Courtesy Gatorland
Gatorland is giving visitors a new way to cool off this summer, and it comes with a locally brewed twist.
The longtime Orlando attraction has partnered with Winter Garden-based Crooked Can Brewing Company to create Grinnin’ Gator Lager, a custom craft beer debuting alongside the park’s brand-new Guzzlin’ Gator Beverage Barn.
Opening May 25, the new beverage venue marks the first dedicated bar concept in Gatorland’s 76-year history. Located inside the park near views of the Screamin’ Gator Zipline and climbing attractions, the open-air space offers more than 25 beers, ciders, seltzers, canned cocktails, wine selections and nonalcoholic drinks. Guests can grab a seat at the bar, relax at picnic-style tables or take beverages to go while strolling through the park.
Courtesy Gatorland
“Crooked Can Brewing Company was the perfect choice for our Grinnin’ Gator lager,” said Mark McHugh, president and CEO of Gatorland. “We wanted to stay local and work with a family-owned business, just like us. Our new Grinnin’ Gator craft beer is a good combination of an easy drinking lager style that is fun and playful, just like we are right here at Gatorland.”
The new brew is described as a Pale German lager inspired by a Munich-style Helles, brewed with Pilsen malt for a crisp, refreshing flavor profile designed for hot Florida afternoons. According to the release, the beer features a doughy malt flavor with soft hop bitterness, making it ideal for sipping between alligator encounters and splash park stops.
McHugh said the concept for Guzzlin’ Gator came directly from guest demand for expanded beverage options inside the park.
“Guzzlin’ Gator was imagined as a relaxing spot to enjoy a cold beverage on a hot day and as a place to meet up with the rest of the family or rest of the group during the day,” he said.
Courtesy Gatorland
Crooked Can Brewing Company General Manager Paul Bishop leaned into the playful spirit of the collaboration.
“What happens when you mix hometown brews with world-famous gators? You get something worth grinnin’ about,” Bishop said. “Together we are pouring the spirit of Florida in our Grinnin’ Gator beer, and we can’t wait for Gatorland’s guests to take a bite out of this exciting collaboration.”
The beverage barn will operate daily from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Guzzlin’ Gator merchandise will also be available in the park’s main gift shop.
Originally opened in 1949, Gatorland has become one of Central Florida’s most enduring attractions, blending roadside Florida nostalgia with modern thrill experiences like the Screamin’ Gator Zipline, off-road adventures and animal encounters. The park continues to attract both longtime locals and new visitors looking for a more laid-back alternative to Orlando’s mega theme parks.