Alligators in Orlando: Where to Safely See Amazing Reptiles

Seeing a live gator is a Floridian rite of passage.  

While the alligator isn’t the Florida State Animal (that honor belongs to the Florida panther), they are easily the reptilian mascot of the Sunshine State.

With nearly two million American alligators living in Florida’s lakes, swamps, rivers, and retention ponds, you may just spot one yourself.  

While gators are impressive to see in person, you don’t want to get too close. These 500-pound reptiles have a mouth full of teeth and a seriously dangerous bite.  

Luckily, there are plenty of ways that you can safely view these magnificent swamp beasts right here in Orlando.  

If gazing at gators is on your bucket list, check out our list of where to find alligators in Orlando.  

Gatorland 

Orlando is famous for its amusement parks.  

Look beyond the castles and coasters and you’ll find Gatorland, an amusement park known as the Alligator Capital of the World.  

Home to over 2,000 American alligators, including rare albino and leucistic gators, Gatorland is a great spot to get up close with wildlife.  

Check out tiny hatchlings in Baby Gator Marsh or catch a show like Gator Jumparoo or Alligators: Legends of the Swamp.  

Take on the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line and glide along 1200 feet of cable at 65 feet in the air, zooming over 130 gators in the Alligator Breeding Marsh below.  

Gatorland is also home to animals including crocodiles, wild cats, tropical birds, and even capybaras.  

While you’re immersed in entertainment, you’ll also learn about important topics like alligator safety, conservation, and how we can protect this incredible prehistoric species.

Orlando Science Center 

Just outside of Downtown Orlando is the Orlando Science Center, a wonderful destination for learning and immersive play.  

One of their newest exhibits, Life, explores three distinct environments – rainforest, ocean, and swamp – and the animals that call them home.  

In the Swamp section of the exhibit, you’ll find recognizable critters like squirrels, turtles, and of course, alligators.  

Learn about Florida’s rich swamplands while observing happy wildlife content to call the museum home.  

Plus, you’ll get to explore the beauty and mystery of the swamps while in air conditioning — perfect for a hot summer day.  

When you’re done, take the time to explore the rest of the Orlando Science Center for an engaging and educational experience.  

Wild Florida Airboat Rides and Adventure Park  

Want to see gators in their natural habitat?

Wild Florida is a great go-to for exciting airboat rides that take you into the heart of Florida’s swamps and wetlands.  

Explore over 100,000 acres of protected marshes, swamps, and rivers with a knowledgeable Wild Florida guide.  

You may see bald eagles, wading birds, and of course, plenty of alligators.  

When you book a Wild Florida airboat tour, you’ll also get access to their Gator Park.  

At the Gator Park, you can enjoy interactions where you’ll watch, touch, and even feed the park’s famous reptile residents.  

Make friends at the petting zoo, discover exotic birds in the Aviary, and get up close with creatures like sloths, bobcats, capybaras, and more.  

Wild Florida is also known for their Drive Through Safari experience, where you can drive your own car through 170 acres of natural Florida landscape.  

Along the way, you may meet curious zebras, giraffes, antelope, American bison, and many more incredible animals.  

Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive 

If you’re looking for a self-guided approach to alligator-watching, grab your car keys and head to Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive.  

This remarkable environmental sanctuary is ideal for birdwatching, gator spotting, and taking in breathtaking views of the lake and its surroundings.  

The drive itself is 11 miles long, and with a speed limit of 10 mph, you can expect the experience to last from two to three hours.  

Designated pullouts along the path allow you to pause, step out of your vehicle, and enjoy the natural surroundings at your own pace.  

There are even restrooms and a picnic pavilion along the way.  

The Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive allows you to engage with authentic Florida wilderness from the comfort and safety of your own car in a truly unique experience.  

Stay at Rosen Inn Closest to Universal in Orlando  

For all your Orlando adventuring, make Rosen Inn closest to Universal your home base.  

Our convenient location, popular amenities, and comfortable rooms have made us a Central Florida favorite for the past 50 years.  

Plus, you’re never far from the best entertainment in Orlando, including our favorite gator attractions.  

Ready to bite?  

Book your next vacation with us today.