Alligator Alley: A Wild Rescue Adventure

Alligator Alley, founded in 2004 by Wes Moore, offers a thrilling and educational experience for visitors of all ages [4, 7, 10]. This isn't your typical farm; it's a rescue preserve spanning 20 acres of natural cypress swamp, providing a safe haven for alligators deemed 'nuisance animals' from unnatural or dangerous environments [7, 18]. The adventure begins with a breathtaking view from an elevated viewing platform, where you can spot hundreds of alligators, from hatchlings to mature adults, basking in the sun, courting, and nesting [5, 10]. Continue your journey along the 1,800-foot elevated boardwalk that winds through the swamp, bringing you just a few feet away from these prehistoric-looking creatures and other native wildlife like turtles, ospreys, owls, and bullfrogs [5, 14, 15]. One of the highlights is the live feeding shows, held several times a day, where staff members hand-feed the alligators while sharing educational insights [3, 9, 10]. For an even closer encounter, head to the air-conditioned gator station where you can hold a baby alligator and learn more about these misunderstood reptiles from the knowledgeable staff [5, 10, 12]. Keep an eye out for Captain Crunch, the park's most famous resident, a massive alligator holding the world record for bite strength [3, 5, 14].