Gatorland is an incredibly unique place. We chose to visit Gatorland because we love animals and wanted to work in visiting some during our stay in Orlando. We did not know what to make of Gatorland and were unsure what to expect.

We arrived just as the park opened at 9am, and there was only one other family there in front of us. We used a coupon we found at the discount rack in our hotel for $2.50 off the price of the adult tickets. Once you enter the park, you are standing on a large deck that winds about over the water. The eyes of gators can be seen all over the water. They have several smaller species of turtles and crocodiles in tanks, which you can lean over. Many just spend the day lying in the sun. There is a booth where you can buy packs of hot dogs to feed the gators. We purchased two packs for $5. To feed the gators, break the hot dog into thirds and throw the piece into the water right next to their eye. Since their eyes are on the side of their head, they cannot see if you toss some food into the water in front of them. When you throw it next to their eye, throw it hard enough to make a splash. Their reaction is to turn their head and grab whatever just fell into the water next to them.

Four shows are offered throughout the day: Gator Jumparoo, Gator Wrestlin’, Jungle Crocs, and Upclose Encounters. We watched three of the shows, and each one lasted about 15 minutes. Upclose Encounters allows you to view different creatures from around the world. During our show, we saw a scorpion and rattlesnake and I was called as part of the show with four other visitors, and they brought out a huge python for us to hold. During Gator Wrestlin’, the professional gator wranglers work with about 6-foot gators by hand. They do all sorts of tricks with the gator, such as holding the gator’s mouth open with the wrangler’s chin. At the end of the show, they allow the children to sit on the back of a gator and get their picture taken for $10. The gator’s mouth is taped shut and the wrangler stays with the child and teaches them what to do. During the Gator Jumparoo, they feed gators whole chickens and try to get them to jump out of the water. Gators come in from all over the park, and it is quite a sight to see.

We enjoyed the train ride around the park as well. You can sample gator meat by purchasing gator nuggets and gator ribs at the shack shop on the premises. We purchased a sampler for about $7. The gift shop is filled with all sorts of gator items, including the traditional stuffed animals and other souvenirs. But you can also purchase rare gator wallets and other high-priced items.

From the time you walk through the gaping 'gator mouth at the entrance, until you leave the gift shop at the end of your visit, there's something to see. And honestly, I have no affiliation with the place! Alligator Island always makes me feel kind of squeamish, as I look at those huge creatures, many missing chunks of a leg or foot! In the breeding marsh, you can see the alligators in their nests, protecting their babies -- it's awe-inspiring. They have crocodiles there too, and flamingoes, and other animals, but it's the alligators that I found most interesting!

When you finish the ride, there is a small cafe on site where you can get some lovely meals at great prices. The one thing I would say is that they do have alligator on the menu (which is not very nice when you have just been to see the live ones).