Review: Gatorland

What's the story behind this park?
What began as a working farm in the 1950s has since grown into a wildlife attraction in its own right. Unlike the technologically focused parks of most of Orlando, this one has a more rustic, old-fashioned feel, but that doesn’t mean it has any less charisma. It’s now a zoo and sanctuary where you can see alligators up close, whether from rickety wooden walkways or in a show, from tiny babies to huge adults laying out in the sun or slithering around the swamps and pools that comprise much of the parkland.

Fun! What are some of the best moments of the visit?
Just seeing the gators is fairly exciting, but most people also want to see a bit of action; the Jumparoo feeding time—where gators leap up and lunge at raw chickens—and the gator-wrestling presentations are always popular. The zip line over the park and the Stompin’ Gator Off Road Adventure are also popular.

Got it. How easy is it to get around?
The park isn’t huge, and it’s easy enough to navigate by walkway. The observation towers and zip line attraction may prove challenging to some, but otherwise it's all pretty easy.

That sounds cool. Who do you think would most enjoy this park?
The focus here is on (duh) alligators, and fans of the huge reptiles will be in their element. There are other areas of the park, though, where you can see emus, snakes, giant tortoises, bobcats, and flamingos. There’s even a small petting zoo for younger visitors.