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Everglades National Park hours: When to go and timing tips
EvergladesTimings
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Book Everglades tours
Visitor center hours
Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center (Homestead):
- Dry season (Nov–Mar): Open daily from 8am to 5pm
- Wet season (Apr–Oct): Open daily from 9am to 5pm
Shark Valley Visitor Center: Open daily from 8:30am to 6 pm; vehicles must exit by 6pm
The Flamingo Visitor Center: Open daily from 8am to 4:30pm
Entrance hours
- Main Entrance in Homestead: Open 24 hours a day, year-round
- Miami entrance in Shark Valley: Open daily from 8:30am to 6pm
- Everglades City / Naples Entrance in Gulf Coast: Open 24 hours a day, year-round
Frequently asked questions about Everglades National Park hours
Is the Everglades open all year?
Yes, the park is open 24 hours a day, all year round, though visitor center hours, vehicle access hours, and tours follow seasonal schedules.
Are airboat tours available year-round?
Most airboat tours run throughout the year, but schedules will shift during the rainy season subject to weather conditions on the day of the tour.
What are the daily airboat tour timings?
Airboat tours begin around 9am, and the last airboat departs at 4:30pm. Airboats leave every 20 to 30 mins.
Do the visitor centers close on holidays?
Most visitor centers are open daily but may close or operate with limited hours on major holidays like Christmas.
Can I visit during the summer months?
Yes! Just be prepared for hot, humid weather and bring rain gear and insect repellent. Fewer crowds mean a quieter experience.
What’s the best time of day to arrive?
Aim for early morning, right at opening. Wildlife is active, crowds are light, and boats run on schedule.
Why do Everglades National Park hours change seasonally?
The Everglades is a subtropical wilderness, so its hours change with the seasons. In the cooler, drier months (Nov–Mar), centers open earlier, and in the humid, stormy summer (Apr–Oct), they start later. It’s all to protect nature and make your visit smoother.
Can I explore the Everglades at night?
Yes! While most of the park closes by dusk, you can join the ”Everglades at Sawgrass Recreation Park. Glide through the swamp in the dark, spot glowing alligator eyes, and hear the wild come alive.