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SeaWorld Orlando, which opened on December 15, 1973, became an important part of Central Florida’s emergence as a multi-park tourism destination. Originally focused on marine animal shows, it later expanded under Anheuser-Busch into major thrill rides, producing attractions such as Journey to Atlantis, Kraken, Manta, Mako, Ice Breaker, Pipeline, and Penguin Trek. Since 2014, the park has been organized into themed “seas” that combine rides, habitats, and presentations featuring dolphins, sharks, penguins, beluga whales, walruses, sea lions, and orcas. Its history also includes major safety controversies, especially after trainer Dawn Brancheau was killed by the orca Tilikum in 2010, fueling debate over marine mammal treatment and trainer protection.
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