Florida's most essential nature excursion, the Everglades offers a complete contrast to Miami's urban energy. The drive from Miami takes you through the agricultural areas of Homestead before entering the park's subtropical wilderness. Airboat tours, the Anhinga Trail wildlife boardwalk, and the Flamingo waterfront offer a full day of extraordinary natural Florida.
Suggested itinerary
- 7 AM: Depart Miami on US-1 south to Homestead, then SR-9336 into park
- 8:30 AM: Arrive Flamingo Visitor Center; kayak or canoe rental available
- 9 AM: Drive the main park road; stop at all pullouts for wildlife viewing
- 10 AM: Walk the Anhinga Trail (30-45 min) — incredible wildlife at close range
- 11 AM: Walk the Gumbo Limbo Trail and Pineland Trail for plant diversity
- 12 PM: Lunch at the Royal Palm area or drive to Flamingo for marina views
- 1:30 PM: Airboat tour from Everglades City side (requires driving around) OR spend time at Pa-hay-okee Overlook
- 3 PM: Begin return drive; stop at Robert Is Here fruit stand in Homestead
- 5 PM: Return to Miami
Location
25.2866, -80.8987 View on map
Highlights
- Anhinga Trail wildlife (alligators, birds at very close range)
- Saw grass prairie vistas
- Tropical wilderness unlike anywhere else on earth