Gatorland is officially getting into the craft beer game with the opening of its brand-new Guzzlin’ Gator Beverage Barn and honestly, it feels like one of those additions that just makes sense for the park.
Opening today, the new beverage location introduces Grinnin’ Gator Lager, an exclusive collaboration between Gatorland and local favorite Crooked Can Brewing Company. The partnership keeps things very Central Florida, which honestly fits Gatorland’s longtime “Old Florida” personality perfectly.
The new Grinnin’ Gator Lager is described as a Munich-style Helles brewed with Pilsen Malt, offering a lighter, easy-drinking flavor profile designed for hot Florida afternoons inside the park.
And if you’ve spent a summer afternoon walking around Gatorland, watching the gator shows, zipliners flying overhead, or surviving the Florida heat, you probably understand immediately why this concept works.
The new Guzzlin’ Gator Beverage Barn serves more than 25 beverage options including:
- Florida craft beers
- Domestic and international beers
- Ciders and seltzers
- Wine on tap
- Canned cocktails
- Non-alcoholic drinks
The space itself sounds pretty laid back too, featuring bar seating, picnic-table style areas, and a grab-and-go option for guests who want to stroll the park with a drink in hand. The location overlooks some of Gatorland’s adventure attractions, including the Screamin’ Gator Zipline and climbing experiences.
According to Gatorland President and CEO Mark McHugh, the venue was created directly from guest demand for expanded beverage offerings around the park.
Honestly, this feels like another example of Gatorland continuing to evolve while still keeping its weird, local, charming identity intact. The park has always had a very different vibe from Orlando’s larger theme parks, and that’s part of why people love it.
Adding a local brewery partnership instead of a generic beverage sponsor feels very on-brand for them.
The Guzzlin’ Gator Beverage Barn is now open daily from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. inside Gatorland. Merchandise themed to the new venue and beer will also be available throughout the park.
Janine is a theme park and pop culture nerd from an early age. Since 1994, she’s been traversing the theme park world and has enjoyed all things from Halloween events to new ride releases and beyond. When she’s not at a theme park, she’s probably at a concert or doing something fun with her kiddo.