NOW OPEN! SUPER NINTENDO WORLD at Universal Studios Hollywood

is Officially Open, so Let’s-a go!

            On hand to help officiate today’s opening were Shigeru Miyamoto, Representative Director and Fellow, Nintendo Co. Ltd. and Scott Strobl, Executive Vice President & General Manager, Universal Studios Hollywood who were joined by Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach and throngs of very exuberant fans and guests.

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD at Universal Studios Hollywood

is Officially Open, so Let’s-a go!

Universal City, California, February 17, 2023 –  SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ is now open at Universal Studios Hollywood, and it is “game on” as enthusiastic guests enter the giant green pipe into the Mushroom Kingdom to experience the highly immersive and interactive land to become an integral part of Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach’s exhilarating universe.

Grand Opening of Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood in Universal City, CA Feb. 17th, 2023. Photo by David Sprague

            “Today’s grand opening of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is very exciting, and we are thrilled to share it with our team members, fans and guests who have been enthusiastically waiting for this day to arrive,” said Scott Strobl, Executive Vice President & General Manager, Universal Studios Hollywood. “This is truly one of the most dynamic moments in the history of Universal Studios Hollywood, and we are very proud of our partnership with Nintendo to bring to life a new genre of highly immersive, next level interactive theme park entertainment.”

“It has been such an honor to work closely with Universal Parks & Resorts and Universal Creative to help bring the Mushroom Kingdom, where Mario and friends live, to life here at SUPER NINTENDO WORLD,” said Shigeru Miyamoto, Representative Director and Fellow, Nintendo Co. Ltd. “We hope people of all ages will enjoy visiting the Mushroom Kingdom in real life and experiencing all the interactive surprises this land has to offer. As Mario would say, ‘Let’s-a go!”

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is an all-new, visually spectacular land, located within an expanded area of Universal Studios Hollywood. Within the vibrancy of colors and architectural ingenuity, the land features the groundbreaking “Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge” ride, as well as many interactive activities to engage the entire family within the captivating Mushroom Kingdom.

Along with themed dining at Toadstool Cafe™ and shopping at the 1-UP Factory™ retail store, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is an inspiring, game-changing addition to the world-famous theme park. 

From the moment guests pass through the iconic green pipe, a journey filled with exploration, discovery and play awaits that is unlike anything they’ve ever experienced. Their journey begins as they enter Peach’s Castle before venturing further into the colorful Mushroom Kingdom. At a glance, this is SUPER NINTENDO WORLD:

“Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge”: This all-new, technologically advanced ride, inspired by the popular Mario Kart™ video game series, seamlessly fuses cutting-edge augmented reality (AR) with projection mapping technology and actual set pieces along a moving ride track. Set against a multi-sensory backdrop of color, sound and movement, guests are seated in stadium-style, four-seat vehicles as they navigate familiar courses through the creative use and integration of head mounted AR goggles. This unique feature is a key point of differentiation that distinguishes this ride from other theme park attractions.

The premise of “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge” is simple but equally inspiring and challenging, appealing to guests of all ages regardless of gaming experience. As part of Team Mario, guests steer through underwater courses and courses in the clouds to compete for the Golden Cup while collecting digital coins to defeat Team Bowser and win. “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge” raises the stakes for guests as an intriguing and repeatable ride with a variety of outcomes.

Mount Beanpole: This towering landmark sits at the heart of the land and also serves as the entry queue for “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge.” 

Bowser’s Castle: Adorned with a breathtaking sculpture of a large and powerful Bowser, this structure serves as a key centerpiece of the land, home to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD’s signature ride, “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge.” As guests navigate the corridors and pass through the hall of medallions and trophies of the ominous castle towards the ride, they learn more about Bowser’s calculated plans to defeat Team Mario for the coveted Golden Cup. 

Grand Opening of Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood in Universal City, CA Feb. 17th, 2023. Photo by David Sprague

Power-Up Band: These wearable, state-of-the-art wristbands sync with the official Universal Studios Hollywood’s free downloadable app to level-up the guest experience within the land and enhance its many interactive elements. These include, but are not limited to, keeping individual and team scores, collecting digital coins and obtaining keys after winning Key Challenges throughout the land. When riding “Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge,” guests are encouraged to tap their Power-Up Band on the ride vehicle’s steering wheel. By doing so, they can track digital coins collected as well as gauge their ranking against friends and family, when synced to the app. The Power-Up Band will enable guests to enjoy “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge” over and over again in an attempt to beat their best scores. Guests with a Power-Up Band may enjoy an enhanced experience when meeting Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach. They are available in six design options with character themes and can be purchased both within the land and at SUPER NINTENDO WORLD retail shops located within the theme park and on Universal CityWalk Hollywood. 

Interactive Gameplay: Within the land, guests can enjoy many interactive areas, including punching ? Blocks to collect digital coins. They will discover a new dimension of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD via the interactive binoculars positioned within the land, employing augmented reality technology. Guests can also collect keys after winning the Key Challenges from Goomba Crazy Crank, Koopa Troopa POWer Punch, Piranha Plant Nap Mishap and Thwomp Panel Panic – collecting at least three keys will ultimately allow access to the final boss battle with Bowser Jr.

Toadstool Cafe:  The land’s signature restaurant Toadstool Cafe serves a delicious menu perfected by Chef Toad where he greets guests upon entry. Menu items prepared fresh daily include Toadstool Cheesy Garlic Knots, Super Mushroom Soup, Piranha Plant Caprese, Mario Bacon Cheeseburger, Luigi Pesto Chicken Burger, ? Block Tiramisu and Princess Peach Cupcake.

1-UP Factory: What better way to commemorate a visit to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD than to visit the 1-UP Factory retail shop to purchase collectable memorabilia. The 1-UP Factory offers an extensive selection of merchandise from Mario and Luigi themed apparel to iconic character hats and an array of plush characters, including Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Yoshi and Bowser.

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is conceived in partnership with Nintendo® and the visionaries at Universal Creative to deliver exhilarating entertainment with innovative technological achievements inspired by characters and video games that have appealed to Nintendo fans for generations.

            For more information and details, guests can visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com; like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and Twitter.

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Now Open! Toadstool Cafe and 1-UP Factory Add Awesome Dining and Shopping Experiences

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™Now open at Universal Studios Hollywood, the innovative, immersive and highly-themed land will invite guests to enjoy a taste of the many exciting elements it has to offer, including Toadstool Cafe™ and 1-UP Factory™ retail store.

            With a giant red-capped mushroom exterior and a lavish interior adorned with an array of larger-than-life mushroom décor and iconic green pipes, Toadstool Cafe is the land’s signature restaurant helmed by Chef Toad himself. This all-original restaurant will feature a carefully curated and eclectic menu perfected and prepared fresh daily by Chef Toad.

            The full course menu begins with Starters and Salads and includes such delicacies as:

  • Toadstool Cheesy Garlic Knots
  • Super Mushroom Soup
  • Tomato Soup in Super Mushroom Bowl
  • Piranha Plant Caprese
  • Yoshi’s Favorite Fruit & Veggie Salad
  • Super Star Chicken Salad

For the Main Course, mouth-watering entrees include:

  • Mario Burger (Bacon, Mushroom & Cheese)
  • Luigi Burger (Pesto Grilled Chicken)
  • Fire Flower Spaghetti & Meatballs
  • Chef Toad Short Rib Special

For kids, ages 9 and under, a special Kids Meal menu includes:

  • Mario Mini Burger Adventure Set
  • Power-Up Spaghetti Marinara

Of course, no meal is complete without delectable desserts and Toadstool Cafe has several sweet tooth options from which to choose:

  • ? Block Tiramisu
  • Mt. Beanpole Cake
  • Princess Peach Cupcake

Beverages include the Super Star Lemon Squash signature drink, in addition to juice, hot tea, fountain soda, premium bottled water, milk and freshly brewed coffee. Collectible drink sippers are also available for purchase.

The 1-UP Factory retail store offers an array of themed apparel, souvenirs and collectible merchandise created exclusively for the exciting launch of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. These coveted limited-edition pieces were designed using specialty Grand Opening artwork and will only be available for purchase while quantities last. 

Additional merchandise includes an extensive selection of themed attire, headwear and candy along with a selection of iconic character plush and toys, including Mario, Luigi, Yoshi, Princess Peach and Bowser. 

The SUPER NINTENDO WORLD Power-Up Band™ is available for purchase in six recognizable character designs, including Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Yoshi, Toad and Princess Daisy. Choosing a particular character defines the Team guests will be a part of during their experience. These wearable wristbands sync with the free official Universal Studios Hollywood downloadable app and function as a complement to the land’s many interactive elements. 

With the use of a Power-Up Band, guests can elevate the overall experience by competing against other teams to achieve the highest score throughout the day by collecting the most digital coins. To see who’s in the lead, guests can check their personal and team scores by linking the Power-Up Band to the app or by referring to the Checkpoint Screens located within the land.

The February 17 grand opening of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD marks its official arrival to the United States. The all-new land debuts as a visual spectacle of vibrant colors and architectural ingenuity located within a newly expanded area of Universal Studios Hollywood.

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD will feature the groundbreaking “Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge” ride, as well as many thrilling and interactive activities designed to engage the family within the captivating Mushroom Kingdom. Along with themed dining at Toadstool Cafe™ and shopping at the 1-UP Factory™ retail store, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD will be an inspiring addition to the world-famous Universal Studios Hollywood theme park.

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is conceived in partnership with Nintendo® and the visionaries at Universal Creative to deliver exhilarating entertainment with innovative technological achievements inspired by characters and video games that have appealed to Nintendo fans for generations.

            For more information, guests can visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com; like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and Twitter.

NOW OPEN! Universal Studios Hollywood Powers Up SUPER NINTENDO WORLD!

with a Dynamic Red Carpet Celebration Welcoming the

Highly Immersive and Interactive Land to the World-Famous Theme Park Destination!

On February 15, 2023 – Universal Studios Hollywood rolled out the red carpet to mark the eagerly-awaited arrival of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ to the world-renowned Southern California theme park. The energetic event was punctuated by a momentous countdown, spectacular fireworks display and special appearances by Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach, signaling the opening of this incredibly interactive and immersive land.

            SUPER NINTENDO WORLD officially opens to the public on Friday, February 17, 2023.

Courtesy : Universal Studios Hollywood!

Joining in the celebration were Shigeru Miyamoto, Representative Director and Fellow, Nintendo Co., Ltd; Shinya Takahashi, Director, Member of the Board, Senior Managing Executive Officer; Nintendo Co., Ltd.; Jeff Shell, CEO, NBCUniversal; Mark Woodbury, Chairman & CEO, Universal Parks & Resorts, Tom Mehrmann, President & COO, Pacific Rim, Universal Parks & Resorts; and Scott Strobl, Executive Vice President & General Manager, Universal Studios Hollywood.

(Photo by Rich Polk/Getty Images for Universal Studios Hollywood)

“The opening of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD represents one of the most exciting times in the history of Universal Studios Hollywood and is truly emblematic of the extraordinary entertainment experiences we create within our theme park portfolio,” said Mark Woodbury, Chairman and CEO, Universal Parks & Resorts. “Collaborating with Nintendo and the creative genius of Shigeru Miyamoto to bring their gaming world to life as part of an entirely new theme park entertainment genre has been incredibly rewarding, and we look forward to sharing this innovative land and groundbreaking ride with our guests.” 

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is an all-new, visually spectacular land, located within an expanded area of Universal Studios Hollywood. Within the vibrancy of colors and architectural ingenuity, the land features the groundbreaking “Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge” ride, as well as many thrilling and interactive activities to engage the entire family within the captivating Mushroom Kingdom.

Along with themed dining at Toadstool Cafe™ and shopping at the 1-UP Factory™ retail store, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is an inspiring, game-changing addition to the world-famous theme park.

From the moment guests pass through the iconic green pipe, a journey filled with exploration, discovery and play awaits that is unlike anything they’ve ever experienced. Their journey begins as they enter Peach’s Castle before venturing further into the colorful Mushroom Kingdom.

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD sweeps guests into the 360-degree world of Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach where they become an integral part of their exhilarating universe.  At a glance, this is SUPER NINTENDO WORLD:

“Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge”: This all-new, technologically advanced ride, inspired by the popular Mario Kart™ video game series, seamlessly fuses cutting-edge augmented reality (AR) with projection mapping technology and actual set pieces along a moving ride track. Set against a multi-sensory backdrop of color, sound and movement, guests will be seated in stadium-style, four-seat vehicles as they navigate familiar courses through the creative use and integration of head mounted AR goggles. This unique feature is a key point of differentiation that distinguishes this ride from other theme park attractions.

The premise of “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge” is simple but equally inspiring and challenging, appealing to guests of all ages regardless of gaming experience. As part of Team Mario, guests will steer through underwater courses and courses in the clouds to compete for the Golden Cup while collecting digital coins to defeat Team Bowser and win. “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge” raises the stakes for guests as an intriguing and repeatable ride with a variety of outcomes.

Mount Beanpole: This towering landmark sits at the heart of the land and also serves as the entry queue for “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge.” 

Bowser’s Castle: Adorned with a breathtaking sculpture of a large and powerful Bowser, this structure serves as a key centerpiece of the land, home to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD’s signature ride, “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge.” As guests navigate the corridors and pass through the hall of medallions and trophies of the ominous castle towards the ride, they will learn more about Bowser’s calculated plans to defeat Team Mario for the coveted Golden Cup.

Power-Up Band: These wearable, state-of-the-art wristbands sync with the official Universal Studios Hollywood’s free downloadable app to level-up the guest experience within the land and enhance its many interactive elements. These include, but are not limited to, keeping individual and team scores, collecting digital coins and obtaining keys after winning Key Challenges throughout the land. When riding “Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge,” guests are encouraged to tap their Power-Up Band on the ride vehicle’s steering wheel. By doing so, they can track digital coins collected as well as gauge their ranking against friends and family, when synced to the app. The Power-Up Band will enable guests to enjoy “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge” over and over again in an attempt to beat their best scores. Guests with a Power-Up Band may enjoy an enhanced experience when meeting Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach. They are available in six design options with character themes and can be purchased both within the land and at SUPER NINTENDO WORLD retail shops located within the theme park and on Universal CityWalk Hollywood. 

Interactive Gameplay: Within the land, guests can enjoy many interactive areas, including punching ? Blocks to collect digital coins. They will discover a new dimension of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD via the interactive binoculars positioned within the land, employing augmented reality technology. Guests can also collect keys after winning the Key Challenges from Goomba Crazy Crank, Koopa Troopa POWer Punch, Piranha Plant Nap Mishap and Thwomp Panel Panic – collecting at least three keys will ultimately allow access to the final boss battle with Bowser Jr.

Toadstool Cafe:  The land’s signature restaurant Toadstool Café will serve a delicious menu perfected by Chef Toad where he greets guests upon entry. Menu items prepared fresh daily include Toadstool Cheesy Garlic Knots, Super Mushroom Soup, Piranha Plant Caprese, Mario Bacon Cheeseburger, Luigi Pesto Chicken Burger, ? Block Tiramisu and Princess Peach Cupcake.

1-UP Factory: What better way to commemorate a visit to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD than to visit the 1-UP Factory retail shop to purchase collectable memorabilia. The 1-UP Factory offers an extensive selection of merchandise from Mario and Luigi themed apparel to iconic character hats and an array of plush characters, including Mario, Luigi, Yoshi, Princess Peach and Bowser.

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is conceived in partnership with Nintendo® and the visionaries at Universal Creative to deliver exhilarating entertainment with innovative technological achievements inspired by characters and video games that have appealed to Nintendo fans for generations.

            For more information and details, visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com; like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and Twitter.

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Knott’s Boysenberry Festival is back with a tantalizing lineup of boysenberry inspired-culinary creations, beginning daily March 10 through April 16

The festival features more than three dozen new boysenberry food and drink creations, an expansive selection of entertainment and fun activities for the whole family

The Knott’s Boysenberry Festival is their annual food-inspired event that celebrates the park’s historic roots by highlighting the little berry that started it all, the boysenberry. Guests will have the opportunity to indulge in a range of dishes, from savory foods with a boysenberry twist to one- of-a-kind specialty desserts and drinks that can only be found at Knott’s Berry Farm during this time of the year. In addition to the numerous food and drink offerings, the Knott’s Boysenberry Festival offers a wide selection of local crafters, live music, and a brand-new musical stage show for guests of all ages to enjoy. The Knott’s Boysenberry Festival begins March 10 and operates daily through April 16.

This year’s event will introduce entirely new food offerings featuring more than three dozen food and drink items. A few savory dishes to note include cauliflower bites with a boysenberry curry drizzle, and a sushi burrito with spicy crab surimi, avocado, lettuce, crispy onions, sesame and unagi sauce, all wrapped in nori with a boysenberry sweet chili dipping sauce. Tasty dessert items can be found throughout the festival, perfect for those with a sweet tooth, including sweet corn nuggets with boysenberry honey, boysenberry bread pudding, and a boysenberry waffle topped with whipped cream and boysenberry maple syrup. A great way to indulge in the new boysenberry delicacies during the festival is by purchasing a tasting card priced at $55. The tasting card offers six tastings from a selection of boysenberry-inspired dishes and drinks. A variety of signature boysenberry items will also be available for purchase a la carte. Tasting cards are available at Knotts.com or at the theme park.

Knott’s Boysenberry Festival also offers endless entertainment throughout the park. From musical performances to fun interactive games, there is something for every member of the family to enjoy.

Guests are invited to celebrate the heritage of California’s original theme park with the new show Knott’s Preserved. Through song, dance and storytelling, Knott’s Berry Farm comes alive as the audience takes a musical journey from the little ghost town of Calico to the Seaside Boardwalk of the Roaring ’20s to commemorate the heritage of the park. All aboard for a boysenberry bon voyage at the legendary Bird Cage Theatre with a special presentation of the comedy melodrama Riverboat Revenge. Guests are challenged to try their berry best in Boysenberry Fun and Games, which includes the wildly entertaining Boysenberry Pie Eating Contest. Young ones and young at heart are invited to cozy up to the cutest critters on the farm, including horses, sheep, goats and other furry friends at Old MacDonald’s Barn, a tribute to one of the farm’s original attractions. Those unfamiliar with the berry that started it all are encouraged to grab a slice of history in the History of the Boysenberry museum in Town Hall.

Guests can also create over 75 unique boysenberry-inspired creations with limited-edition merchandise found throughout the park. This year’s merchandise includes a grand selection of packaged food items perfect for take-home souvenirs. The Berry Market, located in the California Marketplace, also features signature boysenberry items like the refreshing boysenberry sarsaparilla and our classic jams and preserves. Unique boysenberry-inspired artisan products also will be available at the Boysenberry Festival Craft Fair, with over 30 local craft vendors.

The Boysenberry Festival is included with admission to Knott’s Berry Farm. For a special treat, guests can book a stay at the Knott’s Berry Farm Hotel for overnight accommodations just steps from the park. Additional costs apply for food-tasting experiences within the event. Knott’s will have extended hours on select days, allowing guests extra time to take advantage of the limited-time offerings.

The best way to savor every day of the Knott’s Boysenberry Festival and all of the other Seasons of Fun is with a 2023 Season Pass! Get unlimited visits, food and merchandise discounts, plus so much more! For more information about Knott’s Berry Farm, please visit knotts.com or download the Knott’s Berry Farm app for your smartphone. Join the conversation using the hashtag #BoysenberryFestival

Tasting Card Foods

Note: Reg Foods info coming soon!

Prices and More info here: https://www.knotts.com/events/boysenberry-festival

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About Knott’s Berry Farm and Cedar Fair Entertainment Company:

What began as a roadside berry stand and chicken dinner restaurant in the 1920s has evolved into Knott’s Berry Farm, one of Southern California’s most popular theme park destinations combining world-class thrill rides with traditional family favorite attractions and entertainment. Knott’s is also home to Knott’s Soak City Water Park, Knott’s Marketplace, and the full-service Knott’s Berry Farm Hotel. Knott’s Berry Farm is owned and operated by Cedar Fair Entertainment Company (NYSE: FUN), one of the largest regional amusement-resort operators in the world and a publicly traded partnership headquartered in Sandusky, Ohio. Focused on its mission to make people happy by providing fun, immersive and memorable experiences, the Company owns and operates 13 properties, consisting of 11 amusement parks, four separately gated outdoor water parks, and resort accommodations totaling more than 2,300 rooms and more than 600 luxury RV sites. Its parks are located in Ohio, California, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Missouri, Michigan, Texas and Toronto, Ontario.

Sesame Place San Diego Welcomes Its Newest Furry Friend!

Elmo’s Adopted Puppy Tango, to the Neighborhood!

Sesame Place® San Diego, the first theme park on the West Coast based entirely on the award-winning show Sesame Street®, is about to get even furrier. Elmo’s adopted puppy, Tango, will find her fur-ever home at Sesame Place San Diego on Saturday, February 4. The BRAND-NEW floppy-eared, tail wagging puppy will debut at the park as an all-new meet & greet character, where guests will see her for the first time at her welcome ceremony.

A sweet and spirited puppy named after her love of music and dancing, Tango debuted in the 2021 animated special Furry Friends Forever: Elmo Gets a Puppy, in which Elmo finds a stray Tango and adopts her. Tango then joined Sesame Street’s 52nd season in both animated and live-action format. Tango’s arrival at Sesame Place will be celebrated during operating days, every Saturday and Sunday in February, plus Friday, February 17, and Monday, February 20.

  • Tango’s Welcome Ceremony – The park will officially welcome Tango on February 4 at 12:00 p.m. at the Dance Party Stage.
  • Elmo & Tango’s Welcome Day Scavenger Hunt – Guests can search throughout the park for all the items that Elmo needs to take care of Tango. Guests can turn in completed scavenger hunt sheets at Hooper’s Store for their choice of pet-themed prizes: Sesame Place bandanas or tennis balls. Self-guided scavenger hunts run throughout the day while supplies last.
  • Tango’s Treat Seek – Tango’s Treat will be secretly hidden in the park on select dates. The first person to find Tango’s Treat will receive Sesame Street-themed pet prizes from BarkBox.
  • Sesame Street Party Parade – Guests will be able to spot Sesame Place’s newest resident in the daily, award-winning parade. This colorful, energetic parade gets the whole family singing and dancing and features fantastic floats for fans of all ages to enjoy.
  • Meet-and-Greets – Tango will be wagging her tail in delight to take photos and interact with guests on select days. Season Pass Members will have the first chance to meet Tango and take photos with her in exclusive Meet & Greets at the Sesame Street Theater on Saturday, February 4. Reservations are required and can be made within Season Pass Members’ online portals.
  • Pet Adoption Weekend – To celebrate Tango’s debut, guests can meet rescue dogs just like Tango along with other animals at Sesame Place Adoption Days on Friday, February 25, and Saturday, February 26, from 9:00am – 1:00pm. Guests can meet with local pet adoption partners and even see a special appearance from Elmo and Tango. Visit SesamePlaceSanDiego.com for more event details. 

Sesame Place San Diego to Make a Big Splash in 2023 with Two New Attractions

Sesame Place® San Diego, the only theme park on the West Coast based entirely on the award-winning show Sesame Street, will be adding two ALL-NEW attractions in 2023. The Count’s Splash Castle is an ALL-NEW, multi-level water-play attraction and Sunny Day Café is an ALL-NEW, all-day character dining location where guests can enjoy a variety of meals and one-of-a-kind experience with their favorite furry friends. In addition to the exciting new attractions at the park in 2023, guests can enjoy whirling rides, splashy water slides, exciting shows, parades, the interactive Sesame Street Neighborhood, and visits with everyone’s favorite furry friends.

Splash, Play, and Eat

The ALL-NEW Count’s Splash Castle, is a multi-level, interactive water-play attraction that features 111 play elements, including two giant tipping buckets that dump over 1,300 gallons of water combined. There are three exciting water slides, plus soakers, flow pipes, hose jets, spray jets, water shooters, water curtains, tipping troughs, spinning and sliding buckets, and much more! The ALL-NEW Count’s Splash Castle replaces the former splash area and is double the size of the previous attraction. The ALL-NEW Count’s Splash Castle will be bigger and splashier than ever before! 

At the ALL-NEW Sunny Day Café, guests can join their favorite furry friends for a dining adventure the whole family will love! The new indoor and air conditioned 5,000 square foot building is where families will make precious memories and enjoy delicious family-friendly buffet-style meals! Throughout the year, there will be special event opportunities and dine activities every season, including Dine with Elmo & Friends. The new café will seat up to 160 guests and at each meal, and Sesame Street characters will join diners for an immersive experience with singing, dancing, and photo opportunities.

Sesame Place offers multiple food locations for quick bites with a delicious variety of entrée options and sweet treats. New in 2023, guests can also grab snacks and beverages at the ALL-NEW Big Bird’s Beach Bites location near Big Bird’s Beach. For added convenience, mobile ordering for select restaurants is available through the Sesame Place app.

“Going into the new year, we’re very excited to offer our guests and Season Pass Members more reasons to visit the park throughout the year. Between our new attractions, increased dining options and 2023 event lineup that will be all-new to our guests, we look forward to an amazing year,” said Jim Lake, Sesame Place Park President.  “We’re constantly adding new activities and events to enhance the guest experience. We’re increasing the number of opportunities to interact with their favorite characters and with the expansion of our dining options, plus our mobile ordering, our guests will be able to enjoy more convenience throughout their days at the park.”

The Best Way to Play

The best way to play all year long with unbeatable benefits is with a 2023 Sesame Place Season Pass for a low-price of $141 or $23.50 per month for only six months. Season Pass Members can enjoy unlimited access to the park with the added benefits of free tickets, exclusive Meet & Greets with everyone’s favorite furry friends, discounted food and merchandise, exciting events and early access to water attractions throughout the summer. Perks vary based on the type of Season Pass purchased. 

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Sesame Place San Diego is located at 2052 Entertainment Circle in Chula Vista. The park is open on Saturdays and Sundays plus select additional dates from February through May and will resume with daily operations in the summer. For more information and to purchase tickets and Season Passes visitSesamePlaceSanDiego.com. For the most recent updates, fans can follow Sesame Place San Diego on Facebook and @SesamePlaceCa on Instagram. 

About Sesame Place San Diego

Sesame Place San Diego is the only theme park on the West Coast based entirely on the award-winning show, Sesame Street. Conveniently located just 20 minutes from San Diego and 2.5 hours from Los Angeles, this 17-acre theme park is perfect for families with kids of all ages and has been designated as a Certified Autism Center. The new theme park features 18 Sesame Street-themed rides and exciting water attractions, a family-friendly rollercoaster and a 500,000-gallon wave pool – one of the largest in Southern California. The park also features an engaging musical play area, an interactive Sesame Street Neighborhood complete with the iconic 123 Stoop, daily live character shows, an award-winning parade, one-of-a-kind photo opportunities and of course, everyone’s favorite furry friends. Celebrate family-friendly events all year long at Sesame Place, including Elmo’s Eggstravaganza, Elmo’s Springtacular, Summer Fun Fest, The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular, and A Very Furry Christmas.

Toothsome Chocolate Emporium Now Open!

at Universal CityWalk in Hollywood!

Innovative Restaurant, Fueled by a Fantastical Imagination of Victorian Steampunk,

Anchors Universal CityWalk as Destination Prepares for Milestone 30th Anniversary

Click Here to Book a Reservation

The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen at Universal CityWalkis now open. The innovative, original concept restaurant serves an extensive menu of brunch, lunch and dinner items along with sumptuous milkshakes, desserts and delectable confectionary treats, and is hosted by character ambassadors and world travelers Penelope and Jacques, to deliver an entirely new take on culinary inspirations for the entire family.

            This uniquely inspirational restaurant is reminiscent of a Victorian steampunk chocolate emporium. Its interior is adorned with a collection from Penelope’s archives of chocolate research and various steampunk gadgetry and inventions complete with L.A.-based artisans’ paintings of steampunk airships journeying through the sky atop the interior dome. The dynamic exterior façade features a giant clockwork marquee and towering 97-foot smokestacks.

            Within the eclectic space, guests can enjoy a full-service restaurant, a Dessert Foundry for grab-n-go over-the-top milkshakes and a Candy Smith counter to experience a cornucopia of sweet treats, including 30 different flavors of macarons, truffles and an expansive offering of deliciousness, along with unique apparel and themed collectibles.

            Executive Chef Carlos Garcia sits at the helm of The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen orchestrating a symphony of exquisite meals and desserts, prepared fresh to order within its two behemoth kitchens under the watchful eye of the restaurant’s skilled Sous Chefs.

From crisp salads and hearty soups to tasty burgers, flatbreads and steaks, The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen caters inspirational fare to every member of the family.

Sample tempting menus items include signature Chocolate Almond Bread, Avocado Bruschetta, Truffle Fries, Pork Belly Sliders, Coffee and Chocolate Stout Wings, Waldorf Chicken Salad, Toothsome Niçoise, French Onion Soup, Forest Mushroom Flatbread, Classic Margherita Flatbread, Southern Fried Chicken BLT, Chicken Cordon Blue sandwich, Red Ruben sandwich, Fork & Knife Ribeye Steak Sandwich, Croque Monsieur, Tour de France Burger, May Contain Bacon Burger, Brisket Burger, Teriyaki Burger, Wild Mushroom Chicken Risotto, Shrimp Macaroni & Cheese, Grilled Teriyaki Salmon, Brisket & Wild Mushroom Meatloaf and Toothsome Signature Beef Tenderloin…to name but a few.

Brunch features such mouth-watering options as: Nutella & Banana Crepes, Apple Pie Crepes, Beef & Mushroom Crepes, Berries and Cream Waffles, Banana Foster Waffles, Chocolate Brioche S’mores French Toast and several quiches.

Jacques Specialty Milkshakes include Red Velvet, Brownie, Cookie Jar, Espresso Buzzzz, Key Lime Pie, Heavenly Hazelnut, Marshmallow Crisp, Strawberry Cheesecake, That’s Mint and Pineapple Upside Down.

Sweet Sundaes and Desserts include Brookies, Cookies & Cream, Apple Pie, Banana Cream Pie, Strawberry Shortcake, and Chocolate Brownie Bark, Chocolate Crème Brulee, Classic French Chocolate Mousse, Chocolate Potted Cream, Flourless Chocolate Gooey Cake, and Triple Chocolate Bread Pudding.

A kid’s menu and vegan Beyond Burger® options are available.

Hand-crafted libations include a Chocolate Old Fashioned, Spresso ‘tini, Cacao Nut Margarita and more are available for diners 21 years or older with valid photo ID.

Reservations can be made by visiting the website, and valet parking validation is available for diners.

More than just an eclectic restaurant, The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen features an entertaining backstory whose origins are as enticing as the food. Unlike most dining establishments, the eatery is hosted by two highly regarded steampunk ambassadors, Penelope and Jacques.

As the story goes…the love of chocolate is at the core of Penelope’s family. Penelope, an innovator at heart, created Jacques, her trusty robot and confidant, to travel and explore the world. Upon returning to her small cottage home in London, England, after an extended trip abroad, Penelope discovered that her parents ventured out on a quest to find her, leaving a simple message – “We have set out to join you in your adventures. Surely the world isn’t so big that we can’t find you. We shall look for you wherever chocolate can be found.” 

Thus, Penelope knew what she had to do. Armed with the insight she had on all things chocolate, Penelope created The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen. Her mission to share her passion and love of the sweet treat with the world was also grounded in the hope that one day her parents would find her.

Spectacularly dressed in Steampunk attire, Penelope and Jacques frequent The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen to await her parents’ arrival and to share their adventures and innovations with guests.

The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen is exclusive to Universal Parks & Resorts and is one of three worldwide locations, including Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Beijing Resort. The arrival of the restaurant coincides with the 30th anniversary of Universal CityWalk and is located adjacent to the popular Universal Cinema, an AMC® theater.

More information about Universal CityWalk and Universal Studios Hollywood is available atwww.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com. Regular updates can be found on Universal Studios Hollywood’s social channelsInstagramTwitter, and Facebook.

Mardi Gras Returns To Sea World San Diego!

SeaWorld San Diego is bringing back New Orleans flare, food, and festivities with the return of Mardi Gras. The excitement of Mardi Gras comes to life with a party vibe full of ALL-NEW live music and performances including a New Orleans Jazz band, Mardi-Gras processional, Louisiana-inspired laser show, plus multiple performers, colorful costumes, and festive decor. Guests can indulge in new and returning authentic menu items including king cake, beignets, and gumbo. The event runs every weekend from January 21 to February 26, plus select dates. To get the most out of Mardi Gras and all SeaWorld has to offer, guests can enjoy unlimited visits throughout 2023* for the price of a single day ticket with a 2023 Fun Card.

“We’re excited to bring an even bigger and better Mardi Gras experience to SeaWorld San Diego this year,” said Tim Hamilton, Vice President of Entertainment at SeaWorld San Diego. “Guests are invited to join the soiree because we’re offering a true New Orleans-style party. Just like dancing in the streets, our guests will be dancing through the park and immersed by the sights, sounds, and tastes of a San Diego-style Mardi Gras. Laissez le bon temps rouler!”

Mardi Gras is included with park admission. Event times are subject to change or cancellation without notice. Please see seaworld.com/san-diego/park-info/theme-park-hours for the daily schedule.

ALL-NEW Bourbon Street-Style Entertainment

Guests are cordially invited to join the park’s colorful cast of performers to let the good times roll. SeaWorld will be jumping with upbeat, musical fun during Mardi Gras with the ALL-NEW Mardi Gras-inspired lively processional led by Mardi Gras Madame, Mama, and full of festive Mardi Gras performers, including stilt walkers, dancers, and jugglers. The processional will move around the park, encouraging park partygoers to join along the way and culminate at the Mardi Gras stage. The processional will end, yet the party continues as the crowd will be treated to a rousing song and dance number, “No Bad News.”

The Mardi Gras stage will also showcase performances by an ALL-NEW New Orleans Good Time Jazz Band, performers from the San Diego Circus Center, and a DJ for non-stop rockin’ fun every event day. During the evening hours, guests can walk through the SeaWorld Tunnel of Lights and enjoy an ALL-NEW special laser Louisiana-inspired light show, both filled with traditional Mardi Gras colors. The festival area will also include a face painting booth, ribbons, lights, masks, and more!     

Tastes of New Orleans

Mardi Gras isn’t complete without delicious New Orleans-style food and drinks! Guests will be able to enjoy the tastes of the South with new and retuning specialty menu items created for the event. 

Guests can indulge in classic food dishes including a choice of Shrimp or Roast Beef Po’Boys, plus Muffulettas and Andouille Sausage and Shrimp Jambalaya. Vegetarians can choose from ALL-NEW menu items including a plant-based Dirty Rice, Seafood Jambalaya, and Hush Puppies. A sweet side of Mardi Gras returns with Beignets or guests can opt for the NEW Pecan Praline King Cake, both pair perfectly with a tasty Chicory Coffee. Drink options will also be aplenty, with a beer trailer and mimosa bar serving Mint Juleps, Hurricanes, and Abita New Orleans Beer.

A Year of Fun at SeaWorld

Mardi Gras is just one part of an exciting 2023 event lineup at SeaWorld San Diego. Other upcoming events include:

  • Seven Seas Food Festival: March 3-April 30 (Select Dates)
    SeaWorld is bringing back international flavors, amazing beverage tastings and live music performances with the return of Southern California’s fan favorite Seven Seas Food Festival. In addition to hundreds of tasty bites and delicious drinks, guests can enjoy live music and their favorite animal exhibits, including dolphins, sea lions, bat rays, flamingos, sea otters, and more.
  • Viva La Música: May 5 – May 14 (Select Dates)

Experience this festive, family-friendly Latin celebration in a new way as you dance to the hottest music, sample fiery flavors, and much more.

  • Arctic Rescue Coaster: Opening in Spring
    The newest addition to SeaWorld San Diego, Arctic Rescue will be the fastest and longest straddle coaster on the West Coast! This family-friendly multi-launch ride invites guests to hop on a snowmobile and launch at up to 40 mph on a chilly adventure as they race through the unpredictable arctic climate to help animals in danger.

Pay Less than a Day and Play All Year Long

The best way to play all year round is with a 2023 Fun Card! For the price of a single day ticket at $99.99, guests can enjoy unlimited visits* throughout 2023. With a Fun Card, guests can roam and explore the park as many times as they want to visit amazing animals, enjoy family and thrill rides including upcoming family-friendly coaster Arctic Rescue, the longest and fastest straddle coaster on the West Coast, opening in Spring 2023. Plus, guests can take advantage of events including Mardi Gras, Seven Seas Food Festival, and Spooktacular all year long – all included in park admission.

*Some restrictions and blockout dates apply. 2023 Fun Card valid through December 31, 2023.

For more information on events, park hours and to purchase tickets and/or Fun Cards, visitSeaWorldSanDiego.com. Be sure to follow SeaWorld San Diego on Facebook and Instagram for the latest park updates and information.

About SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment

SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: SEAS) is a leading theme park and entertainment company providing experiences that matter, and inspiring guests to protect animals and the wild wonders of our world. The Company is one of the world’s foremost zoological organizations and a global leader in animal welfare, training, husbandry and veterinary care. The Company collectively cares for one of the largest zoological collections in the world and has helped lead advances in the care of animals. The Company also rescues and rehabilitates marine and terrestrial animals that are ill, injured, orphaned or abandoned, with the goal of returning them to the wild. The SeaWorld® rescue team has helped more than 40,000 animals in need over the last 55 years. SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. owns or licenses a portfolio of recognized brands including SeaWorld, Busch Gardens®, Aquatica®, Sesame Place® and Sea Rescue®. Over its more than 55-year history, the Company has built a diversified portfolio of 12 destination and regional theme parks that are grouped in key markets across the United States, many of which showcase its one-of-a-kind zoological collection. The Company’s theme parks feature a diverse array of rides, shows and other attractions with broad demographic appeal which deliver memorable experiences and a strong value proposition for its guests.

Level Up with A Power-Up Band at SUPER NINTENDO WORLD!

Open at Universal Studios Hollywood on Friday, February 17, 2023!

@knottsnetwork

WE GOT THE POWER BANDS (which are about $40 each plus tax) 🌟🌟 There are SO MANY Interactive elements around the land you can use your power bands on including Question Boxes, Regular Boxes, Collect Coins, Play Games, Find Hidden Easter Eggs, Gather Keys, and take on Bowser Jrs Challenge 🤩🙌🏼🎉And there is a place where you can check your stats🌟🍄 #supernintendoworld #supernintendoworldhollywood #ush #universalstudios #universalstudioshollywood #themepark #immersive #nintendo @universalparks

♬ original sound – Knott’s Network

 SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ opens at Universal Studios Hollywood on Friday, February 17, so let’s take a closer look at the land’s exciting Power-Up Band™, a fun interactive component designed to help guests level up their experience during their visits within the land.

            With the grand opening date quickly approaching, here’s a topline overview of the Power-Up Band and its functionality.

            These wearable wristbands sync with Universal Studios Hollywood’s official free downloadable app and function as a complement to the land’s many interactive elements. The Power-Up Band is available for purchase in six design options with character themes, including Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Yoshi, Toad and Princess Daisy; choosing a particular character also defines which Team guests will be a part of. 

            With the use of a Power-Up Band, guests can elevate the overall experience by competing against other teams to achieve the highest score throughout the day by collecting the most digital coins. To see who’s in the lead, guests can check their personal and team scores by linking the Power-Up Band to the app or by referring to the Checkpoint Screens located within the land.

When riding “Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge,” guests are encouraged to tap their Power-Up Band on the ride vehicle’s steering wheel. By doing so, they can track digital coins collected as well as gauge their ranking against friends and family, when synced to the official Universal Studios Hollywood app. The Power-Up Band will enable guests to enjoy “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge” over and over again in an attempt to beat their best scores.

@knottsnetwork

Playing the Games That Were Open for the Technical Rehearsal Today at #supernintendoworld @unistudios 🤩🙌🏼🎉🍄🔑 #supernintendoworldhollywood #ush #universalstudios #goomba #koopatroopa #nintendo #supermariobros nintendo@universalparks

♬ original sound – Knott’s Network

The Power-Up Band also unlocks additional gameplay activities and experiences, such as collecting digital coins and stamps when completing milestones within the land. Checkpoints positioned within SUPER NINTENDO WORLD will enable guests to track their status against others. Guests can also amass keys after winning Key Challenges from Goomba Crazy Crank, Koopa Troopa POWer Punch, Piranha Plant Nap Mishap and Thwomp Panel Panic – collecting at least three of them will ultimately allow access to the final boss battle with Bowser Jr.

While meet and greet interactions with Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach are accessible to guests visiting the land, the Power-Up Band may provide an enhanced experience with the characters. The Power-Up Band, however, isn’t a required purchase to enable guests to enjoy SUPER NINTENDO WORLD.

The Power-Up Band will be available for purchase within SUPER NINTENDO WORLD and guests are welcome to download the official Universal Studios Hollywood app prior to visiting so the fun can start from the moment they warp into the land via the giant green pipe. The Power-Up Band will be available for purchase, beginning February 17, at SUPER NINTENDO WORLD retail shops located in the theme park and on CityWalk.

The February 17 grand opening of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD marks its official arrival to the United States. The all-new, innovative, immersive and highly-themed land debuts as a visual spectacle of vibrant colors and architectural ingenuity located within a newly expanded area of Universal Studios Hollywood.

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD will feature the groundbreaking “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge” ride, as well as many thrilling and interactive activities designed to engage the entire family within the captivating Mushroom Kingdom. Along with themed dining at the Toadstool Cafe™ and shopping at the 1-UP Factory™ retail store, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD will be an inspiring addition to the world-famous Universal Studios Hollywood theme park.

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is conceived in partnership with Nintendo® and the visionaries at Universal Creative to deliver exhilarating entertainment with innovative technological achievements inspired by characters and video games that have appealed to Nintendo fans for generations.

    

SeaWorld San Diego’s Popular Inside Look Event Returns to Inspire and Educates Guests with Exclusive and Behind-the-Scenes Opportunities!

  • Behind-the-scenes experiences for guests, giving them access to animal care experts and areas of the park not generally available to the public
  • Opportunity to tour the SeaWorld Rescue Center and learn more about their lifesaving work
  • Annual “Inside Look” event is one weekend only, January 14 – 16
  • Guests can visit all year long for the price of a single day ticket with a 2023 Fun Card for only $99.99

Inside Look returns to SeaWorld San Diego from Saturday, January 14 to Monday, January 16 to give guests an inside look at what goes into providing world-class animal care. Through engaging educational opportunities during the three-day event, guests will connect with SeaWorld animal care specialists and hear their personal stories about caring for our animals. Park visitors will also have special access to areas of the park normally not open to the public, including the Rescue Center.

“Our education and zoological teams look forward to Inside Look each year, as they love sharing their passion for taking care of the park’s animals and their wealth of zoological knowledge with our guests,” said Eric Otjen, Vice President of Zoological Operations at SeaWorld San Diego. “They will also be able to see our animals in new, special ways and experience parts of the park that they are not able to during the rest of the year. For more than 50 years, education has been a critical core part of SeaWorld’s mission as we aim to inspire and inform all guests about wildlife and conservation.”

Inside Look is included with park admission. Event times are subject to change or cancellation without notice. Please see seaworld.com/san-diego/park-info/theme-park-hours for the daily schedule. There will be many incredible exclusive experiences returning to SeaWorld San Diego’s “Inside Look” program this year, including: 

Inside the SeaWorld Rescue Center: Guests will also have the very special opportunity to tour areas of SeaWorld Rescue Center, a back area of the park where the Rescue Team brings hundreds of rescued animals each year for rehabilitation. During this coveted experience, members of the SeaWorld Rescue team will share stories about recent rescues and tour guests through the Rescue Center showing the animal care hospital and rehabilitation areas. In addition, guests will get an up-close look at the rescue truck and inflatable boat used in rescues. 

During the tour, guests will see Freeway, the sea lion rescued in January 2021 from the 94 freeway. Guests will get an “inside look” into Freeway’s everyday care and hear about his rescue and rehabilitation journey.

Inside Orca Encounter: Guests will meet and hear from the dedicated animal care specialists who safeguard the health and well-being of our killer whales. Park guests will view a learning and training session between the orcas and their animal care team to better understand the dynamics of caring for SeaWorld’s largest residents. 

Inside and Underwater at Turtle Reef: At the Turtle Reef exhibit, guests will be able to watch zoological scuba divers interact with the turtles in the reef while educators share information and answer questions. 

Inside Animal Care: In addition to the beloved daily animal presentations, SeaWorld Animal Care Specialists will be hosting special Trainer Talks where guests can learn about animal behaviors, feeding, and husbandry. These 10-minute presentations will be offered daily following Orca Encounter, Dolphin Adventures, and Sea Lion & Otter Spotlight presentations.

Meet Animal Conservation Ambassadors: Guests can learn and see a variety of unique rescued animals during the Feathers, Scales, and Furry Rescue Tails presentation located at Nautilus Amphitheater. This fun and educational presentation shares the story of Conservation Ambassadors, animal care, and rescue. Guests will meet many incredible rescued animals, such as marsupials, primates, and reptiles, and learn about their unique stories. 

Connections with Conservation Partners: Inside Look will spotlight conservation organizations in the local community that SeaWorld partners with as a part of “Inside Look Connections” on Skytower Lawn. Organizations such as Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute, Living Coast Discovery Center, Project Wildlife, as well as SeaWorld Rescue, will have booths where guests can ask questions and learn about their important work. 

To further enhance their Inside Look experience, guests can pick up an Inside Look passport and visit certain Inside Look locations for a special stamp. Guests can also choose to purchase an Inside Look Scavenger Hunt map that encourages people of all ages to learn new animal and park facts and stats by matching stickers with points of interest around the park and redeem completed maps for a very special SeaWorld prize.

Pay for a Day and Play All Year Long

The best way to play all year round is with a 2023 Fun Card! For the price of a single day ticket at $99.99, guests can enjoy unlimited visits* throughout 2023. With a Fun Card guests can roam and explore the park as many times as they want to visit amazing animals, enjoy family and thrill rides including upcoming family-friendly coaster Arctic Rescue, the longest and fastest straddle coaster on the West Coast, opening in Spring 2023. Plus, guests can take advantage of events including Mardi Gras, Seven Seas Food Festival, and Spooktacular all year long – all included in park admission.

*Some restrictions and blockout dates apply. 2023 Fun Card valid through December 31, 2023.

World Class Animal Care, Accredited and Regulated by Experts 

SeaWorld Inside Look offers a unique opportunity to go behind the scenes of one of the world’s foremost zoological organizations.  Its team of more than 1,000 animal specialists maintain the highest standards of animal welfare and veterinary care for one the largest zoological collections in the world.   

SeaWorld is regulated by various government authorities focused on animal welfare. For example, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal Plant Health Inspection Service performs routine, unannounced visits to SeaWorld to ensure adherence to federal standards and regulations.  The visits include a review of the physical premises, records, husbandry practices, program of veterinary care, and animal handling procedures, to ensure that SeaWorld meets and/or exceeds the required standard of care.  SeaWorld is also regulated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries, the primary federal agency responsible for the stewardship of living ocean resources and the marine habitats on which they rely.  NOAA enforces guidelines set out in laws such as the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act. 

SeaWorld is also accredited by third party organizations including the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) and the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums (AMMPA).  Achieving and maintaining accreditation from these groups is a rigorous evaluation process in areas that extend beyond the scope of government regulatory agencies.  For example, reviews of social settings, team training, habitat enrichment, medical facility, food and water preparation, guest interactions, education programs and more. SeaWorld has also earned the Humane Certified™ seal from American Humane, the world’s largest certifier of animal welfare.  Reviews and accreditations by these organizations represent the highest standards of care and welfare for specific species. 

Dedicated to Marine Animal and Ecosystem Conservation  

The commitment of SeaWorld extends beyond the animals in residence. The SeaWorld Rescue team is on call 24×7 to help animals anywhere they are needed.  The team has helped more than 40,000 animals, making it one of the largest marine animal rescue organizations in the world.  

SeaWorld also advances the science of marine animal health through the study of animals in its care, partnerships with leading academic institutions, and withSeaWorld Conservation Fund grants to organizations focused on marine animal rescue and rehabilitation, conservation education, habitat protection and species research.  Since 2003, Fund grants have been made to support 541 different marine-specific conservation projects on all seven continents.   

For more information on events, Teacher and Preschool Fun Cards, park hours and to purchase tickets and/or Fun Cards, visit SeaWorldSanDiego.com. Be sure to follow SeaWorld San Diego on Facebook and Instagram for the latest park updates and information.