Everglades National Park

Everglades

A vast subtropical wetland ecosystem spanning 1.5 million acres with alligators, manatees, and exotic bird species. It's a unique natural wonder and UNESCO World Heritage Site offering airboat tours and nature trails.

Things to do

• Airboat Tours — Experience the shallow waters and wildlife up close on guided airboat excursions departing from multiple visitor centers throughout the park.
• Anhinga Trail — Walk this popular 0.8-mile boardwalk loop near the Royal Palm entrance to spot anhinga birds, alligators, and wading birds in their natural habitat.
• Shark Valley Bike Trail — Cycle or hike the 15-mile loop on this scenic trail offering views of sawgrass marshes, alligators, and a 65-foot observation tower at the midpoint.
• Gumbo Limbo Trail — Trek this easy 0.4-mile boardwalk through hardwood hammock forest to see native trees, wildlife, and a small beach along Taylor Creek.
• Ten Thousand Islands Kayaking — Paddle through mangrove channels and shallow waters on the western side of the park to explore secluded islands and spot dolphins and manatees.
• Tamiami Trail Drive — Drive the scenic 41-mile stretch through the park along Highway 41, stopping at multiple pullouts and interpretive areas to view wetland habitats.

Food to try

• Stone Crab Claws — A South Florida delicacy harvested from local waters and served chilled with mustard sauce at nearby restaurants in the Miami and Naples areas.
• Frog Legs — A traditional Creole-influenced dish reflecting the region's heritage, often prepared fried or sautéed at local Florida restaurants near the park.
• Fresh Grouper Sandwich — Local catch prepared simply and served on bread at waterfront restaurants in nearby Everglades City and Naples.
• Swamp Cabbage (Hearts of Palm) — A Florida traditional vegetable harvest sautéed or served fresh, reflecting the agricultural heritage of the surrounding region.
• Gator Tail — Sustainably harvested alligator meat with a mild flavor similar to chicken, served fried or grilled at regional restaurants and food stands.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Restricted Areas — Many sections of the park require permits or guided tours; always check park regulations before entering backcountry or off-trail areas.
• Dawn and Dusk Wildlife Viewing — Early morning and late afternoon offer the best chances to see alligators, manatees, and birds when they are most active and temperatures are cooler.
• Leave No Trace Ethics — The park's delicate ecosystem requires visitors to pack out all trash, stay on designated trails, and avoid feeding or disturbing wildlife at all costs.
• Hurricane Season Awareness — Visit during November through April to avoid the Atlantic hurricane season (June-November) when the park may experience closures and severe weather.