The Sad Reason You Should Never Visit These Popular Tourist Attractions In Florida
The Sunshine State has beaches, theme parks, and what else? Innumerable alligators. In fact, you can see wild alligators and crocodiles in only one spot in the world: Everglade's National Park in Florida. Florida is so synonymous with these reptiles that they have become a prime tourist draw. While you wouldn't want to see this dangerous animal out and about, you can get up close and personal with them at Florida's alligator-themed attractions. Think theme parks, alligator farms, and even mini golf.
These attractions can be found throughout the state and provide similar experiences, including alligator shows and viewing. Some even have alligator wrestling. However, just because alligator attractions are popular doesn't mean they are all ethical. In 2020, a study was conducted on alligator attractions in Florida that offer alligator wrestling (via PLOS One). The study noted that the alligators had improper enclosures and habitats.
Likewise, the wrestling subjected the alligators to physical and emotional anguish. Speaking to People, Casey Riordan, one of the authors of the study, explained that the wrestling shows did nothing to contribute to education about alligators. Furthermore, some alligator attractions in Florida allow visitors to touch the alligators; in some cases, these attractions tape the crocodile's mouths as a safety precaution. However, all of this could further negatively impact the crocodile's well-being. That said, one place in particular has a bad rap among visitors on Tripadvisor.
Visitors have thoughts on Gatorland
Located in Orlando, Florida, Gatorland is a highly in-demand theme park that has become a popular activity tourists do in Florida. It offers everything from ziplining to an off-road adventure. While Gatorland houses several species of wild animals, the stars are the alligators. They have various daily shows showcasing the reptiles. Visitors can even take a nighttime tour of Gatorland's alligator swamp. While Gatorland is known for its alligator advocacy, visitors on Tripadvisor have left countless unfavorable reviews regarding the treatment of the alligators.
One reviewer wrote in April 2024 that they witnessed a trainer hit alligators with a stick with what they believed was without reason. The same reviewer also said, "We went to the afternoon show which again felt somewhat cruel. Alligators being dragged by their tails and clearly were distressed and were really moving to get free, but the trainer sat on it and made the gator bend its head quite far back. Left feeling very uneasy."
Another reviewer in January 2024 described a similar situation, saying that they felt that a trainer mishandled an alligator. Note that Gatorland does not adhere to Tripadvisor's animal welfare guidelines and, thus, does not allow users to purchase tickets for the theme park on their site. In addition, Gatorland is known to have alligator wrestling shows, which, as previously mentioned, is determinantal to the gators.
See alligators in the wild
Speaking to People, Casey Riordan told the publication, "We are hoping people do their research and think twice about the wildlife tourism attractions that they support." She added, "If you are going to an alligator tourism attraction just check on how the animals are treated. If something doesn't look right, or if the alligator isn't experiencing life as it would in the wild — if they are being forced to do something that is very unnatural, like being wrestled — definitely avoid that." That said, visitors could always skip the tourist traps and visit hidden gems in Florida, where alligators live their best lives.
Located under an hour from Miami, Shark Valley Tram Tours at Everglades National Park allows visitors to safely view alligators and other wildlife that call the park home. The scenic ride is two hours long. At the time of this writing, prices range from $16 to $31. Shark Valley Tram Tours also offers self-guided bike tours. Bike rentals for one day are available onsite for $25. You can make a reservation for either option online.
In Naples, you'll find the Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. The 13,000-acre nature preserve has a stunning boardwalk that allows visitors to walk through the marshy forest to spot alligators, owls, and more. Admission ranges from $6 to $17, and tickets can be purchased online. The Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is open daily, but hours vary per season.