Gatorland

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It's well over 50 years since Owen Godwin opened his first roadside gator attraction for tourists coming downto Central Florida from the North. The good news is they're still coming, and more than ever before. The self proclaimed 'Alligator Capital of The World', Gatorland is home to hundreds of Florida's original residents (the long scaly kind!). Although some of the tourist kitch remains, the family owned park has gotten very serious about conservation of these remarkable animals and their crocodile cousins. Breeding programs are used with great success to ensure the reproduction of not only Florida's alligators, but also endangered species like the ferocious Cuban Crocodile. The focal point of the park is the Breeding Marsh, a natural Cypress swamp, where the main population of swamp dragons reside. A scenic wooden boardwalk gets you within snapping distance of these scaly sunbathers. Be sure to climb the observation tower for an excellent view of the park and surrounding area.

Make sure you see Upclose Animal Encounters Show, featuring snakes, spiders and lots of toothy grins (that's just the handlers). The Gator Wrestlin' makes you realize just what some people will do for money. Guests can have their photo taken with one of the participants. Guess which one!

Set beside a real Cypress swamp, the park also has a miniature railway,a swamp walk and offers some unusual photo opportunities involving baby gators and a boa constrictor! By far the most unique show is the Jumparoo. Hungry gators leap for chicken appetizers encouraged by the cheers of a fascinated audience. Note that the feeder is chained to his podium to avoid becoming dessert! Having worked up an appetite, it's then time for the whole family to head over to Pearl's Smokehouse for some gator nuggets!

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The Verdict
The Verdict
The Verdict  - Gatorland
The Verdict
  • Breeding Marsh - it's very pretty in a ferocious kind of way!
  • Observation Tower - see how many you can count from up there.
  • Upclose Animal Encounters Show - as close as you want to get!
  • Jumparoo Show - you can't escape without seeing this!
  • Gator Wrestling - getting to grips with some of the locals.
  • Swamp Walk - the dry and scenic route.
  • The Gator and Snake Photo Op - you have to do it!
Insider Tips  
Insider Tips
Insider Tips  - Gatorland
Insider Tips
  • If you're a keen birdwatcher, March through August a large nesting colony of egrets and herons are in residence as the gators protect the nests from raiding raccoons. You can get some great photos.
  • Take 30 minutes and let your kids cool off over at Gator Gully, a gator free water playground.
Info  
Info
Info  - Gatorland
Info
Location: 14501 South Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando FL 32837
Telephone: 1 800-393-JAWS or (407) 855-5496