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Gatorland
Gatorland
© Gatorland
Sitting on South Orange Blossom Trail, one of Central Florida’s oldest attractions is Gatorland. It beckons visitors to wander through the gaping, toothy doors and experience the world of gators. Know as the “Alligator Capital of the World”, this 110-acre wildlife preserve/theme park offers a host of exhibits and entertainment designed to enlighten and thrill visitors. Owen Godwin founded Gatorland, which remains a privately owned family business, in 1949. Over the years, surrounded by the natural swampy Florida splendor and thousands of alligators and crocodiles, a plethora of television programs and movie scenes, from National Geographic documentaries to Indiana Jones: Temple of Doom were filmed inside the park. From staged feeding frenzies to trained alligators, Gatorland continues to provide a unique location for filmmakers. Gatorland, much more than a filming location, offers affordable family entertainment that includes educational programs, unique exhibits, a petting zoo, an aviary and a breeding marsh, viewable from the boardwalk and observation tower. Gatorland continues to create new and exciting attractions to continue drawing in more tourists. Starting in February 2009, Gatorland’s Rookery will offer a close-up view of the park’s myriad bird species through the Dawn to Dusk Birding Program, which offers extended hours. Anyone who would rather interact with the reptiles might be interested in the exclusive Trainer for a Day program. This exciting program offers participants a hands-on glimpse of what it takes to work with these deadly animals, teaching safety, handling and behavioral training, and then the chance to try crocodile wrangling. 
© Gatorland
Among the many thrilling attractions that require no more than a flashlight and a sense of adventure are the Gator Night Shine, a winding tour that takes guests along the breeding marsh walkway in the dark, surrounded by a host of glowing red eyes, to get a true taste of Florida nature. In the daylight, there are tons of breathtaking activities such as Rookie Wrestling, putting you right in the ring to experience true gator power. Check out the amazing Gator Jumparoo Show to learn more about gators and crocs and their amazing abilities. Marvel at the bravery of gator wranglers and they wrestle the massive reptiles in the shady stadium and meet cool creatures from Florida and around the globe at an Upclose Encounters show. A visit to Gatorland will transport you to the natural thrills of Florida and its wildlife. From interactive experiences to educational, entertaining shows, no trip to the Orlando area is complete without a visit to this exhilarating natural wonderland! More Information & Directions. |
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