Top 8 Animal Attractions to Explore Near Orlando

The Orlando area is well known for its theme parks, including Disney World Resorts and Universal Studios, but it’s also known for its many animal attractions and natural wildlife parks.

From the collection at Disney’s Animal Kingdom to the annual migration of manatees at Blue Lake State Park in Orange City, there are plenty of chances to see animals on your trip to central Florida.

Although Orlando experiences year-round warm weather, keep in mind that some animals do hibernate during the winter months, and some attractions may be closed part of the year. Be sure to visit each venue’s website for more information on seasonal hours of operation and any fees associated with admission.

Experience Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Walt Disney World’s Orlando zoological theme park Animal Kingdom features animals from every continent of the world. In typical Disney style, the park also includes rides, shows, parades, and themed restaurants that pay homage to the hit film “Avatar,” including the Flight of Passage ride and Na’vi River Journey.

At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, you can encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including African birds, elephants, butterflies, gibbons, giraffes, gorillas, hippopotamuses, lions, migratory birds, okapis, rhinos, tamarins, tigers, and vultures.

The popular Tree of Life stands as an iconic feature of the park, where you can enjoy attractions like Fossil Fun games, Discovery Island Trails, and the Conservation Station interactive exhibit.

Watch Sea Mammals at SeaWorld Orlando

Orlando’s premier aquatic theme park, SeaWorld Orlando, offers thrilling rides and incredible attractions, inviting guests to “see ocean life like never before.”

At SeaWorld Orlando, you can watch trained sea mammals perform dazzling shows or spend your day enjoying the park’s many amusement rides. Florida residents often benefit from resident specials, while visiting families can partake in fun annual events.

For adrenaline seekers, the theme park also features some of the best rides in the city, including the Infinity Falls river ride and the Mako roller coaster, known as the tallest, fastest, and longest coaster in Central Florida.

Tour the Central Florida Zoo

The Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens serves as an animal sanctuary, education center, garden, and attraction all in one.

At the Central Florida Zoo, you can encounter over 400 animals and 150 species from around the globe. Unique experiences include coming face to face with domestic animals at the Barnyard Buddies Children’s Zoo or participating in the daily giraffe feeding.

This zoo also hosts seasonal events throughout the year, including exciting holiday celebrations. With summer camps and educational programs, it offers excellent opportunities to learn about its animal residents, making it a great place for children’s birthday parties as well.

See Gators

Gatorland is the area’s original theme park attraction, entertaining visitors with its animal park in Kissimmee since the 1940s. Founded by Owen Godwin in 1949, the park remains family-owned today.

This 110-acre wildlife preserve claims to be the “alligator capital of the world,” showcasing alligators and crocodiles of all ages and sizes, including hatchlings and several impressive 14-foot gators residing in the Breeding Marsh. But Gatorland offers more than just gators. Visitors can also enjoy a free-flight aviary, trained animal shows, the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line, the Stompin’ Gator Off-Road Adventure, and a petting zoo.

Swim at Discovery Cove

A combination of water park and animal attraction, SeaWorld’s Discovery Cove offers the unique opportunity to swim with dolphins, rays, and tropical fish.

The park’s star attraction, bottlenose dolphins, is complemented by an incredible variety of Southern and cow nose rays, over 10,000 brightly colored tropical fish, along with barracudas and sharks. Guests can also explore the free-flight aviary, containing more than 25 exotic bird species.

Alternatively, visitors may choose to relax on the Wind-away River, which features lush landscaping and serves as a refreshing twist on the classic “lazy river,” or discover simulated reefs buzzing with aquatic life.

See Manatees at Blue Springs State Park

From November through March, Blue Springs becomes a haven for West Indian Manatees, escaping the colder ocean waters for the warmer springs, which maintain a constant temperature of 72 degrees. For those adventurous enough to brave the chill, snorkelers and divers have the opportunity to capture stunning images of these gentle giants.

Throughout the spring and fall, additional activities such as boat tours, camping, fishing, swimming, tubing, and hiking are available. However, swimming or diving with manatees is strictly regulated and permitted only during designated swimming seasons.

Take an Airboat Ride on Lake Jessup

Experience the thrill of speeding across the waters of Lake Jessup while searching for native wildlife with Black Hammock Airboat Rides. Lake Jessup boasts one of Florida’s largest populations of alligators, providing guests with the opportunity to see these magnificent creatures up close. You may also encounter pelicans and turtles along the way.

The jet boat slows as it explores historic Bird Island, where a variety of birds such as herons, ibises, cormorants, and kingfishers can be observed. The dock facility also includes a sanctuary for baby alligators.

Ride Horses in the Wild

Just outside of Orlando, enjoy a memorable horseback riding adventure through the Forever Florida conservation area, guided by a knowledgeable naturalist. The experience is suitable for all skill levels, allowing everyone to appreciate the stunning natural surroundings filled with cypress, palm, and oak trees.

As you ride, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including turkeys, hogs, cows, and deer. A convenient boardwalk offers opportunities to observe swamp life and perhaps catch a glimpse of an alligator.