There’s something thrilling about feeling the wind in your hair while skimming across glassy water, not quite knowing what’s around the bend. Maybe it’s the splash of something scaly in the reeds or the rustle of wings overhead—but every second out here feels alive. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to explore Florida the wild way, this place has your name written all over it.
Tucked away in Central Florida, Wild Florida Airboats & Gator Park is part wildlife sanctuary, part theme park, and 100% unfiltered fun. Whether you’re zipping across Lake Cypress on an airboat or watching a gator chomp its lunch, this is the kind of adventure that sticks with you—equal parts excitement and discovery.
What We Love
Airboats with Attitude
You haven’t really seen the Everglades until you’ve skimmed over them at 40 miles per hour. These airboat tours are fast, loud, and totally exhilarating—but don’t worry, there are calm moments too, where you slow down to watch bald eagles soar or gators drift lazily in the shallows.
Face-to-Face with Florida’s Wildest Residents
From monster-sized alligators to lemurs, sloths, and even zebras—yes, zebras—this isn’t your average animal encounter. The Gator Park brings you eye-to-eye with creatures you’d expect to see on safari or in the Amazon, not just down the road from Kissimmee.
Feeding Time Is a Show
Don’t miss the “Gator Feeding Show,” where handlers toss raw chicken to enormous reptiles with jaws strong enough to crush bowling balls. It’s dramatic, educational, and somehow a little hilarious—especially when the gators act like they’re on stage.
Walk-Through Safari Drive
Hop in your car and explore Wild Florida’s self-guided safari drive. You’ll wind through fields of bison, antelope, and longhorns—all from the comfort of your vehicle. It’s like a mini road trip through the Serengeti, right in the middle of Florida.
Up-Close Animal Encounters
Want to hold a baby alligator? Maybe pet a two-toed sloth? Wild Florida makes those bucket-list moments possible. These up-close encounters are surprisingly affordable and make for amazing photos—and even better memories.
Atmosphere & Setting
The setting strikes that perfect balance between nature preserve and Florida roadside fun. Rustic wooden boardwalks lead you through the animal exhibits, while wide-open spaces overlook shimmering marshes lined with cypress trees. You’ll hear airboats roaring in the distance and tropical birds calling from overhead. It feels untamed, but also safe and family-friendly. The general vibe is energetic, curious, and just a little wild—in the best possible way.
Value (Is It Worth It?)
Absolutely. General admission to the Gator Park is reasonably priced (and even free with the purchase of any airboat tour). Expect to spend 2–4 hours if you’re just visiting the park, or up to a full day if you add in the airboat and safari experiences. It’s a fantastic value for families, couples, and nature lovers of all ages. Bonus: Florida residents often get discounts, and there are combo packages that bundle everything for a solid deal.
Other Considerations
There’s ample free parking, and the park is open rain or shine—though afternoon showers are common, so bring ponchos just in case. Paths are stroller-friendly, but not all surfaces are paved, so wheelchairs might need a bit of extra effort. There’s a café on-site (think burgers, gator bites, and ice-cold drinks), and plenty of shaded areas to take a break. Bug spray is a good idea, especially in warmer months. And if you’re bringing kids? You may have a hard time getting them to leave.
For a day that’s equal parts heart-pounding and heartwarming, Wild Florida delivers the kind of memories you’ll be talking about long after the gator snaps and airboat roars fade. It’s an untamed side of the Sunshine State—and one well worth exploring.
Wild Florida Airboats & Gator Park
📍 3301 Lake Cypress Rd., Kenansville, FL 34739