Wild Florida: A Must-See Attraction Near Orlando

Orlando is known worldwide for its theme parks, entertainment, and attractions like Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld—but there’s another side of Florida that many visitors (and even locals) never explore.

If you’re looking for something unique—an adventure that takes you deep into Florida’s untouched wilderness—you need to visit Wild Florida. Located in Kenansville, just south of St. Cloud, this hidden gem offers a chance to experience Florida’s natural beauty up close, with incredible wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes.

Let’s dive into what makes Wild Florida one of the most exciting outdoor attractions in Central Florida!

Where is Wild Florida?

Wild Florida is located in Kenansville, FL, about 15–20 minutes south of St. Cloud and approximately 45 minutes from Disney World. Unlike Orlando’s major tourist hotspots, this destination is tucked away in the heart of Florida’s wetlands, giving you a glimpse into the Old Florida landscape that existed long before theme parks took over.

What to Do at Wild Florida

Wild Florida is more than just an alligator park—it’s a full eco-adventure experience! The park is home to three main attractions, each offering something special:

1. The Gator Park: More Than Just Gators!

The name might suggest it’s all about alligators, but the Gator Park is actually a mini zoo with over 200 animals from around the world. You’ll see:
✔️ Native Florida wildlife (alligators, snakes, and exotic birds)
✔️ Animals from Australia, South America, and Africa
✔️ Close-up animal encounters (including a chance to hold a baby gator for free!)
✔️ Feeding experiences and interactive exhibits

One of the coolest aspects of the Gator Park is that it rescues nuisance alligators that would otherwise be euthanized. Crusher, one of the park’s largest gators, was saved from a private farm where he was at risk. Now, he has a safe home at Wild Florida!

2. The Airboat Tour: Explore Florida’s Wetlands

If you want a true Florida experience, the airboat tour is a must. Wild Florida originally started with airboat tours, and they remain one of the park’s most popular activities.

✔️ Glide across Cypress Lake in an airboat
✔️ See alligators, bald eagles, and native Florida birds in their natural habitat
✔️ Experience unspoiled wetlands and marshlands

Airboat tours run throughout the year, but during the cooler winter months, you might want to bring a jacket since the wind can get chilly!

3. The Drive-Thru Safari: A One-of-a-Kind Experience

Wild Florida’s Drive-Thru Safari opened in 2019, and it has been a huge hit ever since. This is the only safari of its kind in Central Florida, offering:

✔️ A 2.5-mile drive-through adventure through 170 acres of open land
✔️ Close-up encounters with exotic animals like zebras, bison, and antelope
✔️ A giraffe feeding experience at the end of the drive

You can choose between the full safari experience (which takes about an hour) or a shorter version if you’re short on time. The best part? You can enjoy the animals from the comfort of your car, making this a perfect summer activitywhen the Florida heat is at its peak!

Why Visit Wild Florida?

Wild Florida is a refreshing change of pace from the fast-moving theme parks and bustling city life. Here’s why it’s worth the visit:

✔️ A True Taste of Florida’s Natural Beauty – See Florida as it was before modern development took over.
✔️ Fun for All Ages – Whether you’re a kid or an adult, there’s something exciting for everyone.
✔️ Great for Hot or Rainy Days – With shaded areas and indoor exhibits, plus a drive-thru safari, it’s an excellent option year-round.
✔️ Unique Wildlife Encounters – From holding a baby gator to feeding a giraffe, you’ll experience animals in a whole new way.

How to Get to Wild Florida

• From Disney World: 45-minute drive south
• From St. Cloud: 15–20 minutes south
• From Orlando International Airport: About 50 minutes

Wild Florida is located off Cypress Lake, deep in Osceola County, but the drive is well worth it for an unforgettable day in nature.

Final Thoughts: Is Wild Florida Worth It?

Absolutely! Whether you’re visiting Florida for vacation or you’re a local looking for a unique weekend adventure, Wild Florida is an experience you won’t forget.

From thrilling airboat rides to interactive animal encounters, this hidden gem near Orlando is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience Florida’s wilder side.

Plan Your Trip to Wild Florida Today!

For tickets, hours, and more details, visit the official Wild Florida website.

Would you visit Wild Florida? Drop a comment below and let me know!