Gatorback riding is quickly becoming more popular than horseback riding because of gators’ amphibious capabilities and ability to gobble up. Lasso a scaly companion with today's Groupon: for $23, you get two adult tickets for a swamp tour at Pearl River Eco-Tours in Slidell (up to a $46 value). This Groupon can also be applied towards children's tour tickets ($15).

Pearl River Eco-Tours’ swamp tours lead groups through the stately cypress trees and winding bayous of the pristine Honey Island Swamp. Toothy alligators, Louisiana black bears, bald eagles, and many other critters swim, scramble, fly, and complete algebra problems within view of the tours. Guides, all of whom are Coast Guard certified and native to the area, provide local lore about the flora and fauna. Pearl River Eco-Tours' owner/operator, Neil Benson, has been escorting people into the swamp for more than a decade.

After voyaging into the swamp, visitors can lunch on Pearl River Eco-Tours’ well-kempt picnicking grounds or fish from its large dock. A covered, fanned porch provides shade for afternoons spent watching butterflies or contemplating infinity. Pearl River Eco-Tours’ facilities are handicap accessible.