Are you brave enough to take on this epic gator guide?

If you're hoping to spot an alligator in the wild, Sawgrass Lake Park is a great stop. The 400- acre park protects a huge maple swamp, which serves as a refuge for all kinds of wildlife, especially birds, in the densely-populated Tampa-St. Pete area. Stroll along the mile-long boardwalk and keep your eyes peeled for herons, egrets, ibis, wood storks, butterflies, alligators, and turtles. One of the coolest features here is the observation tower that offers sweeping views of the marshy lakes and canals. A stop into the education center before exploring the boardwalk will give you tons of info on what kinds of animals you might spot and what to look for.

Some people would rather eat gators than look at them. If you're looking to sample this Florida delicacy, one option is to hit up Cajun Cafe On The Bayou. This hidden gem brings a taste of New Orleans to Florida's Gulf Coast, with a menu bursting with Cajun specialties. They offer favorites like po' boys, etouffee, jambalaya, gumbo, and crawfish lagniappe, alongside things like Alligator piquante, gator sausage, gator burgers, and fried gator bites. It's all cooked to perfection, with plenty of spice, best enjoyed on the waterside patio with an Abita. And, if gator isn't weird enough for you, try the frog legs.

If you're more in the mood for breakfast than a catfish po' boy, you can also get your gator fix at Lenny's Restaurant in Clearwater. The New York deli-style eatery has all of the favorites (knishes, blintzes, deli sandwiches, and fresh bagels, all made in-house) but adds a Southern spin with grits, scrapple, and other staples. The three-egg gator omelette is a can't miss-- it comes served with cheddar cheese sauce, sauteed onions, Hollandaise and a sprinkling of Cajun seasoning. And that's not counting the complimentary Danish basket and plethora of sides it comes with ... you'll probably want to split it with someone.

For a guaranteed gator sighting, there's always ZooTampa at Lowry Park. It features all kinds of wild creatures beyond alligators, of course. Once you're done watching the gators sun themselves, check out the elephants, giraffes, adorable pygmy hippos, manatees, orangutans, and much, much more. Kids will have just as much fun learning about and seeing the animals as they will riding the rides ZooTampa offers, which range from coasters and carousels to an open-air safari. And, of course, there are a handful of animal encounters you can book as well; the ability to meet or feed penguins, rhinos, and giant tortoises will take your zoo adventure to the next level.

There are places to find gators in the wild in Tampa, too. Lettuce Lake Park is a serene slice of natural beauty hidden along the Hillsborough River. This swampy hardwood forest of ancient oaks is a perfect habitat for alligators, turtles, and birds aplenty. There's a boardwalk and observation tower, along with a paved exercise trail to explore. If you want to get out on the water, rent a kayak or canoe; you might even be treated to a more up-close and personal view of the gators. Otherwise, the best chance for wildlife spotting is around sunrise or sunset.