I know with the current financial situation SEAS is in this isn't really feasible, but I still like the idea. I just got back from my fifth trip to Discovery Cove and it had me thinking just how well that park works. I imagine the finances there are good, since every guest pays to get in every time. It's also perfect for upcharged experiences, which they are capitalizing on without it coming off as a pure money grab.
A few years ago they brought up the idea of more DC parks. I'm sure that's back burner now, but someday I think Williamsburg would be a perfect location. If a Sesame Place Park comes this would only strengthen the location as a great place for a second DC. There may even be enough land near WCUSA already.
Here's my idea for Discovery Cove Williamsburg. It would obviously be seasonal, but I think you could book full May through September. Due to the convenient Mid Atlantic location and shorter operating season I think you could even raise ticket prices to assure financial viability. The park itself would be similar to the one in Orlando is design. The centerpiece would be the Dolphin Swim. This is the big money maker and I haven't heard nearly as much outrage about this as the killer whale stuff. There would still be a freshwater side with a few different animal exhibits, heated lagoon and lounging areas, aviary and forest river. Refreshment stands would be throughout as well as a main dining area, but maybe including some enclosed seating. There would also be a saltwater area, but not as tropical as the Grand Reef. This would have plenty of fish, but more temperate. There would still be a shark section, but also maybe an area for rescued sea turtles.
Instead of polynesian design (we can't mimic it enough due to our plant choices) I think there are two great options. One would be Coastal South with buildings like you see in Savannah or Charleston. Plants would include big live oaks, palms that you grow here (some larger palms with a little winter protection), magnolias, ferns, grasses and flowers. The other would be Nantucket with traditional Cape Cod style buildings. This would feature more pines, grasses, flowers, beach rose, and lots of big rocks. Coastal South would feature a boardwalk type feel and Nantucket would have a harbor type feel for the saltwater side. Both would still have sandy beaches all around and plenty of chairs. Food would correspond with the theme. Southern fare for Coastal South and clams and lobster rolls for Nantucket to give you an idea.
I know this would be a longshot to actually happen, but I think it a would be very profitable and would be a major draw for other local parks.
A few years ago they brought up the idea of more DC parks. I'm sure that's back burner now, but someday I think Williamsburg would be a perfect location. If a Sesame Place Park comes this would only strengthen the location as a great place for a second DC. There may even be enough land near WCUSA already.
Here's my idea for Discovery Cove Williamsburg. It would obviously be seasonal, but I think you could book full May through September. Due to the convenient Mid Atlantic location and shorter operating season I think you could even raise ticket prices to assure financial viability. The park itself would be similar to the one in Orlando is design. The centerpiece would be the Dolphin Swim. This is the big money maker and I haven't heard nearly as much outrage about this as the killer whale stuff. There would still be a freshwater side with a few different animal exhibits, heated lagoon and lounging areas, aviary and forest river. Refreshment stands would be throughout as well as a main dining area, but maybe including some enclosed seating. There would also be a saltwater area, but not as tropical as the Grand Reef. This would have plenty of fish, but more temperate. There would still be a shark section, but also maybe an area for rescued sea turtles.
Instead of polynesian design (we can't mimic it enough due to our plant choices) I think there are two great options. One would be Coastal South with buildings like you see in Savannah or Charleston. Plants would include big live oaks, palms that you grow here (some larger palms with a little winter protection), magnolias, ferns, grasses and flowers. The other would be Nantucket with traditional Cape Cod style buildings. This would feature more pines, grasses, flowers, beach rose, and lots of big rocks. Coastal South would feature a boardwalk type feel and Nantucket would have a harbor type feel for the saltwater side. Both would still have sandy beaches all around and plenty of chairs. Food would correspond with the theme. Southern fare for Coastal South and clams and lobster rolls for Nantucket to give you an idea.
I know this would be a longshot to actually happen, but I think it a would be very profitable and would be a major draw for other local parks.
