Wild Florida Airboats & Gator Park offers a unique and thrilling experience far from the bustling tourist areas.
Located in Kenansville, just south of St. Cloud, Wild Florida gives you a glimpse of untouched Florida landscapes, rare animal encounters, and exciting outdoor adventures.
It’s a place where you can experience the wild side of Florida through airboat tours, a drive-through safari, and an expansive Gator Park.
It’s an adventure worth the drive, offering something different for both tourists and locals alike.
Discovering Wild Florida’s Unique Attractions
Wild Florida is a bit off the beaten path, but that’s what makes it so special.
The park offers three main attractions that cater to everyone: the Gator Park, airboat tours, and the drive-through safari.
Each of these attractions provides a distinct experience that brings you closer to Florida’s rich wildlife and natural beauty.
The Gator Park is much more than just a home for alligators. It’s a full-fledged zoo featuring over 200 different animals, including both native and exotic species.
Here, you can encounter creatures from all over the world, including Australia, South America, and Africa.
There are also close-up animal encounters available, where you can even hold a baby alligator.
The airboat tours offer a thrilling ride through the Florida Everglades, where you can spot various birds, alligators, and other wildlife in their natural habitats.
Lastly, the drive-through safari is a one-of-a-kind experience in Central Florida.
This 170-acre safari allows you to drive through and see animals up close, including a giraffe-feeding experience that’s sure to be a highlight of your visit.
The Gator Park: A Wildlife Wonderland
When you step into the Gator Park, you’re entering a world full of diverse wildlife. Despite its name, the park is home to much more than just alligators.
It’s a place where you can wander through exhibits showcasing animals from around the globe, including big cats, lemurs, and various birds.
The park is designed to give you an immersive experience, with peacocks strolling freely around the grounds and an aviary where you can feed parakeets for a small fee.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Gator Park is its commitment to conservation.
Many of the alligators here are rescued “nuisance” gators that would otherwise be euthanized.
For instance, Crusher, one of the park’s most famous residents, was brought in from a private farm where he was causing trouble.
Now, he’s a star attraction, living out his days in a safe and controlled environment.
In addition to the animal exhibits, the Gator Park offers various shows and feeding demonstrations.
The Crusher show, although subject to Crusher’s mood, is a popular event where visitors can see the sheer power of these incredible reptiles.
There’s also a petting zoo where you can interact with more domesticated animals, adding a softer touch to the wild experience.
Airboat Tours: An Exciting Ride Through the Everglades
If you’re looking for a true Florida adventure, the airboat tours at Wild Florida are a must-do.
These tours take you deep into the Florida Everglades, where you can explore the swampy landscapes that many tourists never get to see.
The airboat rides are fast, fun, and a great way to experience the natural side of Florida.
During the tour, you’ll have the chance to see alligators in the wild, as well as a variety of birds, including bald eagles.
The guides are knowledgeable and provide interesting facts about the local ecosystem and the animals that live there.
The airboats themselves are safe and comfortable, making this an adventure that’s suitable for all ages.
It’s worth noting that the best time for airboat tours is during the cooler months when the wildlife is more active.
However, even in the heat of summer, the thrill of gliding across the water and spotting wildlife makes the experience unforgettable.
Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for something exciting to do, the airboat tours at Wild Florida offer a unique way to connect with the state’s natural beauty.
Drive-Through Safari: A Close Encounter with Wildlife
The drive-through safari at Wild Florida is one of the park’s most unique attractions.
Covering 170 acres, this safari allows you to drive through various habitats and see animals from the comfort of your own vehicle.
The safari route is about 2.5 miles long and takes roughly an hour to complete, depending on how often you stop to observe the animals.
As you drive through, you’ll encounter a wide range of animals, from zebras to emus, and even some mischievous ostriches that have been known to peck at car mirrors.
One of the highlights of the safari is the opportunity to feed giraffes at the end of the route.
For just $5, you can hand-feed these gentle giants, making for an unforgettable experience.
The drive-through safari is perfect for families, especially with younger children who can enjoy the wildlife without leaving the car.
The park’s grounds are well-maintained, and there are plenty of rest stops along the way, including restrooms and a gift shop near the giraffe feeding area.
The experience is both peaceful and thrilling, offering a rare opportunity to see wildlife up close in a natural setting.
Plan Your Visit to Wild Florida
Wild Florida is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in thrilling airboat rides, close encounters with wildlife, or just a peaceful day out in nature, this park has it all.
Located just 40 minutes from the main tourist hubs of Orlando, it’s an easy trip that takes you away from the crowds and into a more serene environment.
The park is open Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 6 pm and is closed on Sundays.
Admission prices are reasonable, with discounts available for Florida residents and deals often found on Groupon.
The drive-through safari ticket includes entrance to the Gator Park, making it a great value for a full day of adventure.
Whether you’re a local looking for a new experience or a visitor wanting to explore more of what Florida has to offer, Wild Florida Airboats & Gator Park is a must-visit.
With its diverse attractions, commitment to conservation, and beautiful natural setting, it’s a place where you can connect with the wild side of Florida in a way that’s both fun and educational.