wild florida airboat safari ride

Breaking News:

Gator Park is open every day. No reservations required, just show up!

NPS Entrance Fee is now $8 per person for adults, free for seniors, children under 16, National Park passholders, military and veterans.

Please be advised that holding live baby alligator for a photo is no longer allowed. Thank you for your understanding.

We have a limitied availability for private tours. Please call to make reservation in advance. 

Walk-ins are always welcome!

Attention Drivers: Please exercise increased caution while traveling on US41 due to current road conditions. Stay alert, reduce speed , and maintain a safe following distance. 

Welcome to GATOR PARK

An alligator adventure in the heart of the everglades national park..

Looking for some serious gator action? Gator Park is the premier airboat tour in the Florida Everglades to spy these fierce reptiles. Airboat rides depart every few minutes, so your Everglades experience begins the moment you arrive. We also offer private airboat tours for a more up close and personal look at the alligators .

The Everglades National Park is known for its vast wildlife, many of whom you’ll meet on your airboat tour. From endangered birds you won’t find anywhere else to small creatures that live among these wild alligators , you’ll see Florida as few people do.

The Everglades' marine life includes more than 200,000 alligators, so you’re guaranteed to spy quite a few on your Everglades tour! American crocodiles and fish, including large mouth bass,  blue gil and catfish, are also frequent guest stars on the tour.

More than 28 different snakes - a few of which are venomous – also call the Everglades home, alongside the beautiful and elusive endangered Florida panther.

Experience this unique Miami, Florida attraction by booking your airboat ride through the Everglades National Park today. Give us a call at 800-559-2205 or buy tour tickets online now.

Ready to meet the gators? You’ve come to the right place. Buy your airboat tour tickets online and save time and money at the park. No reservations required! Your tickets will be available at Gator Park on the day of your airboat safari.

Airboat Tours

Get ready for the ride of your life. The Gator Park Airboat Tour begins by winding down the canal, providing plenty of photo ops to catch wildlife in their natural habitat. Experienced guides offer tips to ensure you spot alligators large and small...

Wildlife Show

Go beyond the Everglades with Gator Park's famous alligator and wildlife show and watch alligators from just a few steps away! This barehanded technique was originally used to capture alligators and showcases the great power and agility of the gators.

ALLIGATOR TOUR HOURS & RATES

Looking for a unique change of pace from other Florida tourist attractions? An Everglades airboat safari is just what you need. Gator Park is open and ready for your Everglades adventure every day, rain or shine! (The gators like the rain.)

Monday – Sunday:

• 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Last wildlife show:

Last airboat departure:

Tickets to Gator Park include admission, airboat ride through the Everglades and watch alligators at the Wildlife show. Buy tickets online and save. 

• Adults: $29.99 ($29.99 at the gate)
• Children: $19.99 (Kids 1-5 years old ride for free!)

Private airboat tours run on your schedule and are a great way to get up close and personal with the gators. Rates are by the hour.

• 1-4 People: $595.00
• 5-6 People: $695.00
• 7-10 People: $895.00
• 11-15 People: $995.00
• 16-24 People: $1495.00

$8 National Park Service entry fee is not included.

Excluded from National Park entrance fees:

• Children under the age of 16
• National Park passholders
• Senior citizens (62+ years of age)
• Active Military personnel with proper ID

Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover and Diner's Club cards accepted for all our Everglades attractions.

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• Popular Attractions

Wild Florida Airboats, Gator Park & Drive-thru Safari

• 3301 Lake Cypress Road Kenansville, FL 34739
• (407) 957-3135

• Sep 21, 2022

Explore Wild Florida: Ultimate Guide to Airboat Rides, Gator Encounters, and More!

Updated: May 26

Table of Contents

What is wild florida, where is wild florida located, what are the main attractions at wild florida, what are the dining options at wild florida, what is the drive-through safari at wild florida, how much does it cost to visit wild florida, tips for visiting wild florida.

Wild Florida is a family-run animal park located in Kenansville, FL. It's just under an hour south of the major theme parks in Orlando. At Wild Florida, you can find several things to experience from airboat rides to a gator park, as well as a drive-through safari park.

Wild Florida is situated in Kenansville, FL, which is just under an hour south of the major theme parks in Orlando.

Experience 100,000 Acres of Protected Swamp on the Airboat Ride

There are four different tours to choose from: a 30-minute tour, an hour tour, a one-hour private tour, and a one-hour private evening tour.

The two most popular are the 30-minute tour and an hour tour. The tours start every morning at 9 a.m. and run until 4:30 p.m.

For a full list of tour options and updated ticket prices, click here .

If you want to add the airboat ride to your day, I highly recommend the 9 a.m. tour if you're going in the summer, and noon if you're going in the winter to see most animals.

Wildlife is harder to see as the day gets hotter, and Florida often gets thunderstorms around 2 p.m. in the summer, so booking earlier in the day is best.

The airboat tour covers the 100,000 acres of protected swamp, marshes, and rivers at the headwaters of the Florida Everglades. So, you'll get a front-row seat to see wildlife in their native habitat, including alligators, birds, turtles, and more.

We did the 30-minute tour at 9 a.m. on our visit, and it was a really fun experience. Our captain was very knowledgeable and pointed out several spots to see gators and other animals.

On our tour, our captain took us to an area where he knew a mother gator was located. We got a little too close and she hissed at us as we made our way by her.

He did make sure to turn off the engine so that we wouldn't disturb her and the babies too much, which I appreciated. Even though floating slowly by a hissing momma gator was a little unnerving!

After the Airboat Ride, Don't Miss the Gator and Wildlife Park

If you purchase a tour to either the airboat ride or the drive-through safari, included in your ticket is a visit to the Gater and Wildlife Park that you won't want to miss! This park features several exotic animal species, species native to Florida, and three live shows throughout the day:

Exotic Animal Show

The Exotic Animal show is a 15-minute show where you’ll meet some of Wild Florida’s residents like the:

“Red” the Boa Constrictor.

“Blue” the blue-tongued skink.

...and “Fluffy” the alligator.

The trainer will walk around so you can get a closer look. Make sure to be in the front row if you want the chance to pet any of them.

Crusher Show

Crusher is the biggest alligator at Wild Florida and is over 14 feet long and 1,000 pounds. His show demonstrates how well-trained he is, and it's really impressive. It's definitely a show you won't want to miss!

Gator Feeding Show

During the Gator Feeding Show, you'll watch alligators and crocodiles jump for an afternoon snack. I was amazed at how surprisingly high out of the water they can jump considering how big they are!

During the show, you'll get to learn how the trainers train the alligators without the use of binding. It's pretty impressive. I know I couldn't do it!

Other Animal Encounters

If you love alligators, you'll want to visit the various enclosures. This includes the gator pond, that you see below.

There is also the gator fishing pond that holds the park's teenage gators.

They also have enclosures for albino gators...

...as well as crocodiles!

If you're looking for a little less intimidating feeding experience for the kids, they have a walk-in aviary to feed birds.

They also have a petting zoo to feed goats....

 ...as well as this adorable baby pig!

Hawk Swamp Trail

If you have time, I highly recommend taking a quick walk on their Hawk Swamp Trail. On this, you'll find these beautiful cypress trees. And even if the swamp is dry, the trail is still a beautiful experience.

Exotic Animals

Towards the front of the park, you'll see exotic animals like snakes, the African crested porcupine, wallabies, lemurs, and more.

There are also several sloth enclosures, and you can participate in add-on experiences like the sloth encounter, giraffe painting, dining with Crusher, and close encounters with lemurs and capybaras.

If you are staying in the park for a while and looking for a bite to eat. Wild Florida has the Chomp House where you can find a hot meal, drinks, or a frozen treat.

After visiting the gator-park we headed to the Drive-Through Safari. At Wild Florida's Drive Through Safari, you can see more than 150 native and exotic animals that roam freely and takes about an hour to drive through.

Note:  You need to have a top on your vehicle; convertibles with the top down and motorcycles are not allowed.

Pro Tip:  You'll want to use the bathroom before heading into the safari as it can take an hour or more to drive through, and has no stops.

Summer Tip:  Animals may be harder to see during the hottest part of the day, as they seek shade to stay cool.

Feeding the Giraffes

One of the biggest highlights of the drive-through safari for me was feeding the giraffes. You'll find the giraffes at the very end of the safari and you can get out and feed them for $5 for 3 pieces of lettuce.

You'll want to have your phones and cameras ready before approaching the platform because the experience can go quick! However, this was one of my favorite experiences that I had at Wild Florida. Both times I have done this there has been a queue, but don't let that deter you. The line goes pretty fast and it's a fun experience.

Ticket prices vary for different experiences. Check the Wild Florida website for the most up-to-date prices and to book your tours and encounters.

Book Early:  For the best wildlife viewing and to avoid summer thunderstorms, book airboat tours for the morning.

Stay Hydrated:  Bring water, especially during the summer months.

Explore All Areas:  Don’t miss out on the Gator and Wildlife Park, Hawk Swamp Trail, and the Drive-Through Safari.

Check the Schedule:  Look up showtimes for the Exotic Animal Show, Crusher Show, and Gator Feeding Show to plan your visit.

Wild Florida is a fantastic family-run attraction. They have a wide variety of experiences, from airboat rides to wildlife shows and a drive-through safari. If you’re looking for more family-run attractions in Central Florida, check out my blog on Gatorland, another family-owned gator park with over 2,000 live gators.

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30-Minute Everglades Airboat Tour from Orlando

1-Hour Ultimate Everglades Airboat Tour from Orlando

Wild Florida Adventure + Airboat Tour from Orlando (All-Inclusive)

Book with confidence.

• Handpicked Tours & Activities
• Flexible Cancellation
• No Hidden Fees!
• Worry-Free Experience

1-407-900-0210

[email protected]

We’re Available

Monday-Friday From 8 am – 6 pm (EST)

Saturday-Sunday From 10 am – 2 pm (EST)

• Approx. 7 Hours
• Free Cancellation
• Roundtrip Transportation
• Meals & Beverages

Trip Details

Get ready for the ultimate adventure at Wild Florida Airboats & Gator Park! This All-Inclusive Tour with roundtrip transportation from Orlando is the easiest way to have fun. Take a thrilling airboat ride through the Central Florida Everglades, see 100+ exotic animals on a one-of-a-kind Drive-Thru Safari, visit the Giraffe Viewing Platform, and enjoy several hours of free time to explore Wild Florida at your leisure. Plus, chow down on an authentic barbecue-style lunch at Chomp House Grill. 

Trip Highlights

• Take an airboat ride through the Everglades Activity lasts approx. 30- to 60-minutes
• Narrated drive-thru safari tour with your tour guide Activity lasts approx. 90-minutes
• Experience the Giraffe Viewing Platform
• Authentic BBQ-style lunch at Chomp House Grill
• 2-hours of free time at Wild Florida Airboats & Gator Park
• Complimentary 6×8 souvenir photo & bag of gator food
• Convenient pickup and drop-off locations in Orlando

Trip Includes

• Partially Guided
• Free Cancellation May be canceled or changed up to 24 hours prior to departure
• No Hidden Fees! Sales Tax is included in all prices

Trip Excludes

• Optional Gratuities

Discover the Real Florida on this all-inclusive tour from Orlando! After pickup from your selected location, you’ll head to Wild Florida Airboats & Gator Park. You’ll ride in style on a comfortable coach bus during the 1-hour trip.

Upon arrival at Wild Florida, embark on an exhilarating airboat ride through the Central Florida Everglades. Along the way, you’ll spot endangered species and take a closer look at Florida’s native wildlife.

Glide through more than 100,000 acres of beautiful wetlands with a certified US Coast Guard-approved captain. You’ll travel deep into the protected swamps, marshes, and rivers that make up Florida’s unique ecosystem. This is 100% natural and authentic Florida wilderness at its best!

Later in the afternoon, take a one-of-a-kind expedition through Wild Florida’s newly opened Drive-Thru Safari Park. See more than 100 animals, from giant alligators to zebras, Watusi, deer, water buffalo, emu, wild boar, and so much more! You’ll even have the chance to get up close and personal with giraffes at the Giraffe Viewing Platform to learn more about these magnificent creatures. This unique opportunity is only available to guests visiting the Drive-Thru Safari Park.

You’ll have several hours of free time to explore Wild Florida on your own. Visit one-of-a-kind wildlife exhibits, see the tropical bird aviary, and watch a live hands-on alligator demonstration. Don’t forget to pose for photos at one of many fun photo spots and take home a complimentary 6×8 souvenir photo to remember the day!

As part of this all-inclusive tour, enjoy an authentic barbecue-style lunch basket at Chomp House Grill. There are many delicious options to choose from like Wild Florida’s world-famous Gator Bites! The basket includes your choice of one entrée, a side, and a drink.

Depart & Return Orlando

8:30 am to 3:30 pm

Trip Duration

Approx. 7-hours

Pickup & Drop-off Locations

(Google Maps)

7:30 am – Loews Royal Pacific Resort (6300 Hollywood Way, Orlando, FL 32819)

7:40 am- Avanti Palms Resort & Conference Center (6515 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819)

7:50 am – ICON Park (8375 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819)

8:10 am – Golden Corral Buffet & Grill at Lake Buena Vista (8707 Vineland Ave, Orlando, FL 32821)

8:20 am – Walt Disney World Swan (1200 Epcot Resorts Blvd, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830)

8:30 am – Charley’s Steak House (2901 Parkway Blvd Suite 1A, Kissimmee, FL 34747)

How long do orders take to process?

Orders typically take 1-2 Business Days to process. You’ll receive an email confirmation once your order has been received. A final confirmation will be sent with your ticket voucher once the booking is confirmed.

Can I change or cancel my order?

Most of the activities on our website can be changed or canceled up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure date. However, a select few are non-refundable and non-transferable. Please refer to the Trip Details , or contact us for questions regarding a specific activity.

Do I need to bring a photo ID?

Yes. The person who placed the order must be present on the day of the activity. The credit card holder is required to show a valid photo ID and a matching ticket voucher. Otherwise, entry will not be permitted.

Can I book a trip for someone else?

If you would like to book a trip for someone and you will not be present on the day of the activity, you must submit a Credit Card Authorization Form and a copy of your valid photo ID and credit card for verification.

What should I bring on the day of my tour?

We recommend packing a day bag with your swimsuit, towels, a change of clothes, snacks, water, and sunscreen. Closed-toed shoes may be required for certain activities.

What time do I need to be at the pickup spot?

Please arrive at least 10-15 minutes before the pickup time indicated at checkout or on your confirmation email/tour voucher. 

Can I park my car at the pickup location?

Yes. Most of the pickup locations allow free car parking and are easily distinguishable. If you park at any of the Walt Disney World Resorts or Universal Orlando Resorts, there will be an additional fee for parking.

What if I need help on the day of the trip?

If you need help on the day of your scheduled activity, or you need to contact the tour operator for any reason, please contact the phone number listed on your ticket voucher. 

Are tour vehicles wheelchair accessible?

Wheelchair- and scooter-accessible vehicles are available upon request. Any passenger requiring an ADA-accessible vehicle must inform us at least 2 Business Days prior to departure. 

What languages are available?

All of our tours are guided in English. Other languages may be available upon request for groups. Please contact us to inquire about tours in other languages.

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A Journey Through Wild: An Insider's Guide to Florida's Drive-Thru Safari Park

Pack up your bags and buckle up – it’s time for a wild adventure like no other at Wild Florida’s Drive-Thru Safari Park. Experience over 150 wild animals right from the comfort of your own car. Whether you’re a wildlife lover or just looking for a fun family outing, Wild Florida’s Drive-Thru Safari gives you a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with animals from around the world.

Planning Your Visit

To make the most of your trip, the best times to visit are either right at opening or closer to closing times. That way, you can skip that mid-day heat and see the safari animals when they're most likely to come out from the shade. Some animals are also more active at different times of the day, making each safari drive unique!

Arriving at the Drive-Thru Safari Park

Just a short drive from Orlando’s biggest attractions, Wild Florida’s Drive-Thru Safari transports you to a breathtaking terrain. Rolling into 170 acres of untouched landscapes, you'll find it hard to believe you're still in the same state. 

The entrance is clearly marked, and friendly staff will provide you with your group's ticket wristbands. You’ll also receive a pamphlet of what animals you might see on your wild encounter. Once you’re set, you can drive on through the gate to your safari adventure.

What Safari Animals Will I See?

Wild Florida boasts a stunning collection of wildlife featuring over 150 native and exotic animals from various corners of the globe. You’ll see North American fauna like elk, white-tailed deer, and American bison. Be sure to look around the water edges, where you might spot alligators basking in the sun.

But the surprises don’t stop there. Driving around transports you to an African safari, where you can spot stunning safari animals, including zebras, ostriches, giraffes, and more. 

Each safari offers a unique animal encounter experience. Sometimes, you'll enjoy lazy gazes from the wildlife. Other times, you might run into a traffic jam from curious creatures approaching your car. Remember to keep your windows up and drive slowly to truly appreciate those wildlife views. 

How Long is Wild Florida Drive-Thru Safari?

The Drive-Thru Safari is designed to be a leisurely experience, typically taking up to an hour and a half to complete. But it all depends on your pace! Visitors have the option of choosing the shorter path that takes about 30 to 45 minutes. 

The speed limit is five miles per hour or less, allowing ample time to observe the wild animals closely. You have complete freedom to pause and appreciate the scenic views, so take your time. After all, it’s not every day you get to enjoy a drive while a zebra checks out your car! 

Insider Tips 

Unlimited Entry: Take advantage of unlimited entry! With one day’s admission, you can visit the Drive-Thru Safari Park as many times as you like. This is perfect for those who want to revisit their favorite safari animals or catch sightings they might have missed earlier in the day.

Gator Park Free Entry: Stretch your legs after a long drive and head to Wild Florida’s Gator Park , free with your Drive-thru Safari Park ticket. Here, you can get up close and personal with alligators, sloths, and other critters through Wild Florida’s exciting animal encounters . The Gator Park is home to a wide range of native and exotic animals, offering plenty of opportunities to explore and learn.

Giraffe Feedings: As you finish your safari ride, don’t miss out on stopping by the Giraffe Feeding Platform located at the exit. This unique opportunity allows you to get up close with these majestic creatures and capture memorable photos to remember your trip. 

Ready to embark on this wild journey? Join us at Wild Florida Drive-Thru Safari Park for an unforgettable adventure where you can experience the untamed. See you there!

21 Everglades Animals to See on an Airboat Ride

Previous post, wild florida provides $6,000 in scholarships to osceola county high school seniors through wild florida cares.

Experience the Wild Side of Florida At Wild Florida Near Orlando

As a lifelong Floridian, I’ve experienced much of Florida’s wilder side. I’ve ridden airboats through the Everglades west of Miami, eaten frog legs, and seen many of the animals visitors meet in zoos out in the wild. It’s been many years, though, since those Everglades days in Miami, and I also wanted to take my teen son to experience an airboat ride at least once. So, we headed out to Wild Florida Airboats and Gator Park near Orlando for a unique Florida experience .

Wander Florida is fully reader-supported. For that reason, this article may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of the affiliate links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This revenue helps keep Wander Florida free and updated. I only recommend products or services that I would use myself. Read the full disclosure here .

Wild Florida At a Glance

3301 Lake Cypress Rd, Kenansville

$35+ per person

Things to Do

✔️ Airboat rides

✔️ Gator park

✔️ Petting zoo

✔️ Drive-through wildlife park

✔️ Food available

🐊 BOOK AIRBOAT RIDE NOW! 🐊

What is Wild Florida Airboats and Gator Park?

Wild Florida is an attraction in central Florida south of Orlando, which provides an education experience in the headwaters of the Everglades. On pristine Cypress Lake, the facility aims to “provide an unforgettable experience that promotes a connection with animals while inspiring education and conservation.” It comprises three major attractions – the airboat rides, the Gator Park, and the Drive-Through Safari Park. We skipped the Drive-Through Safari Park, though I’ve read good reviews about it. We enjoyed the airboat ride and Gator Park and highly recommend them , especially to anyone who is a new resident or a visitor to Florida who wants to learn more about the real Florida.

Where is Wild Florida Airboats and Gator Park?

Wild Florida sits on the eastern shore of Cypress Lake in Kenansville, Florida. This is approximately 40 miles from Orlando and approximately 65 miles from Cocoa Beach.

Things to Do at Wild Florida Airboats and Gator Park

Wild Florida provides enough activities to spend an entire day there. They also accommodate large groups and offer space for a unique special event such as a birthday party or wedding.

Airboat Rides

The airboat rides at Wild Florida were, for us, the chief attraction. We took the road trip over from Tampa in June, so I booked our one-hour ride at 9 AM to avoid afternoon thunderstorms. With a two and a half hour drive from Tampa, we left at 6 AM. Unfortunately, we hit traffic, bathroom delays, and construction and ended up arriving too late for our 9 AM ride. The customer service, however, was excellent and very accommodating. They rebooked us for a thirty-minute tour (the only one available) at 10 AM and promptly refunded the difference. 

The airboats used by Wild Florida are group boats which are Coast Guard certified and operated by licensed captains. Airboats are flat-bottomed aluminum boats which are commonly powered by aircraft engines, though some airboats use V8 automotive engines. The engine sits above the water at the back of the boat and turns a large propeller. Airboat manufacturers traditionally made the three-blade prop from wood. Newer boats often use lighter composite materials for their props. They equipped the airboats with seatbelts and headphones to protect guests’ hearing from the loud noise of the engine.

Our captain was very knowledgeable about the wildlife and took the time to explain the ecosystem on the lake and in the wetlands surrounding the lake. Though we were thrilled to fly across the water at speed, it was just as thrilling to stop and photograph and video the gators. We saw several gators, as well as several bird species, such as herons, egrets, and moorhens. 

Cypress Lake’s depth stays around four to five feet throughout much of the lake. A calm summer morning reflected blue skies and white clouds on the lake’s glass-smooth surface. It was a gorgeous day to be out on a boat, and I wished we had arrived on time to spend more of the morning on the lake. The teen son declared the ride one of the best experiences ever. I call that a win-win every time.

The Alligator Park at Wild Florida provides sanctuary for over 200 native and exotic species of animals. The chief attraction here is, of course, the alligators. A variety of species call Gator Park home, including Crusher, a large male which helps educate the public through daily animal shows, and Blizzard and Snow, two rare albino alligators. They removed many of the alligators who live in Gator Park from nuisance situations where the gators lived too close to humans. Rather than killing these nuisance gators, they go to live at Wild Florida.

Other animals found at the park include a Florida panther, bobcats, lemurs, two-toed sloths, and an aviary filled with birds. The Hawk Swamp walk features a raised wood boardwalk that passes through a part of the cypress swamp where owls and other birds nest in trees. Wild Florida’s Gator Park also offers a petting zoo where kids can feed and learn about baby animals and a playground where they can burn off a little excess energy.

Animal Shows

The highlight of Gator Park is definitely the Crusher show. A massive alligator who was removed from a nuisance situation, Crusher only entertains the crowd when he wants to. His handlers clarified that if Crusher isn’t feeling the need to interact with them, they cancel the show and try again at the next show time. Fortunately, Crusher eventually participated, much to the delight of several groups who attended. Other animal shows include exotic animal shows and alligator feedings.

Drive-Through Safari Park

The Safari Park at Wild Florida requires a separate ticket purchase from the airboat rides. Both include admission to Gator Park. Visitors to the drive-through park can experience a more intimate experience than on a crowded bus tour. The self-guided tour travels down gravel paths where over 150 animals roam free on 170 acres. The four-mile excursion allows visitors to observe animals such as giraffes, zebras, alligators, American bison, and antelope just feet away. For a separate fee, visitors can also feed giraffes from an elevated platform.

🦒 BOOK SAFARI PARK NOW! 🦒

Chomp House Grill

The adventure doesn’t end with animal encounters. Try a culinary adventure at the onsite restaurant, Chomp House Grill, where a classically trained chef prepares classic Florida dishes, such as gator nuggets and fried catfish. For less adventurous palates, the grill serves traditional burgers, tenders, and hot dogs, and they also offer vegetarian options.

Special Events

Last, Wild Florida provides a unique setting for special events. Their Cypress Ballroom offers air-conditioned space which can be used for corporate or intimate events. The Gator Pavilion offers covered outdoor space swamp side, and the Recreation Field is the perfect spot for corporate games, an outdoor wedding, or a party.

Other Information You Might Find Useful

Though Wild Florida Airboats and Gator Park is in a more rural part of Florida, it’s not far from other places of interest. If a trip to Orlando includes Wild Florida, you might like these other attractions and need local places to sleep and eat.

Attractions Near Wild Florida

When in the area, plan an extra day to enjoy the other attractions south of Orlando. First, the beautiful beaches of Cocoa Beach are just over an hour away to the east. Cape Canaveral and the Kennedy Space Center are also in the area near Cocoa Beach and are worth a day or two. The immediate area around Wild Florida offers several airboat tour companies and wildlife parks such as Amazing Animals and Reptile World Serpentarium .

Also near Wild Florida are several golf courses, some public such as Harmony Golf Preserve and Grenelefe Golf and Tennis Resort. There are also several excellent state parks in the area, including Allen Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve and Lake Kissimmee State Park . The collection of lakes south of Wild Florida is called Kissimmee Chain of Lakes and is widely considered some of the best freshwater fishing in Florida. 

Places to Eat Near Wild Florida

Though Wild Florida offers an onsite restaurant, visitors who prefer different meal options will find several places nearby. Velma’s Diner is a good diner spot. For pizza and Italian, try Bella Roma Pizza . For wings and brews, head north to Cano e Creek Sports Tavern . Highway 192, several miles north of Wild Florida, offers several national chains such as Culver’s, Chick-Fil-A, Village Inn, and Beef O’Brady’s.

Hotels Near Wild Florida Airboats and Gator Park

Wild Florida’s rural location means there are few hotels or vacation rentals nearby. One of the most popular is Camp Mack , a Guy Harvey Lodge, though there’s no direct route from Wild Florida to Camp Mack. The easiest option for lodging is the multitude of hotels and motels on Highway 192 in Kissimmee .

Final Thoughts on Wild Florida

Wild Florida Airboats is a fun, alligator-centric attraction near Kissimmee and Orlando’s major theme parks. Get to know Florida’s most feared predator, learn more about the headwaters of the Everglades, and see animals from around the world up close from the comfort of your car. Next time you visit Orlando, take a day to experience this unique side of Florida.

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Flights: We always check flight prices and information on Way Away first.

Hotels: We use Expedia to compare and book hotels. We also love Booking.com for boutique hotels and B&Bs.

Vacation Rentals: For vacation rentals and other non-traditional lodging options, VRBO is our go-to.

Tours & Tickets: We use Viator for private tours and unique experiences.

Rental Cars: Though we prefer to experience a city through its public transportation, there are times when a rental car is needed and in those instances, we use Discover Cars .

Travel Insurance: No one wants to need it, but it’s great to have when you do. VisitorsCoverage is our go-to provider.

Lifelong Floridian sharing tips and highlights for Florida travel, hiking, Florida's beautiful natural spaces, and unique history. Take an adventure with me to hidden gems, luxury resorts, and historic sites.

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Airboats sound like a great safe way to see the gators!

Great post! I visited Florida and Everglades many years ago. We enjoyed the air boat ride with our ears plugged for sound protection but was a wonderful experience. I am not sure if the Wildlife safari park existed then. I would love to visit the Wild Florida again. Thanks for the detailed information. 🙂

How fun!! My 18 year old son and I are planning a trip to Florida soon and I’m definitely putting this on our list!

What a cool post! Love finding experience ideas like these! Thanks for the tips!

Thanks for stopping by!

I have been to Florida several times and have yet to go on an airboat, but it seems so fun! I have to try it out!

It’s quite an experience! Definitely recommend trying an airboat ride, whether you do so at Wild Florida or another place.

Lol I say “see ya later alligator” all the time, but I have never actually seen an alligator or a crocodile! This would be amaaaaazing! I also really love the idea of the airboat ride over that gorgeous wetland scenery. What a cool area to visit!

If you’ve been around lakes or wetlands in Florida, chances are there was a gator nearby. They camouflage themselves so well it’s often hard to see them.

We did an airboat ride through the Everglades National Park and a drive-through safari in Palm Beach last year, and they were both so much fun! Wild Florida looks like a lot of fun too :). Thanks for sharing. Xx Sara

Lion Country Safari in West Palm is one of the best drive-through safaris in the country! So happy you had a chance to experience that and our beautiful Everglades.

Thanks for sharing your experience at Wild Florida. Will consider visiting if I’m evee in the area 👍

I hope you get a chance to see Wild Florida.

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Wild Florida Drive-Thru Safari Park

SAFARI PARK TICKET

Some road trips take you across the country, but ours will take you across continents.

Buckle up for your wildest car ride yet! Travel down gravel paths within our Drive-thru Safari Park and discover more than 100 native and exotic animals roaming freely. During your journey, you’ll have the opportunity to observe a variety of animals often only found around the world. Enjoy identifying species from as far away as the African savanna to others from the deciduous forests of North America, all from the comfort of your own car.

Expanding across 85 acres of untouched scenic landscapes, our wildlife and safari park presents a unique opportunity to bring you up close and personal with wild animals such as giraffes, zebra, eland antelope, scimitar oryx, American bison, mouflon sheep, and more! As you travel down our two-mile “unbeaten path,” you and your family can enjoy an exploration just feet away from animals you normally only see on TV.

But the fun you’ll have isn’t confined to your car. Inside our drive-through wildlife park, you can meet, greet and feed giraffes on our elevated giraffe feeding platform. (Talk about the perfect Facebook profile picture!).

After you’ve had your “four-wheel-fun” inside our drive-through animal park, stretch those legs inside our Gator Park. Admission to our Gator Park is included in the price of our Drive-thru Safari Park tickets and allows your family to view more than 200 additional animals, as well as enjoy a variety of educational animal shows.

Meet Crusher, our biggest American alligator (weighing just over 1,000 pounds). During the Crusher Show, you’ll learn more about American alligators and how Crusher stands out from the congregation. Watch a hands-on demonstration with some of our favorite Wild Florida residents during our Exotic Animal Show. And witness the power and speed of the American alligator during our Gator Feeding Show as you learn how strong their bite is along with how high they can jump out of the water.

Whether you’re a Florida resident or just visiting the Sunshine State, our wildlife safari park will give everyone in your family the opportunity to explore their wild side.

Additional Information: *Hours: 9.00am to 6.00pm *Tours do not operate on the following days: Sundays or Christmas Day, Easter Day and Thanksgiving Day

• Description

The Original Everglades National Park Airboat Tour

Everglades safari t-shirt, everglades national park airboat rides, step 1: how many visitors, step 2: select your airboat tour.

The Original Everglades National Park Airboat Ride

Buy your Tickets early! Use your online ticket on any day you decide to visit. » 30-40 minute Airboat Tour » Wildlife Nature Show » Jungle Trail, Observation Platform & Exhibits

Buy your Tickets early!Use your online ticket on any day you decide to visit. Buying your tickets in advance also saves you $3 per Adult Ticket. » 30-40 minute Airboat Tour » Wildlife Nature Show » Jungle Trail, Observation Platform & Exhibits

40 minute Private Eco-Adventure Airboat Ride

Venture deeper into Everglades National Park. Book your Private Eco-Adventure airboat tour online and secure the best date and time for you and your guests. » 40 minute Airboat Tour » Wildlife Nature Show » Jungle Trail, Observation Platform & Exhibits

60 minute Private Eco-Adventure Airboat Ride

Venture deeper into Everglades National Park. Book your Private Eco-Adventure airboat tour online and secure the best date and time for you and your guests. » 60 minute Airboat Tour » Wildlife Nature Show » Jungle Trail, Observation Platform & Exhibits

60 minute Private Sunset Airboat Tour

Book your Private Sunset airboat tour online and secure the best date and time for you and your guests. Only available at specific times of the year. » 30-40 minute Airboat Tour » Wildlife Nature Show » Jungle Trail, Observation Platform & Exhibits

The Original Eco-Adventure Airboat Tour

40 minute private eco-adventure airboat tour, 60 minute private eco-adventure airboat tour.

Buy your Tickets early! Use your online ticket on any day you decide to visit. Buying your tickets in advance also saves you $3 per Adult Ticket. » 30-40 minute Airboat Tour » Wildlife Nature Show » Jungle Trail, Observation Platform & Exhibits

Buy your Tickets Early! Use your online ticket on any day you decide to visit.

Prices include taxes and a $8 National Park Entrance Fee per Adult. Prices are subject to change.

Present your National Parks Pass at the Ticket Booth upon checking in.

All tickets and options are nontransferable and non-refundable and exclude activities/events separately priced. Parks, attractions and other offerings subject to availability, closures and change or cancellation without notice or liability. Everglades Safari Park is subject to seasonal and weather closures.

If you have been looking for an official boat tour of the Everglades National Park, look no further. Everglades Safari Park is an authorized Everglades National Park concession. We are the safest choice for your family as we adhere to strict National Park guidelines. Safari Airboat Tours have educated millions of visitors about the Everglades since 1968. Stick with the professional Everglades Tour. Buy your tickets now for Everglades Safari Park now! This tour departs about every 20-30 minutes. There is no need to make a reservation; you may buy a ticket when you arrive and leave on the next available boat.

Private Eco-Adventure Tour

The 40 Minute Private Eco-Adventure Tour Starts at $313, each additional passenger is $8 for up to 4, $58 each additional passenger. The Wildlife Nature Show and Walking Jungle Trail is included in your tour. Wow!

Journey into nature's secretly preserved wilderness made up of 1.4 million acres of grasslands and hardwood hammocks aboard Everglades Safari Park private airboat rides. This thrilling airboat ride takes you to the legendary Everglades National Park, recognized as the most unique ecosystem. Our professional tour guides will guide you through this natural wonder where you will encounter lush vegetation and tranquility. You will be amidst alligators, native flora and fauna & other exotic wildlife in their habitat as you thrust through this River of Grass.

Private Jungle of Wilderness Tour

The 60 Minute Private Eco-Adventure Tour starts at $363 each additional passenger is $8 for up to 4, $78 each additional passenger. The Wildlife Nature Show and Walking Jungle Trail is included in your tour. Wow!

Journey deep into nature's mysterious wilderness through an intricate River of Grass system aboard your own Safari airboat. A professional tour guide will narrate your trip as you maneuver through this secretly preserved jungle of wilderness. Experience breathtaking panoramic views as you visit the Everglades National Park with stops on levees along the way. You may encounter alligators, turtles, deer, wild hogs, raccoons, native flora and fauna & other exotic wildlife as you glide through the Everglades' lush vegetation and tranquility. This trip is simply amazing!

The 60 Minute Private Eco-Adventure Tour starts at $363, each additional passenger is $8 for up to 4, $78 each additional passenger. The Wildlife Nature Show and Walking Jungle Trail is included in your tour. Wow!

Searching For The Perfect Deal? Look no further!

We offer various discounts to make your Everglades National Park experience more memorable and less stressful on your wallet.

On Vacation & Need A Ride? We Can Help!

We have partnered with the top transportation companies in Miami to provide you reliable service to and from our park, from select locations.

Top 7 Things to do in the Everglades

If you ask anyone about the Everglades, they will most probably say that it is the greatest swamp in Florida. They are close but not exactly right! It is a slow-running river that entails around nine contrasting, elegant ecosystems.

History of Airboats

In 1930, airboats started becoming popular in the United States. Many Floridians made them famously known when they began to invent them independently, these Floridians mostly lived in or near the Florida Everglades.

Ultimate Guide: Animals of the Everglades

Did you know the Florida Everglades sustains a unique environment that provides safe refuge to the wildlife that inhabits the wetlands, some of which are not found anywhere else in the world? This guide tells you all about them!

The Ultimate Guide to Everglades National Park

With so much to do in South Florida, it’s easy to miss the adventure that can be found in our very own backyard. In this article, we will shed light on one of the hidden gems often overlooked by visitors and residents alike; the Florida Everglades.

Park Information

Tour information, things to do in miami, navigation & more, want safari deals.

Number of Children (10-15) travelling?

(Must present a valid National Park Pass to enter the park.)

Deals for humans

Florida resident deals, military, first responder, and teacher deals.

(Four-person max, discount can be redeemed by booking over the phone or being refunded with proof of membership upon check-in. Combos and Half-Day Adventures are excluded.)

FHIA (Florida Hospitality industry association) DEALS

(Three person max)

AAA, TRAVEL AGENTS, SENIOR DEALS

(Discount can be redeemed by booking over the phone or being refunded with proof of membership upon check-in.)

THINGS TO DO

deals for humans

Floridians love bogo., buy an adventure, get an animal encounter half-off.

Florida Residents, when you book your next Drive-thru Safari adventure, you can add on a capybara, porcupine, or albino gator animal encounter for half off! Wild fun should never break the bank! Offer valid now through Feb. 29

Please note that this offer is limited to one Florida Resident Drive-thru Safari Park booking and one single select Animal Encounter per customer. Any additional animal encounters selected will be subject to cancellation at the discretion of Wild Florida.

Other available deals

10% OFF activities on your Safari Annual Pass 15% off one-hour airboat tours $8 Gator Park admission for adults $6 Gator Park admission for children ‍$24 Drive-thru Safari Park admission for adults $19 Drive-thru Safari Park admission for children

15% off all airboat tours and experiences ‍ ‍ 50% off Gator Park admission

FHIA (FLORIDA  HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS) DEALS

Free 30-minute airboat tour for members 50% off Gator Park admission

(Three-person max)

10% off Gator Park admission and one-hour airboat tours

things to do

Buy tickets.