Book Everglades tickets & tours

Miami: Everglades Airboat Tour with Reptile Exhibit & Optional Transportation

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1 hr. - 4 hr.

Guided tour

Transfers included

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Miami: Private Everglades Airboat Tour

Free cancellation

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1 hr.

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Fort Lauderdale: Holiday Park Airboat Tour with Alligator Show

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1 hr. - 4 hr.

Guided tour

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Holiday Park Airboat Tour with Wildlife Show & Animal Encounter Experience

Free cancellation

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Flexible duration

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Best time to visit

River otter resting by the water in South Florida Everglades National Lakes.

Dry season

The dry season from December to April is hands down the best time to go to the Everglades.
Expect cooler, more comfortable temperatures ranging from 55°F (13°C) in the mornings to around 77°F (25°C) during the rest of the day.
Wildlife tends to gather around shrinking water sources, so it’s a great time to spot alligators, wading birds, and more.
Just keep in mind, it’s also the busiest season, so try to arrive early if you want to skip the crowds.

Aerial view of lush mangroves and waterways in Everglades National Park, Florida, USA.

Wet season

Prefer fewer people and don’t mind a little heat? May through November brings the wet season, with temps soaring between 70°F (21°C) and 90°F (32°C), plus afternoon rain showers.
The landscape is lush and green, and there are fewer tourists around.
Just pack bug spray since mosquitoes love this season too.
No matter when you go, weekdays are always quieter than weekends, and early mornings are your best bet for cooler air and active wildlife.

How to get there

From Miami

By car: The quickest way is to take US-1 South, then turn onto FL-9336 W toward the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center. It’s about a 1-hour drive, depending on traffic.
By bus: There’s no direct public bus, but several tour operators offer round-trip transport from Miami hotels to the park, especially to the Homestead and Shark Valley areas.
By taxi: You can use Uber or Lyft to reach the park, especially the Ernest F. Coe or Shark Valley entrances. Just note that signal is spotty, so arrange your return trip in advance.

Fort Lauderdale to Everglades tours

Person sitting in a taxi in New York City, looking out at Times Square.

From Fort Lauderdale

By car: Take I-595 W to US-27 S for Shark Valley or I-75 (Alligator Alley) west toward Everglades City. The drive takes around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the entrance.
By bus: Like Miami, public bus options are very limited. Some guided tours from Fort Lauderdale include transportation to the Everglades, great for a hassle-free day trip.
By taxi: Ride-share services can drop you off at popular entrances, but plan ahead for the return trip as pick-up availability may be limited in remote areas.

Miami to Everglades tours

Here's an in-depth location guide >

Parking facilities

People walking towards a venue for Porto Fado shows, with nearby parking visible.

Here are a few parking areas within the Everglades:

Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center Lot | Find on Maps
Shark Valley Visitor Center parking | Find on Maps
Everglades Safari Park | Find on Maps
Coopertown Airboat Tours | Find on Maps
Sawgrass Recreation Park | Find on Maps
Everglades Holiday Park | Find on Maps

Know before you go

Accessible restrooms with clear signage at a tourist attraction.

Visitor centers: Stop by Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center or Shark Valley Visitor Center for maps, exhibits, and helpful tips from park rangers.
Restrooms: Available at all major visitor areas, so you’ll never be too far from one.
Gift shops: Grab a souvenir or snack at shops located in Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center, and Shark Valley Visitor Center.
Picnic areas: Bring your lunch along and make use of one of the scenic picnic spots throughout the park where you can sit back and relax.

Man pushing a girl in a wheelchair through a scenic park in New York City.

Wheelchair-accessible restrooms and parking spots are available at most major visitor areas, making it easier for everyone to explore the park comfortably.
Some trails, like the Anhinga Trail near Royal Palm, feature wide boardwalks that are smooth and suitable for wheelchairs.
There are some airboats that can accommodate wheelchairs, but it depends on the operator.

Guests enjoying an airboat tour in the Everglades, surrounded by water and reeds.

Baby-changing stations are available at most main visitor centers, making it easier for families with little ones to take care of diaper changes on the go.
Easy walking trails like the Gumbo Limbo Trail and Anhinga Trail are perfect for all ages, even young kids. They're short, flat, and packed with wildlife sightings.
The park offers Ranger-led programs and Junior Ranger activities that are both fun and educational.
You’ll find kid-friendly exhibits and displays at visitor centers, designed to spark curiosity and teach little explorers about the unique ecosystem.
Don’t forget to bring snacks, sunscreen, and plenty of water.

Guests listening to tour guide on Everglades Nature trail during guided walk.

Please don’t feed or disturb the wildlife. It’s not only dangerous for you, but it also disrupts the animals’ natural behavior and diet.
Drones are not allowed anywhere in the park, so be sure to leave them at home to help protect the peace and natural soundscape of the Everglades.
Stick to designated trails and boardwalks, they’re there to keep you safe and to help preserve sensitive habitats and ecosystems.
Pets are welcome only in certain areas, and they must be on a leash at all times. For their safety and that of the wildlife, it’s best to check ahead for pet-friendly zones.
Swimming in canals or freshwater areas is strictly prohibited. These waters are home to alligators and other wildlife, so it’s safer to admire them from a distance.

Burger with fries served on Camira Sailing Adventure, Airlie Beach.

Everglades National Park: Craving something adventurous after your airboat ride? Coopertown Restaurant, right next to Coopertown Airboat Tours on US-41, dishes out Everglades classics like crispy frog legs and fried catfish in true old-school style.
Sawgrass Recreation Park: Swing by The Gator Grill before hitting the exhibits for a fresh, made-to-order lunch. Crowd favorites include juicy Angus burgers, pulled pork sandwiches, and the grilled gator bites.
Everglades Holiday Park: There’s a full-service café and deli in the park where you can grab tasty daily specials, including local favorites like frog legs and gator bites.
Everglades Safari Park: Swing by Safari Cafe for a quick bite. Think juicy burgers, crispy chicken sandwiches, fresh salads, and icy drinks to keep you cool and refreshed.

Bobcat on a log with a guest observing at Zoo Miami.

Zoo Miami: Explore Florida’s largest zoo with 3,000+ animals in cageless, open-air habitats that mimic natural environments. Perfect for a full day of wildlife discovery.
Miami Hop-On Hop-Off Tours: Ride a double-decker bus and explore Miami’s top attractions at your own pace, with stops at South Beach, Wynwood Walls, Little Havana, and more.
Boat Tours & Cruises: Cruise through Biscayne Bay and past Millionaire’s Row on a boat tour or yacht cruise, complete with skyline views and onboard commentary.

What’s inside?

Aerial view of Florida Everglades with a boat navigating through lush wetlands.

Everglades National Park

This is the main protected area and the largest subtropical wilderness in the US, filled with wetlands, hardwood hammocks, and unique wildlife. You can hike, bike, paddle, or take guided boat tours through this incredible ecosystem.

Alligator resting on a log at Everglades Safari Park, Miami tour.

Visitors feeding a tortoise at Sawgrass Recreation Park Wildlife Show.

Guests holding a small alligator at Everglades Holiday Park animal encounter.

Visitor tips

Start your day early to avoid the midday heat and catch wildlife when they’re most active, especially birds and alligators.
Don’t forget the essentials: sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and insect repellent are must-haves.
Pack plenty of water and snacks, as food options inside the park are limited and spaced out across different areas.
Cell service can be spotty, so it’s a smart idea to download park maps and trail guides ahead of time.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for hiking the trails, and bring water-friendly sandals if you plan to go kayaking or canoeing.
Give yourself at least 4 to 5 hours to explore one part of the park, and consider a full-day visit if you’re venturing to multiple regions.
If you’re planning an airboat tour during the dry season, it’s best to book at least 2 weeks in advance, they tend to sell out fast, especially on weekends.

Frequently asked questions about visiting the Everglades

When is entry to the park free?

On select days like Martin Luther King Jr. Day (January 20), first day of National Park Week (April 19), Juneteenth (June 19), Great American Outdoors Day (August 4), National Public Lands Day (September 27), and Veterans Day (November 11), park fees are waived.

Can I explore the Everglades by airboats?

Exploring the Everglades by airboat is one of the most exciting ways to glide through its wild, watery landscapes. You’ll zip across the grasslands, spot gators and birds, and experience the park’s magic with licensed operators like Coopertown Airboat Tours, Sawgrass Recreation Park, and Everglades Safari Park.

Can I camp in the Everglades?

Yes, you can. There are two frontcountry campgrounds, Long Pine Key and Flamingo Campground.

Is visiting Everglades safe for solo travelers?

Yes, but it’s wise to stick to popular trails like Anhinga or Shark Valley Loop. Let someone know your plans, especially if paddling or exploring remote areas.

Is stargazing good in the Everglades?

It most definitely is! Head to Flamingo or Ten Thousand Islands for some of the darkest skies in Florida. Bring binoculars or a telescope on clear nights, it’s celestial magic.

Are service animals allowed inside Everglades?

Yes, service animals are allowed inside the Everglades. Just be sure to keep them on a leash and under control while exploring.

Is the Everglades wheelchair friendly?

The parks in the Everglades are wheelchair-friendly, with accessible trails like the Anhinga Trail and wheelchair-friendly tram tours at Shark Valley, making it easier for everyone to enjoy the amazing wildlife and scenery.