gatorland-park-orlando-panoramic

Tips for Visiting Gatorland Florida

Gatorland, the Alligator Capital of the World
By Lindsay Eagan

For more than 60 years, Gatorland Florida, Orlando, has welcomed millions of visitors through its world-famous gator-mouth entrance. Here's the lowdown on planning a gator-tastic day out.

With literally thousands living on the premises, there’s certainly no better place around to get your gator fix. This 110-acre combination theme park and wildlife preserve showcases alligators and crocodiles in new and exciting ways and is a unique alternative to the larger theme parks in the area.

Of course, there are more than just alligators and crocodiles at Gatorland – there are plenty of other Everglades inhabitants and activities, too. Enjoy a petting zoo, a nature walk, a series of educational and informative wildlife programs, and a fun slate of reptilian performances.

Check out our helpful guide for spending a day at Gatorland Florida, packed full of ways to save on admission, tips for visiting, other nearby attractions, and much more.

Tips for visiting Gatorland

alligator-on-shore-orlando-florida-resting

Tips for visiting Gatorland

  • View the show schedule to decide which performances you want to see on your visit.
  • Because Gatorland emphasizes live animal interactions, exhibits, and performances, very small children (especially those afraid of animals) may not enjoy this attraction.
  • Since you’ll be outside the whole time, wear extra sunscreen or bring a hat to keep yourself from burning in the Florida sun.
  • Be sure to check their calendar of events for any special events or promotions that may be coming up during your visit.
  • There are often discounts or other promotions specifically for Florida residents, so check that out if it applies to you.
  • Even if you aren’t a Florida resident, you can still save on admission with the Go City® Orlando pass!
  • Be aware that many of the special experiences within the park require additional fees.
  • Gatorland also offers group tours and the availability to host special events like birthday parties, business meetings, and more! Contact them if you’re interested.

When is the best time to visit Gatorland?

alligator-lurking

When is the best time to visit Gatorland?

You'll find other creatures at Gatorland, too! Morning is a good time to visit, both to avoid the bulk of the crowds and to avoid the hottest part of the day. Shows begin at 10:30am and go until 5:30pm, so you’ll be able to enjoy live gator performances regardless of the time you arrive.

What should I bring to Gatorland?
 

  • Comfortable, waterproof shoes.
  • A hat and plenty of sunscreen.
  • Money for souvenirs and professional photographs.
  • Cool, loose clothing that provides protection from bugs.
  • Bottled water.

What is there to do at Gatorland?

Gatorland is full of wonders – from live animal performances and informative exhibits to personal encounters and even a gator wrestling opportunity, there are simply too many options to list them all here. However, here is a selection of a few exhibits you've got to experience. 

Gator Jumparoo Show

Ever wondered how high an alligator can jump? You’ll find out at this show as you watch seemingly slow reptiles show off their surprising agility. Watch as gators of all sizes leap four or five feet into the air to grab treats from their trainer’s hand. A pretty intimidating sight!

Up close encounters

Gatorland

Up close encounters

Take the rare opportunity to interact with some of Florida’s most iconic and most frightening critters. From venomous snakes to the iconic alligators and crocodiles, you never know what you’ll meet at this show.

Screamin’ Gator Zip Line

The Screamin’ Gator Zip Line is one heck of a ride. Race down 1,200 feet of cord in a heart-pounding, exhilarating journey through stretches of the gorgeous Florida Everglades. Zip right over some of the park’s most famous attractions, including the rarely seen Alligator Breeding Marsh.

Gator Night Shine

If you thought your previous experience with Florida nightlife was something to write home about, you haven’t seen anything! This guided nighttime tour is an after-hours treat, bringing visitors through the stretches of the Alligator Breeding Marsh armed with nothing but a flashlight and some gator food. Not for the faint of heart!

Trainer-for-a-Day

This immersive program is the perfect activity for anyone looking forward to a career in working with animals – whether as an expert or a volunteer. Get a glimpse into the life of an animal trainer at Gatorland; see what their duties are, the risks, and the great rewards. A must-see backstage experience.

What attractions are near Gatorland?

Nestled in the heart of Central Florida, Gatorland is within reasonable driving distance of several other great Orlando attractions. From theme parks to tours and more, you’ll be able to slot a visit to Gatorland into a vacation full of excitement and adventure.

Fun Spot America
  • Fun Spot America - just a short jaunt west if you're looking for more excitement.
  • Congo River Adventure Golf - If you’re trying to relax after an exhilarating series of gator shows, try out a fun evening playing golf .
  • SeaWorld Orlando - Devote the next day of your vacation to this magnificent park.
  • Outta Control Magic Dinner Show - Searching for dinner options? Make a night of it and head to this dinner show.
  • Green Meadows Petting Farm - Got big animal fans in the family and looking for still more critter encounters? Head to the petting farm.

Where is there to eat near Gatorland?

In addition to featuring a delicious restaurant (yes, they serve a few specialty gator dishes; no, of course, they don’t use their own gators). There are also several snack stops within the park itself. Gatorland is within a quick drive of Orlando’s famed I-Drive corridor, where you’ll find tons of great family dining options. Here’s a selection of our favorites.

  • Maggiano’s Little Italy - serves up sumptuous authentic fare at a popular chain location.
  • Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar - is a favorite among adults looking for that little taste of Southern Florida culture.
  • Everglades Restaurant - is a perfect option for those searching for that truly unique Florida experience: they’ve got everything from fried gator to life-sized animal sculptures.
  • Brick House Tavern & Tap - is a great sports bar option with tasty food and tons of taps.
  • Seito Sushi - offers traditional and innovative Japanese fare with a Florida twist.
  • Bar Louie - features upscale grill fare at modest prices, including a robust drink selection and fun appetizers.

Save up to 50% on Orlando attractions  

Discover our full line-up of Orlando attractions from Kennedy Space Center to Fun Spot America.  

🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you.    

😎 >> If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option. 

Lindsay Eagan
Go City Travel Expert

Continue reading

guide to the Museum of Illusions
Blog

Guide to the Museum of Illusions

Prepare to blow your mind at the Museum of Illusions! This reality-bending place features over 50 exhibits that defy the laws of gravity and alter your perception of real life. And who knows, you might even learn a thing or two about that brain of yours! Fun for all ages, it's one of Orlando's unsung heroes in entertainment. The mouse's shadow may loom large, but you'll find nothing quite like this anywhere else in the state! Image courtesy of Elena Serebryakova/Shutterstock How to get Museum of Illusions tickets? We've got you covered – Museum of Illusions tickets are available with our Explorer Pass. Choose as you go and save money as you do! Includes admission to up to 5 attractions. Tips for visiting the Museum of Illusions During peak vacation times, the Museum of Illusions can get booked up pretty quickly. As such, we recommend you reserve a spot way ahead of time. You'll be doing a bit of walking around all the exhibits, so bear that in mind when you raid your shoe rack. Make sure your phone or camera has plenty of space to capture all the weird and wonderful things you'll find! When is the best time to visit the Museum of Illusions? With the entire experience taking place inside, you can really visit the Museum of Illusions all year round! Image courtesy of Oledia Bilkei/Shutterstock What is there to see and do at the Museum of Illusions? Within the museum's realty-altering walls, you'll experience the effects of infinite space, see your world shifted 90 degrees, and tell yourself you're defying the very forces of gravity. All of that with your feet planted firmly on the floor! Museum of Illusion highlights Rotated Room - have your view of the world shifted 90 degrees and take photos in mind-blowing poses. Get a different outlook on life. Infinity Room - this multisensory experience creates the optical illusion of infinite space. Dare you enter? Anti-Gravity Room - in this room, your brain and eyes make unconscious inferences about whether you are standing on a flat or a sloped surface. Can you stay on your feet? Thanks to built-in photo experiences in some of the key exhibits, you'll get some out-of-this-world shots for your socials without ever lifting a phone! Image courtesy of Lee Yiu Tung/Shutterstock What attractions are near the Museum of Illusions? Just a stone's throw from the Museum of Illusions, you'll find 'The Wheel' in ICON Park. A few minutes' walk away, try your hand at indoor skydiving at iFLY. Take a trip back through time and get a deeper look at one of the world's worst ocean disasters at Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition. Fancy a swing? Shoot a few holes at Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf. Where is there to eat nearby? For all your sports bar needs, there's a Dave & Buster's a few minutes' walk from the museum. For a family feast, hit up Main Event Orlando. If you have a hankering for tacos, head to Rocco's Tacos & Tequila Bar. Fancy some more varied Mexican delights? Señor Frog's has got you covered. Image courtesy of DELBO ANDREA/Shutterstock Need to know To book, click here. Then, select your preferred date and time slot, and the number of child/adult passes, then enter the 12-digit pass numbers. Finally, fill out your contact details and click 'complete your booking'. Directions and Address Museum of Illusions ICON Park 8441 International Drive Suite #250 Orlando, FL 32819 Save on Tickets with Go City Remember, Go City is the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility, which can include Museum of Illusions tickets, plus admission to your choice of other top attractions. You'll make great savings on entry to top museums, tours, and activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple attractions for one low price.
Dom Bewley
Blog

Best Time to Visit Orlando

A popular entertainment hub, Orlando draws in millions of visitors each year. The best things to do in the city run the gamut – from iconic theme parks to fantastic cultural amenities, you’ll never be bored here. Whether you’re taking a selfie outside the iconic Cinderella Castle at Disney World, making a splash at Aquatica, or strolling through the winding walking trails of Kraft Azalea Garden, the City Beautiful promises a vacation to remember. But with so many draws also come some drawbacks – big crowds, high heat, and heavy price tags. If you’ve never visited before, you might just be wondering when it would be the best time to go. Thankfully, that’s what we’re here for! Keep scrolling to read through our comprehensive overview of when to make your way to Orlando! November - December Sure, the first thoughts that come to mind when you think of Orlando are sunny blue skies and high temperatures. But for those who are looking to beat the heat, the holidays are a great option. Though you’ll be miles more comfortable, the major attractions are still likely to be pretty busy (this is the holiday season, after all). Still, there’s a reason that so many are drawn towards visiting during this time of the year – during these months, the popular sites pull out all the stops for the holidays - and quite frankly, it couldn't be more magical. Some top things to do during this time of the year include: Disney Very Merriest After Hours - This event includes four hours of holiday festivities, including Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks, Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, as well as an exciting stage show. And as if that wasn’t enough, on select nights you can catch captivating ‘’snowfalls’’, transforming the park into a magical winter wonderland. International Festival of the Holidays - A fantastic celebration of culture, Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays rings in the merriest time of the year with a global celebration of Christmas. Don’t miss out! Dazzling Nights - Thousands of lights bring Harry P. Leu Gardens to life purely for our enjoyment. Enjoy live music and interactive elements in this wonderful seasonal dreamland. October While the City Beautiful is enjoyable any time of the year, we especially love October. Though hurricane season isn’t quite over yet by this point, temperatures are a little lower than in the summertime, making it great for visiting outdoor attractions. The major plus of visiting during October is, of course, Halloween. If you’re anything like us, your favorite holiday incites total fear - and luckily, Orlando knows how to do it right. Of course, the theme parks go all out for this one – so much so that it’d be rude not to check them out. As for nightlife, the best Halloween events take place downtown. And for those who like to play it cool, you’ll find a lot of interesting and crafty festivals cropping up all across the city. Additionally, you can get great value on accommodation and activities during this time of the year. Some of the best things to do during October include: Oktoberfest – Who doesn’t love an Oktoberfest? Held each year in Avalon Park, this traditional Bavarian festival has a beer garden, live music, and plenty of food to go around. We couldn’t think of a better way to spend a festive afternoon in Orlando. Disney After Hours Boo Bash – Held each year at Magic Kingdom, this three-hour-long event features seasonal entertainment, exclusive culinary offerings, and more. Don’t forget to dress up! January - February Another good time to visit Orlando is at the start of the year. If the city’s famous tropical weather is what concerns you about making the trip, then this is the coolest time to go. With lowered temperatures and drier weather, the period between January and February is an especially great choice for those who are planning to visit a lot of theme parks. We recommend packing clothes which you can layer with, since it can get pretty chilly in the evening, and the weather can be quite unpredictable. This is also a prime period to explore the city’s most iconic sites since it’s during the school term, and the area will be less crowded. Though there aren’t any holidays during these months, Orlando is one of those places where there is a lot happening all year round. No matter what you choose to do, we’re sure it’ll be fantastic! September If crowds are your enemy, we recommend going in September. Sunseekers and adrenaline junkies alike will love this period since it's still hot-hot-hot, but without all of the hustle and bustle compared the that of peak tourist season. Since schools are back into action the first week of September, you’ll find that even the city’s most popular attractions are much quieter. We recommend packing summery clothing since it’s still likely to be warm and humid during September. Because it’s low season, this is one of the more affordable times to visit Orlando. Around this time of the year, you’ll be able to find some great deals for hotels, events and dining. Whether you’re travelling as a large group, a couple, or a solo traveller, September is a fantastic option for those looking to explore all of the city’s main draws. Some of our favorite things to do in September include: Fairy Doors Exhibit – Throughout the month of September, Harry P. Leu Gardens transforms into a magical forest with its Fairy Doors exhibit. At the event, you are tasked to spot the intricate wooden doors hidden around the park on some of the centuries-old trees. Lakeridge Wine and Cheese Festival – Kick back and relax at Lakeridge Winery with a wide variety of culinary offerings from local artisan vendors and of course, plenty of wine to go around! Orlando is truly a special place to visit. Boasting spectacular theme parks, wondrous nature attractions, and interesting cultural institutions, there’s never a shortage of awesome things to do here. To make the most out of your trip, it’s important to have structure. Remember – there's no single perfect time to visit, only a time that’s right for you. To find out how to save money on your trip, check out our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass. For more details, make sure to connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
Blog

Is Orlando Safe?

With its emblematic theme parks and year-round beautiful weather, Orlando is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world that you can visit. Forever fun and presenting countless interesting activities to choose from, the city has made a prime choice for family vacations for generations now. Still, those making a trip to the City Beautiful might stop to ask themselves before visiting, ‘’well, is it safe?’’ If you’re planning to make your way over to Orlando and have any concerns about your trip, don’t worry! We’ll help you figure that all out with our guide to staying safe in the area. Keep scrolling to learn more about how you can stay mindful when exploring Orlando. How Safe is Orlando? If you’re travelling to Orlando for the first time, you might be worried about crime in the area. Since Orlando is a tourist-heavy location, petty crime is an unfortunately common occurrence, coming in a wide variety of forms. From bag-snatching and phone grabbing to pickpocketing and credit card fraud, it can sometimes seem like there’s a lot to be aware of here. When you’re walking around the theme parks, be sure to keep your wallet hidden and possessions secure at all times. To avoid standing out from the crowd, we suggest that you dress conspicuously and keep valuable items out of full view. While all of this sounds like it can be a little unsettling, we know that if you’re smart about it, you should be just fine. Is Transport in the City Safe? In coming to a new city, it's important that visitors are able to get around safely. As a big city and thriving tourist destination, Orlando presents countless options for local transportation, each with their own perks. If you’re looking for total convenience and freedom of travel, renting a car from a local vendor is always a good option. Not only is this choice one of the most secure ways to explore the area, but it will save you money. As another easy and time-efficient course of action, taxis are available at most major attractions and hotels. For those who want to use cabs as a primary mode of transportation, we suggest that you stay vigilant of your surroundings and keep a close eye on your belongings. And for a more cost-effective way to see Orlando, the city’s comprehensive bus system is a good choice. When taking any public transport, we recommend that you work out your route ahead of time, and to avoid these types of services at night if you can. Though making your way around a new city can seem a little daunting, with the right planning, it will seem like no biggie. How to Stay Safe in Orlando When travelling to a new area, you have a right to know whether it's safe to explore. Of course, there is no one straight-up answer to this – like most big cities, Orlando presents some areas that pose less of a threat than others. For those who are particularly worried about personal safety, areas like I-Drive, Kissimmee and Winter Park should make you feel more comfortable. Bursting with iconic attractions and events, these places are always a great option. Whilst staying in areas which you are more familiar with may seem like a good idea, there’s a lot more of the city to see. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, then downtown is filled with fantastic cultural attractions that are not to be missed. If you do decide to explore one of Orlando's bolder neighborhoods, it's important to always pay attention to your surroundings. As long as you keep your wits about yourself and stay sharp, you should experience no problems here. Are the Theme Parks Safe? Another common concern of visitors to Orlando is the theme parks, and how safe they may be. If you’re planning your stay around some of the city’s most popular entertainment attractions, it might be comforting to hear that park regulation is left up to the state. With so many fantastic sites packed into one area, Florida has pretty strict safety measures regarding its amusement parks – so there’s no need to worry here. Still, it’s important to stay smart when exploring these iconic attractions. Walking around the site, we recommend staying in groups of two or more, and always carrying a theme park map with you. When visiting one of these attractions, you should also keep a mobile phone with you, so that you can stay connected with the rest of your group. Whilst these places can seem a little intimidating due to their impressive size, if you approach them with the right attitude, you’ll make memories for years to come! Is Orlando Safe at Night? Though Orlando is generally recognized as a family destination, its nightlife is a real treat for those who are willing to explore. With areas like I-Drive, downtown, and Ivanhoe Village all offering a great way to let loose a little on vacation, you’ll be spoiled for choice. And whilst Orlando’s bar scene stands up to any major US city, it can also present some real dangers. Whilst spiking and attacks are irregular incidences, we all recognize that they can and do happen – so it's essential to know what you can do to protect yourself. For starters, when heading out for a night on the town, we recommend going with a group (you should stay with your group throughout the night to ensure total safety). At the bar, it’s important to always keep an eye on your beverage and remember to drink plenty of water as well. When making your way back to your accommodation, make sure to choose a safe method of transportation – we suggest taking a taxi over public transport. Whilst all of this might seem like a lot to handle, you can never put a price on safety! Without a doubt, Orlando is a fantastic destination for exploration and adventure – however, it’s always important for visitors to stay alert and make smart decisions when discovering this unique entertainment capital. Whilst the bustling streets and theme parks might seem a little chaotic to some travellers, with a little common sense, you should be able to handle them like a pro. To find out how to save money on your trip, check out our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass. For more details, make sure to connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.

Thick check Icon