There's a snappy side to the Sunshine State that you'll encounter in Gatorland Florida. Leave the theme parks behind and head out to the swampy bayous and pay a visit to the scaly creatures living here. Tourists have been visiting this vast expanse since 1949, and today the swamplands of Florida are one of the USA's most important and rare habitats, full of amazing critters.
Visit the alligators
The best way to see the beasties up (reasonably) close and personal is to head to Gatorland. There's lots of activities for nature and wildlife lovers of all ages to enjoy, making it a great family day out.
Explore Alligator Island and Jungle Crocs, and make sure you stick around for feeding time to see the sheer power of these creatures as they gobble up a chicken dinner in no time. Can you believe that the American alligator was once considered an endangered species in Florida? Now, there are more than 2,000 American alligators in the park alone.
Unsurprisingly, it's acquired the nickname of “The Alligator Capital of the World ©.” If you're lucky you could catch a glimpse of the park's two extremely rare, giant white alligators. There's only 12 of these snowy-white beasties in the world, and two of them are permanent residents here in Florida. There's also plenty of beautiful albino alligators for gator-lovers to marvel at.
Check out the giant tortoises
Giant tortoises have inhabited Gatorland, Florida since the 1950s. They're a piece of the park's history, and as it's rare for people to see these incredible creatures in the wild, make the most of this unique opportunity while you're here. Who knows if you'll ever get another chance to lay eyes on these beauties? Don't forget to ask a member of staff about feeding times. Your little ones are bound to enjoy this spectacle.
Ride the zip line
If you're after an exciting outdoor adventure, then a ride on the zip line is just the ticket. Fly 1,200 feet high in the air, and experience amazing views from above. You may even be able to spot both Cuban crocs, Nile crocodiles, and over 130 giant alligators basking in the sunshine below.
Gator Gully Splash Park
Pack your swimsuits and venture to Gator Gully Splash Park, for a fun-filled (and alligator-free) water adventure. You'll find this fabulous water park close to the Gator Jumparoo arena, next to the Aldabra tortoises. Home to a quarter of an acre of fun-filled silliness, there's plenty of sculpted ”gators with tons of water guns and squirting fountains for your little ones to enjoy.
Practical info
Parking is free, so you won't need to budget any extra for that. Admission for children under the age of two is free, making it the perfect place to bring tiny tots.
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