Visiting the Reptiles

Reptile Gardens was another of our 'must do' with the G'Kids last week. I had not been there since the 80s when we took our kids to the attraction. (Hubby and OFD visited about 15 years ago. I chose not to go because it was hot and I remember the smells.) Well, I can honestly say Reptile Gardens has changed.

Again we were given a map upon paying our entrance fee, giving Miss W the role of guide. She led us to the playground (not on purpose) where they were content to run, jump, and play. We did not pay the entrance fee we paid to play in a playground! So we took charge of the map and began exploring.

The rain forest building was well received because of all the snake varieties, birds, and small reptiles. I was fascinated by the flowering plants. That post will come later.

opportunity to pet a python

Miss W did; "M" did not

turtles of all sizes

We had heard from others that riding the turtles was no longer allowed. DUH! But we finally found the large 100+ year old turtles and told the kids their daddy and aunt had ridden one that size. Unfortunately, Methuselah has died as I am certain that was the old guy they sat upon 35 years ago. They were able to touch/pet the large turtles and watch them get up and amble along the fence line.

We attended the alligator show. There is also a bird show and a snake show throughout the day. They have two or three kinds of alligators and some varieties of crocodiles.

wrestling the alligator

sharing how you can sit on one without getting bit

and a baby alligator who had to have its mouth taped

before it was presented 'up close and personal' to anyone 

wanting to touch it

there was a LONG line for the baby 'gator

And to my surprise and delight, there were no smells associated with Reptile Gardens. The place was clean and large enough to handle all the people who visit on any given summer day.

Tired. Hungry. Thirsty. Crabby. No photo of the Grands with anything that says 'Reptile Gardens.' There were several options to get food and drink, we just chose not to do so. AND you would be surprised at how fast I walked through that gift shop when we were done that day. No souvenirs from RG! I know why they place the exits of these places where they do, but GEEZ!  A family of 4 could easily drop $100 at that place on entrance, drinks, snacks & souvenirs. Now I remember why we only went once when our kids were young.