Reptile World Serpentarium
Explore a world of slithering wonders at Reptile World Serpentarium, featuring 60 snake species and live venom-milking shows.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness thrilling venom extractions
Reptile World Serpentarium
Best Time
Witness thrilling venom extractions
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a world of slithering wonders at Reptile World Serpentarium, featuring 60 snake species and live venom-milking shows.
"The snakes are amazing, and the venom milking show is a must-see!"
🎯 Check Venom Show Times
Don't miss the live venom milking! Times vary, so check upon arrival. :ticket:
🐍 Hold a Snake Experience
If you're brave, you can hold a snake! A unique photo op. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Venom Milking Demonstrations
Main Show Area
Witness expert herpetologists extract venom from dangerous snakes. A thrilling and educational experience!
Diverse Snake Collection
Exhibition Tanks
See dozens of snake species from around the world, both venomous and non-venomous.
Meet and Hold a Snake
Designated Areas
For the brave, get a chance to hold a snake and feel its scales up close.
Alligators and Crocodiles
Outdoor Enclosures
Observe impressive alligators and crocodiles in their habitats.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Venom Shows
Manage Expectations for the Facility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Venom Show Times
Don't miss the live venom milking! Times vary, so check upon arrival. :ticket:
🐍 Hold a Snake Experience
If you're brave, you can hold a snake! A unique photo op. :camerawithflash:
🐢 Feed the Turtles
A fun interactive activity for all ages. Ask staff for details. :turtle:
🗺️ Update Your Expectations
Some areas may seem dated, but the reptile collection is impressive. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Venom Show Times
Don't miss the live venom milking! Times vary, so check upon arrival. :ticket:
🐍 Hold a Snake Experience
If you're brave, you can hold a snake! A unique photo op. :camerawithflash:
🐢 Feed the Turtles
A fun interactive activity for all ages. Ask staff for details. :turtle:
🗺️ Update Your Expectations
Some areas may seem dated, but the reptile collection is impressive. :world_map:
📸 Capture the Moments
Bring your camera for close-ups of amazing reptiles and the venom shows. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reptile World Serpentarium offers a unique collection of snakes and thrilling venom-milking shows, making it a memorable stop for many. While some visitors find the facility a bit dated and express concerns about animal welfare, the impressive variety of reptiles and interactive experiences like holding a snake are consistently praised. It's a place that sparks curiosity and provides a close encounter with the fascinating world of serpents.
"This place was likely very popular in its prime but currently is a bit run down. Some of the things advertised about this place are no longer available and several of the pens are empty and seem a bit unkept. The owners seemed nice and were friendly, and we were able to feed the turtles in the pool. There is an impressive display of snakes (venomous and non venomous), but their tanks aren’t very enriched. I don’t know a lot about reptile keeping so I can’t speak to whether the animals are healthy or not. There is a venom milking show the runs a couple times a day but we didn’t stay for it. For the admission price of $15/ticket, I think this was ok but I don’t think I’d come back unless they add more and update some of the environments."
G Bell
"Having passed this place since 1996 ( going to Melbourne Beach) We always thought it was a shop .. got told about it being a little zoo .. we stopped there.. Wow the snakes are amazing.. they had a couple of gators / crocodiles & turtles too .. we were there about an hour ( we had to get off to go the airport 😪) we will definitely call in again next time we are over .. the owner was a lovely guy too"
Debbie McCarthy
"It is a roadside stop that was great. It was a bit smaller than I expected, but the people there were extremely nice. We got to see a snake milking, which is a first for us. Also, I got to hold a snake, too. The only thing I could complain about is that the information signs need to be updated since some are falling apart and unreadable. I would recommend this as a great stop for anyone liking snakes. I was expecting to be there maybe 2 hours, but we spent over 3 hours there. We all left very happy for the experience."
Kurt Daly
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Reptile World Serpentarium is located in St. Cloud, Florida, about a 30-40 minute drive from Orlando. You can drive there via FL-528 E and US-192 E. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is the most convenient way to reach the serpentarium.
Yes, it's a well-known roadside attraction in St. Cloud. Look for signage as you approach the area. Many visitors describe it as a straightforward stop on their Florida travels.
Parking is generally available on-site. Visitors have not reported significant issues with parking availability, making it a convenient stop.
A day trip from Tampa to Reptile World Serpentarium is feasible, though it's a longer drive (around 1.5 to 2 hours each way). It's more easily combined with a visit to Orlando attractions.
Reptile World Serpentarium is located in the St. Cloud area, which offers a more local Florida experience. It's a good stop if you're exploring the central Florida region outside of the major theme parks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is typically around $15 per ticket. This price is considered reasonable by many visitors for the experience offered, especially considering the unique venom shows.
Advance booking is generally not required. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival. However, it's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for any updates on ticketing policies.
Operating hours can vary, but they are typically open daily. The venom milking shows are scheduled a couple of times a day, so it's best to confirm the exact hours and showtimes on their website or by calling ahead.
Information on specific discounts is not widely advertised. It's worth inquiring at the ticket counter or checking their website for any potential group rates or special offers.
Yes, the serpentarium is generally suitable for all ages. Children often enjoy the interactive elements like feeding turtles and the chance to hold a snake. The venom shows are behind glass, making them safe for viewing.
🎫 🐍 Onsite Experience
You can see a wide variety of snakes, including venomous species like cobras and rattlesnakes, as well as non-venomous ones. They also have alligators, crocodiles, lizards, and turtles. +1
The venom milking show features expert herpetologists demonstrating how they safely extract venom from dangerous snakes. It's a thrilling and educational experience that many visitors highlight as a must-see.
Yes, visitors often have the opportunity to hold a snake under supervision. This is a popular activity for those wanting a closer encounter.
Visitor feedback on enclosure maintenance is mixed. Some find them impressive and the animals well-cared for, while others note that some areas appear dated or could benefit from more enrichment.
Most visitors spend between 1 to 3 hours at the serpentarium, depending on their interest in the exhibits and whether they stay for the venom milking shows and other demonstrations.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed. Many visitors capture photos and videos of the diverse reptiles and the exciting venom milking demonstrations.
While general photography is permitted, be mindful of flash photography, especially around the animals. It's always best to check for any specific signage or ask staff if you're unsure.
The snake exhibits offer great opportunities for close-up shots. The venom milking shows, when viewed from the designated areas, also provide dramatic photo moments.
You can take selfies while holding a snake, as this is an offered experience. However, do not attempt to get too close to the animals in their enclosures for selfies, as this can disturb them and be unsafe.
While not explicitly advertised, the unique nature of the serpentarium and its inhabitants could appeal to photographers. The venom extraction demonstrations offer particularly striking visual content.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The live venom-milking shows, while behind glass, are thrilling for all ages. Interactive elements like feeding the turtles and the supervised snake-holding experience are particularly popular with younger visitors.
🐍 Reptile Enthusiasts & Herpetology Buffs
+1While the collection is impressive, enthusiasts might want to be prepared for varying conditions in the enclosures. However, the chance to witness expert handling and learn about different species directly from experienced staff can still make for a valuable visit.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+1 Capturing close-ups of snakes, the powerful presence of alligators, and the skilled movements of the herpetologists can result in striking imagery. Be sure to check the lighting conditions within the exhibits and be mindful of any flash restrictions. The opportunity to film or photograph the venom extraction process offers particularly dynamic content.
+1 The chance to hold a snake also provides unique photo opportunities for personal or social media content. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Venom Extraction
+2 This is not just a spectacle; it's an educational demonstration that showcases the power and importance of these creatures in scientific research and antivenom production. Visitors often express awe at the skill and bravery involved. These demonstrations are crucial for collecting venom used in medical research and creating life-saving antivenoms. The serpentarium plays a vital role in this process, contributing to both conservation efforts and public safety. The behind-the-glass viewing ensures a safe experience for everyone while still offering an up-close look at this fascinating procedure.
+1It's important to note that while the venom extraction is a thrilling part of the visit, the snakes are safely contained behind glass during the shows. This allows the audience to witness the process without any risk. The expertise of the handlers ensures the well-being of the animals throughout the demonstration.
A Closer Look at the Reptile Collection
While the collection itself is a major draw, some reviews mention that the animal enclosures could benefit from more enrichment and updated habitats.
Beyond the snakes, the presence of alligators, crocodiles, and turtles adds to the overall diversity of the animal encounters. These larger reptiles provide a different kind of awe-inspiring viewing experience. Visitors can observe their behaviors and appreciate their unique adaptations.
+1Community Perspectives on Animal Welfare
However, a significant number of reviews express concern regarding the condition of some enclosures and the health of certain animals. Some visitors have noted issues like inadequate substrate, lack of proper heat control, stuck shed on reptiles, and visible wounds or breathing difficulties in some animals.
It's a complex situation where the passion of the owner is acknowledged, but the practical care and upkeep of a large collection of animals present challenges. Visitors who are passionate about animal welfare may find these aspects concerning, while others may focus more on the educational and entertainment value of the venom shows and the diverse reptile collection.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit