[FULL GUIDE] 100 Amazing Things to Do at Everglades National Park You Can’t Miss

Key Takeaways:

• Everglades National Park offers an incredible variety of outdoor activities, from kayaking through mangroves to wildlife watching in a unique ecosystem.
• The park is home to an astonishing array of wildlife, including alligators, panthers, and countless bird species, making it a must-see for nature lovers.
• With its vast wetlands, diverse habitats, and rich history, Everglades National Park provides endless opportunities for adventure, education, and relaxation.

Everglades National Park, located in southern Florida, is a unique and diverse landscape, home to one of the most extraordinary ecosystems in the world. Known for its vast wetlands, mangrove forests, sawgrass prairies, and subtropical waters, the Everglades cover over 1.5 million acres of protected land. As the largest tropical wilderness in the United States, the park is not only a haven for wildlife but also a site of historical significance, rich in Native American heritage and environmental conservation efforts. From its famous alligators to its stunning birdlife, Everglades National Park offers a one-of-a-kind experience for outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, and those looking to explore an untouched wilderness.

100 Things to Do at Everglades National Park:

#1 Take an Airboat Ride: Explore the Everglades’ unique landscape on a thrilling airboat ride, where you can see alligators and exotic birds.

#2 Hike the Anhinga Trail: This easy, boardwalk trail takes you through a wetland ecosystem where you can spot alligators, birds, and turtles.

#3 Visit the Ernest Coe Visitor Center: Stop by for information on the park’s history, wildlife, and trail maps, and start your exploration of the Everglades.

#4 Go Kayaking in the Mangroves: Paddle through the winding mangrove tunnels and enjoy a peaceful, scenic adventure in the park’s waters.

#5 Spot Wildlife on the Shark Valley Loop: Take a scenic drive or bike ride along the Shark Valley Loop, home to alligators, wading birds, and more.

#6 Birdwatching at Flamingo: Visit Flamingo for some of the best birdwatching opportunities in the park, with a variety of species visible year-round.

#7 Explore the Wilderness Waterway: Navigate this 99-mile-long water route through the heart of the Everglades, offering stunning views and solitude.

#8 Take a Swamp Walk at Big Cypress National Preserve: Join a ranger-led swamp walk to discover the hidden wonders of the wetlands, including native plants and wildlife.

#9 Go Fishing in the Everglades: Cast a line in the waters of the Everglades, which are home to a variety of freshwater and saltwater fish species.

#10 Visit the Long Pine Key: Discover this peaceful spot known for hiking trails, wildlife, and serene views of the Everglades landscape.

#11 Photograph the Sunset at Sunset Boardwalk: Capture stunning photos of the Everglades’ vast wetlands as the sun sets over the horizon.

#12 Take a Sunset Cruise: Experience the beauty of the Everglades’ landscape as you glide through the waters on a scenic sunset cruise.

#13 Explore the Ten Thousand Islands: Kayak or boat through this maze of islands, mangroves, and tidal flats that are perfect for exploring wildlife.

#14 Take a Guided Tour of the Everglades: Join a guided tour for an in-depth look at the park’s history, wildlife, and ecosystem.

#15 Visit the Gumbo Limbo Trail: A short and sweet loop through a tropical hardwood hammock, offering a chance to see unique plant and animal species.

#16 Go Canoeing on the Wilderness Waterway: Experience the park’s waterways from a canoe, paddling past tranquil shores and wildlife-filled marshes.

#17 Stargaze at Everglades National Park: Due to the lack of light pollution, Everglades is an ideal spot for stargazing, with brilliant views of the night sky.

#18 Take the Eco Pond Trail: Hike this easy trail for incredible views of the Everglades’ unique ecosystem and the chance to spot birds and other wildlife.

#19 Go Camping at Flamingo Campground: Set up camp at the Flamingo Campground, which offers easy access to trails, beaches, and water activities.

#20 Explore the Mud Lake Trail: This short trail takes you through a unique landscape with views of freshwater lakes and the chance to see wildlife.

#21 Take a Boat Tour to the 10,000 Islands: Enjoy a scenic boat tour through the 10,000 Islands, spotting dolphins, manatees, and exotic birds.

#22 Experience the Everglades Backcountry: Explore the less-traveled backcountry areas of the park for a true wilderness adventure, perfect for seasoned adventurers.

#23 Go Cycling on the Shark Valley Tram Road: Rent a bike and cycle along the Shark Valley Tram Road for a chance to see alligators and a variety of birds.

#24 Explore the Mahogany Hammock Trail: This short trail leads you through a tropical hardwood hammock, offering views of towering trees and a unique ecosystem.

#25 Take a Boat Tour at Flamingo: Hop on a boat at Flamingo for a guided tour of the surrounding waters and a chance to spot wildlife.

#26 Go on a Ranger-Led Program: Join one of the park’s many ranger-led programs to learn about the Everglades’ ecosystem, wildlife, and history.

#27 Relax on the Beaches of the Everglades: Enjoy the tranquility of the Everglades’ remote beaches, ideal for relaxing, swimming, or picnicking.

#28 Explore the Everglades from a Seaplane: Take to the skies on a seaplane tour for a unique aerial view of the park’s vast and diverse landscapes.

#29 Visit the Royal Palm Visitor Center: Stop by this visitor center to learn about the park’s plant and animal life, and get advice on hiking and tours.

#30 Go on a Guided Fishing Trip: Join a guided fishing trip for an expert-led experience of fishing in the Everglades’ unique waters.

#31 Take a Kayak Tour of the Everglades: Paddle through the Everglades on a guided kayak tour, offering the chance to spot alligators, manatees, and birds.

#32 Visit the National Park’s Historic Sites: Discover the history of the Everglades through various historic sites, including Native American sites and early European settlements.

#33 Try Paddleboarding at Florida Bay: Try stand-up paddleboarding in Florida Bay, where you can explore the waters and enjoy wildlife sightings.

#34 Watch the Alligators at the Shark Valley Observation Tower: Climb to the top of the Shark Valley Observation Tower to get a bird’s-eye view of the park’s alligator-filled waters.

#35 Take a Kayaking Trip in the Wilderness: Go on a multi-day kayaking trip through the Everglades’ wildest regions, surrounded by unique wildlife and tranquil waters.

#36 Experience the Mangrove Forests: Explore the park’s diverse mangrove forests, which provide vital habitat for birds, fish, and other wildlife.

#37 Take a Photographic Tour of the Everglades: Join a photography tour to capture the Everglades’ stunning landscapes, wildlife, and vibrant sunsets.

#38 Go on an Everglades Boat Safari: Take an exciting boat safari to explore the Everglades’ wetlands, with the chance to spot wild animals and birds.

#39 Learn about the Everglades Restoration Efforts: Visit exhibits about the ongoing restoration of the Everglades and its crucial environmental importance.

#40 Visit the Historic Spanish River: Explore this historic river, which provides insight into the Everglades’ past and the cultures that once lived here.

#41 Explore the Shark River Slough: Visit the Shark River Slough to see rare and endangered species in their natural habitats, including panthers and manatees.

#42 Discover the Florida Bay Wildlife: Take a boat ride through Florida Bay and spot dolphins, manatees, and other wildlife along the way.

#43 Go Birdwatching at Eco Pond: Spot a wide variety of birds at Eco Pond, which serves as a stopping point for migratory species.

#44 Take a Canoe Trip through the Everglades Wilderness: Paddle through the Everglades on a peaceful canoe trip, navigating through water channels and hidden habitats.

#45 Hike the Pa-hay-okee Overlook: Hike to the Pa-hay-okee Overlook for panoramic views of the Everglades and the opportunity to see wildlife.

#46 Catch a Boat from the Flamingo Marina: Take a boat ride from the Flamingo Marina to explore the surrounding waterways and the wildlife that inhabit them.

#47 Take a Guided Swamp Walk: Join a ranger for an exhilarating swamp walk and experience the Everglades’ wetland ecosystem up close.

#48 Visit the Pine Island Trail: Explore this relatively short but scenic trail that leads you through pine forests and past marshy wetlands.

#49 Take a Sunset Cruise from Flamingo: Take a relaxing sunset cruise from Flamingo and enjoy the colors of the sky over Florida Bay.

#50 Tour the Everglades by Bicycle: Rent a bike and take a self-guided tour of the park’s scenic roads and trails.

#51 Explore the Flamingo Visitor Center: Stop by to get maps, ask questions, and learn more about the park’s unique wildlife and ecosystems.

#52 Join a Campfire Program: Participate in an evening campfire program to learn about the Everglades’ ecosystem, wildlife, and cultural history.

#53 Go on a Guided Nature Walk: Take a guided nature walk through the park’s diverse habitats to discover its flora and fauna up close.

#54 Visit the Mahogany Hammock Boardwalk: Walk the boardwalk through a tropical hardwood hammock, observing towering trees and lush vegetation.

#55 Explore the Pineland Trail: This short trail offers a peaceful walk through pine forests, perfect for spotting wildlife and enjoying the Everglades’ tranquility.

#56 Discover the Everglades by Boat: Take a boat tour through the park’s canals, mangroves, and marshes for an immersive experience of the landscape.

#57 Explore the Everglades with a Paddle Tour: Go on a guided paddle tour to navigate the shallow waters of the Everglades and spot wildlife along the way.

#58 Take a Canoe Trip in the Mangroves: Glide through the mangrove-lined waters of the Everglades for an unforgettable adventure and a chance to see manatees.

#59 Go on a Guided Fishing Trip: Join an expert guide for a day of fishing, targeting some of the Everglades’ most sought-after species.

#60 Explore the Alligator Alley: Visit this part of the park to see alligators up close, often basking in the sun along the canal’s banks.

#61 Take a Night Safari: Experience the Everglades at night on a guided night safari, where you’ll encounter nocturnal wildlife in its natural habitat.

#62 Walk the Bear Lake Trail: Hike along this peaceful trail that offers views of Bear Lake and is a great spot for birdwatching.

#63 Spot Manatees at the Gulf Coast: Head to the Gulf Coast to catch sight of manatees, especially in the warmer months when they come to the shallow waters.

#64 Visit the Old Ingraham Highway: Take a scenic drive or bike ride along this historic road that offers beautiful views and access to some of the park’s best wildlife.

#65 Visit the Gumbo Limbo Trail: This easy trail takes you through a tropical hardwood hammock, offering a chance to see rare plants and animals.

#66 Take a Historic Tour of the Park’s Forts: Visit historic military forts in the Everglades and learn about their role in the region’s history.

#67 Experience the Shark River: Explore the Shark River Slough, home to wildlife such as panthers, alligators, and a variety of birds.

#68 Go on an Everglades Boat Safari: Go on an exciting boat safari through the park’s waterways, spotting wildlife and learning about the Everglades ecosystem.

#69 Experience the Florida Bay Canoe Trail: Take a canoe through the Florida Bay Canoe Trail for a peaceful and scenic paddle through mangroves and open water.

#70 Visit the Pineland Trail: Explore this 1.5-mile trail that offers a glimpse into the Everglades’ diverse ecosystem, including cypress and pine forests.

#71 Enjoy a Sunset at Florida Bay: Watch the sun dip below the horizon at Florida Bay, where you can enjoy the stunning view and peaceful atmosphere.

#72 Take a Guided Kayak Tour: Experience the Everglades from the water with a guided kayaking tour, providing the chance to spot wildlife and enjoy the surroundings.

#73 Watch Dolphins in Florida Bay: Visit Florida Bay and keep an eye out for playful dolphins swimming alongside your boat or kayak.

#74 Explore the Backcountry Trails: For the more adventurous, the park offers a range of backcountry trails perfect for hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting.

#75 Visit the Everglades National Park Campgrounds: Spend a night or more camping in one of the park’s designated campgrounds, where you can enjoy the natural beauty of the Everglades.

#76 Take a Boat Tour of the Ten Thousand Islands: Take a boat tour through the Ten Thousand Islands for the chance to see hidden wildlife and explore remote areas of the park.

#77 Go on a Snorkeling Adventure at Florida Bay: Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Florida Bay, where you can explore the coral reefs and spot marine life.

#78 Tour the Everglades with a Park Ranger: Take a ranger-led tour to learn about the Everglades’ unique wildlife, plants, and history.

#79 Watch for Alligators at Snake Bight: Visit Snake Bight for the chance to spot alligators in the shallow waters and enjoy the serene surroundings.

#80 Go on a Photography Expedition: Join a photography tour to capture the Everglades’ diverse ecosystems, wildlife, and landscapes.

#81 Explore the Mangrove Forests of Florida Bay: Paddle or hike through the mangrove forests of Florida Bay, home to a variety of wildlife and a peaceful atmosphere.

#82 Visit the West Lake Trail: Explore this 1.2-mile trail that leads you through coastal hardwood hammocks and past scenic views of the Everglades.

#83 Go Boating at Everglades City: Rent a boat and explore the waters around Everglades City, an ideal base for access to the park’s waterways.

#84 Take a Sunset Paddle at Flamingo: Experience the tranquility of the Everglades as you paddle along the waters at sunset, with the beautiful evening sky reflecting in the water.

#85 Explore the Big Cypress Swamp: Head over to Big Cypress National Preserve for a swampy adventure full of diverse plant and animal life.

#86 Visit the Chokoloskee Island: Take a trip to this historical island for a glimpse into Florida’s old fishing communities and unique cultural history.

#87 Take a Kayak Trip through Nine Mile Pond: Paddle through the scenic Nine Mile Pond for a peaceful experience in the heart of the Everglades.

#88 Experience the Everglades in Winter: Visit during the winter months to experience the park’s cooler weather, which is perfect for outdoor adventures.

#89 Visit the Sable Palm Trail: Explore this short trail that leads you through a unique palm hammock filled with wildlife and lush greenery.

#90 Take a Guided Swamp Walk at Big Cypress: Join a guided swamp walk to explore the Everglades’ wild wetlands and learn about the plants and animals that thrive there.

#91 Go on a Morning Birdwatching Walk: Start your day with a guided birdwatching walk, catching sight of migratory birds and local species as they begin their day.

#92 Explore the Wilderness Waterway by Canoe: Travel through the Everglades’ pristine waters on the Wilderness Waterway, observing the park’s untouched landscapes.

#93 Take a Boat Ride to the Chokoloskee Island: Experience the island’s natural beauty and historical significance by taking a boat ride to this secluded location.

#94 Paddle through the Wilderness: Embark on a kayak or canoe adventure through the wild waterways of the Everglades for a true wilderness experience.

#95 Visit the Historic Everglades Hotel: Explore the Everglades Hotel, one of the oldest buildings in the region, and learn about its historical importance.

#96 See the Wild Mangrove Trees: Discover the mangrove forests of the Everglades, home to unique plant species and a habitat for countless animals.

#97 Go on a Sunset Wildlife Tour: Watch the wildlife of the Everglades as the sun sets, offering a serene and peaceful end to your day in the park.

#98 Learn About the Everglades’ Conservation Efforts: Visit exhibits and participate in programs that discuss the ongoing conservation efforts to protect this unique ecosystem.

#99 Go on a Full Moon Night Hike: Experience the Everglades at night with a guided full moon hike through the park’s trails, perfect for spotting nocturnal animals.

#100 Experience the Peaceful Everglades Wilderness: Take some time to simply enjoy the peace and quiet of the Everglades’ remote wilderness, far from the noise of everyday life.

Concluding

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