What’s Gatorland? Well, I’m glad you asked.Gatorland is a great “in between” place to visit while you’re in Orlando for vacation.
Let me explain.
When visitors first arrive in Orlando they often have half a day or so of time on their hands before they start touring
major theme parks. Or, maybe they find themselves in opposite situation. They’re at tail-end of their trip and they want something to do after they’ve already hit big attractions.
Gatorland is a perfect place to fill this void. There’s enough to see and do here to take up a good half day (more if you want). But what you’ll see is enough to have kids talking all way home. This family owned Alligator-themed park has been open for business since 1949. Activities within its 110 acres include chance to:
·See big alligators ·Take a Floridian wildlife train ride ·Visit a bird aviary and sanctuary ·Check out a “breeding marsh” ·Enjoy a petting zoo with your little ones ·Do a nature walk ·Visit a Gator gift shop ·And best of all - - 4 great shows
According to Gatorland website, this place started out as dream of a man named Owen Godwin, Sr.
He built an alligator pit in backyard of his home in 1930’s and put a female alligator in it with her babies. He and Mrs. would host visitors and sell homemade gator souvenirs while letting them see gators.
Godwin apparently really enjoyed doing this. He planned for a bigger attraction that would show off more of Florida’s wildlife. In 1947, after war, he bought 16 acres of property near Kissimmee. Since this was dawn of 20th century American highway tourism, more and more families were visiting Florida.
