Unleash Your Adventurous Side at Gatorland: Orlando’s Most Thrilling Theme Park & Wildlife Preserve

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly and adventurous addition to your family’s Florida vacation, Gatorland is the perfect hidden gem. Unlike the world-famous theme parks in Orlando, Gatorland offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Florida while getting up close and personal with some hair-raising wildlife.

Located in South Orlando, this 110-acre theme park and wildlife preserve is only a short drive away from the city and other popular destinations like Walt Disney World. Despite its convenient location, Gatorland feels like a natural sanctuary that offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. We’re excited to share a comprehensive guide to Gatorland to help you plan your next Sunshine State family adventure.

Plan Your Visit to Gatorland

Before heading out to Gatorland, it’s important to know that the park is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., rain or shine. However, we recommend visiting Gatorland’s website to check for any updates or changes to their hours and pricing before your trip. This will ensure that you have the most up-to-date information and can plan your visit accordingly. With its unique blend of thrilling wildlife encounters and natural beauty, Gatorland is the perfect destination for families looking to experience the best of Florida’s outdoors.

Gatorland Tickets and Pricing

Two ticket options are available at the Gatorland entrance, depending on the length of your stay and the experiences you wish to have. Regardless of which ticket you choose, rest assured that ample free parking is available on-site.

1st Ticket Option: The Gatorland Greater Gator Package

This option is a single-day pass, which provides access to the park for a full day. This pass includes entry to animal exhibits, trainer-led programs and shows, and the world-famous Gator Jumparoo show. You can purchase your tickets online and save money or buy them on-site.

2nd Ticket Option: Gatorland Annual Pass

The second ticket option is an annual pass, which is a great value if you visit Gatorland twice a year. With the annual pass, you can enjoy unlimited visits to the park throughout the year and receive exclusive discounts on additional admission tickets for up to six guests. Annual pass holders can also take advantage of 50% off Adventure Hour, 20% off Meet-a-Gator experiences, and 10% off food and beverage purchases at Pearl’s Good Eats and Snack Bar.

Regardless of your ticket option, don’t forget to try the delicious Gator nuggets! And don’t worry. They don’t use their own gators for food.

Explore the Wild Side: Gators, Snakes, and Crocs at Gatorland

Gatorland is not just about alligators and crocodiles, but it’s also home to other wildlife such as birds, snakes, tortoises, and wild cats. With the endangered Florida Panthers, Bobcats, Giant Tortoises, and plenty of reptiles and amphibians, Gatorland serves as a sanctuary for many species.

One of the most popular Gatorland exhibits is the White Florida Swamp, where visitors can get up close and personal with albino and leucistic alligators. These rare reptiles are fascinating to observe, and Gatorland boasts the world’s largest collection of these unique creatures.

In addition to observing the animals, the park offers shows and instructor-led programs that educate visitors about these rare and endangered species. Check out their website for the current schedule of daily shows, including the alligator feeding and up-close experiences with some amazing creatures (and maybe a few creepy crawlers too).

Thrilling Adventures for Adventure Seekers at Gatorland 

If your family loves an adventure, then Gatorland is the place to be! They offer a range of exciting activities that are sure to get your heart racing. Get up close and personal with the alligators by taking an Adventure Tour, where you can even feed them! Don’t forget to snap a picture while you’re there.

For an unforgettable experience, try the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line at Gatorland and fly high above the gator enclosures. You’ll soar across five zip lines that range from 230 feet to 500 feet and reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour! Even those with mobility restrictions can join in on the fun with an accessible zip line. Be sure to reserve your spot on Gatorland’s website, as this top-rated attraction fills up fast.

Get down and dirty with the Stompin’ Gator Off-Road Adventure, a rugged and swampy 15-minute off-roading experience aboard a 12-ft tall monster truck. Reservations can be made at the admission desk when you arrive.

Take part in daily “Meet a Gator” programs, where you can touch and even hold an alligator! This once-in-a-lifetime experience doesn’t require reservations, so stop by and say hello to these fascinating creatures.

For the little ones (and the young at heart), visit the Gatorland petting zoo and feed all kinds of critters, from goats to cows and even emus!

But wait, there’s more! The Croc Rock Adventure is a must-try experience for thrill-seekers. Climb the 32-foot Croc Rock, which mimics the look and feel of real sandstone, and cross a 150-foot swinging cable bridge. Finish the adventure by riding a 350-foot zipline! This one-of-a-kind climbing wall is unlike any other activity in Florida, and it’s sure to leave you with lasting memories.

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Gatorland offers a range of activities that will satisfy even the most daring adventurers. Check out their website for more information on all the heart-pumping experiences they have to offer!

Have you ever visited Gatorland before? If so, what was your favorite part? If not, which attraction are you most excited to try out on your next trip to Florida? Let us know in the comments below!

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Feature photo: dstephens via Canva.com