Exploring Florida's Wild Side & Outdoor Attractions

Posted by: Hotel Landy on April 17, 2026

Florida has a reputation for being a bit wild, and honestly? It earns it. Wrapped in a subtropical climate, the Sunshine State is home to lush waterways, exotic animals, and unreal experiences you have to see (and do!) to believe. If you’re staying at Hotel Landy, you’re perfectly set up to chase gators, trails, and a few rain-proof adventures, too.

Alligators in Florida

Alligators are basically Florida’s unofficial mascot. From wildlife parks to scenic drives and airboat rides, there are a few easy ways to spot them safely. It’s amazing to see these prehistoric-looking locals up close. Near Hotel Landy, you’ve got a few easy ways to get your gator fix.

Gatorland: Dubbed “The Alligator Capital of the World®”, Gatorland is where you can see tiny baby alligators, called grunts, and their massive 14-foot parents. It’s home to crocodiles, a free-flight aviary, a petting zoo, a thrilling zip line that carries you over an alligator breeding marsh, and a new off-road adventure.

Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive: This 11-mile drive is a free and leisurely way to see alligators from the comfort of your car. Open Friday through Sunday, 7 a.m.–3 p.m., enhance your experience by listening to an informational audio tour as you drive the path, courtesy of the Lake Apopka North Shore organization.

Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures: Whisk through the headwaters of the Everglades on an airboat as you explore the unaltered beauty of Florida. Private and group tours make it an easy add to your day. It’s not just gators you’ll see. You’ll get a front row seat to one of the largest Bald Eagle populations in the world and see plenty of land animals near the shore.

More Things to Do Outside

Florida is one of the most biodiverse states in the U.S., home to over 4,000 native plant and animal species. Being outside and connecting with nature is a great way to refill your cup and truly experience a region. There are plenty of ways to get out of the concrete jungle and into the living one right outside our doors.

Discovery Cove: An experience like no other. Take advantage of all-inclusive resort amenities, but infused with unique animal experiences and water fun. Swim with dolphins, snorkel with cownose rays, or lounge by the pool and take advantage of the unlimited food and drink. There’s a reason why Discovery Cove has won the Good Housekeeping Family Travel Award three years in a row!

Wild Florida Adventure Park: With over 200 animals on display, including several exotic species, no two days at Wild Florida Adventure Park are the same. Choose from spending time at their drive-through safari park, booking an adventure package, participating in a hands-on animal experience, hopping on an airboat, or so much more.

Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve: Spend a gentle day soaking up the sun and fresh air at Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve. This trail gives you a break from the hustle and bustle while still wowing with wildlife viewing opportunities, well-maintained paths, and gorgeous views. This is the perfect place for birders and is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail.

What to Do When It Rains in Orlando

Many of the local experiences are open rain or shine, but not everyone enjoys a drizzly day. Whether the weather changed your plans or you’re just looking for something a little different, there are still lots of nature-focused things to do under cover. A visit to SEA LIFE Aquarium Orlando takes you deep underwater to experience life below the waves. Florida’s only 360-degree ocean tunnel is here, taking you through the middle of a 350,000-gallon tank teeming with marine life. Watch daily feeding and explore touchpools, all while being fully immersed in the ocean experience.

The Orlando Science Center provides an excellent backdrop for a fun day. Science comes to life here through live programming and engaging exhibits. With a robust daily activities calendar, there is plenty to see and do for the whole family.

Balance Out The Wild

Florida offers so much that it can be hard to slow down. It’s important you take care of yourself and get the rest and fuel you need to sustain your wild adventures. With Hotel Landy as your home base, you’ll be able to relax and recharge in style. Pick your room or suite, cool off in the pool, and sit down for a nourishing meal where you can recap all the fun you had during the day. We’re wild about making sure your Orlando and Hotel Landy experience is everything you dreamed of and more.