Gator Spot opens at Fun Spot America!
GATORLAND®, the Alligator Capital of the World, and FUN SPOT AMERICA-ORLANDO THEME PARK today marked the grand opening of GATOR SPOT, a 15,000 square-foot, reptile oasis. City of Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer was on hand for the official ribbon “chomping.”
The $1 million attraction features more than 100 alligators, including an extremely rare leucistic “white” alligator, one of only 12 in the world. In addition, Gator Spot showcases an array of exotic birds, snakes, lizards, and two gigantic aquariums filled with baby alligators. Guests may also participate in alligator feedings and snap iconic photographs with the resident reptiles.
“Gator Spot is not only a welcome addition to International Drive–and the only place on International Drive that tourists can see 12-foot alligators–this attraction is creating jobs. It truly is a fantastic partnership between two of Central Florida’s largest privately-owned theme parks, Gatorland and Fun Spot America-Orlando,” said the Honorable City of Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer.
“For many years, Gatorland has investigated opportunities to expand our brand into other major tourist destinations and given the culture of our two businesses, we knew Fun Spot America-Orlando Theme Park would be a perfect fit,” said Mark McHugh, Gatorland’s President & CEO. “We are thrilled with the new attraction and are looking forward to providing yet another memorable experience visitors to International Drive can share with their friends and families.”
In addition to Gator Spot and Gatorland’s 110-acre original tourist attraction and wildlife preserve located on South Orange Blossom Trail, Gatorland is also celebrating a 10-year partnership with the Gaylord Palms Resort. Gaylord’s “Best of Florida” exhibit is home to 15 juvenile alligators and 30 native species of turtles. Gatorland also provides baby alligators and education programs to numerous science centers and educational institutions across the US and logs thousands of hours in school field trips every year.
“We are excited to be working with GATORLAND and the history they bring to Orlando and our industry,” states John Arie Jr, Chief Operating Officer, Fun Spot America-Orlando Theme Parks. “While Gator Spot is a great place to learn all about alligators and some of the amazing creatures that call Florida home, being able to actually hold a real life alligator is HUGE!”
Admission to Gator Spot costs $6 per person.
More photos at www.FloridaLeisurePhotography.com
