One of my favorite aspects of traveling with my children is the opportunity to expose them to things that are unique to the destination’s region. On our last theme-park vacation to Orlando we were pretty busy meeting characters and riding roller coasters. While we didn’t get to get out in nature and explore the Florida Everglades, we did get to take the kids to the next best thing, Gatorland, a 110-acre attraction and wildlife preserve. The park has gone through many transitions since its opening in 1949. Today there are still plenty of regional wildlife.
The kids were able to touch, view and take photos with the live reptiles including alligators and crocodiles. They still talk about it today. But Gatorland has more than gators. 
The kids had fun at Allie’s Barnyard, the on-site petting zoo (watch out the llama does spit), and while the kids were a little nervous when they first entered the Very Merry Aviary, they did eventually warm up to the colorful Lorikeets. My husband and I enjoyed the Swamp Walk the most. It reminded me of my childhood (I grew up in the South) and it was my husband’s first time to experience a real swamp.
If you’re visiting Orlando during the summer months pack the kids’ swimsuits and some towels. We missed the warm months but the Gator Gully Splash Park looked like it will be a welcomed relief to the hot and humid Florida days with its giant egrets spilling water fountains, water guns mounted on the backs of two giant gators and Grandma’s Wet Shack, more water play.
Before we left we caught a glimpse of the Gator Jumparoo, if you want to guarantee a good view of the jumping gators (especially if you have children), be sure to claim your spot well before the showtime. Finally, be prepared for the extensive gift shop on the way out. Every type of souvenir can be found here, including the humorous, cute and classic mementos. Gatorland is a classic Florida attraction the kids will enjoy and it’s a nice break from the action-packed theme parks.
I’ve seen it on several visits, but never stopped.
When I lived in Arkansas, we visited the AR Alligator Farm in Hot Springs many times.
That sounds fantastic, not sure how keen I would be to pet a gator though!
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