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Everglades Tours
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.
Glide through the Everglades on an airboat and see fascinating reptile exhibits up close.
Starting point: Sawgrass Recreation Park (25 miles west of Fort Lauderdale)
- Everything you get: A 40-minute airboat tour led by an expert guide takes you through the UNESCO-listed Everglades. Enjoy a small-group ride and get close to rare wildlife like alligators and birds. Visit the reptile exhibit to see native species, including snakes and turtles.
- Why choose this: Airboat tours with a guide offer a more personalized experience, taking you to hidden areas most visitors miss.
- Upgrades: Choose the airboat tour with transfers from Miami for a hassle-free round-trip journey.
Glide through the Everglades on an airboat and see fascinating reptile exhibits up close.
Starting point: Sawgrass Recreation Park (25 miles west of Fort Lauderdale)
- Everything you get: A 40-minute airboat tour led by an expert guide takes you through the UNESCO-listed Everglades. Enjoy a small-group ride and get close to rare wildlife like alligators and birds. Visit the reptile exhibit to see native species, including snakes and turtles.
- Why choose this: Airboat tours with a guide offer a more personalized experience, taking you to hidden areas most visitors miss.
- Upgrades: Choose the airboat tour with transfers from Miami for a hassle-free round-trip journey.
Inclusions
- 40-minute airboat tour
- Live English-speaking guide
- Entry to alligator and reptile exhibit
- Ear protection
- Round-trip transfers from Miami (as per option selected)
- The boats are not wheelchair accessible but the exhibits are.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION4 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus
START POINT
2 starting points available
60 km
50 minutes
1
Everglades Holiday Park
3 activities
Tickets included
Sightseeing & Photography
Highlights
1. Airboat ride
Included in price
When you arrive, you’ll hop on a classic Florida airboat and cruise through the famous "River of Grass." It’s an amazing way to get right into the heart of the Everglades. Keep an eye out for alligators, unique birds, and all sorts of fascinating plants along the way—it’s a great chance to see wildlife up close!
2. Wildlife show
Included in price
After the airboat tour, attend a thrilling wildlife show featuring real alligators. The show offers insights into the behavior and biology of these fascinating creatures and may involve some sort of interaction.
3. Free time and refreshments
Included in price
You have some free time to explore the park's facilities, visit the gift shop, or purchase snacks and refreshments. The refreshments, souvenirs, and park's activities are not included in the ticket.
60 km
50 minutes
2
END POINT
2 ending points available
1. Miami Beach
2. Bayside Marketplace
Experience the best of the Everglades, including an airboat tour and wildlife show with hassle-free transfers from Miami.
Starting points: Miami Beach and Bayside Marketplace
- Everything you get: 4-hour Everglades tour with an airboat ride, timed entry to the Everglades Holiday Park, and a wildlife show. Expert guides share ecosystem insights, plus a free photo to capture your trip.
- Why choose this: Easy Miami transfers and expert guides offer a convenient, enriching Everglades trip.
- Upgrades: Choose between English or Spanish-speaking guides for a tailored experience.
Experience the best of the Everglades, including an airboat tour and wildlife show with hassle-free transfers from Miami.
Starting points: Miami Beach and Bayside Marketplace
- Everything you get: 4-hour Everglades tour with an airboat ride, timed entry to the Everglades Holiday Park, and a wildlife show. Expert guides share ecosystem insights, plus a free photo to capture your trip.
- Why choose this: Easy Miami transfers and expert guides offer a convenient, enriching Everglades trip.
- Upgrades: Choose between English or Spanish-speaking guides for a tailored experience.
Inclusions
- 4-hour Miami Everglades tour
- Expert English or Spanish-speaking guide (based on option selected)
- Airboat ride
- Entry to Everglades Holiday Park
- Wildlife show
- Departure from Miami Beach/ Bayside Marketplace
- Drive to Everglades Holiday Park within Everglades National Park
- Airboat ride on the river grass
- Free time at the park
- Return
- Tip: On the airboat ride, keep your eyes peeled for the elusive Florida panther – the Everglades is one of their last habitats!
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Combos
Combo (Save 28%): Miami Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour + Yacht Cruise + Everglades Airboat Tour
See Miami’s highlights by bus, relax on a yacht cruise, and ride an airboat in the Everglades.
Starting point: Bayside Marketplace
- Everything you get at Miami HOHO: 2-day hop-on hop-off bus access on the Red Route covers South Beach and Soundscape Park, with free Wi-Fi and audio guides. Includes a 90-min yacht cruise past Millionaire’s Row.
- Everything you get at Everglades: Timed entry to Holiday Park offers an airboat ride through the wild Everglades, a wildlife show with gators, a free photo, and a round-trip coach transfer.
- Why choose this combo: One ticket saves you money and effortlessly blends Miami’s highlights with a thrilling Everglades escape.
See Miami’s highlights by bus, relax on a yacht cruise, and ride an airboat in the Everglades.
Starting point: Bayside Marketplace
- Everything you get at Miami HOHO: 2-day hop-on hop-off bus access on the Red Route covers South Beach and Soundscape Park, with free Wi-Fi and audio guides. Includes a 90-min yacht cruise past Millionaire’s Row.
- Everything you get at Everglades: Timed entry to Holiday Park offers an airboat ride through the wild Everglades, a wildlife show with gators, a free photo, and a round-trip coach transfer.
- Why choose this combo: One ticket saves you money and effortlessly blends Miami’s highlights with a thrilling Everglades escape.
Inclusions
Miami HOHO
- 2-day unlimited hop-on hop-off tour by Big Bus
- Access to Red Route
- 90-min yacht cruise
- Bike rental offer (get 1 hour free)
- Pre-recorded commentary in English, Spanish, French, German & Portuguese (on the bus)
- Pre-recorded commentary in English & Spanish (on the cruise)
- Complimentary headphones
- Mobile app with a detailed map and live bus tracking
Everglades Natural Park
- Timed and dated entry to Everglades
- Access to Green Route
- English & Spanish-speaking guide
- Round-trip coach transfer
- Access to Holiday Park airboat ride
- Access to Holiday Park wildlife show
- Complimentary pre-journey photo
Miami HOHO
Please click here for a detailed route map and boarding points.
You can join the tour at any stop and hop on and off for the duration of your ticket.
- First bus: 9am from stop #1 (Bayside Marketplace)
- Last bus: 4pm from stop #1 (Bayside Marketplace)
- Frequency: Every 30 mins
- Popular stops: South Beach, Soundscape Park, Little Havana
Yacht cruise
Winter hours (Nov 5 to Mar 9)
- First yacht: 10:30am from Bayside Marketplace
- Last yacht: 5pm from Bayside Marketplace (6pm on Sat & Sun)
- Frequency: Every 30-60 mins
- Duration: 90 mins
Summer/Spring hours (Mar 10 to Nov 9)
- First yacht: 11am from Bayside Marketplace
- Last yacht: 6pm from Bayside Marketplace (7pm on Sat & Sun)
- Frequency: Every 60 mins
- Duration: 90 mins
Everglades Natural Park
Please click here for a detailed route map and boarding points.
- First coach: 8:30am from stop #3 (Soundscape Park) & 9:05am from stop #1 (Bayside Marketplace)
- Last coach: 2:30pm from stop #3 (Soundscape Park) & 3:05pm from stop #1 (Bayside Marketplace)
- Frequency: Five times a day
- Note: The Spanish-guided tour departs at 9:30am from stop #3 & 10am from stop #3 and also at 3:30pm occasionally.
Miami HOHO
- The buses and cruises are wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- Elevators are available on the buses for easy access.
- Your guide dogs are welcome on the cruise.
- Facilities: restroom, air conditioning (on the cruise).
- Specific details related to the add-ons in your tickets, like bike rental offers, will be shared in the ticket post-booking.
Everglades Natural Park
- Require special accommodations for your disability? Rest assured, you can contact the service provider 24 hours before your trip, and they'll try to assist you.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION60 minutes
START POINT
Sawgrass Recreation Park
Board the night airboat tour at Sawgrass Recreation Park to begin your tour.
Passes by
Airboat night tour of the Everglades
2
END POINT
Sawgrass Recreation Park
Night tour of the Everglades to see nocturnal wildlife up close with a captain.
Starting point: Sawgrass Recreation Park (25 miles west of Fort Lauderdale)
- Everything you get: Take a 60-min airboat ride at night through the Everglades with an experienced captain as you search for alligators and other reptiles, insects, and amphibians. Use a flashlight to spot these creatures, plus get free daytime entry to Sawgrass Recreation Park exhibits.
- Why choose this: Catch the Everglades in a unique perspective after dark, when animals like alligators are active. Your captain helps point them out to you while providing interesting insights.
Night tour of the Everglades to see nocturnal wildlife up close with a captain.
Starting point: Sawgrass Recreation Park (25 miles west of Fort Lauderdale)
- Everything you get: Take a 60-min airboat ride at night through the Everglades with an experienced captain as you search for alligators and other reptiles, insects, and amphibians. Use a flashlight to spot these creatures, plus get free daytime entry to Sawgrass Recreation Park exhibits.
- Why choose this: Catch the Everglades in a unique perspective after dark, when animals like alligators are active. Your captain helps point them out to you while providing interesting insights.
Inclusions
- 60-minute nighttime airboat ride
- Complimentary entrance to exhibits at Sawgrass Recreation Park during the day
- Ear protection
- Free parking onsite
- Airboat captain gratuity
Exclusions
- Food and beverages
- These night tours are only available for those who make advance reservations, so book your Everglades adventure online beforehand.
- To visit the exhibit areas at Sawgrass Recreation Park between 9am and 5pm, bring your night tour voucher and a valid ID for entry.
- This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
- Each tour requires at least 10 passengers to operate. Guests will be notified on the tour day if the minimum isn’t met or if the tour is canceled due to bad weather.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
START POINT
Sawgrass Recreation Park
Reach the Sawgrass Recreation Park and board the private airboat to begin your tour.
1
Airboat tour of the Everglades
60 min
Tickets included
Start your one-hour guided tour on your private airboat. Your adventure covers exclusive areas of the Everglades, where you get to see native and exotic wildlife. Learn about the history and evolution of the ecosystem and their habitats, and glide through with speeds reaching up to 40mph as you witness untamed wilderness up close.
Air boat
2
Alligator & Reptile Exhibit
1 activities
Tickets included
Visit the Reptile Exhibit and learn more about the native reptile species in Florida, and the ongoing conservation efforts, and see friendly turtles, iguanas, and the 1,000-pound alligator, Cannibal. Get to witness how the animals survive in the wild with demonstrations conducted by expert handlers.
Things to do
Meet a Baby Alligator Experience
Included in price
Get a chance to get close to and touch a baby alligator, under the guidance and supervision of the handlers, with the Meet a Baby Alligator experience at the Park.
3
END POINT
Sawgrass Recreation Park
Private Everglades airboat tour with wildlife exhibits—no crowds, just your group, and meet an alligator!
Starting point: Sawgrass Recreation Park (25 miles west of Fort Lauderdale)
- Everything you get: This 60-min private airboat tour zooms across the Everglades at speeds up to 40mph. The tour includes a visit to the Alligator & Reptile Exhibit which is home to a 1,000-pound alligator known as Cannibal, and the “Meet a Baby Alligator” experience with expert handlers.
- Why choose this: An exclusive private tour offers intimate wildlife encounters and expert insights into the Everglades’ lush ecosystem.
Private Everglades airboat tour with wildlife exhibits—no crowds, just your group, and meet an alligator!
Starting point: Sawgrass Recreation Park (25 miles west of Fort Lauderdale)
- Everything you get: This 60-min private airboat tour zooms across the Everglades at speeds up to 40mph. The tour includes a visit to the Alligator & Reptile Exhibit which is home to a 1,000-pound alligator known as Cannibal, and the “Meet a Baby Alligator” experience with expert handlers.
- Why choose this: An exclusive private tour offers intimate wildlife encounters and expert insights into the Everglades’ lush ecosystem.
Inclusions
- 60-minute private airboat tour across the Everglades
- Alligator & Reptile Exhibit
- ”Meet a Baby Alligator” experience
- Gratuity for airboat captain
- Ear protection
- Free parking onsite
- Children aged 6 and under need to wear a life jacket while they are on the airboat.
- Children aged 3 and under can board the airboat for free.
- Pregnant women can participate as well, but it is recommended they consult a doctor before the experience.
- Private tours get reserved fast, so make sure to book your experience at least a week in advance.
- Service animals are allowed in the Park but at your own risk. They are not allowed on the airboat. Those with mobility issues can participate in the airboat tour. The airboats are not wheelchair-accessible, but assistance is provided in case necessary.
- The animal exhibits are wheelchair-accessible, and wheelchairs are available at no cost at the Park.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Transfers from South Beach and guided airboat tour of Everglades with wildlife spotting.
Starting point: South Beach
- Everything you get: Enjoy a 45-minute guided airboat tour through the Everglades wetlands, spot alligators and turtles, and attend an educational wildlife presentation. Includes round-trip transportation from a central South Beach meeting point.
- Why choose this: Round-trip transportation makes this adventure effortless, with expert guides and a wildlife presentation.
Transfers from South Beach and guided airboat tour of Everglades with wildlife spotting.
Starting point: South Beach
- Everything you get: Enjoy a 45-minute guided airboat tour through the Everglades wetlands, spot alligators and turtles, and attend an educational wildlife presentation. Includes round-trip transportation from a central South Beach meeting point.
- Why choose this: Round-trip transportation makes this adventure effortless, with expert guides and a wildlife presentation.
Inclusions
- Roundtrip transfers from meeting point in South Beach, Miami
- 45-minute guided airboat tour through the Everglades
- Expert English/Spanish-speaking guide
- Wildlife presentation featuring alligators and other native species
- Opportunities to spot wildlife like turtles, exotic birds, and alligators in their natural habitat
- Bring sun protection, mosquito repellent, and plenty of water to stay comfortable throughout your tour.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
START POINT
Sawgrass Recreation Park
Reach the Sawgrass Recreation Park and board the private airboat to begin your tour.
1
Airboat tour of the Everglades
60 min
Tickets included
Start your one-hour guided tour on your private airboat. Your adventure covers exclusive areas of the Everglades, where you get to see native and exotic wildlife. Learn about the history and evolution of the ecosystem and their habitats, and glide through with speeds reaching up to 40mph as you witness untamed wilderness up close.
Air boat
2
Alligator & Reptile Exhibit
1 activities
Tickets included
Visit the Reptile Exhibit and learn more about the native reptile species in Florida, and the ongoing conservation efforts, and see friendly turtles, iguanas, and the 1,000-pound alligator, Cannibal. Get to witness how the animals survive in the wild with demonstrations conducted by expert handlers.
Things to do
Meet a Baby Alligator Experience
Included in price
Get a chance to get close to and touch a baby alligator, under the guidance and supervision of the handlers, with the Meet a Baby Alligator experience at the Park.
3
END POINT
Sawgrass Recreation Park
START POINT
Sawgrass Recreation Park
Board the night airboat tour at Sawgrass Recreation Park to begin your tour.
Passes by
Airboat night tour of the Everglades
2
END POINT
Sawgrass Recreation Park
Zoom through Sawgrass Recreation Park on an airboat and encounter Florida’s native reptiles up close.
Starting point: Sawgrass Recreation Park (25 miles west of Fort Lauderdale)
- 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: Discover the natural beauty of Sawgrass Recreation Park with a thrilling airboat ride that takes you to untouched areas filled with wildlife.
- Upgrades: Opt for an airboat night tour to explore the wetlands after dark or choose a private airboat tour for a more exclusive experience.
Zoom through Sawgrass Recreation Park on an airboat and encounter Florida’s native reptiles up close.
Starting point: Sawgrass Recreation Park (25 miles west of Fort Lauderdale)
- 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: Discover the natural beauty of Sawgrass Recreation Park with a thrilling airboat ride that takes you to untouched areas filled with wildlife.
- Upgrades: Opt for an airboat night tour to explore the wetlands after dark or choose a private airboat tour for a more exclusive experience.
Inclusions
- 40-minute airboat tour
- Live English-speaking guide
- Entry to alligator and reptile exhibit
- Ear protection
- Nighttime airboat tour (as per option selected)
- Private airboat tour (as per option selected)
- The boats are not wheelchair accessible but the exhibits are.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Top things to do in Miami
Discovering the Everglades: An overview
The Everglades is a vast expanse of flooded grasslands in southern Florida, spanning over 7,800 square miles. Often referred to as the 'River of Grass' due to its slow-moving waters, this unique ecosystem is a biodiversity hotspot, teeming with wildlife such as alligators, manatees, and countless bird species. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Rather than a single entry point, the Everglades offers multiple access points through various cities and parks, including Everglades National Park and Holiday Park, each providing distinct experiences and opportunities to explore this natural wonder.
Where to start: Key access points and nearby cities
Here’s a breakdown of the main access points, nearby cities, and the types of activities available in each region:
Miami & Homestead: The gateway to Everglades National Park
- Best for: Airboat tours, wildlife encounters, shorter excursions
- Main entry points: Sawgrass Recreation Park, and various private airboat tour operators.
What to expect:
- Fort Lauderdale provides quick access to the northern Everglades, where airboat rides take you deep into the wetlands.
- Sawgrass Recreation Park offers guided airboat tours with chances to spot alligators, turtles, and native bird species.
- Great for shorter half-day trips, making it ideal for travelers on tight schedules.
Everglades City & Naples: Western Everglades & Big Cypress
- Best for: Kayaking, off-road swamp buggy tours, wildlife photography
- Main entry points: Gulf Coast Visitor Center (Everglades National Park), Big Cypress National Preserve.
What to expect:
- This region is perfect for quiet, immersive experiences away from the airboat crowds.
- Kayak and canoe tours through the mangrove tunnels of the Turner River offer some of the best wildlife encounters.
- Big Cypress National Preserve provides off-road swamp buggy tours, giving visitors a rugged look at cypress forests and diverse wildlife, including the elusive Florida panther.
- Ideal for nature photographers and those looking for a more tranquil, remote Everglades experience.
Florida Keys & Key Largo: Coastal Everglades & Florida Bay
- Best for: Kayaking, birdwatching, marine ecosystems
- Main entry points: Flamingo Visitor Center, private kayak and boat tour operators
What to expect:
- The Florida Bay side of the Everglades is a marine-focused ecosystem, home to manatees, dolphins, and coastal bird species.
- Kayak and boat tours explore the mangroves and seagrass beds, offering a different perspective of the Everglades compared to the inland marshes.
- Flamingo Visitor Center in Everglades National Park is the southernmost point accessible by road, offering scenic boat tours and rental options.
Why visit the Everglades
A one-of-a-kind ecosystem
The Everglades is home to rare and endangered wildlife like the Florida panther, manatees, and American crocodiles. With over 360 bird species, including roseate spoonbills and bald eagles, it’s a paradise for nature lovers. The park’s mix of freshwater and saltwater habitats makes it one of the most unique ecosystems in the world.
Plenty of outdoor adventures
From high-speed airboat rides to peaceful kayak trips through mangrove tunnels, there are plenty of ways to explore. Hiking and biking trails offer a closer look at the diverse landscapes, while wildlife safaris make it easy to spot alligators, birds, and other animals. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck in both freshwater and saltwater areas, with opportunities to catch bass, tarpon, and snapper.
A place rich in history
The Everglades has long been home to the Miccosukee and Seminole tribes, whose culture and traditions can be explored at tribal villages. The area also played a role in Cold War history, with sites like the Nike Missile Base offering a glimpse into the past. Early conservationists, including Marjory Stoneman Douglas, helped protect this vital ecosystem, and you can learn more about their efforts at various park exhibits.
Diverse landscapes to explore
Beyond its vast wetlands, the Everglades is a mix of sawgrass prairies, cypress swamps, and dense mangrove forests. The Ten Thousand Islands create a stunning coastal environment, while hardwood hammocks provide shelter for unique plant and animal life. Seasonal changes bring dramatic shifts in the landscape, from dry, open fields in winter to lush, water-filled marshes in summer.
Incredible photography opportunities
The Everglades offers some of the best wildlife photography spots in the country. Sunrise and sunset bring dramatic lighting over the wetlands, while observation towers and boardwalks provide great vantage points. The Everglades presents an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty, whether capturing a soaring osprey, a sunbathing alligator, or the endless expanse of sawgrass.
Your Everglades tours explained
Guided tours
Glide through the heart of the Everglades on a thrilling airboat ride, where you’ll zip across the wetlands and come face-to-face with Florida’s fascinating wildlife. With an expert guide leading the way, uncover hidden corners of this UNESCO-listed ecosystem while spotting alligators, exotic birds, and more. Opt for a daytime adventure with access to reptile exhibits at Sawgrass Recreation Park or experience the mystery of the Everglades after dark on a night tour, where the glowing eyes of nocturnal creatures light up the waters.
Recommended tours:
- Everglades Airboat Ride with Access to Reptile Exhibits
- Everglades Airboat Night Tour
Day tours
Travel comfortably with round-trip transfers from nearby areas like Miami, before setting off on an airboat ride across the ‘River of Grass.’ Marvel at alligators, turtles, and vibrant bird species as you glide through the wetlands. A wildlife show adds to the excitement, offering up-close encounters with some of the region’s most captivating creatures. With expertly guided experiences and seamless transport, a day tour makes for the perfect introduction to the Everglades when you’re in nearby cities.
Recommended tour:
- From Miami: Everglades Airboat Tour, Wildlife Show & Bus Transfer
Private tours
For those seeking a more exclusive experience, a private airboat tour offers the ultimate way to explore the Everglades at your own pace. With a dedicated guide, navigate secluded areas of the wetlands for a closer look at alligators, rare birds, and other native wildlife. Ideal for families, photographers, or anyone looking for a personalized adventure, this tour provides a deeper dive into the unique ecosystem of the Everglades. Wrap up your experience with a visit to Sawgrass Recreation Park’s reptile exhibits for an intimate look at Florida’s most iconic wildlife.
Recommended tour:
- Everglades Private Airboat Tour
Everglades tours highlights
Glide through the Everglades on an airboat
Speed across the famous "River of Grass" and explore hidden corners of this vast ecosystem, spotting alligators, turtles, and exotic birds along the way
Get up close with Florida’s reptiles
Visit the reptile exhibit at Sawgrass Recreation Park, where you can see alligators, snakes, and other native species up close.
Explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Discover one of the world’s most unique wetlands, home to rare and endangered species like the Florida panther and manatees.
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Guided commentary by experts
Learn fascinating facts about the Everglades’ ecosystem, wildlife, and conservation efforts from experienced airboat captains.
Plan your visit to the Everglades
Timings
Getting there
Accessibility
Rules & safety
Visitor tips
Dining
Stay
- General hours: Everglades National Park is open 24/7, but visitor centers and tours have specific hours. Most tours and activities operate between 8am and 5pm.
- Best time to visit: While the Everglades is open year-round, timing your visit can make a big difference in your experience. The dry season from December to April is the ideal time to explore. You’ll enjoy cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and fewer mosquitoes, making it a more comfortable experience. Just keep in mind that this is also peak season, so expect larger crowds. Winters in Florida are mild, so even though it's the "cooler" season, the weather is still quite pleasant.
Sawgrass Recreation Park
Address: 1006 US Hwy 27, Weston, FL 33327, United States | Find on Maps
Nearby city: Approximately 30 minutes from Fort Lauderdale
Everglades Holiday Park
Address: 21940 Griffin Rd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33332, United States | Find on Maps
Nearby city: Approximately 40 minutes from Miami
Transfers are available from Miami to Everglades Holiday Park
- Visitor centers: Wheelchair-accessible with paved paths and ramps.
- Airboat tours: Some airboats are wheelchair-friendly, but availability varies by operator.
- Boardwalk trails: Trails like Anhinga Trail and Mahogany Hammock have accessible pathways.
- Restrooms: Accessible restrooms are available at visitor centers and main tour areas.
- Wildlife safety: Stay at least 15 feet away from alligators and never feed them.
- Stay on trails: Wandering off designated paths can be dangerous and harm the environment.
- Weather preparedness: Afternoon storms are common in summer—bring rain gear and check the forecast.
- No pets: Pets aren’t allowed on most trails or in the backcountry.
- No drones: Drones are prohibited in Everglades National Park.
- Fires & firewood: Campfires are only allowed in designated areas, and bringing in outside firewood is restricted.
- Littering: Pack out all trash to keep the park clean and protect wildlife.
- Download the NPS App: The National Park Service app provides maps, alerts, and essential visitor information to help you navigate the Everglades easily.
- Mosquitoes & bugs: Even during the dry season, mosquitoes can be a hassle. Wear long sleeves, use insect repellent, and consider bringing a mosquito net for camping.
- Camping & fishing permits: Make sure to get the required permits in advance.
- Hydration & sun protection: The Everglades can be hot and humid. Bring plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and wear lightweight clothing.
- Prepare for long distances: The park is massive, and visitor areas are far apart. Plan accordingly and factor in drive times.
- Respect wildlife: The Everglades is home to rare and endangered species. Observe from a distance and follow all park rules to help protect them.
- Don’t touch the water: The Everglades is filled with alligators, snakes, and other wildlife, so keep your hands and feet out of the water at all times.
- Check weather forecasts: Florida’s weather can change quickly. Check for storms before heading out, especially if you're camping or boating.
- Wear sturdy shoes: Some trails can be wet, muddy, or uneven—good footwear makes a big difference.
Near Sawgrass Recreation Park
- Lucille's American Cafe (Weston, ~15 min drive) – A retro-style American eatery known for its comfort food, including burgers, meatloaf, and milkshakes.
- Tarantella Ristorante & Pizzeria (Weston, ~15 min drive) – An authentic Italian spot offering homemade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and classic desserts.
Taking the tour from Miami? Here are some options near the Miami pick-up spots.
Near Miami Beach
- The Bazaar by José Andrés (Miami Beach, ~5-minute walk) – A renowned restaurant offering a fusion of traditional Spanish flavors and avant-garde techniques in a vibrant setting.
Near Bayside Marketplace
- The Knife (Bayside Marketplace, on-site) – An Argentine steakhouse offering an all-you-can-eat experience with a variety of meats, salads, and sides.
Near Sawgrass Recreation Park
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Sunrise - Sawgrass Mills (Sunrise, ~20-minute drive) – A modern hotel with spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant, plus shuttle service to nearby attractions.
- Vacation Village at Weston (Weston, ~15-minute drive) – A resort offering spacious suites with kitchenettes, multiple swimming pools, and recreational facilities.
Taking the tour from Miami? Here are some options near the Miami pick-up spots.
Near Miami Beach
- Fontainebleau Miami Beach (Miami Beach, ~10-minute drive) – An iconic hotel known for its luxurious rooms, multiple dining venues, and lively nightlife options.
Near Bayside Marketplace
- The Grand Doubletree (Miami, ~5-minute drive) – A high-rise hotel offering rooms with bay views, multiple dining options, and a full-service marina.
Wildlife you’ll meet in the Everglades
Everglades is a buzzing, roaring, splashing world of incredible wildlife. From stealthy predators to playful swimmers, here’s a look at some of the amazing animals you might cross paths with on your adventure:
Frequently asked questions about Everglades tickets
What makes the Everglades unique compared to other national parks?
The Everglades is the largest tropical wetland in the US and the only place where alligators and crocodiles coexist. It's also home to rare species like the Florida panther and manatees, with vast sawgrass marshes, mangroves, and slow-moving waters that create a one-of-a-kind ecosystem.
Are airboat tours safe?
Yes, they’re run by experienced guides and follow safety rules. Just know that airboats can be loud, so if you have sensitive ears or small kids, consider bringing ear protection.
How long should I spend in the Everglades?
A half-day visit is enough for an airboat tour or a short trail walk, but a full day lets you explore multiple areas, go wildlife spotting, and take a boat or kayak tour. For a deeper experience, consider a multi-day trip with camping or guided excursions.
Do I need to worry about mosquitoes and bugs?
Yes, especially in the wet season (May–October). Mosquitoes can be intense, so bring strong insect repellent, wear long sleeves, and visit during the cooler dry season if you want to avoid them.
Can I explore the Everglades without a tour?
Yes, you can explore on your own by hiking, biking, or kayaking. Popular self-guided areas include the Anhinga Trail and Shark Valley. However, guided tours offer expert insights and access to remote areas.
Can I swim in the Everglades?
No, swimming is not recommended due to the presence of alligators, crocodiles, snakes, and bacteria in the water. Stick to designated boardwalks and trails for safe exploration.
Are Everglades tours safe?
Yes, as long as you follow safety guidelines. Always respect wildlife and listen to your guide.
What should I bring on my trip?
Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, water, and a camera for capturing wildlife moments.