all day long. Rest up and grab a bite at the Mango Market, Banana Beach Cookout and Waterstone Grill and stop by the specialty shops for some souvenirs and essential beach items. Park hours vary and are subject to change because of weather. The water park is open year round. Florida residents are $37.99 for adults, $31.99 for children (ages 3-9), children 2 and under are free. For all others, it's $41.99 for adults and kids. Two-park tickets to SeaWorld and Aquatica are $99.99 for adults and $91.99 for kids. Occasionally, there are ticket deals. Call 407-351-3600 or visit www.aquaticabyseaworld.com .

Here's where you can swim with dolphins. Discovery Cove features interplay with bottlenose dolphins, exotic birds, fish and stingrays in a tropical setting. The cove is a day resort, meaning entrance to the park includes meals, swim gear like life vests. Discovery Cove patrons can purchase 7-14 unlimited day passes for SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens. The ticket packages include day resort, trainer for a day and special occasions. Ticket prices vary, but kids under 2 get in free with a paid adult. Packages start at $199 for Florida residents. The park is open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily, weather permitting, of course. Call 877-434-7268 or 877-557-7404 or visit www.discoverycove.com .

Hours of operation begin at 9 a.m. and end with varying closing hours from 6 to 10 p.m. The enclosed parking garage includes sidewalks, escalators and elevators. Parking fees are $11 for cars, vans and motorcycles and $12 for RVs and trailers. Preferred parking is available at an additional fee. Parking becomes free after 6 p.m. excluding valet parking and designated event nights. Valet parking is available for $18. On-site wheelchair rental and kennel are available for guest convenience. Tickets prices range from $67 to $95. Ticket prices are reduced for children under age 9 and by purchasing online from www.universalorlando.com

Universal's Islands of Adventure

Get a behind-the-scenes look at movie making at Disney's Hollywood Studios.