Gatorland

Tickets & Visitor Guide to Orlando's Classic Gator Park

⏱ 2.5-4 hours👤 All ages$$

Open since 1949, Gatorland is one of Florida's original roadside attractions and a genuine piece of old-Florida charm, located just south of Orlando on the Orange Blossom Trail. The 110-acre park has built its identity around alligators — it's home to thousands of them, along with crocodiles (including rare white leucistic alligators), and proudly calls itself the "Alligator Capital of the World."

The park combines a wildlife attraction with classic Florida showmanship. Signature experiences include the gator-feeding and "gator wrestling" shows, the Screamin' Gator Zip Line that soars over pools full of alligators and crocodiles, and a peaceful boardwalk through a natural alligator breeding marsh, where you can see gators in a wild-ish setting alongside wading birds and other native wildlife. There's also a petting zoo, a aviary, snakes and other reptiles, a kids' splash/water-play area, animal encounters (including the chance to feed or get up close with gators), and a small train. The vibe is friendly, unpretentious, and authentically Floridian — a contrast to the slick mega-parks.

It's a great half-day outing, especially for families and animal lovers, and considerably cheaper than the big theme parks. Plan a few hours; check the daily show schedule and plan around it. It's an easy drive south of the main tourist areas and Kissimmee. For visitors who want a dose of real Florida wildlife and old-school charm amid the theme-park glitz, Gatorland is a delight.