Everglades National Park Itinerary: The Ultimate 2-Day Guide for First-Time Visitors
Are you looking for the perfect Everglades National Park Itinerary? From spotting alligators along scenic boardwalks to biking through sawgrass prairies, this park is a wild and unforgettable adventure!
In this guide, we’re sharing the perfect 2-day Everglades National Park itinerary for first-time visitors. You’ll explore the park’s southern region on Day 1 (including Flamingo and Ernest F. Coe Visitor Centers) and Shark Valley on Day 2, home to one of the best wildlife viewing spots in Florida!
Whether you’re hoping to see manatees, alligators, or stunning wetlands, this itinerary will help you hit the must-see spots without feeling rushed. Just remember—keep your distance from the wildlife!
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About everglades national park
Spanning 1.5 million acres of wetlands, Everglades National Park is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. This vast, untamed landscape is a mix of sawgrass marshes, mangrove forests, and coastal estuaries, creating a one-of-a-kind ecosystem found nowhere else in the country.
Established in 1947, Everglades was the first U.S. National Park created to protect an ecosystem rather than a geological feature. As the 28th National Park, it has since earned global recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an International Biosphere Reserve, and a Wetland of International Importance.
Despite its wild and remote feel, the Everglades is surprisingly easy to access from major cities like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Naples. More than one million visitors explore the park each year, drawn by its diverse wildlife, slow-moving waterways, and sweeping wetland views.
With three main entrances and activities like scenic boardwalk hikes, biking, wildlife viewing, and paddling through the Ten Thousand Islands, Everglades National Park offers endless ways to explore. And for those looking for a thrill, airboat tours are available just outside the park boundaries!
Download the Everglades National Park Trip Planning Bundle
This 8-page Everglades National Park Bundle includes everything you need to explore Florida’s wildest landscapes with confidence! Inside, you’ll find a 2-day itinerary, a quick-links guide, a printable checklist, a custom Google Map with over 40 pins, and a fun game of Everglades Bingo to keep things playful on the trail. Whether you’re spotting gators on Anhinga Trail or biking Shark Valley, this guide will help you hit all the highlights—without the overwhelm.
Understanding the Three Main Areas of Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park is massive—it takes up most of the southern tip of Florida. When we visited, we explored two of the three main areas: Shark Valley and the Royal Palm and Flamingo area. The Gulf Coast section was much farther from where we were staying in Homestead, so we saved that one for a future trip. Don’t know where to stay? Check out our Blog Post: Where To Stay When Visiting Everglades National Park.
In this Everglades National Park Itinerary, we’re going to focus on the two sections we experienced firsthand and share tips to help you make the most of your visit.
Royal Palm And Flamingo, Everglades:
The first area is the Royal Palm and Flamingo section, located near Homestead, Florida. It’s the most popular part of the park and a great place to start. You’ll enter through the Ernest F. Coe Entrance and find the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center, the Royal Palm Visitor Center, and farther south, the Guy Bradley Visitor Center. This section is full of short, scenic trails like Anhinga Trail, West Lake, and Mahogany Hammock. You’ll also find great wildlife viewing and overnight options like campgrounds, eco tents, and the Flamingo Lodge.
Shark Valley, Everglades:
The second area is Shark Valley, located off Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) near Miami. This section is busier, especially in the winter/dry season, but well worth a visit. It’s home to the Shark Valley Visitor Center and the park’s famous 15-mile Tram Road. You can walk, bike, or take a guided tram tour. Either way, you’ll likely spot alligators, birds, and turtles along the way. Don’t miss the Shark Valley Observation Tower for wide views of the surrounding wetlands.
Gulf Coast, Everglades:
The third and most remote section is the Gulf Coast area, accessed through Everglades City. Here, you’ll find the Gulf Coast Visitor Center and access to the Ten Thousand Islands, a maze of mangrove waterways. This is the best area for kayaking, canoeing, and boat tours. It’s also a great place to spot manatees, dolphins, and wading birds.
Each area has something unique to offer. If you’re short on time, start with Royal Palm and Flamingo or Shark Valley sections of Everglades National Park. They’re the easiest to reach and perfect for first-time visitors.
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Joey Standing On A Trail In Everglades National Park
Katie With Her Camera Standing On A Trail In Everglades National Park
Our experience at everglades national park
We visited Everglades National Park in January 2025 as part of a trip to explore all three of Florida’s National Parks. This was our 41st stop on our journey to visit all 63 U.S. National Parks, and to be honest—we weren’t exactly counting down the days to this one.
Unlike the rugged mountains, dramatic cliffs, and dense forests we typically seek out in a National Park, the Everglades is flat, swampy (we learned it was a slough!), and home to plenty of creatures we weren’t thrilled to meet (We’re looking at you pythons and alligators). We both have a healthy fear of snakes (which are everywhere here), and Joey’s mild ichthyophobia means he’s not exactly eager to swim with fish. On top of that, we’d heard plenty of mosquito horror stories that made us a little wary.
But after 10 days exploring Florida’s National Parks, the Everglades completely surprised us. Visiting in winter (December–February) meant fewer bugs, less humidity, and cooler temperatures, making it a much more comfortable experience than we expected. We found ourselves appreciating the slow-paced boardwalk hikes, the minimal elevation gain (a rare treat), the knowledgeable park rangers, and the well-designed visitor centers packed with fascinating information.
Everglades National Park may not have the jaw-dropping landscapes of some of our favorite parks, but it delivers a wild and immersive experience you won’t find anywhere else. From alligators basking just feet from the trails to stunning sunsets over endless sawgrass marshes, the Everglades has a way of growing on you in the best way possible.
Want To Watch Our First Everglades National Park Experience? Check out our Vlog Here:
Everglades National Park Itinerary – Day 1: Exploring Royal Palm and Flamingo
The southern section of Everglades National Park is home to some of the best boardwalk trails, scenic overlooks, and wildlife viewing in the park. This area is easily accessible from Homestead, Florida, and includes the Ernest F. Coe and Guy Bradley Visitor Centers.
Today’s itinerary takes you deep into the heart of the Everglades, with stops at mangrove forests, freshwater sloughs, and coastal estuaries. Expect short, easy hikes, plenty of alligators, and stunning wetland views. With proper planning and an early start, you can explore both the Flamingo area and the Shark Valley area in a single trip, making the most of your time in the park.
Start by Driving Into Everglades National Park
We recommend staying in Homestead, Florida, which is just 11 miles (about 20 minutes) from the Ernest F. Coe entrance. It’s the closest town to the park and a great base for early starts. Want more details on accommodations? Check out our full guide: Where to Stay When Visiting Everglades National Park.
Start with a Photo Op At The Park Sign
Before you even enter the park, stop at the first entrance sign at [25.397230, -80.574967], lovingly known as “The Potato.” It’s a quirky nickname, but the photo is a must. After all—if you don’t have a picture at the sign, did you even go?
Stop at the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center
Make your first official stop at the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center. Here, you can grab a park map, ask rangers about trail conditions, and check out exhibits that explain the Everglades’ unique ecosystem.
Quick tip: Head to the back deck of the visitor center. There’s a quiet spot with rocking chairs that overlook a pond. It’s perfect for birdwatching or soaking in some sunshine before your day begins. Image Above!
Then take a short walk to the second entrance sign at [25.394750, -80.581196]—yes, it’s worth grabbing a photo here too. Be careful, there’s not a sidewalk to walk there so you’ll be on the side of the road.
Ernest F Coe Visitor Center Address: 40001 State Hwy 9336, Homestead, FL 33034
Visit the Nike Missile Site
One of the most unexpected stops in Everglades National Park (at least for us) is the Nike Hercules Missile Site, a Cold War-era military installation tucked deep within the wetlands. Officially known as HM-69, this site was built in the 1960s after the Cuban Missile Crisis and served as part of a defensive network to protect South Florida from potential air attacks.
Between 1964 and 1979, U.S. Army soldiers were stationed here, operating nuclear-capable surface-to-air missiles right in the heart of the Everglades. The harsh, swampy environment was a challenge for the troops—but the site played a critical role in American defense during a tense time in global history.
Today, you can visit the abandoned missile barns, see actual Nike missiles on display, and walk through preserved radar towers and barracks. During the winter season (December through April), the National Park Service often offers ranger-led tours, which provide even more context and fascinating stories about the site’s history and daily life for soldiers stationed there.
When we visited, there were no ranger-led programs but there was a park ranger at the site that we were able to ask questions. Before you leave The Nike Missile Site, make sure to grab a cancellation stamp on the back left of the main building.
Drive the Main Park Road to Flamingo
Begin your journey down Main Park Road, the scenic 38-mile drive to the southern end of the park. The road is smooth and quiet, with very little traffic—but watch out for cyclists and make sure to give them space. Do you want to see what the drive looks like? Check out our video here!
Explore the Flamingo Area & Guy Bradley Visitor Center
Once you reach Flamingo, stop at the Guy Bradley Visitor Center. It’s full of helpful information, interpretive displays, and views of the Flamingo Marina.
Take a walk around the marina area—you might spot group tours launching, see manatees, or even catch a glimpse of the new Eco Tents and Flamingo Lodge. (If you’re thinking about staying overnight, check out our full guide: Where to Stay When Visiting Everglades National Park.) Check out our vlog where we share more of the Guy Bradley Visitor Center (and even spot some manatees) by clicking here!
Guy Bradley Visitor Center Address: 1 Flamingo Lodge Hwy, Homestead, FL 33034
Stretch Your Legs on a Few Short Trails
As you leave the Flamingo area and head back up Main Park Road, plan to stop at a few quick, scenic trails that showcase the incredible diversity of the Everglades. These short hikes are a great way to stretch your legs, spot more wildlife, and experience the peaceful beauty of the wetlands up close.
There are many trails inside of Everglades National Park, with almost all of them being on this side. We experienced a few of the hikes (but not all of them), I’ll give a list of other ones to consider farther down!
West Lake Trail – Find It On AllTrails Here
This 0.4-mile boardwalk loop winds through a dense mangrove forest, giving you a close look at one of the Everglades’ most unique ecosystems. The trail is flat, shaded, and accessible for all ability levels, making it an easy and refreshing stop—especially on a hot afternoon.
Along the way, look for crabs climbing mangrove roots, fish swimming in the brackish water, and birds darting through the branches. It’s also a great place to listen to the sounds of the Everglades, from rustling leaves to echoing bird calls. While it’s a short walk, the atmosphere is completely immersive.
The parking lot is massive and was completely empty when we visited. At this trailhead, there was a boat ramp, picnic area, and restrooms. But the restrooms were locked when we visited and instead a porta-potty was set-up nearby.
Mahogany Hammock Trail – Find It On AllTrails Here
Just a short drive up the road, this 0.4-mile elevated boardwalk leads you through a lush hardwood “tree island” that rises above the surrounding wetlands. You’ll be walking through a jungle-like tangle of mahogany trees, air plants, and ferns, all surrounded by the “river of grass” that defines the Everglades. The “river of grass” reminded us of walking through parts of Uganda’s grasslands — such a beautiful experience.
On our visit, we spotted a barred owl (we aren’t birders but it’s what we think it was after researching) perched in the canopy and heard plenty of birdsong echoing through the trees. The shaded, elevated boardwalk makes it a comfortable and accessible hike, and the thick vegetation gives it a very different feel than the open marshes near Flamingo.
Both of these trails are quick but memorable and offer a peaceful way to break up the drive. You won’t need hiking boots or a lot of gear—just comfortable shoes, sunscreen, bug net (depending on the season you go) and a camera to capture the magic. Looking for more information on what to pack for a trip to Everglades National Park, check out our guide here!
End Your Day At The Royal Palm Area
Save the best for last—literally. On your way out of the park, make one final stop at the Royal Palm area, home to what we believe is the best trail in all of Everglades National Park. If you only have time for one hike during your trip, this is the one to prioritize.
Download the Everglades National Park Trip Planning Bundle
This 8-page Everglades National Park Bundle includes everything you need to explore Florida’s wildest landscapes with confidence! Inside, you’ll find a 2-day itinerary, a quick-links guide, a printable checklist, a custom Google Map with over 40 pins, and a fun game of Everglades Bingo to keep things playful on the trail. Whether you’re spotting gators on Anhinga Trail or biking Shark Valley, this guide will help you hit all the highlights—without the overwhelm.
Anhinga Trail – Find It On AllTrails Here
I’m going to say this again, if you’ve got one hour to experience Everglades National Park, the Anhinga Trail is the perfect choice. This 0.8-mile loop is flat, paved, and mostly on a boardwalk over the wetlands, making it accessible for nearly all activity levels. But don’t let the short distance fool you—this trail is absolutely packed with wildlife, often from the moment you step out of the parking lot.
You’ll likely see alligators basking just feet away, anhingas drying their wings, great blue herons stalking the shallows, and turtles cruising through the water. Fish dart beneath the boardwalk, and birds soar overhead. It’s one of the most active and immersive wildlife experiences we’ve had in a National Park—no binoculars required (but they would sure enhance the experience – we like these from Bushnell).
Even better, the trail is easy to navigate, well-maintained, and has several viewing platforms where you can stop and take it all in. If you’re visiting in the late afternoon, the lighting is gorgeous, and the animals are often on the move as the heat of the day starts to fade.
Whether you’re traveling with kids, have limited time, or just want one more iconic Everglades moment, the Anhinga Trail delivers. It’s an unforgettable way to wrap up your day in the park, and we recommend allowing at least an hour here—even more if you’re a photographer or a wildlife lover.
What to Do If You Have More Time Inside the Park
If you’re not quite ready to call it a day—or you’re lucky enough to have a little extra time in your itinerary—there’s still plenty more to explore inside this portion of Everglades National Park. Whether you’re looking for a quiet trail, a peaceful paddle, or a ranger-guided experience, here are a few ways to extend your adventure.
Gumbo Limbo Trail – Find It On AllTrails Here
Right next to the Royal Palm Visitor Center and the Anhinga Trail, the Gumbo Limbo Trail offers a completely different kind of experience. This short 0.4-mile loop winds through a shady, jungle-like hardwood hammock, filled with strangler figs, royal palms, and gumbo limbo trees. It’s quiet, peaceful, and feels a world away from the open wetlands nearby.
We didn’t get a chance to hike this one ourselves—we spent all our time mesmerized by the Anhinga Trail—but we’ve heard it’s a great way to cool down and learn more about the park’s tropical forest side. Bonus: it shares the same parking lot, so it’s super easy to add on.
Pineland Trail – Find It On AllTrails Here
If you’re headed back toward the Ernest F. Coe entrance, the Pineland Trail is another quick stop worth considering. This 0.4-mile loop takes you through a rare pine rockland habitat, home to unique plants and wildlife. The trail is short and flat, but it’s packed with informative signage, interesting vegetation, and peaceful scenery.
Do keep in mind: mosquitoes can be intense here, so bring bug spray and plan to take it slow. The trail is usually quiet and makes for a nice, meditative walk if you’re looking for one last moment in nature.
Join a Ranger-Led Program
One of the best ways to deepen your Everglades experience is by joining a ranger-led activity. The park offers a wide range of free and guided programs, especially during the dry season (December through April). Here are a few options to look out for:
- Birding Bonanza: Ranger-guided bird walk
- Feathers and Foliage: A bird and plant walk for curious beginners
- Paddling in Paradise: Ranger-guided kayaking on Florida Bay
- Journey Through Nine Mile Pond: Guided canoe trip through a mangrove maze
- Flamingo Boat Tours: Scenic rides through Florida Bay and the backcountry
You can check the latest schedule and availability at the Flamingo or Coe Visitor Centers, or on the official NPS website.
Whether you’re walking through the forest, paddling across open water, or spotting herons with a ranger, these extra experiences help you connect more deeply with the Everglades—and they’re often the moments visitors remember most.
Where To Eat After A Day Inside Everglades National Park?
After a full day exploring, you’ll be hungry. Thankfully, Homestead has both popular chains and tasty local spots. These were a few favorites.
Gator Grill:
This roadside stop serves burgers, sandwiches, and gator bites. It’s casual and quick—just what you need after hiking all day. Feeling adventurous? Try the fried gator tail. It’s surprisingly good and one of the most popular items on the menu. Watch our experience eating gator tail here!
Robert Is Here Fruit Stand:
Don’t skip this iconic spot. It’s part fruit stand, part snack shop, part local legend.
We recommend grabbing a fresh fruit smoothie or milkshake. The key lime mango combo is a must-try.
While you’re there, check out the live animals and pick up a few fun souvenirs.
Taqueria Morelia:
Craving tacos? This taqueria serves some of the best Mexican food in Homestead.
The menu is simple, but the flavors are incredible. We loved the al pastor tacos and homemade salsas.
It’s quick, flavorful, and affordable—perfect after a long day outside.
Sweet Bakery Café Cubano:
We grabbed breakfast here before heading into the park, and it was delicious.The Cuban pastries were fresh and flaky, and the Cuban coffee was strong enough to wake us right up. If you need a quick bite or a caffeine boost, this spot is a win.
No matter what you’re craving, each of these spots is just a short drive from the park entrance. They’re the perfect way to end your day before heading back to your hotel.
Everglades National Park Itinerary – Day 2: Exploring Shark Valley (Plus an Airboat Adventure!)
If you’re looking to pack even more adventure into your Everglades trip, Day 2 is for you. This itinerary focuses on the Shark Valley section of the park, located in the northern portion west of Miami.
But before you head in, we recommend starting the day with a classic Southern Floridan experience: an airboat tour.
How To Get To Shark Valley?
The Shark Valley Visitor Center is located along U.S. Highway 41 (Tamiami Trail), about 50 minutes west of Miami, 1 hour 15 minutes from Homestead, and 1 hour 30 minutes from Fort Lauderdale.
No matter where you’re starting from, plan for an early start. The earlier you arrive, the better your chances of avoiding long entrance lines and getting a parking spot. Parking is limited, so arrive early—especially during winter and weekends when crowds are bigger.
Shark Valley Visitor Center Address: 36000 SW 8th Street, Miami, FL 33194 (You’ll see signs for Shark Valley Entrance as you get close.)
Start Your Day With An Airboat Tour
Before heading into the park, we kicked off our morning with an airboat tour along Tamiami Trail (Highway 41). Most of the airboat operators are located just outside the Shark Valley entrance, and there are several options to choose from. We decided to go with Miccosukee Airboat Tours, and we had an absolute blast!
While we can’t speak for every tour company, ours lasted about an hour and included:
- A 20-minute airboat ride through the Everglades wetlands
- A stop at a historic Miccosukee island site, where we learned more about the tribe’s history and culture
- A 20-minute return ride that was fast, splashy, and filled with incredible views
It was a mix of fun, education, and adrenaline, and unlike anything else we did during our trip to Florida’s three National Parks. If you’ve never experienced an airboat ride before, we 100% recommend it—especially at the start of your Shark Valley day.
Want to see what it was like? Check out the airboat segment in our YouTube video here!
Don’t Miss Out on an Air Boat Tour!
Airboat tours near Everglades National Park are a thrilling way to experience the wetlands just outside the park boundaries. These high-speed rides offer a fun, up-close look at the Everglades’ unique ecosystem—plus, you might spot alligators, birds, and turtles along the way. Tours often fill up quickly during the busy season, so we recommend booking in advance to lock in your preferred time.
Head Into Shark Valley
After your airboat adventure, it’s time to enter Shark Valley, one of the most popular areas in Everglades National Park. Because this entrance is much closer to Miami, it sees more crowds than the southern section near Homestead.
When we arrived, there was a 20-minute wait just to get into the parking lot. If you’re visiting during the dry season or on a weekend, plan for a bit of a line.
Tip: Have your America the Beautiful Pass or credit card ready at the entrance station. That way, you won’t hold up the line—and trust us, every little bit helps when it’s busy.
Despite the short wait, it’s worth it. Shark Valley is wildlife central and offers a totally different vibe from the other sections of the park.
What To Do Inside Shark Valley?
Once you’re inside Shark Valley, there’s one main thing to do—but it’s a good one. The 15-mile Tram Road Loop is the heart of this area, and it offers a true Everglades experience packed with wildlife, open views, and peaceful stretches of sawgrass prairie.
There are a few different ways to explore it, depending on your pace and preference:
Walk the Tram Road Loop
You can walk the full loop, but be prepared—it’s long, exposed, and almost entirely without shade. The road is paved and flat, but walking 15 miles in the Florida sun is no joke. Also, you might have to stop along the way because alligators and crocodiles often sunbathe directly on the path.
If you do decide to walk, bring plenty of water, sun protection, and start early.
Bike The Tram Road Loop
Biking is the most flexible and efficient way to explore Shark Valley. The 15-mile ride takes about 2-3 hours round trip, depending on how often you stop for photos or wildlife.
You can rent bikes from the on-site concessionaire, which is convenient but only works during their operating hours. More info here: Shark Valley Tram Tours – Bike Rentals.
Since we were doing the Ranger-Led Night Ride later in the day, we needed bikes that could be returned after hours. So we rented off-site from Homestead Bikes in Homestead, Florida. Their team was friendly, the prices were fair, and the bikes were ready to go.
Pro tip: Make sure your vehicle has room. We had an SUV, and it was a tight fit with two bikes in the back.
Take The Tram Tour
If biking or walking doesn’t sound appealing, you can also join a guided tram tour around the loop. These tours are led by knowledgeable naturalists and include plenty of stops for wildlife sightings and photos.
We really enjoyed how informative and relaxing the tram ride was, especially in the heat of the day. It’s a great option for families, anyone sensitive to sun exposure, or those short on time.
Pro tip: Try to sit in the very last row of the tram. It has extra legroom and a spot to stretch your feet—great for those long photo stops!
More information on the Shark Valley Tram Tour Here.
Climb the Shark Valley Observation Tower
Roughly halfway through the loop, you’ll reach the Shark Valley Observation Tower—the biggest attraction in this part of the park.
You can walk, bike, or take the tram to get there. Once you arrive, climb the gentle spiral ramp to the top. The tower offers panoramic views of the Everglades that stretch for miles. It’s a great place to watch birds and take in the sights.
Stroll the Bobcat Boardwalk Trail
Looking for a shorter option? The Bobcat Boardwalk Trail leaves right from the Shark Valley Visitor Center.
It’s an easy, peaceful walk that follows a portion of the Tram Road before cutting through a sawgrass slough with more tree coverage and shade than other trails in this area. It’s perfect for a quick nature fix or a warm-up before the longer loop.
Additional Info for Visiting Shark Valley
Before you head out on the trail, there are a few helpful things to know about visiting Shark Valley.
- Snacks and soft drinks are available from the Shark Valley Tram Tours concession stand, located near the visitor center.
- You’ll also find restrooms at the visitor center and again at the 7-mile mark, right next to the observation tower—perfect for a mid-ride or mid-tour break.
- Cell phone service is very limited, so be sure to download any maps, info, or offline content before you arrive. We love using AllTrails for this!
This section of the park is wild, open, and packed with life—but it’s also more developed than you’d expect, with good facilities and multiple ways to explore. Whether you bike, ride the tram, or hike a short trail, Shark Valley gives you a front-row seat to the true Everglades experience.
What To Do After Visiting Shark Valley?
Finished exploring Shark Valley but not ready to call it a day? There are a few great ways to extend your adventure—whether you’re staying nearby or heading off to explore more of Florida’s wild side.
Junior Ranger Program:
One easy option is to stop by the Shark Valley Visitor Center and complete the Junior Ranger Program. It’s a fun and educational way for kids (and adults!) to engage more deeply with the park. Just ask a ranger for a booklet, complete a few activities, and earn a badge.
Gulf Coast Section:
If you’re feeling ambitious, you could continue west along Tamiami Trail to reach the Gulf Coast section of Everglades National Park. This area is based near Everglades City and gives you access to the Ten Thousand Islands. It’s best for boating, kayaking, and spotting manatees—but fair warning, it’s a long drive from Shark Valley and even farther from Homestead.
If you’re looking to explore the Ten Thousand Islands region of Everglades National Park, a boat tour offers an excellent opportunity to experience this unique coastal ecosystem. These tours typically depart from Everglades City, providing access to the labyrinth of mangrove islands and waterways that make up the area.
Don’t Miss Out on an Everglades Boat Tour!
Boat tours in Everglades National Park are one of the best ways to explore the park, but they sell out fast—especially in peak season! Whether you want to cruise through the Ten Thousand Islands, take a mangrove tour, or spot dolphins and manatees, booking in advance guarantees your spot on the water.
Big Cypress National Preserve:
A closer option is to explore Big Cypress National Preserve, which borders Everglades National Park and is just a short drive away. This area has beautiful scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and some great boardwalk trails like the Kirby Storter Roadside Park and the Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk. It’s also home to the Big Cypress Swamp Welcome Center, where you can often spot manatees in the canal.
If you want something low-key, head to Loop Road Scenic Drive, an unpaved backroad that runs parallel to Tamiami Trail and winds through dense cypress forest and wetlands. You’ll likely see alligators, turtles, and plenty of birds—especially at the ponds and culverts along the way.
Or, if you’re ready for food and relaxation, head back toward Miami or Homestead and stop for a bite at one of the local restaurants you didn’t try the day before.
Final Tips for Visiting Everglades National Park
Before you go, here are a few final tips to help you plan a smooth and enjoyable trip to Everglades National Park.
Best Time to Visit Everglades National Park: Dry Season vs. Wet Season
If you’re building your Everglades National Park itinerary, timing is everything. Generally, the best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from December through April. During this time, you can expect cooler temperatures, lower humidity, fewer mosquitoes, and much better wildlife viewing. In addition, trails are drier, water levels are lower, and animals tend to gather around shrinking water sources—making them easier to spot.
When we visited Everglades National Park in the last weekend of January, the weather was absolutely perfect. It was sunny, dry, and there were zero bugs. However, timing really does make a difference. Our friends Jen and Elliot (aka Scho and Jo) visited just two weeks earlier, and it rained during their entire trip. They dealt with humid conditions, wet trails, and mosquitoes, so be sure to check the forecast and come prepared. (Check out Scho and Jo’s Everglades experience here).
On the other hand, the wet season (May through November) brings intense heat, high humidity, daily afternoon storms, and—yes—lots of bugs. That said, this time of year is far less crowded, and the park becomes incredibly lush and green. If you plan to visit during this season, make sure to pack bug spray, rain gear, and extra water to stay safe and comfortable.
Overall, for most people—especially first-time visitors—the dry season offers the most comfortable and rewarding experience. It’s the ideal time to follow our 2-day Everglades National Park itinerary and make the most of your adventure in the wetlands.
What to pack when visiting Everglades National Park?
We’re working on a full blog post all about what to pack for Everglades National Park, but here are a few quick essentials you won’t want to forget.
First, the sun and bugs are no joke—especially if you’re visiting during the warmer months. Bring layers and gear to stay protected and comfortable throughout the day. Here are a few must-haves to add to your daypack:
- Day pack (lightweight and comfortable with room for water, snacks, and essentials)
- Sun shirt (lightweight and breathable for UV protection)
- Bug spray (look for one with DEET or picaridin)
- First aid kit (just in case—especially for kids or longer hikes)
- Sunglasses (polarized if possible to cut the glare on the water)
- Snacks (granola bars, fruit, or trail mix are easy to pack)
- Refillable water bottle (at least 1 liter per person, more on hot days)
For a full breakdown of what to wear and what gear to bring, check out our Everglades National Park packing guide—coming soon!
Safety Tips: Alligators, Weather, and Staying Hydrated
Spending time in Everglades National Park is incredible—but it comes with a few safety reminders to keep your visit smooth and enjoyable. First, always keep a safe distance from all wildlife, especially alligators. They may look calm, but they are wild animals. Never feed them, never approach them, and always stay on the designated trails and boardwalks.
Weather is another important factor. The Florida sun can be intense, even in the cooler months. Wear sunscreen (we like Badger), a hat, and breathable sun shirt to protect your skin. There’s little shade on many trails, so sun exposure adds up quickly.
Don’t forget the bugs—especially during the wet season. Mosquitoes can be brutal, even in winter, depending on recent rain. Bring strong bug spray and reapply as needed. Long sleeves, pants, and mosquito net can also help.
Stay hydrated. The heat and humidity can sneak up on you. Bring more water (a cool water bottle helps) than you think you’ll need, and drink regularly, even if you’re not sweating much.
With the right prep, you can safely enjoy your time in the park—and focus on the fun parts, like spotting gators, birds, and big Florida skies.
Alternative Options for Families or Shorter Visits
If you’re short on time or visiting with kids, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy Everglades National Park without committing to long hikes or full-day outings. For a quick and rewarding experience, we highly recommend heading to the Southern section of the park and walking the Anhinga Trail. This short boardwalk loop is a one-hit wonder—you’ll likely see alligators, birds, turtles, and more, often just steps from the parking lot.
Pair it with a stop at the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center, where you can talk to rangers, pick up maps, and learn about the park’s unique ecosystem. Together, these two stops offer a great half-day version of an Everglades National Park itinerary, especially if you’re short on time.
Other great options include the Bobcat Boardwalk Trail near the Shark Valley Visitor Center or the Shark Valley Tram Tour, which offers a relaxed, shaded ride through the wetlands. These areas offer easy access, restrooms, some shade, and a chance to see plenty of wildlife—without having to walk more than a mile.
Download the Everglades National Park Trip Planning Bundle
This 8-page Everglades National Park Bundle includes everything you need to explore Florida’s wildest landscapes with confidence! Inside, you’ll find a 2-day itinerary, a quick-links guide, a printable checklist, a custom Google Map with over 40 pins, and a fun game of Everglades Bingo to keep things playful on the trail. Whether you’re spotting gators on Anhinga Trail or biking Shark Valley, this guide will help you hit all the highlights—without the overwhelm.
Final Thoughts on Our 2-Day Everglades National Park Itinerary
Everglades National Park is unlike any other place we’ve visited. With its wide-open marshes, hidden boardwalks, and incredible wildlife, it offers a one-of-a-kind adventure through the wetlands of southern Florida.
In just two days, you can experience a huge variety of landscapes—from the lush forests and still waters of the Royal Palm and Flamingo area to the open sawgrass prairies and sunbathing gators at Shark Valley.
We packed a lot into our itinerary, but it never felt rushed. Between scenic drives, easy hikes, wildlife encounters, and even an airboat tour, there was always something new to discover.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or just passing through, we hope this two-day guide helps you make the most of your time in the park. And who knows—you might leave surprised, just like we did, at how much you enjoyed the swamps.
Looking for more Florida adventures? Check out our other posts on Biscayne and Dry Tortugas National Parks, plus guides to where to stay, what to pack, and how to plan the perfect national park road trip.
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Perfect 2-Day Everglades National Park Itinerary
