Among Orlando’s top attractions, Gatorland has been delighting visitors for more than 75 years with wildlife encounters, live shows, and up-close experiences with the animals that make Florida famous. Located at 14501 S Orange Blossom Trl, the park proves to be one that lives up to the name.
The adventure begins the moment you step through Gatorland’s gates, where a massive lake filled with alligators offers an unforgettable first impression. After taking in the iconic reptiles, we wandered through the park’s diverse animal exhibits, spotting everything from colorful birds and slithering snakes to baby alligators. We also made our way to the petting zoo, where baby goats greeted visitors looking for a snack. While it’s free to explore the area, feeding the animals requires a small additional purchase.
We decided to visit one of Gatorland’s signature shows, Alligators: Legends of the Swamp. We headed to the amphitheater early to grab good seats, a decision that quickly proved a smart choice. While the venue wasn’t overflowing, the crowd increasingly grew as showtime approached.
As the show began, Gatorland’s gator wranglers took stage, demonstrating how to safely handle its iconic reptiles. The performance took place on a small island stage with a moat of alligators surrounding it. Then, the trainers pulled a gator out by its tail, showcased its teeth, allowed it to roam freely, and shared facts about the species. The biggest take away they wanted for the audience to remember was that you don’t need to run in a zigzag pattern to escape an alligator. Despite popular belief, alligators are not as fast as humans, so your best bet is to run as fast as you can in a straight line.
Once we were done with the show, it was time to eat at Pearl’s Good Eats. We ordered the pulled pork platter, priced at $14.99 (plus tax, with a $1 upcharge for fries), which came with pulled pork, a corn muffin, and a choice of two sides. It was a good meal that provided the perfect boost of energy before continuing with the day.
After eating, we decided to take a nature walk on the wood bridges across the water allowing you to be one with nature. While we did not run into many animals, we were able to see some, what appeared to be, snapping turtles up close and personal.
Next, we made our way to the Up Close Encounters show. The show featured two men who acted as our hosts for the show. There was even a chance for audience participation, however, if tarantulas or pythons aren’t your thing, you might not be so eager to volunteer.
Afterwards, we couldn’t leave the park without seeing the famous Jawlene. Named after the Dolly Parton song “Jolene,” but with a twist. That twist comes from the fact that Jawlene is missing her top jaw. It still doesn’t stop her from being a marvel and also quite cute.
After spotting the Gatorland Express train throughout the day, we decided it was finally time to hop aboard. At just $3 per ticket, it turned out to be one of the best values in the park. Not only does your ticket allow for unlimited rides until closing, but the journey offers a chance to rest your feet while taking in scenic views of areas that are easy to miss on foot.
Gatorland also offers ziplining, rock climbing, feeding the animals, and more for an extra cost. For adults ages 13 and up, tickets go for $34.99, but are half off for Florida residents until July 31. For more information, visit HERE.
