Next week I’m headed down to Orlando for SeaWorld’s grand opening of Manta. It’s been open for over a week, but the Media Day will include the ‘Manta Cam’. It will basically be a personal camera pointed at me while I ride. It’s also supposed to include other point of view shots and angles. Now that I think of it, it sounds a lot like the on-board video feature of the other major 2009 coaster opening about 10 miles away, Universal Studios Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit. Learn more about SeaWorld’s Manta at RidetheFlyingRay.com.

Speaking of Universal, while I’m in the O-Town I’m planning on visiting Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Unfortunately, Rip Ride Rockit won’t be open for my trip. ScreamScape’sreporting that it may be opening July 3rd. At least I’ll be able to get some construction photos. Islands of Adventure is working on their 2010 project, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. They’re marketing it as a theme park within a theme park. I’ll get some shots of that coming together as well for all the Potter fans out there.

Aside from all the sight-seeing, I’ll be able to do some great riding. I’ll get to experience Mummy: The Ride for the first time. Surprisingly, the heavily themed Vekoma ride shocked the enthusiast world when it beat out Millennium Force to win ThemeParkInsider’s March Madness-like bracket contest. I’ll also get to ride both of the Dueling Dragons as well as Islands of Adventures other roller coasters.

I’ll be tweeting live all day from the Manta Media Day and while I’m at the other parks this coming Thursday the 21st. So make sure you follow me on Twitter for all the live updates, mini-reviews, and first impressions.

What’s Your Take?
Have you been to SeaWorld or Univeral? Do you have any tips for my trip? Leave a comment below.