Gatorland

Gatorland is a 110-acre Central Florida original that's been billed as the “Alligator Capital of the World” since 1949 — a wildlife park and preserve packed with alligators and crocodiles.

Days here mix gator-wrestling and feeding shows, a breeding-marsh boardwalk, a petting zoo, and the Screamin' Gator Zip Line that soars over the reptiles below. It's a nostalgic, distinctly Florida attraction that predates the big theme parks.

Gatorland sits just south of the theme-park corridor, a short drive from our Orlando homes, and makes for an easy half-day away from the crowds.