DH and I are supposed to spend a couple days with friends in a condo near Orlando. We're thinking we'd like to go somewhere rather than just sitting by the pool. Are there any must sees or must dos at Sea World or Universal Studios or Busch Gardens? Any preference for which one? We're not big on thrill rides, but would like seeing animals... does that narrow it down to Sea World or Busch Gardens? Would appreciate any thoughts.

Depends on what kind of animals you want to see. African animals and tigers? Busch Gardens. Marine mammals and sea creatures? Sea World.

Sea World is the more relaxing park - fewer thrill rides than Busch Gardens.

BTW, Lowry Park Zoo in Tampa (near Busch Gardens) is an excellent zoo. You'd see the animals you'd see at Busch Gardens and more. http://www.lowryparkzoo.com/animals_...itat_areas.php

For adults I always think Epcot is a great idea. Sort of like a Worlds Fair - with alot for adults to see/do and a couple of decentrestaurants.

I prefer Sea World to Busch gardens - but you have to time your visit so you get to actually feed the animals. And do get in conversation with the curators - if you're interested they can give you a ton more information.

Thanks for the replies; I'm leaning toward Sea World, and will get the feeding schedules.

You might also consider Disney's Animal Kingdom.

Quick update - we did go to SeaWorld last week; enjoyed it immensely, in spite of gray skies and sprinkles. We got our tickets online in advance for $68.95; also bought parking pass online --- price difference for that was only 74 cents ($11.26 vs $12). The Shamu show and the dolphin show were both spectacular.

Thanks for providing feedback, travlsolo2. Glad you enjoyed SeaWorld. There's a good reason it's Orlando residents' favorite theme park!

SeaWorld is a very good option

Another choice after SeaWorld, is Gatorland http://www.gatorland.com/

If you are an AAA member, discounted tickets to each can be purchased online.
http://www.aaasouth.com/Travel/map_l...ractionTickets