Where to See Alligators in Orlando

Did you know that there are roughly 1.3 million alligators in Florida? The reason is that Florida’s natural habitat is full of ideal locations for alligators to live and thrive! And one of the most exciting activities happens to be taking a trip to either Wild Florida Airboats & Gator Park or Gatorland in Orlando to experience wild alligators! Whether you want to watch, feed, or even get up close with an alligator, all of this is possible when you’re here.

We’ll be covering the different types of alligators you’ll find in Orlando, where to see them, and recommendations for staying safe if you come across one in the wild during your stay.

What Types of Alligators Live in Orlando?

If you see an alligator in the wild, you’re most likely to see an American alligator! As a fun fact, there are only two species of alligators currently living in the world, the American alligator and the Chinese alligator. However, you will find American, leucistic, albino, and baby alligators at many of the popular attractions in Orlando!

One question we are often asked is if American crocodiles live in Orlando. The short answer is no — while they natively reside in Florida, they’re usually found in South Florida and not near our area.

Speaking of that, do you know how to tell the difference between an alligator and a crocodile? The easiest way is to pay close attention to their snouts and mouths. Alligators have a rounded, blunt snout and only their top teeth can be seen with their mouth is closed. On the other hand, crocodiles have a pointed, narrow snout, and you can see their bottom teeth when their mouth is closed.

Best Places to See Alligators in Florida

01) Gatorland Orlando

One of the best attractions to visit for alligators in Orlando is Gatorland! Here you can see not only alligators and crocodiles but also the many other birds and animals that live here. In addition to the animal exhibits, Gatorland allows visitors to interact with the alligators in various ways.

These activities include ziplining across gator ponds and areas, a gator-centric safari ride called the Stompin Gator Off-Road Adventure, petting and feeding alligators, stopping to see one of their regular shows, and so much more!

Feeding Gators

Everyone wants the chance to feed an alligator up close and personal. At Gatorland, you can do just that! Gatorland allows visitors to feed their alligators in a safe environment, with guidance and supervision from their trained personnel. Because Gatorland is all about safety and fun, Gatorland is one of the only safe places where you can feed an alligator without the risk of an attack.

For families with young children that may be frightened by the alligators, there’s also a petting zoo where young children can pet and feed more cuddly animals.

See the Gators in Action

There are many ways to see the alligators in action at Gatorland. Whether you want to hold a baby alligator, walk around their exhibit, or check out their breeding marsh, where you’ll be able to view numerous alligators at once.

If you wish to experience what the trainers do, Gatorland offers visitors the chance to become a trainer for the day. Here you’ll be able to see behind the scenes how the animals and alligators are cared for, hold baby alligators, and get up close and personal with some of the other reptiles and residents at Gatorland.

Adventure Hour!

Adventure Hour at Gatorland will allow you to get down and dirty and experience the gator swamp firsthand as you come up close to the alligators within the breeding marsh. Rest assured that although you’ll be a few feet away from some of Gatorland’s largest gators, this activity is perfectly safe. While in the breeding marsh, you’ll even get to feed some of the alligators and create a feeding frenzy!

02) Wild Florida Airboats & Gator Park

Another popular option for seeing alligators in Orlando is Wild Florida’s Alligator Park! While they’re mainly known for their airboat tours, there’s so much more to this special place. You’ll find over 200 native and exotic animals to discover, a unique restaurant on-site called Chomp House Grill, and a drive-thru safari park! Also, they’re only a 45-minute drive from Orlando’s major theme parks (like Disney World).

03) Wild Alligators in Orlando

State parks and lakes are also great places to find alligators since they’re ideal habitats and are usually away from residential areas! One of the top spots to see alligators in the wild is just north of Orlando at Lake Jesup. This lake in Florida is home to 10,000 alligators and holds the largest concentration of gators in the United States. Talk about a chance to see gators in the wild!

Another great place to see wild alligators is on a tour, like the ones offered by Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures! Or, you could even plan a trip to Cape Canaveral during your stay and check out the Kennedy Space Center and Airboat Ride Tour.

Ways to View Alligators in the Wild While Staying Safe

It’s ok to view wild alligators from a safe distance and is a great way to watch them in their natural habitat! Just remember to keep in mind that the animals you’re viewing are wild, and they can lash out. You’ll find a few safety precautions below, and you can learn more by viewing this guide to living with alligators provided by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Don’t Feed the Alligators

This is the absolute most crucial rule, never feed the alligators! It’s extremely dangerous and illegal. Gators are instinctively afraid and wary of humans, and when provided with food other than their natural prey, it will only make them want to seek out people for more food.

Don’t Get Close

Alligators might look sluggish and lazy, but they can run to up 20 mph! The general rule of thumb is to stay at least 60 feet away from gators at all times. If you come across an alligator that seems like it wants to hide or leave, don’t harass or follow it. And, they hiss and lunge… you’re way too close! If you’re in an area where swimming is allowed, make sure that you only swim within the marked perimeters that ensure the swimming area stays alligator free.

Keep Your Dogs on a Leash

You may have the most well-behaved pooch out there! But, for their safety and yours, please always keep them leashed. This will ensure they don’t run off alone and get into an alligator encounter that can be avoided.

Experience The Thrill Of Wild Alligators Today!

Getting to see alligators in Orlando that are in their natural habitat is a thrilling adventure that completes any vacation. You’ll leave with memories to cherish for years to come! If you’re looking for a place to stay near all the major theme parks and attractions, you’ll find many incredible (and affordable) vacation rentals in Orlando.

You can start planning your vacation today by searching our vacation homes or contacting us for more information. Our team is available 24/7 by phone and email!