When you’re planning a family holiday to Orlando, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of theme parks, long queues, and overpriced snacks.
But after three solid days of navigating character meet-and-greets and rollercoaster tantrums, you’ll be glad for this recommended shake up. I booked us onto the Florida Everglades Airboat Tour and Alligator Encounter—and honestly, it turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip.
Getting There & First Impressions
We booked through Viator, it was simple, easy & worked perfectly meaning out ticket was ready to go. We Uber’d in just under an hour from our hotel in Orlando to Wild Florida, just outside Kissimmee. Parking was free—a small win for us dads who silently calculate how many ice creams that just saved us and the place had a laid-back, authentic Floridian feel—think less commercial circus, more swampy adventure. The kids were buzzing with excitement before we’d even stepped foot on the airboat.
The Airboat Experience: Like Nothing Else
We opted for the 1-hour airboat tour, and from the moment that fan fired up, it was game on. There’s something exhilarating about flying over the water at speed, wind blasting in your face, (and a few flies!) with the kiddo shouting “LOOK! ANOTHER GATOR!” every thirty seconds. I mean, we actually only saw a couple of small ones but he had fun thinking that floating logs were gators, so we just let it slide.
The captain was brilliant—he had that rare mix of encyclopaedic knowledge and proper dad jokes. He pointed out wildlife we’d have missed and even found a gator shade-seeking for the kids to gawp at. My kid declared it “better than Guardians of the Galaxy ride,” which, if you know my lot, is basically a knighthood.
Wildlife Park & Alligator Encounter
After the boat, we headed into the Wild Florida Wildlife Park. It’s included in your ticket, and it’s not just a throw-in—this place is packed. From sloths to zebras to a massive albino alligator named Blizzard, there’s loads to see and do. The kid loved the walk-through aviary and the chance to feed some goats in the petting zoo. There’s lot’s of shade and fans dotted around for a well-earned cool down!
The alligator show was a hit too. It wasn’t gimmicky or over-the-top, just knowledgeable staff teaching kids (and adults) about these prehistoric beasts in an engaging way. There was even a chance to hold a baby gator—cue obligatory family photo and mild panic from our toddler.
Dad Verdict: Is It Worth It? Without a Doubt.
Let’s be honest—while I’ll always have a soft spot for the likes of Disney and the big-ticket attractions, but this airboat tour gave us something completely different. It was real Florida. Wild, exciting, and full of genuine moments that brought us together. No characters, no queues, no £20 balloons—just the thrill of adventure and the joy of seeing your kids absolutely spellbound.
It’s rare to find an activity that keeps everyone—from toddlers to tweens to tired parents—totally engaged. But this one seemingly did. It’s educational, adrenaline-packed, and gives you proper “legendary parent” points without blowing the holiday budget.
If you’re heading to Orlando with your family, I can’t recommend it enough. Trust me, this is the kind of day out they’ll be talking about long after the holiday ends—and you’ll be quietly proud you made it happen.
Click for more details and to book!
