BACKSTORY: SeaWorld was opened in 1964 by UCLA graduates Milton C. Shedd, Ken Norris, David Demott, and George Millay. They originally set out to build an underwater restaurant and marine life show. When the underwater restaurant concept was deemed unfeasible, they decided to build a park instead, and SeaWorld San Diego was opened on March 21, 1964. With only a few dolphins, sea lions, 6 attractions and 22 acres, the park proved to be a success and more than 400,000 guests visited in the first 12 months.
