Orlando’s alligator farm and wildlife refuge, Gatorland, surprised me in several ways during my family’s visit. Here’s how:
It’s big.
Located on 110 acres, Gatorland is a lot bigger than I had envisioned. There are numerous enclosures featuring alligators of all sorts and trails showcasing crocodiles from around the world. While this destination is more expansive than I had expected, it was a very manageable place to visit with two children. The pace is slower here than at the amusement parks, which enabled us to wander the grounds and peer at Gatorland’s residents at a leisurely pace.
There’s more to see than just alligators.
In addition to alligators and their crocodile cousins, Gatorland also features bird exhibits, snake displays, and a petting zoo with cuddlier creatures. The Children’s Playground is fun spot for energetic kids to zip down slides while mom and dad look on from colorful wooden chairs. My two-year-old’s favorite ride during our trip to Kissimmee was the Gatorland Express Railroad, which winds its way through the Jungle Crocs and Breeding Marsh areas of the park. On warmer days, children can cool off at Gator Gully Splash Park, an alligator-themed splash area. If you get hungry, stop by Pearl’s Patio Smokehouse for a corndog, pulled pork sandwich, bratwurst, or other fast food options.
It’s safe.
I worried a little about bringing my family here. What if an alligator snapped up my children for lunch? In reality, the alligators and crocodiles are kept safely within gated off enclosures. Gatorland does not allow adults to give their children piggyback rides or hoist kids up onto their shoulders, just in case a little one falls into a gator’s home. There are humorous signs posted throughout the park to keep visitors safe with advisories like, WARNING!! TRESPASSERS WILL BE EATEN!!! If that doesn’t keep folks from straying from the designated trails, I don’t know what will!
The gators aren’t too scary.
Don’t get me wrong…I wouldn’t want to go for a swim with a big ol’ alligator, but these prehistoric creatures seemed quite disinterested in eating humans. In fact, they weren’t even all that keen on eating raw chicken when dangled before their eyes. The trainers had to tap on the gators’ noses to get these oversized reptiles to pay much attention to their snacks.
Alligators “perform” in shows.
Yes, there is an Alligator-Wrestling Show but the park’s most popular show is the Gator Jumperoo. This tongue-in-cheek show involves two overall-clad “brothers” named Bubba and Cooter who compete to see who can get the alligators to snatch up the chicken bait quickest. The gators stand on their submerged tails to grab the treats. But don’t expect to see the alligators jumping about wildly; they were pretty slow-moving. Parents should know that the show involves some good-natured teasing amongst characters who poke fun at each other’s weight and do a bit of name-calling.
My daughter now loves alligators.
The day started with my daughter refusing to get in the car because she did not want to visit Gatorland and ended with her begging to stay at this old-school Orlando 
attraction longer. In the morning she wailed, “I hate alligators! They’re scary!” In order to convince her to climb into our rental car for our journey to Gatorland I promised both kids that anyone who had a good time at this attraction would be rewarded with a toy later in the day. This got us on our way and guaranteed no whining at the park.
Before departing, we visited Gatorland’s on-site gift shop. My little boy chose a mini Gatorland truck while my alligator-hating-girl selected a white alligator plush toy, even though kitties and other more traditional stuffed animals were available. My daughter’s sleeping toy companion is now “Whitey” the alligator. Go figure!
Disclosure: My family received complimentary entrance to Gatorland and passes to ride the Gatorland Express Train. I always share my honest opinion, no matter who pays!
Blogger Malise Terrell will visit Kissimmee next week! Want to share your Kissimmee story? 
