SeaWorld San Antonio is a 416-acre marine-life theme park and animal facility on San Antonio’s west side that opened in 1988 as Sea World of Texas. Developed at a cost of $170 million, it quickly became one of Texas’s leading attractions, drawing 75,000 people on opening day and 3.3 million in its first year. Through several ownership changes, it has remained centered on conservation, education, rescue, and accredited animal care. The park has housed orcas, belugas, dolphins, sea lions, seals, otters, sea turtles, and penguins, while adding new exhibits, a separate water park, and major rides as it continues balancing entertainment with its animal mission.