Gatorama was established in 1957 by George and June Hodges along the original route of US-27.
The park participates in the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's alligator management program.
The site hosts an annual hatching festival where guests can assist a baby alligator in emerging from its egg.
The facility maintains a 'Fat Albert' alligator, historically one of the largest captive alligators in the state.
It features a unique 'Zipline' course that flies visitors directly over alligator ponds.
Gatorama is one of Florida's oldest alligator attractions, founded in 1957, and operates as a working alligator farm. It is notable for its 'Alligator Hatching Festival' which allows visitors to witness eggs hatching in real-time. The site houses thousands of alligators and crocodiles across various age groups, from hatchlings to large breeding adults. Visitors can walk along elevated boardwalks that traverse native cypress swamps. The facility also features a petting zoo area that includes domestic animals alongside reptiles. Educational demonstrations are provided throughout the day to teach visitors about crocodilian biology and conservation. The location serves as a site for commercial alligator harvesting and skin processing as part of its business model. It offers interactive experiences such as hand-feeding opportunities and photography sessions with small reptiles.
The raised boardwalk viewing platform overlooking the main breeding pond.
Wear closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on elevated wooden boardwalks and sandy paths.
Bring sun protection and insect repellent, as the park is located in a swampy, exposed environment.
Check the website calendar for specific dates regarding the annual Hatching Festival to coincide your visit.
Do not attempt to touch the animals outside of designated, staff-led petting sessions.
Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day; the Hatching Festival is a seasonal late-summer event.
Maintain a safe distance from enclosures unless participating in a supervised interaction; do not feed animals outside of provided programs.
