The oldest SeaWorld park is located in San Diego, California. It opened in 1964.
A Brief History of SeaWorld San Diego
Originally conceived as an underwater restaurant, the concept expanded into a marine zoological park spanning 21 acres along Mission Bay. The park boasts hundreds of fish species, including sharks, and houses various exotic birds. A large coral reef aquarium is a key feature of the Orlando location, but the original San Diego park holds the title of the first and oldest. The park's history includes the arrival of Corky, the oldest whale at the park (over 55 years old), highlighting the longevity of some of the animals housed within. SeaWorld San Diego also celebrated the 40th birthday of its oldest penguin, demonstrating the long-term care of animals within the park.
Other SeaWorld Locations and Their Openings
- SeaWorld Aurora, Ohio: Opened in 1970 (second location)
- Additional locations opened later, but San Diego remains the first and oldest.
While other aquariums might be older than the first SeaWorld, the question specifically asks about the oldest SeaWorld. The provided sources confirm that SeaWorld San Diego, opened in 1964, holds this title. Note that while other SeaWorld locations exist, and the oldest animals are found across their locations, San Diego is the oldest of the SeaWorld parks.
