One Day at Everglades National Park
Looking to escape into the natural world, even just for the day? Everglades National Park, a sprawling 1.5 million acres of wetlands, is one of the largest US National Parks, as well as a designated UNESCO World Heritage site and International Biosphere Reserve. This intriguing destination hosts a myriad of habitats, from mangroves to sloughs to hardwood hammocks, making it a haven for various species of birds and wildlife. You can paddle, walk, or drive your way through the park, allowing you to experience it at your pace and adventure level
FUN FACT: South Florida is the only place crocodiles and alligators coexist
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Park Info
Location: South Florida
Established: Dedicated as a National Park in 1947
Lodging/Camping: Flamingo Lodge, houseboats, campgrounds, and backcountry camping
Food: Flamingo Restaurant and snacks at the visitor centers
Entrance Fee: $35/vehicle click here to see current fee pricing
Park Maps: Link to park maps
As one of the largest wetlands in the world, there is a lot to explore within the Everglades. If you only have one day in the park, you will have to pick a section or two to enjoy – as there won’t be enough time to see everything.
There are three park entrances, each at least an hour’s drive from the other:
Everglades City Entrance: Located at the Northwest section of the park. This area is generally explored by boat.
Miami Entrance: Located at the Northeast section of the park, about 1 hour west of Miami. You will use this entrance to visit Shark Valley and for taking an airboat ride from a NPS approved company.
Homestead Entrance: Main Entrance. Located at the Southeast section. This entrance is used for visiting the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center, as well as the Royal Palm and Flamingo areas.
How to spend one day at Everglades National Park
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through two of the park’s main sections in just one day with this itinerary. By starting early, you’ll have the opportunity to hike, ride the tram, and even get out on the water.
Don’t forget to stop at the visitor centers to chat with rangers and check out educational displays.
Morning at Shark Valley
- Enter the park at the Miami Entrance via Hwy 41
- Check out the Shark Valley Visitor’s Center
- Enjoy the 15 mile Shark Valley Loop by tram
- Walk along Bobcat Boardwalk through the sawgrass slough
- Take an airboat ride – located just outside the park
Drive Time
- Drive the hour and half to the Homestead Entrance
- Possibly stop at the wildly popular Robert is Here fruit stand.
Afternoon in the Royal Palm area
- Stop at the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center – this is the largest visitor center in the park
- Head to the Royal Palm Visitor Center
- Walk the shaded .4 mile Gumbo-Limbo Trail
- Spot wildlife along the .8 mile Anhinga Trail
* note: If your primary reason for visiting the Everglades is to see manatees or crocodiles, consider skipping the Royal Palm area and head straight to Flamingo.
Things to Do in the Everglades: Hike
There are a number of trails within Everglades National Park that will take you through a variety of habitats. Most are on the shorter side, creating the perfect opportunity to explore a couple of them during a one day trip. Many of the trails feature raised boardwalks for a unique perspective of the sloughs and waterways.
No pets are allowed on the trails.
Things to Do in the Everglades: Observe Wildlife
One of the best experiences while exploring the protected wonderland of the Everglades is encountering its diverse wildlife. Look out for playful river otters, the cunning gray fox, and a plethora of birds.
Unfortunately, also be prepared for the annoying mosquitoes and flies.
Things to Do in the Everglades: Get on the Water
With the diverse water ecosystems within the Everglades, I highly recommend taking part of your day to experience it on the water. Whether you opt for a kayak excursion from the Flamingo marina or a thrilling airboat tour with an approved vendor, it’s sure to be unforgettable.
LEAVE NO TRACE
Travel Tip
Be prepared for less than ideal road conditions when venturing off the highways
Robert is Here Fruit Stand
If you’re looking for a bite to eat while traveling from Shark Valley to Royal Palm, consider stopping at Robert Is Here. It is a fruit stand located not far from the Homestead Entrance. They are famous for their milkshakes and smoothies. However, when we drove by I was in the mood for lunch and opted for the Cuban sandwich.
Planning a trip to Everglades National Park?
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