Gatorland-A Getaway from the Madding Crowds

Gatorland is a great rest before or after visiting the noisy, crowded parks in Florida. Tourists use most of they're reserved vacation days to visit Disney World, Epcot, Sea World and the several other major park attractions leaving them very little do at the end of the week. Gatorland is the perfect cure for this dilemma. It is quiet and calming with a lot to see and do and it only takes half a day to see it all.

Gatorland Park is a family owned alligator conservation farm that has been opened for business since 1949. The many activities among the 110 acres includes the chance to see large alligators, take a Floridian wildlife express train ride that takes you on a tour around the park, and visit a bird aviary sanctuary. There is a breeding marsh, huts and pens that display toads, insects, turtles, and a Galapagos tortoise. You can take a nature on a 2,000-foot boardwalk that winds a path through a cypress swamp above an alligator breeding marsh.

Gatorland was the dream of Owen Godwin, Sr. He dug an alligator pit in the backyard of his home in the 1930's and placed a female alligator with her babies in the pit. He and his wife hosted and sold homemade gator souvenirs to visitors wanting to see the mother and her babies. He then planned to build a larger amusement park that will show off Florida's wonderful wildlife. In 1947, he brought 16 acres of property around the area near Kissimmee. Many investors helped his idea to catch on as the dawn of the American highway tourism, brought more and more families to Florida. Today thousands visit the park each year.

Gatorland claims to be central Florida's first major attraction. It features all kinds of reptiles and Florida wildlife. There are four main shows at Gatorland. The gator jumparoo Show; shows off the alligators ability jump out of the water in search for food. The gator wrestling show, a 6-8 foot alligator is put in an arena type stage, is subdued, put to sleep, then reawakened. Jungle crocs where four types crocodiles in their environment and the up close animal encounter show where visitors learn about different animals from around the world including dangerous snakes.

Make sure to visit the souvenir shop where you can find fun alligator themed toys, as well as safari hats and alligator skin wallets. Be sure to wear light colored clothes, wear suntan lotion, hats, and sunglasses, to protect you against the hot sun. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Gatorland is the oldest theme park loaded with old Florida charm that offers fun and special memories for your family.

Gatorland Alligator farm is open everyday, rain or shine, from 9am to 5pm. It is located on Hwy 441 near Kissimmee. Tickets range from $19.95 for adults (For ages 13 and over) and kids (ages 3-12) are currently $9.95. Information on printed discount coupons and special interest tickets prices are located on their website, www.gatorland.com.