"Cajun Encounters Tours' flat-bottom boats zip along the waterways and canals of Honey Island Swamp, 35 miles from the heart of New Orleans, which teems with gators, boars, and birds. With bald cypress and tupelo trees overhead, guides will point out the gators and—on occasion—lure them with bait, offering an up-close view of their powerful jaws. Although these tours may look a tad cheesy from the outset—reality TV shows about hunting gators haven’t helped—they're educational, fun, and perfect for families." - Stirling Kelso