Silver Springs Nature Theme Park

Silver Springs Nature Theme Park is a place where you can see fascinating animals, go on an exciting river cruise or visit breathtaking botanical gardens.

The largest alligators in Florida - some of which are 13 feet long - can be seen at Big Gator Lagoon in Silver Springs Park.

Ross Allen Island is home to many native Florida animals, including otters, snakes and turtles.

Photographs from the archive of herpetologist Ross Allen, who owned the Ross Island Reptile Institute at Silver Springs, can be seen here.

Other animal exhibits at Silver Springs include the World of Bears, which is home to endangered Kodiak and North American black bears, Panther Prowl, where you can see North America's largest wildcats, and Kritter Korral, where your children can pet and hand feet a variety of farm animals, such as donkeys, sheep, goats and rabbits.

Crocodile and alligator feedings take place daily.

Visitors can see and handle non-poisonous snakes at the non-venomous snake show.

"Wings of the Springs" is a showcase for the flying abilities of many different birds, including chickens, eagles and parrots.

If you take a cruise along the Silver River on a glass bottom boat, you will be able to see many examples of Florida underwater life - including alligators, fish, crawfish, clams and turtles.

The Lost River Voyage gives you the opportunity to see Florida as it was thousands of years ago, with alligators basking along the river and ospreys and herons feeding,

You can visit a Seminole Indian Village during the Fort King River Cruise.

The botanical gardens at Silver Springs contain over 130 varieties of plants and are a popular wedding venue.

Silver Springs also hosts concerts and other events.

There are reduced ticket prices for corporate events and special programs for schoolchildren.

Silver Springs Park is in Silver Springs, Florida, about 6 miles from Ocala and about 90 miles from Orlando.