Everglades Tickets

Everglades National Park Tours

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View of the boat during Everglades Airboat Tours & Rides
Airboat with tourists gliding through Everglades National Park wetlands.
Everglades National Park waterway with lily pads and marsh vegetation.
Alligator in water during Everglades National Park airboat tour.
Tourists seated on an airboat in Everglades National Park, surrounded by lush greenery.
Person on airboat exploring Everglades National Park wetlands under blue sky.
Tourists on an airboat in Everglades National Park, Miami, surrounded by water and vegetation.
Roseate spoonbills wading in Everglades National Park during airboat tour.
Young alligator in water among reeds, Everglades National Park airboat tour.
Guests on an airboat tour in Everglades National Park surrounded by lush greenery.

Guided Tours

Everglades National Park: Airboat Tour with Reptile Exhibit

Let an expert local guide show you Florida’s wildlife up close on this airboat tour of Everglades National Park at Coopertown.

  • Everything you get: Get a personalized, guided airboat tour of Everglades National Park, and learn about the Everglades’ wildlife & ecosystem. See Florida alligators, the Purple Gallinule, herons, and other wildlife thriving in their habitat. Meet the locals at Coopertown for more insight into their history & culture.
  • Why choose this: The airboat tour, operating since 1945, offers a unique insight into the culture, evolution, and ecosystem of the area, as well as its people. Everglades National Park is 90 miles west of Fort Lauderdale and 60 miles west of Miami, closer to Miami but still within reach from both.
  • Upgrades: Upgrade to enjoy an intimate small group tour (of max 7 people), with admission tickets to Everglades Safari Park, a guided airboat ride of the Everglades, and round-trip transport from select Miami hotels.


Check availability
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
40 min. - 4 hr.

Let an expert local guide show you Florida’s wildlife up close on this airboat tour of Everglades National Park at Coopertown.

  • Everything you get: Get a personalized, guided airboat tour of Everglades National Park, and learn about the Everglades’ wildlife & ecosystem. See Florida alligators, the Purple Gallinule, herons, and other wildlife thriving in their habitat. Meet the locals at Coopertown for more insight into their history & culture.
  • Why choose this: The airboat tour, operating since 1945, offers a unique insight into the culture, evolution, and ecosystem of the area, as well as its people. Everglades National Park is 90 miles west of Fort Lauderdale and 60 miles west of Miami, closer to Miami but still within reach from both.
  • Upgrades: Upgrade to enjoy an intimate small group tour (of max 7 people), with admission tickets to Everglades Safari Park, a guided airboat ride of the Everglades, and round-trip transport from select Miami hotels.

Inclusions #

  • Guided airboat tour of the Everglades

  • Entry to Everglades Safari Park (as per option selected)

  • Access to the alligator exhibit (as per option selected)

  • Round-trip hotel transportation from Miami (as per option selected)

  • Small group tour (max 7 people) (as per option selected)

Exclusions #

  • Everglades National Park entrance fee ($20–$35 for those 16 years and older) (as per option selected)

  • Gratuities

  • Food and beverage

What to bring

  • Wear comfortable shoes and clothing for the tour.
  • Carry water, insect repellent, a hat, and sunscreen with you on this experience.

Additional information

  • The entrance fee to Everglades National Park is not included in your base ticket. You’ll pay it separately at the gate at $35 per vehicle or $20 per person. Children 15 years and younger can enter for free.
  • The first airboat tour begins at 9am and the final airboat tour for the day departs at 4:30pm.
  • Airboats depart every 20 to 30 minutes.
  • The final animal show begins at 4:30pm, and the last airboat tour departs at 5pm
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Airboat tour in Everglades Safari Park with passengers enjoying the ride, Miami.
Everglades wetland view with lily pads and reeds, part of Miami safari tour.
Airboat tour in Everglades Safari Park with group observing wildlife, Miami transfer included.
Alligator resting on a log at Everglades Safari Park, Miami tour.
Tourists on an airboat ride through Everglades Safari Park, Miami, surrounded by palm trees and water lilies.

Guided Tours

Everglades National Park: Safari Park Airboat Tour with Transportation from Miami

An intimate group tour to Everglades Safari Park with an airboat ride & round-trip transportation.

  • Everything you get: Enjoy complimentary round-trip transportation from Miami hotels, a guided drive to Everglades Safari Park, an exhilarating airboat ride, wildlife shows, nature trails, and the option to dine or shop, all in a small group of no more than 7 guests.
  • Why choose this: At 53 miles from Fort Lauderdale and 49 miles from Miami, Everglades Safari Park offers a location closer to Miami but still an easy trip from either city.


Check availability
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
4 hr.
Transfers available

An intimate group tour to Everglades Safari Park with an airboat ride & round-trip transportation.

  • Everything you get: Enjoy complimentary round-trip transportation from Miami hotels, a guided drive to Everglades Safari Park, an exhilarating airboat ride, wildlife shows, nature trails, and the option to dine or shop, all in a small group of no more than 7 guests.
  • Why choose this: At 53 miles from Fort Lauderdale and 49 miles from Miami, Everglades Safari Park offers a location closer to Miami but still an easy trip from either city.

Inclusions #

  • Entry to Everglades Safari Park

  • Airboat ride

  • Round-trip hotel transportation from Miami

  • Small group tour (max 7 people)

  • Pickup times will be confirmed 1–3 days before your tour. If you're unable to check your email or phone, please be in the lobby at least 30 minutes before departure.
  • Dress for comfort in the Everglades' heat and humidity. Opt for breathable clothes like t-shirts, shorts, or moisture-wicking fabrics.
  • Closed-toe shoes or sturdy sneakers are ideal for navigating muddy or uneven paths.
  • Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses to shield yourself from the strong sun.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Airboat tour in Everglades Holiday Park with passengers exploring wetlands.
Airboat cruising through Everglades Holiday Park waterway surrounded by lush greenery.
Man interacting with an alligator at Everglades Holiday Park during an airboat tour.
Everglades airboat tour with passengers gliding through wetlands under a clear sky.
Man interacting with an alligator during Everglades airboat tour.
Alligators with open mouths on Everglades airboat tour.
Children holding a small alligator during Everglades airboat tour experience.
Child holding an alligator puppet at Everglades gift shop during airboat tour.

Guided Tours

Miami: Everglades Holiday Park Airboat Tour with Alligator Show

Glide through Everglades Holiday Park on an airboat, spot wild alligators, and catch a thrilling Gator Boys show.

  • Everything you get: A 60-minute airboat ride guided by an expert, gliding through the Everglades’ cypress forests. Enjoy a 20-minute live alligator show by the Gator Boys and receive a free professional group photo. Access the gift shop, cozy café, and general store for souvenirs and refreshments.
  • Why choose this: Located about 22 miles west of Fort Lauderdale, Everglades Holiday Park sits in an easy-to-reach spot for visitors from both directions.
  • Upgrades: Travel with ease, book the airboat tour with round-trip Miami transportation.


Check availability
Book now, pay later
Flexible duration
Pickup available

Glide through Everglades Holiday Park on an airboat, spot wild alligators, and catch a thrilling Gator Boys show.

  • Everything you get: A 60-minute airboat ride guided by an expert, gliding through the Everglades’ cypress forests. Enjoy a 20-minute live alligator show by the Gator Boys and receive a free professional group photo. Access the gift shop, cozy café, and general store for souvenirs and refreshments.
  • Why choose this: Located about 22 miles west of Fort Lauderdale, Everglades Holiday Park sits in an easy-to-reach spot for visitors from both directions.
  • Upgrades: Travel with ease, book the airboat tour with round-trip Miami transportation.

Inclusions #

  • Fully narrated Everglades airboat tour

  • English-speaking guide

  • Gator Boys alligator show

  • 1 free group photo per party

  • Access to gift shop and café

  • Bring along the credit card used for your online purchase (matching the last four digits) along with a matching driver’s license for verification.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Airboat gliding through Everglades at Sawgrass Recreation Park with passengers.
Airboat gliding through Everglades marshland on a private 1-hour adventure tour.
Airboat with tourists in Everglades at Sawgrass Recreation Park.
Alligator on grass in Everglades reptile exhibit.
Visitors feeding a tortoise at Sawgrass Recreation Park Wildlife Show.
Children interacting with a small alligator at Everglades reptile exhibit.
Group on an airboat during a night tour in the Everglades, surrounded by marshland.
Alligator partially submerged in Everglades water during night airboat tour.

Guided Tours

Miami: Sawgrass Recreation Park Airboat Tour with Reptile Exhibit & Optional Transportation

Zoom through Sawgrass Recreation Park on an airboat and encounter Florida’s native reptiles up close.

  • Everything you get: Set out on a 40-minute airboat journey with a professional guide and explore the park’s wetlands, home to alligators, birds, and other wildlife. After your ride, visit the reptile exhibit, where you can see native species like snakes and turtles.
  • Why choose this: Sawgrass Recreation Park is approximately 30 miles west of Fort Lauderdale and 40 miles west of Miami, making it easily accessible for guests from both cities.
  • Upgrades: Choose an airboat night tour to explore the wetlands after dark or opt for a private airboat tour for a more exclusive experience. Alternatively, you can select the round-trip transportation option, where you'll be picked up and dropped off at Fort Lauderdale hotels.


Check availability
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
1 hr. - 4 hr.
Transfers available
Pickup available

Zoom through Sawgrass Recreation Park on an airboat and encounter Florida’s native reptiles up close.

  • Everything you get: Set out on a 40-minute airboat journey with a professional guide and explore the park’s wetlands, home to alligators, birds, and other wildlife. After your ride, visit the reptile exhibit, where you can see native species like snakes and turtles.
  • Why choose this: Sawgrass Recreation Park is approximately 30 miles west of Fort Lauderdale and 40 miles west of Miami, making it easily accessible for guests from both cities.
  • Upgrades: Choose an airboat night tour to explore the wetlands after dark or opt for a private airboat tour for a more exclusive experience. Alternatively, you can select the round-trip transportation option, where you'll be picked up and dropped off at Fort Lauderdale hotels.

Inclusions #

  • 40-min airboat tour

  • Live English-speaking guide

  • Entry to alligator and reptile exhibit

  • Ear protection for airboat ride.

  • Nighttime airboat tour (as per option selected)

  • Private airboat tour (as per option selected)

  • Airboat tour with round-trip transportation from downtown Fort Lauderdale (as per option selected)

Accessibility

  • The boats are not wheelchair accessible, but the exhibits are.

Additional information

  • The night tour also comes with access to the alligator and reptile exhibit during the day of your visit.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Guests on airboat tour in national park, viewing open water and distant trees.
American White Pelicans on a sandbar during National Park airboat tour.
Roseate Spoonbills wading in marsh during National Park airboat tour.
Guests photographing scenery on airboat during National Park tour.
Alligator with open mouth in wetland during National Park airboat tour.
Blue Heron standing among mangrove roots during National Park airboat tour.

Guided Tours

Everglades National Park: Full‑Day Tour with Airboat, Dry Walk & Transportation

Discover the Everglades on a full-day adventure with both airboat thrills and a guided dry walk.

  • Everything you get: On this full‑day adventure, enjoy a narrated 25‑min scenic drive, a 1‑hour airboat ride, an 80‑min 10,000 Islands cruise, a 1.5‑hour nature walk, and lunch in Everglades City, with seamless round-trip transportation.
  • Why choose this: At 90 miles from Fort Lauderdale and 60 miles from Miami, Everglades National Park is more convenient for guests coming from Miami, while still reachable from both.


Check availability
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
9 hr.
Transfers available
Pickup available
Meals included

Discover the Everglades on a full-day adventure with both airboat thrills and a guided dry walk.

  • Everything you get: On this full‑day adventure, enjoy a narrated 25‑min scenic drive, a 1‑hour airboat ride, an 80‑min 10,000 Islands cruise, a 1.5‑hour nature walk, and lunch in Everglades City, with seamless round-trip transportation.
  • Why choose this: At 90 miles from Fort Lauderdale and 60 miles from Miami, Everglades National Park is more convenient for guests coming from Miami, while still reachable from both.

Inclusions #

  • National Park entry fee

  • Round‑trip transportation from Miami & Ft. Lauderdale hotels, airports & cruise ports (restrictions apply)

  • 1‑hour airboat ride in the “River of Grass”

  • 80‑minute boat trip through the 10,000 Islands

  • 1.5‑hour naturalist‑led dry walk in Everglades National Park or Big Cypress

  • Narrated scenic drive through

  • Lunch in Everglades City (vegetarian, vegan & gluten‑free options)

  • Snacks, water, sparkling water & other beverages

  • Sunscreen, insect repellent, ponchos & binoculars for guest use

  • Luggage/bag storage

  • Eco water bottle souvenir

Exclusions #

  • Gratuities
  • Tour duration is 9-9.5 hours, including transportation.
  • Pick‑ups: 7:15-8am; meet‑up at Miccosukee General Store (8:30-8:40am).
  • Minimum age: 5 years
  • Wear comfortable shoes; hiking boots are not required.
  • Bring a hat, sunglasses & weather‑appropriate clothing.
  • Carry a reusable water bottle; insect repellent recommended.
  • Valid photo ID required for pickup verification.
  • Pets not permitted (service animals are allowed).
  • Alcohol, drugs, smoking & vaping are prohibited.
  • Large bags not allowed; luggage storage provided.
  • This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
  • Transportation is available from hotels and other locations in Miami and Ft. Lauderdale; ensure your pickup location is confirmed after booking.
  • The tour may be rescheduled or canceled in severe weather.
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Please arrive 10 minutes early at your pickup point.
  • Boat activities may not suit guests with certain medical conditions or mobility issues.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Guests on airboat ride in Everglades, viewing lush greenery and thatched huts.
Guests on airboat ride through Everglades wetlands, Florida, surrounded by lush vegetation.
Tour guide explaining flora to guests on Everglades nature trail.
Guests on a guided nature walk in Everglades National Park.
Guests interacting with park ranger at Everglades visitor center before guided nature walk.
American White ibis walking in Everglades during nature tour.

Guided Tours

Everglades National Park: Half‑Day Tour with Airboat, Guided Nature Walk & Transportation

Explore the River of Grass on a Native-guided airboat and on foot, with round-trip transportation**.**

  • Everything you get: On this half‑day adventure, enjoy a narrated 25-min scenic drive, a thrilling 1-hour airboat ride far from shore, and a 1.5-hour nature walk to spot native wildlife and learn about the unique ecosystem. This part-day tour includes transportation options from Miami and Fort Lauderdale for added convenience.
  • Why choose this: Located 90 miles west of Fort Lauderdale and 60 miles west of Miami, the park is closer to Miami but remains an easy trip from either.


Check availability
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
5 hr. 30 min.
Transfers available
Pickup available

Explore the River of Grass on a Native-guided airboat and on foot, with round-trip transportation**.**

  • Everything you get: On this half‑day adventure, enjoy a narrated 25-min scenic drive, a thrilling 1-hour airboat ride far from shore, and a 1.5-hour nature walk to spot native wildlife and learn about the unique ecosystem. This part-day tour includes transportation options from Miami and Fort Lauderdale for added convenience.
  • Why choose this: Located 90 miles west of Fort Lauderdale and 60 miles west of Miami, the park is closer to Miami but remains an easy trip from either.

Inclusions #

  • National Park entry fee

  • Round-trip transportation from hotels

  • Transportation to and from select airports & cruise ports (restrictions apply)

  • 1-hour airboat ride

  • 1.5-hour naturalist‑led nature walk

  • Narrated scenic drive

  • Snacks, water, sparkling water & beverages

  • Sunscreen, insect repellent, ponchos & binoculars

  • Luggage/bag storage

  • Eco water bottle souvenir

Exclusions #

Gratuities

  • The tour runs for 5.5 to 6 hours, including transportation.
  • Pick‑ups 7:15–8am; meet‑up option at Miccosukee General Store (8:30–8:40am).
  • The minimum age for participation is 5 years.
  • Wear comfortable shoes; no hiking boots needed.
  • Bring a hat or sunglasses.
  • Bring comfortable walking shoes suitable for nature trails.
  • Wear weather-appropriate clothing and consider bringing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection.
  • Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during the tour.
  • Bring insect repellent, especially during warmer months.
  • Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at pickup.
  • Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
  • Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited during the tour.
  • Smoking and vaping are not allowed on the airboat or during the nature walk.
  • Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed on the tour. You will be provided with luggage storage.
  • This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off are available from select locations in Miami and Fort Lauderdale; confirm your pickup details after booking.
  • The tour operates in most weather conditions; in case of severe weather, the experience may be rescheduled or canceled.
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
  • Please arrive at your designated pickup point at least 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
  • The airboat ride and nature walk may not be suitable for guests with certain medical conditions or mobility issues.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

From happy customers

Loved by 49 million+
Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5

Lefevre I

Group
3 weeks ago

It was very nice and very friendly We have the chance to see crocodile 🐊 and iguane Merveillous to be done again in Sawgrass

Mariya B

United States
Couple
Jan 2026


This was fun! We saw multilpe alligators, birds, a large iguana which hid itselt looking like a tree branch, and had an amazing experience riding airboat through evergrlades while learning interesting facts about alligators, birds, and everglades. Then, we visited the animal exhibit and saw a cool turtle & snake presentation, saw more alligators, and tasted gator bites from the food truck. An awesome Florida experience. Can't believe we've visited Florida many times and never had this cool experience before. Higly recommend it!

Blanka S

Poland
Family
4 days ago
An airboat ride that truly surprised me fast, wild, and full of life. We spotted seven alligators and a turtle, but the real highlight was our driver’s skillful, playful maneuvers that made the whole experience feel like a mini adventure show. Absolutely unforgettable.

Mary C

United States
Group
6 days ago
#Julie was an excellent guide and told us so many wonderful things about the Everglades as well as the alligator/reptile and bird area. She picked us up, waited for us and we all really enjoyed her and her knowledge. Thank you

Silvana H

Couple
Feb 2026
A very friendly driver named German, with tons of patience. Also the 'captain' put lots of energy in showing the alligators

Ernesto C

United States
Family
Jan 2026
I went two times and the last day at the Everglades was fantastic, our boat captain Nadim was amazing; he took us to different areas and we saw three crocodiles. When he did the "Tokyo Drift" we were all astonished, great maneuvering and control. The facilites are clean and everithing is very well organized. Very sage and highly recommended. I will be back! Thank you

James E

United States
Family
Dec 2025
Great time ! Great experience for kids and all ages! Very organized and the staff was great ! Snacks and fun gift store all in walking distance

Pauline J

United Kingdom
Couple
Nov 2025
The Airboat Tour was very enjoyable, everyone was friendly and helpful. Amazing to see the gators up close in their natural habitat!

Top things to do in Miami

Everglades National Park | Discover the wild heart of Florida

Get ready to explore the wild side of Florida at Everglades National Park. From exhilarating airboat rides to up-close wildlife encounters, this natural wonder is packed with experiences you won’t forget. Whether you're searching for the best tours or curious about the top things to do, this guide has you covered.

Why visit Everglades National Park

Alligator swimming in Florida wetlands during airboat tour.
Airboat gliding through Everglades with tourists, showcasing Everglades Holiday Park tour.
Aerial view of the Everglades with airboat in middle
Heron standing in the swamp during an Everglades National Park airboat tour.
Guests enjoying wildlife park in Everglades
1/5

See alligators in the wild

Everglades National Park is one of the best places in the world to see alligators in their natural habitat. You’ll spot them sunbathing on the banks or gliding silently through the water, especially on a guided tour or airboat ride.

Take a time-honored Everglades airboat tour

No visit is complete without an airboat ride through the park’s vast “River of Grass.” These popular tours let you skim across the wetlands while expert guides point out hidden wildlife and share cool facts about the ecosystem.

Explore a unique subtropical wilderness

Everglades National Park protects the largest subtropical wilderness in the US, a rare landscape of sawgrass marshes, cypress swamps, and mangrove forests. It’s unlike any other national park, both in scenery and in scale.

Top spot for birdwatching and nature trails

A birdwatcher’s paradise, the park is a haven for bird lovers, with over 360 species including herons, egrets, and wood storks. Scenic trails like the Anhinga Trail or Shark Valley Loop make it easy to explore on foot or by bike.

Easy access from multiple entrances

Whether you're coming from Miami, Homestead, or Everglades City, the park has several convenient entrances. Each offers a different gateway into the park’s diverse landscapes and guided tour options, perfect for planning your ideal visit.

Things to know before booking your tour

  • Know the park: Everglades National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest subtropical wilderness in the US. It’s perfect if you want to experience the heart of the Everglades ecosystem, not just nearby wetlands or wildlife parks.
  • Transportation: Staying in Miami? Skip the rental car and go for the tour with round-trip transportation from South Beach. It’s hassle-free and includes both your ride and a guided airboat tour inside the park.
  • Airboat tours from the park: Want something more local and rooted in Everglades history? The Coopertown airboat tour lets you glide through the River of Grass, visit an alligator exhibit, and connect with the original airboat tour operators of the Everglades.
  • Park entrance fee: The entrance to Everglades National Park costs $35 per vehicle or $20 per person and is not included in all tours. Some experiences, like the tour from Miami cover this fee. Other experiences, like the Coopertown airboat tour, require you to pay it separately at the gate.

Which Everglades National Park tour is right for you

Daytime tour

This is a great pick if you’re looking to explore Everglades National Park during the day on a guided airboat ride. On this 40-min tour, you’ll glide over the “River of Grass” with a local expert, spot wildlife like alligators, herons, and the endangered Everglade Snail Kite, and learn about the unique ecosystem of the park.

Recommended tour:

  • Everglades National Park Airboat Tour

Tour with transport

Don’t want to drive? Choose this convenient tour with round-trip transportation from South Beach or Downtown Miami. Once you arrive at the park, you’ll take a 45-min airboat ride through pristine wetlands, spot wildlife in their natural habitat, and enjoy a short wildlife presentation. It’s a hassle-free way to see the Everglades in half a day.

Recommended tour:

  • From Miami: Everglades National Park Airboat Tour

Coopertown experience

For an authentic experience rooted in local history, head to Coopertown, where the original Everglades airboat tours began. This experience gives you more than just a ride, it offers a deep dive into the culture and community surrounding the Everglades. After your tour, meet the locals, sign the guestbook, and visit the alligator exhibit to round out your visit.

Recommended tour:

  • Everglades National Park Airboat Tour

Snapshots from the wild side: Highlights of an Everglades National Park tour

Aerial view of the Everglades Holiday Park Airboat Tour

The iconic “River of Grass”

An endless stretch of sawgrass marshes defines the Everglades landscape. The airboat ride takes you across these vast waters, offering a true sense of the park’s scale and serenity.

Alligator spotted during Everglades National Park Airboat Tour
American White ibis foraging in Everglades wetlands during nature walk tour.
Aerial view of lush mangroves and waterways in Everglades National Park, Florida, USA.
View of alligator during Everglades Safari Park tour with Transfers from Miami

Plan your visit

Visitors observing wildlife at Everglades park, Florida.

Park timings: Open daily 24 hours a day

Entrances:

  • Main Entrance in Homestead: Open 24 hours a day throughout the year
  • Miami entrance in Shark Valley: From 8:30am to 6pm
  • Everglades City / Naples Entrance in Gulf Coast: Open 24 hours a day throughout the year

Visitor center timings:

  • Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center: 8am or 9am to 5pm, depending on the season
  • The Flamingo Visitor Center: 8am to 4:30pm
  • Shark Valley Visitor Center: 8:30am to 6 pm; vehicles must exit by 6pm
View of Guests enjoying the Airboat Ride in Everglades National Park.
  • Winter months (December to April) are the dry season and offer cooler temperatures, fewer mosquitoes, and better wildlife spotting, making it the most popular time to visit.
  • Go earlier in the mornings when wildlife is more active, for a more rewarding experience.
  • Avoid the rainy season (May to November), when the weather gets hotter and wetter, with frequent afternoon storms. There are more bugs during this time, but the landscape is lush and green—definitely a view for sore eyes.

Everglades National Park has two main entrances, each leading to different ecosystems and activities within the park. Note that these entrances are not connected within the park—plan your route based on what you want to see and do.

Main Entrance (Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center)

Address: 40001 State Highway 9336, Homestead, FL 33034, United States | Find on Maps

Closest city: Homestead, FL

Highlights: The most popular gateway for first-time visitors. From here, you can access Royal Palm, Anhinga Trail, Long Pine Key, and drive down to Flamingo.

Shark Valley Entrance

Address: 36000 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33194, United States | Find on Maps

Closest city: Miami, FL

Highlights: Great for a quick visit from Miami. Known for its 15-mile paved loop, observation tower, and excellent chances to see alligators and birds year-round.

Wheelchair accessible entrance route sign with directional arrow.
  • Wheelchair-accessible facilities are available at major visitor centers like Ernest F. Coe, Shark Valley, and Gulf Coast, including accessible restrooms, exhibits, and parking.
  • Paved trails like the Anhinga Trail and Pa-hay-okee Overlook are stroller- and wheelchair-friendly, offering smooth surfaces and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Service animals are welcome throughout the park, including on trails and in visitor centers, in accordance with ADA guidelines.
Tourists feeding alligators at Everglades Alligator Park and Farm, Florida.
  • Stick to the trails and boardwalks. They’re there for a reason, both to protect the wildlife and to keep you out of tricky (and sometimes dangerous) spots.
  • Don’t feed or get too close to the animals. Yes, those alligators are amazing to see, but they’re wild, and it’s best for both of you if you keep a respectful distance.
  • Keep an eye on the weather. Storms can roll in fast during the wet season (May to October), so check the forecast before heading out and be ready to change plans if needed.
  • Follow all signs and listen to park rangers. They know the area best and are there to help you have a safe and enjoyable adventure.
Visitors on a guided nature walk in Everglades National Park, observing diverse wildlife and lush landscapes.
  • Dress for the outdoors. Lightweight clothing, comfy shoes, a hat, and sunglasses will make a huge difference, especially on airboat rides or walking trails.
  • Bring snacks and water. There are limited food options inside the park, so it’s smart to pack your own. Just be sure to keep it sealed and clean up after yourself.
  • Don’t forget the bug spray. The Everglades are beautiful but buggy, especially during the wet season. A good insect repellent is your best friend out here.
  • Download maps in advance. Cell service can be spotty in some areas, so it’s a good idea to download the park map or carry a printed one, just in case.
Everglades cuisine serving breaded catfish at a restaurant.

While the park itself is more about nature than restaurants, there are a few convenient spots to grab a bite nearby:

  • Coopertown Restaurant (US-41): Right next to Coopertown Airboat Tours, this old-school spot serves Everglades-style dishes like frog legs and catfish.
  • Miccosukee Restaurant (Tamiami Trail): Located inside the Miccosukee Resort, this spot offers a mix of Native American and American comfort food.
  • Camellia Street Grill (Everglades City): A quirky, colorful restaurant near the Gulf Coast entrance known for fresh seafood and outdoor seating on the water.

Explore more Everglades experiences

Discover more ways to explore the Everglades with these nearby parks, each offering its own unique take on this extraordinary ecosystem.

Everglades Safari Park

The Safari Park is the perfect spot if you’re after some adventure mixed with a bit of wildlife fun. Known for its airboat rides and wildlife shows, it’s especially great for families and first-timers who want to dive into the Everglades without any fuss.

Everglades Holiday Park

This is where you’ll find the famous Gator Boys from Animal Planet, and it’s packed with heart-pounding airboat rides and live alligator shows. If you’re all about thrilling adventures combined with some wild entertainment, the Everglades Holiday Park is made for you.

Frequently asked questions about Everglades National Park tours

Go for a daytime airboat tour with a naturalist guide or a package with hotel transport from Miami. These tours offer wildlife spotting, educational talks, and access to hidden wetland gems.