Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park
The Everglades National Park is a unique natural wonder that covers 1.5 million acres of southern Florida. Unlike your typical national park with mountains and forests, the Everglades is actually a slow-moving river of grass that's home to an incredible variety of wildlife.
This vast wetland ecosystem is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States and has been designated as a World Heritage Site. It's one of the few places on Earth where alligators and crocodiles exist side by side. Keep your eyes peeled for these prehistoric-looking reptiles sunning themselves on the banks or floating quietly in the water.
The Everglades has a fascinating history tied to conservation efforts. In the early 20th century, many viewed it as a worthless swamp to be drained for development. Thanks to environmental advocates like Marjory Stoneman Douglas, who famously called it a "river of grass," the area was protected as a national park in 1947.
The park is also culturally significant as the ancestral home of the Seminole and Miccosukee tribes, who adapted to life in these challenging wetlands. Their traditional way of life revolved around the seasonal rhythms of the Everglades.
The best time to visit is during the dry season (November to April) when wildlife concentrates around remaining water sources, making animals easier to spot and mosquitoes less of a nuisance.
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Things to do in Everglades National Park
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Hike the Anhinga Trail
The Anhinga Trail is one of the most accessible and rewarding walks in the Everglades. This short, mostly boardwalk path winds through a sawgrass marsh filled with a variety of wildlife. Along the way, it is common to see alligators resting close to the trail, while herons and egrets search the shallow waters for fish, creating scenes that feel like a live nature documentary.
The trail is named after the anhinga, a bird known for diving underwater to catch fish and later spreading its wings to dry in the sun. Visitors often spot these birds perched nearby, along with turtles, fish, and occasionally a crocodile. The boardwalk allows for safe, close-up viewing of these animals without disrupting their environment.
Although the loop is only about 0.8 miles, it is worth taking time to pause and observe the surroundings. Many visitors spend at least an hour on the trail, especially during sunrise or sunset, when the lighting is soft and the wildlife is most active. Bringing a camera and binoculars is recommended to capture the experience fully.
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Bike the Shark Valley Tram Road
Cycling the Shark Valley Tram Road provides a relaxed and immersive way to experience the Everglades. This 15-mile paved loop leads deep into the expansive "River of Grass," with plenty of opportunities to view wildlife and take in the scenery. Bicycles are available for rent at the visitor center, though many prefer to bring their own.
The ride passes through sweeping sawgrass prairies, occasionally broken up by small clusters of trees. Alligators are often seen resting near the path, while a variety of bird species, including herons, egrets, and occasionally the endangered wood stork, can be observed along the way. Despite their presence, the alligators typically remain undisturbed by passing cyclists.
Roughly halfway through the route, cyclists reach a 65-foot observation tower. From the top, there are wide, panoramic views of the Everglades landscape. It is an ideal place to pause for rest and photographs. Completing the entire loop usually takes two to three hours, depending on how frequently stops are made. Mornings offer cooler temperatures and better chances to see active wildlife. Riders are advised to bring sufficient water, sun protection, and to prepare for a flat, easy journey through one of Florida's most distinctive environments.
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Everglades Airboat Adventure & Gator Show
The Everglades Airboat Adventure offers an exciting journey through Florida’s iconic wetlands. Passengers glide across the shallow waters and thick sawgrass marshes of the "River of Grass" aboard a high-speed airboat. Along the way, there are opportunities to spot wildlife such as alligators resting on logs, turtles surfacing for air, and a variety of unique bird species native to the region.
One of the highlights of the experience is observing alligators in their natural environment, providing a closer look at these ancient creatures. Knowledgeable guides share insights into the Everglades’ complex ecosystems during the ride. After the airboat tour, visitors can attend a gator show featuring traditional Native American techniques once used in alligator wrestling.
For those interested in a more interactive experience, there is a chance to have a photo taken with Jaws, the park’s well-known resident alligator. To round out the visit, guests can stop by the on-site restaurant to sample local specialties such as deep-fried alligator tail or gator sausage. Bringing insect repellent is recommended to ensure a comfortable adventure in the wetlands.
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Visit the Miccosukee Indian Village
For a unique cultural experience in the Everglades, head to the Miccosukee Indian Village. This living museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and traditions of the Miccosukee Tribe, who have called the Everglades home for generations. It's a great way to learn about the human history of this incredible ecosystem.
At the village, you can watch demonstrations of traditional crafts like wood carving and patchwork, which the Miccosukee are famous for. There's also a small museum with exhibits on tribal history and culture. One of the highlights is the alligator demonstrations, where tribal members showcase their traditional interactions with these powerful reptiles.
Make sure to try some traditional Miccosukee food at the on-site restaurant – the fry bread is delicious! You can also take an airboat ride from the village into the surrounding wetlands, getting a Miccosukee perspective on the Everglades ecosystem. Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours here to fully experience everything. It's a great reminder that the Everglades isn't just a nature preserve, but also a living landscape with a rich human history.
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Take a night tour to spot nocturnal wildlife
Exploring the Everglades at night offers a completely different experience from daytime visits. Guided night tours reveal a hidden side of the park, as the wetlands become active with the sounds of frogs, insects, and nocturnal birds. Guides use spotlights to help visitors observe wildlife, often catching the reflective glow of alligator eyes in the water.
As you move through the area, it is possible to see owls gliding silently overhead or hear the splash of a heron hunting in the dark. Raccoons and opossums are sometimes spotted foraging along the water’s edge. On rare occasions, the elusive Florida panther may make an appearance. Clear nights provide excellent stargazing opportunities, thanks to the minimal light pollution, creating a quiet and atmospheric setting.
These night tours typically last two to three hours and are conducted either on foot or by boat, depending on the location and tour provider. Knowledgeable naturalists lead the way, sharing insights about the park’s ecosystem and nocturnal wildlife. Visitors are encouraged to bring insect repellent and a light jacket, as temperatures tend to drop and mosquitoes become more active after sunset.
Where to stay in Everglades National Park
Best hotels in Everglades National Park:
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Travelodge (budget hotel)
The Travelodge in Florida City is a convenient spot for exploring the Everglades and the Florida Keys. Located just off Highway 1, it's an easy 9-mile drive to Everglades National Park. The hotel has all the basics covered - free Wi-Fi, a business center, and an outdoor pool that's heated seasonally.
The rooms come equipped with microwaves, mini-fridges, and 32-inch TVs. There's also a free hot breakfast to fuel up before a day of adventures. For shoppers, the Florida Keys Outlet Center is only 2 miles away. And racing fans can catch some action at the Homestead-Miami Speedway about 5 miles from the hotel.
Overall, it's a solid choice if you want a no-frills place to crash that's close to major attractions. The location right near restaurants and shops is a big plus. While it may not be fancy, it offers good value and easy access to explore the natural beauty of South Florida.
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Hilton Garden Inn (medium range hotel)
The Hilton Garden Inn in Homestead is a great option for travelers looking to explore the Everglades area. Located just 4 miles from Florida Keys Factory Shops, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and plenty of amenities to make your stay enjoyable.
The outdoor pool is perfect for cooling off after a day of sightseeing. There's also a fitness center if you want to squeeze in a workout. For meals, you can dine at the on-site restaurant or grab a drink at the bar. The rooms come equipped with free WiFi, a TV, microwave, and mini-fridge.
One of the best things about this hotel is its convenient location. It's close to shopping, restaurants, and major attractions like Biscayne National Park and the Everglades. The friendly staff gets great reviews for their service too. Overall, the Hilton Garden Inn provides a reliable and comfortable home base for exploring all that South Florida has to offer.
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Mizner Place (resort)
Mizner Place at Weston Town Center is a fantastic spot for a relaxing getaway in Florida. The Spanish and Mediterranean-inspired resort offers spacious suites with all the comforts of home, including full kitchens and living areas. The highlight is definitely the gorgeous outdoor pool area - perfect for soaking up the Florida sunshine.
Shops, restaurants and entertainment at the Town Center. The friendly staff go above and beyond to make your stay comfortable. And with amenities like a fitness center, BBQ facilities, and free parking, you have everything you need for a stress-free vacation. Whether you're traveling as a couple or with family, Mizner Place provides an ideal home base for exploring all that South Florida has to offer.
book now on booking.com