Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
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4 OTHER AREA ATTRACTIONS
There are—surprise!—a number of cool things in Orlando that don't revolve around
Mickey, the Hulk, or Shamu. Now that I've covered the monster parks, I'm going to
explore some of Central Florida's best smaller attractions.
IN KISSIMMEE
Kissimmee's main tourist strip is on Walt Disney World's southern border and extends
about 2 miles west and 8 to 10 miles east. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway/U.S. 192 is
the highway that links the town to WDW and points west. Because it is so full of eater-
ies and hotels, it can be hard to see some of the smaller destinations, though the road-
way's guide markers can be quite helpful, as is the U.S. 192 map that you can pick up at
any local hotel lobby. Check with your hotel's front desk or the attractions for detailed
directions or short cuts that might make finding them a little easier.
Note: The following prices don't include the 6.5% to 7% sales tax, unless otherwise
noted.
Gatorland Finds Founded in 1949 with only a handful of alligators living in
huts and pens, Gatorland now houses thousands of alligators (including a rare blue one)
and crocodiles on its 70-acre spread. Breeding pens, nurseries, and rearing ponds are
situated throughout the park, which also displays snakes, toads, insects, turtles, and a
Galápagos tortoise. Its 2,000-foot boardwalk winds through a cypress swamp and breed-
ing marsh. Headliners include Gator Wrestlin', using the old “put-them-to-sleep” trick,
but it's more of an environmental awareness program; Gator Jumparoo, a crowd-pleaser
in which the park's largest reptiles lunge 4 or 5 feet out of the water to snatch a hunk of
meat from a trainer's hand; Up Close Encounters, showcasing the park's toothy carni-
vores, slithery snakes, and other wildlife; and Critters on the Go, a mobile show that
allows younger kids a chance to interact with the park's cuddlier critters. A train ride, a
treat for younger kids and tots, runs through the park ($2 per person); the Gully Gator
Splash Park, a new wet-and-dry play area; and Allie's Barnyard, a small petting zoo, are
other attractions for kids. Note: At press time, the world's largest collection of white
gators was on display (albeit for a limited time) at the park. While you're here, try the
smoked gator ribs or nuggets in the open-air restaurant, or grab a gator-skin souvenir in
the gift shop. Allow 4 to 5 hours. Tip: Additional parking, a refreshed facade with an
open-air admission pavilion, and additional landscaping renovations were added in the
last year.
Note: Gatorland's Trainer for a Day program lets up to five guests get up close and
personal with the gators for a day (or 2 hr., in this case). The $125, 2-hour experience
puts you side by side with trainers and includes a chance to wrangle some alligators
(minimum age 12). Advance reservations are required, and admission to the park is
included (and a 20% discount off a regular admission ticket is extended to up to six
members of your party). A 1 1 / 2 -hour Night Shine tour is also available ($19.99, regardless
of age) and takes you along the wooden walkways with only a flashlight and a guide
(insect repellent and gator food is included). Advanced reservations are required.
Note: In addition to basic admission, Gatorland offers an “Gator Grunt” ticket—it
includes admission, all-day access to the train, the opportunity to get into the ring with
the gators (along with a souvenir photo), and a package of gator food (all sold separately
otherwise). Prices run $29.99 for adults and $23.99 for kids ages 3 to 12.
7
 
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