Gatorland

If you want to do something completely different and authentically Floridian, spend the day at Gatorland on S. Orange Blossom Trail (US 17/441). As well as the expected pools of alligators of all sizes, there’s a veritable zoo of animals, from emus and giant tortoises to flamingos, owls, sandhill cranes and deer. There is also a petting zoo, boardwalk, train ride, fantastic Screamin’ Gator zip line adventure, splashzone and three excellent animal shows. It’s the perfect day out for families of all ages. Newly rebuilt in 2008, the park at Gatorland is attractively laid out and well maintained. Your first photo opportunity will be at the entrance, which is a giant walk-through alligator jaw! 

After riding around the park on the Choo-Choo Express, head for the raised boardwalk through the native Cypress Swamp. It’s a really nice area for walking beside a naturalized lake area. This is the Breeding Marsh and Bird Rookery where 130 adult gators live in the 10-acre wetland environment. Everywhere you look you will see alligator eyes watching unblinkingly. The information boards do a good job of informing you of the breeding habits of alligators and even identify some of the reptiles by their territory, size or individual characteristics. 

Daring visitors can climb the Observation Tower and strap their harness to the Screamin’ Gator Zipline before flying high above the greenery and water as you go from platform to platform. The Splash Zone is a great place for youngsters to cool off on a hot day with many jets, flumes and water features. It’s worth hanging around for the last show of the day, the Gator Jumparoo Show. You can also see Gator Wrestling and enjoy an up-close encounter with your new toothy friends.

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