On July 1, SeaWorld Orlando is opening its doors to active-duty military members, veterans and their families an hour before anybody else.

To get the most out of the experience, the military community should come to SeaWorld Orlando with a plan.

Step 1: Get Your Tickets

SeaWorld Orlando offers complimentary admission to the military with its Waves of Honor program. Active military and veterans can verify their status online through Troop ID to get their admission tickets. Active US Military receive free admission and Veterans can take advantage of the 50% off SeaWorld, Orlando Fun Card offer.

Once you’ve received your tickets, all that’s left is to show up SeaWorld, Orlando at 8 a.m. on July 1.

Step 2: Experience the Mako

The Mako is SeaWorld Orlando’s newest, longest and fastest thrill ride. Named for the Mako shark, this coaster rips through the air at 73 miles per hour. The track is 4,760 feet long and 200 feet tall at its peak.

This hypercoaster is guaranteed to sport a long line all day, every day. That extra hour of park time is the perfect opportunity to test the coaster out before anyone else can get in line.

Step 3: Enjoy a Classic Coaster

High-speed thrills aren’t for everyone. Luckily, SeaWorld Orlando has enough rides to appeal to guests of every stripe. Visitors can go on a watery adventure in Journey to Atlantis, or view the Orlando skyline from the top of Sky Tower. More daring riders can give the Kraken and Manta a whirl before the morning rush.

Step 4: Enjoy all the SeaWorld has to offer

The rest of the park will open at 9am so be prepared to immerse yourself in wonder at SeaWorld Orlando, where the aquatic world comes alive. See the world through the eyes of a penguin in the all-new thrilling, chilling adventure of Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin™.  Laugh to an all-new sea lion show.  Climb aboard and ride the mighty Manta. Experience the awe-inspiring Shamu show, One Ocean®. Embark on the epic 3D 360 voyage of TurtleTrek. There’s an ocean of fun ready to be explored at SeaWorld Orlando.

For Tickets: go to WavesofHonor.com and verify your military status through Troop ID.