everglades trip from orlando

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Orlando Everglades Tours

There’s nothing quite like the Florida Everglades—in fact, the unique ecosystem it forms is not found anywhere else on the planet. Our Everglades tours are an experience you’ll never forget. You’ll see alligators and a variety of endangered species in their natural habitat, lush vegetation, and beautiful waters teeming with aquatic life. Marsh Landing Adventures is a top-rated provider of Everglades tours in Central Florida and we’re one of the only airboat tour operators to offer four-hour tours of the Everglades .

Best Everglades Tours in Orlando

What makes Marsh Landing Adventures a five-star rated Everglades airboat tour? It’s simple: our airboat captains are the best in the business. To them, this isn’t just a job—it’s a passion. They love the Everglades and nothing makes them happier than introducing the area to visitors and locals alike. Our captains know the history of the area, the best places to spot alligators and other wildlife, and they also know how to give our guests a thrilling airboat ride.

Each of our Everglades airboat tour captains is licensed by the US Coast Guard for your safety.

They are avid outdoorsmen with respect for and knowledge of the Everglades ecosystem and its wildlife inhabitants. After your tour, you’ll have a better understanding of what makes the Everglades so remarkable and the importance of conserving this special place.

Everglades Airboat Tours

Marsh Landing Adventures offers a variety of Everglades tours :

One-Hour Everglades Tours – Only in the Orlando area for a weekend? With this tour, you’ll be able to get the Everglades experience in a shorter amount of time.

90-Minute Everglades Tours – The 90-minute tour allows you to venture further into the Headwaters, Everglades, and Lake Tohopekaliga. Bring your camera and expect to see some gators!

Two-Hour Everglades Tours – Ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts, this tour gives you extra time to take in the scenery and spot wildlife from the airboat.

Four-Hour Photo and Eco-Safari – Consider this the ultimate Everglades tour. Take a walk on a secluded island that was home to Seminole Indians for centuries and visit Shingle Creek and the headwaters of the Everglades.

Private Everglades Tours – We offer private tours for an additional cost. They’re perfect for large families, corporate events, and other groups.

Our Airboat Tours Allow You To See Natural Florida Wildlife!

What Our Guests Have to Say

Our ninety-minute ride was everything we had hoped it would been, and it was made even more enjoyable by my comfy bucket seat in the front row (and a carabiner to secure my bag). Captain Wayde was friendly to us guests and, even more importantly to me, respectful of the animal life we encountered. I think that a Marsh Landing Adventures airboat ride is an excellent way to leave one's everyday world behind and get immersed in Central Florida nature.

Had a fantastic 1hr ride out with Capt Scott what a charmer very funny and knows his stuff for sure, had a wonderful exhilarating ride out into the swamps even had a beer at no charge if you are there in the area its a well worth trip.

We had a boat tour with Captain Chris and honestly if I had the time this holiday I would go again! It was amazing! The marsh was picturesque and full of wildlife. We were even lucky enough to see a few alligators! Our Captain was great ; very friendly and informative! An absolute 10/10.

5 of the Best Everglades Airboat Tours from Orlando

While Orlando is too far from Everglades National Park to conveniently visit in a day, the sprawling network of lakes, swamps and waterways span much further north, surrounding the city, particularly to the south and east. This natural habitat is the perfect place to get closer to nature. Everglade swamps, as it may not surprise you to hear, are not very human friendly. After all, they’re packed with insects and alligators and lots of water. But never fear, human ingenuity has brought us the airboat, meaning you can simply glide over it all and access those hard to reach recesses of the natural world with the minimum of effort.

Specialized airboat tours from Orlando are an excellent way to leave the trappings of the city behind and get a little closer to the nature of the Everglades. The nearby cities of Kissimmee and St Cloud are gateways to these wetlands, while some airboat tours also organize hotel pickup and drop off from Orlando. Here are five of the best Everglades airboat tours from Orlando and its satellite cities. In compiling this list we have paid close attention to things like the price, duration, quality of the guides and of course the feedback from previous guests.

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Airboat Tours in Orlando, Florida

Take a ride through florida's everglades.

Looking for something other than the concrete jungle? Stop by Wild Willy’s for a thrilling airboat tour and get in touch with Florida in its natural habitat. Glide across the headwaters of the everglades in high-performance 6-passenger airboats and our newly added 14-passenger boat with our licensed and fully insured master captains!

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One-Hour Orlando Airboat Ride

Wild Willy’s One-Hour Airboat Rides are perfect for families looking for unique things to do near Orlando. Book an airboat tour on Lake Tohopekaliga, St. Cloud, to see gators, bald eagles, and much more!

• Calendar Daily
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Glide across the Everglades on a thrilling airboat tour!

Huge alligators, bald eagles, the endangered snail kite, and more await your arrival! We treat them and all of our customers like family. So come on out and surround yourself with nature during one of our popular airboat rides through Florida’s vast everglades! At the end of your educational tour, you have the opportunity to take pictures with our resident alligators: Cricket, Sergio, Blue, and Splash! Come on out and see why we have more airboat ride reviews than anyone in Orlando, Kissimmee, St. Cloud, Tampa, Miami, and even worldwide.

With Over 10,000 Reviews Online, We’re The Most Talked About Airboat Tour Anywhere In The World!

First trip to Florida and this was one of my things to go too. Awesome place for Swap Tours. Great people at the front office with a smile as you walk in. Captain Jim is the man. Very likable and great personality! We got to see an 8’ alligator which was pretty cool. Great job guys!

This was an absolutely great airboat tour. AJ was our guide, who was informative and humorous too! I had a keen interest in birding and he pointed out about 10+ species of birds including 4 bald eagles. We saw about 5-10 alligators during our visit. Would visit again & highly recommend!

Wild Willys was a great Airboat ride through the marshes. Saw several gators and lots of wildlife. The guide was knowledgable about the area and very friendly. The people inside were also very friendly and knowledgable. Definitely recommend.

The one-hour airboat ride was perfect. We saw a variety of wildlife. The speed of the boat (what I really came for) was good, some fast times, some slow times. I chose the 9am time to avoid the sun and heat, and that was perfect too. I highly recommend Wild Willy's.

Deals for humans

Florida resident deals, military, first responder, and teacher deals.

(Four-person max, discount can be redeemed by booking over the phone or being refunded with proof of membership upon check-in. Combos and Half-Day Adventures are excluded.)

FHIA (Florida Hospitality industry association) DEALS

(Three person max)

AAA, TRAVEL AGENTS, SENIOR DEALS

(Discount can be redeemed by booking over the phone or being refunded with proof of membership upon check-in.)

THINGS TO DO

floridians love bogo.

choose your adventure!

Ultimate Adventure

Half-Day Adventure

VIP Safari Tour

Sloth Encounter

We put the wild in.

Embark on a wild adventure through the Headwaters of the Florida Everglades at Wild Florida!

Encounter over 200 native and exotic animals, savor unique swamp delicacies at the Chomp House Grill, and engage with captivating creatures in interactive encounters. Uncover the untouched beauty of pristine marshland on a U.S. Coast Guard certified airboat, spotting magnificent wildlife like eagles, alligators, and more.

AN AIRboat tour

through our gator park

through our safari park

animals LIKE you've never seen them before

Don't miss out on our special deals as a florida resident, what are they saying.

We couldn't have been happier with the sloth encounter that my daughter went to. She is still smiling days later.

Greg noonan, this place is so awesome and gets better and better every year. just did the reptile and porcupine animal experiences and it was unbelievable, the drive through park was awesome. you could stay in your car and be comfortable and really get a close up view of the animals., emona newbold, wild florida airboats & gator park is an absolutely amazing experience for anyone who loves to explore the outdoors and get up close and personal with nature. the airboat rides are thrilling and provide an opportunity to see some of florida's most beautiful and unique landscapes..

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The 5 Best Everglades Airboat Tours From Orlando [2024 Reviews]

The Florida Everglades are world famous for their beauty and the abundance of rare animal and plant species. If you want to see alligators in their natural habitat, the Everglades are the best place to go, and much poetry has been written about the eerie beauty of the cypress knees.

Many Hollywood action movies include scenes set in the Everglades, with heroes zipping through the hidden, narrow channels in speedy airboats or fighting off the alligators with their bare hands. Did you know you can experience these adventures yourself?

There are many Florida Everglades airboat tours available that you can take to get up-close to nature and experience the adrenaline rush of an airboat ride through the swamps. However, not all these tours are worth your time and money.

We have researched the top-rated Everglades airboat adventures, so you don’t have to. We review the top 5 airboat excursions to the Everglades below.

And you also might like to check out our Orlando, Florida Travel Guide .

Best Everglades Tours

Quick answer: the 5 best rated everglades tours.

• Florida Everglades Airboat Ride & Gatorland Adventure
• Kissimmee: 1-Hour Airboat Everglades Adventure Tour
• Orlando: 90-=Minute Airboat Everglades Adventure T our
• Orlando: Wildlife Watching Everglades Airboat Ride
• Orlando: Wild Florida Airboat Safari With Transportation

Everglades Tours Reviewed

1. florida everglades airboat ride & gatorland adventure.

• Departure Point : Hotel pick-up
• Departure Time : 7:25 AM – 8:15 AM, depending on hotel
• Duration : 6 hours
• Includes : Hotel transfer, airboat tour, alligator “wrestling” show, petting zoo, Flamingo Lagoon, and admission into Gatorland

This is unarguably the best Florida Everglades airboat tour you can choose. It provides you with more access than any other excursion to all the wonderful natural sites and rare animal species there are to see in the US’s largest sub-tropical wetland area.

This tour includes access to Gatorland, a 110-acres wildlife preserve. In this amazing park, you are guaranteed to see all the rare animal species found within the Everglades.

Gatorland is dedicated to Florida’s fascinating wildlife. You’ll find turtles, snakes, crocodiles, ibis, egrets, heron, and — of course — alligators! And imagine the beautiful views you’ll enjoy at Flamingo Lagoon.

You also have the opportunity to watch trained professional wildlife handlers “wrestle” with 8-foot alligators in a family-friendly, action-packed ‘gator show. And for the youngest members of your family group, there’s a petting zoo to introduce your kids to some of the cuddliest critters in the Everglades.

While at Gatorland, you can also enjoy an educational nature walk, climb aboard a miniature train for a ride, and purchase ‘gator-themed souvenirs. You can also enjoy a great meal in the Gatorland smokehouse.

The highlight of this Florida Everglades tour is the fast-paced airboat trip. You will be zipped out across the swamps to see the most famous plants and animals of the Everglades out in the wild. An Everglades airboat tour is undoubtedly the best way to explore Florida’s swamplands.

If you’re looking for an all-inclusive Florida Everglades tour, this is your best choice. You’ll be picked up from and returned to your hotel, and you’re guaranteed to see all the best natural attractions the Everglades have to offer.

Tour Information & Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, 2. kissimmee: 1-hour airboat everglades adventure tour.

• Departure Point : 2830 Neptune Road, Kissimmee
• Departure Time : 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM
• Duration : 1 hour
• Includes : Airboat tour, free parking, Everglades-themed gift shop, knowledgeable local guide, life jacket, ear protection, rain gear, and binimy top sun protection

This is the best value Everglades airboat adventure from Kissimmee. This is your opportunity to explore the most unspoiled swamp marshes and wet prairies in the US and spot rare critters you won’t see anyplace else in the Union.

You’ve seen airboats featured in countless action-films set in Florida. Now you too can fly through the swamps past ancient cypresses and through thick vegetation on an adrenaline-pumping adventure.

The state-of-the-art airboat provides you with unrivalled access to the fascinating wildlife found only in the Florida Everglades. Your knowledgeable local guide can fill you in not only about the local ecology but also Shingle Creek’s interesting history.

Learn about the Seminoles and the early European settlers who lived their lives in and around the swamps. Both depended upon Shingle Creek for its abundant natural resources.

Bird watchers in particular will love this Florida Everglades tour. With rare waterfowl species and American bald eagles, you’d better bring along your birdwatching binoculars and a camera with a telephoto lens for the best shots.

This Everglades airboat trip is one of the most popular Kissimmee tours for a good reason. You won’t regret going along to find out why.

3. Orlando: 90-Minute Airboat Everglades Adventure Tour

• Duration : 1.5 hours
• Includes : Airboat tour, free parking, life jacket, ear protection, rain gear, binimy top sun protection, and gift shop

This is a fantastic airboat Everglades trip from Kissimmee for anyone interested in exploring Shingle Creek. This fascinating waterway in central Florida forms the northern headwaters of the Everglades watershed.

Your expert tour guide will tell you all about Shingle Creek’s history and how important it once was as a source of food and raw materials for early settlers. In fact, the creek’s name harks back to days when the cypress trees growing here were cut down and sliced up to make roof shingles.

Today, that can’t happen because Shingle Creek is a protected wetlands area within Shingle Creek Regional Park. Because this is where the world’s biggest estuary begins, it is a wonderful location for observing the rich biodiversity of the Florida Everglades.

During this Everglades airboat excursion, you may see American bald eagles and alligators alongside many other rare and sometimes endangered species unique to the Everglades. This is a perfect opportunity to try out your wildlife photography skills so you can share your experiences with all your friends and family back home.

The top-of-the-range airboat provides unobstructed views of the surrounding lush scenery. The Florida Everglades boasts the continental US’s biggest sub-tropical eco-system, and this Kissimmee Everglades tour is the best way to explore this natural wonder.

4. Orlando: Wildlife Watching Everglades Airboat Ride

• Departure Point : 2001 E. Southport Road, Kissimmee
• Opening Hours : 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Duration : 30-60 minutes
• Includes : Scenic airboat tour, professional captain, park admission, floatation vest, and ear protection

This is the best Florida Everglades tour for visitors who want to see the sights normally hidden from tourists. You will be guided by a local expert who knows all the most interesting backwaters.

Expect to pass through hidden and narrow water trails clogged with greenery that look impossible to navigate. Only a native of the Everglades could hope to find their way through the swamps.

The captain will select stops along the way where you’ll encounter some of the fascinating wildlife found in the Everglades. Naturally, you’ll most want to encounter Florida’s State Reptile, the alligator.

You will also encounter other rare and interesting species in this pristine wilderness area teeming with wildlife. Deer, turtles, bald eagles, blue herons, and other waterfowl can be viewed in their natural habitat.

This tour also includes a visit to the Gem Mining Station where you and your family can experience panning for gemstones. All-in-all this is a great value Everglades tour from Kissimmee.

5. Orlando: Wild Florida Airboat Safari with Transportation

• Departure Point : Meeting point transfers
• Departure Time : 8:30 AM
• Duration : 5 hours
• Includes : Hotel transfer, airboat tour, and admission into Wild Florida Wildlife Park

This is the best Everglades adventure tour for anyone who dreams of traveling back through time to explore pre-Columbian Florida. During this thrilling Everglades airboat trip, your expert local guide will transport you into a wilderness area untouched by the modern age where you can imagine yourself in the shoes of the earliest settlers to arrive in this region.

Aboard a modern airboat, you’ll glide through pristine marshes and swamps where you’ll be surrounded by fascinating local wildlife. This is a fantastic opportunity to observe alligators, turtles, otters, golden eagles, and blue herons in their natural habitat.

This Everglades boat trip includes a transfer from Orlando. You’ll be glad of that because Wild Florida Wildlife Park is situated in a truly remote location far away from civilization. As well as the thrilling airboat ride through the Everglades, you also get to explore the wildlife park on foot and see many rare and interesting animals. You haven’t truly experienced Florida until you’ve seen all its unique wildlife species.

Nature lovers will love this Everglades airboat adventure because it provides access to the most untouched areas of the Florida Everglades, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t forget your camera because you’ll need it!

Orlando, Florida Travel Guide

The city of Orlando is famous world-wide. Many who have never stepped foot in the US can point to this fascinating city’s location on a world map. But Orlando isn’t famous because of its history or fine architecture. Instead, it is so well known because of a simple business decision made by the Walt Disney Company in the late 60s to build Walt Disney World in its southern suburbs.

The opening of Walt Disney World in 1971 was followed by the construction of other major theme parks in the area, such as Fun Spot America, Universal Studios Florida, the Holy Land Experience, and Legoland. This makes Orlando the world’s capital for theme park fanatics.

But Orlando isn’t only about theme parks. It is also home to the internationally renowned Kennedy Space Center and a range of other cultural and educational sites. For example, there is Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens, Gatorland, and Orlando Museum of Art.

Orlando boasts easy access to a broad range of unique natural attractions. For example, it is a great base for exploring the fascinating wilderness areas of the Florida Everglades. You can enjoy a boat safari through this unique environment and admire the waterfowl, reptiles, and amphibians that make it their home.

The city is also surrounded by a near countless number of lakes, many of which are perfect fishing destinations. Florida is the sport-fishing capital of the world, and Central Florida around Orlando boasts the best freshwater bass fishing you can find. Thousands of keen anglers flock to Orlando every year to fish at Clear Lake, Lake Ivanhoe, Sarke Lake, Turkey Lake, Lake Underhill, Lake Tohopekaliga, and other fantastic angling spots.

The Florida Everglades

The Florida Everglades make up the US’s 3 rd -largest national park in the Lower 48. Only Yellowstone and Death Valley are bigger. The preserved pristine wilderness areas within the park boast a unique subtropical ecology. There are many plants and animals here you won’t see anywhere else in the world.

Observing alligators in the wild is on most visitors’ bucket lists, but there are rarer animals to watch out for. American bald eagles fly over the Everglades, and around this wilderness area you’ll find unique migratory birds, crocodiles, and the endemic Florida panther. That’s why the Florida Everglades are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Specially licensed guides can transport you deep into the swamps and prairies of the Everglades so you too can experience one of the world’s last true wilderness areas. While you can join a Florida Everglades kayaking tour or enjoy a hiking adventure on trails around the creeks, the most exciting way to visit the Everglades is on a thrilling airboat trip.

For anyone who prefers to stay on dry land while they admire nature, there’s always Gatorland. This 110-acre wildlife preserve has boardwalks built across a section of marshes so you can explore without setting foot in a boat or getting your feet wet. Gatorland contains all the rare plants and animals the Everglades have to offer, so you won’t miss anything. And if you want to watch ‘gator “wrestling”, this is the place to go.

Traveling in the time of COVID

Like many other destinations worldwide, some tours and visitor attractions in Orlando may have adopted special procedures during the pandemic.

Wearing a mask may be mandatory in some locations, especially in enclosed public areas such as travel hubs and shopping malls. You may be expected to supply your own mask and wear it when you enter buildings.

It is in your own interest to keep your distance from other visitors who are not in your family group or bubble. You may be expected to keep your distance inside minibuses and other vehicles and when seated in restaurants.

At the time of writing, the State of Florida welcomes visitors but requires pre-travel testing for Covid-19 for visitors arriving from overseas not more than 3 days before traveling. Visitors must also sign an attestation that their documentation is genuine. Visitors will be required to hand over “covid-free” certification at the airport You can obtain the most up-to-date information directly from the Florida Health website.

Airports & Entry

The easiest way to travel to Orlando is by air. Orlando International Airport (MCO) is a major travel hub for Central Florida. In 2019, MCO handled over 50 million passengers, though this dropped to 21 million in 2020 due to the pandemic.

Obviously, MCO is extremely busy 24/7. At the time of writing, the new South Terminal Complex is still under construction, which will help to handle the expected surge of visitors after the COVID restrictions are ended. However, even now, MCO has the well-trained staff and facilities to make your arrival and departure as painless as possible.

MCO is packed full of stores and restaurants alongside the other facilities you’d expect in such a busy airport. While many of the stores close by 5 pm and the restaurants by 8 pm, the Main Terminal McDonald’s is open from 5:30 am to 10 pm.

An interesting fact is that Orlando is the world’s biggest rental car market. You’ll find 10 major car rental companies at the airport on the Ground Transportation Level on the A-Side of the Terminal: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Payless, Sixt, and Thrifty. Avis, Budget, and Payless also operate on the B-Side. Given that MCO is only a short 15-minute drive from downtown Orlando and several of the local major attractions, renting a car is an easy option.

Lynx operate an airport bus service from the A-Side of the Main Terminal. Regular Shuttle Bus services operate from both the A-Side and the B-Side. Alternatively, taxis are available on both sides. You should expect taxi fares from MCO of around $45 to downtown Orlando and $65 to Walt Disney World.

If you are taking an international flight into Orlando, you will need your passport as well as authorization and your “covid-free” certification. If you play to stay fewer than 90 days, you will need an ESTA, Electronic System for Travel Authorization . This is a form of visa waiver.

Planning Tips

Many people believe Orlando is the same year-round and an easy place to visit. Given that so many tourist-focused attractions are based around this city, this is partially true. However, there are some important facts you should take into consideration.

Here are a few tips. If you have questions about your visit that aren’t covered by this guide or other tips for visitors, leave us a message in the comments.

Tip #1: Go in Spring or the Fall

For fewer crowds and better weather, it is preferable to visit Orlando in the spring or the fall. If you must visit in summer due to your kids’ school holidays, go late in August when local children are back in school.

With 75 million visitors a year, there are always queues in Orlando. You should be prepared for this. Major US holidays should be avoided at any cost unless you want to be stuck in the longest queues at the airport and attractions. Especially avoid Spring Break, Thanksgiving, and Christmas — unless you have your heart set on seeing the special holiday season events and decorations.

Tip #2: Be Prepared for the Tropical Weather

When you see Orlando attractions on the TV or in films, the weather is always beautiful. There is a lot of truth to this. However, if you visit during the summer, it is important to prepare for the humidity and draining heat. The temperatures can reach as high as 100 0 F and the humidity 100%.

Brief but sharp thunderstorms are common, so light plastic ponchos you can don in a hurry are advisable. Ensure you use plenty of sunblock and consider wide-brimmed hats for added protection from the sun.

Tip #3: Enjoy Day Trip Tours but Book Ahead

With more theme parks and tourist attractions than any other city in the world, there are lots of tours available in Orlando. You might want to take a guided tour of the Kennedy Space Center or enjoy a safari in the Florida Everglades. However, with so many tourists pouring into Orlando, you should book ahead to avoid disappointment.

Tip #4: Spend at Least One Day in Nature

If you’re on vacation with your family, it’s tempting to spend all your time at theme parks. There are so many! However, if you do this, you will miss one of Orlando’s greatest benefits.

With the Florida Everglades on its doorstep plus more lakes than any other major destination, Orlando is a wonderful location for nature lovers. Whether you want to go kayaking on a lake, enjoy some quiet time fishing, or see the alligators in the Everglades, there are many ways to enjoy the great outdoors in Orlando.

Tip #5: Allow Plenty of Time at the Theme Parks

When you glance at those colorful park maps online, you might get the impression that you can walk from one ride to the next in a couple of minutes. Don’t be fooled! The Walt Disney World Resort, for example, is spread over an area of 47 square miles. It is not always practical to walk from one ride to the next and walking in the Florida sun can be tiring.

Allow plenty of time in your plans for enjoying all the rides and park attractions that you want to experience. And remember your young kids may become tired quicker than you expect in the tropical weather. Also note some rides and attractions are too scary for young children and some unsuitable for pregnant ladies.

Restaurants & Eating Out

As you can easily imagine, the large number of tourists regularly flocking to Orlando has given rise to a vast range of restaurants offering every kind of food you might want. Within the theme parks, there is a wide choice of fast-food outlets. However, these can be overpriced. Outside the parks, you will find many relatively inexpensive eating outlets.

A great place to visit is Restaurant Row on Sand Lake Road. Here you’ll find the greatest range of choices in Orlando. Restaurant Row offers you the chance to sample some of this city’s finest restaurants and its culinary diversity.

Many seasoned Orlando visitors head for the restaurants for breakfast before hitting the theme parks. There are many “eat all you can” buffet-style restaurants that offer fantastic value for money.

In the afternoon and evening, watch out for Early Bird Specials. Because so many visitors stick to the theme parks until late, the restaurants outside the parks offer incentives to attract early diners.

Early Bird Specials are typically served at a la carte restaurants between 4 pm and 6 pm. Note that doggy bags are a norm in Florida a la carte restaurants, so don’t be shy about asking for one if you cannot finish your meal.

Also watch out for meal discount vouchers. You may find these scattered among the tourist leaflets at your hotel or even on display outside the restaurants. With the competition between eateries so intense, discount vouchers are common.

A quick visit to the Tourist Information Center will provide you with information about restaurants offering significant discounts and possibly a physical card that entitles you to discounts at participating restaurants. To encourage repeat visits, some restaurants offer an extra-large discount to returning customers who produce their last bill.

Nightlife & Entertainment

The profusion of theme parks in Orlando has led to an interesting broad range of evening dinner shows. If you ever wanted to attend a medieval banquet in a castle complete with jesters and jugglers, you’re in the right place.

Alternatively, eat with pirates or enjoy live wrestling while you eat. Whatever kind of entertainment you enjoy the most, you can probably find a dinner show in Orlando to suit you and your family’s taste.

Much like with the restaurants, the large number of visitors has given rise to a wide variety of nightlife in and around the city. You’ll find some of American’s top nightclubs, live music venues, and bars waiting to welcome you.

Two especially popular night spots are Disney Springs in Walt Disney World and Universal City Walk in the Universal Orlando Resort. These two locations offer a range of shows, bars, and night clubs to suit all tastes.

If you prefer a quiet evening and enjoy sampling unique craft beers, check out Orlando’s local brewery scene. There are many craft breweries to choose from, including the Crooked Can Brewing Co., Sea Dog Brewing Co., Ocean Sun Brewing, and Dead Lizard Brewing Co.

Getting Around

Due to the large number of visitors and the way the various theme parks are spread widely across the city, public transport is a viable way of getting around in Orlando. In fact, the LYNX bus is one of the most convenient and cost-effective ways of traveling within the city.

There are 60 LYNX routes that cost $2 per ride running at either 15-minute, 30-minute, or 1-hour intervals. And LYNX also operates a FREE loop bus service around downtown Orlando running every 5 minutes called LYMMO. Watch out for bus stops marked with a pink bus symbol or paw prints.

Many large Orlando hotels offer free shuttle bus services to the major theme parks and the airport. Check with your hotel before you travel.

If you’re looking for a more personal service from doorstep to doorstep, there are dozens of taxi companies in Orlando. The majority use a meter with a $2.23 standing charge followed by a $1.76 per kilometer rate. Uber is generally cheaper and growing ever more popular in Orlando.

However, as mentioned earlier, car hire is the most popular transport option in Orlando. This is a city designed with cars in mind, so the road network is well-built and maintained and there are ample parking facilities at all the major attractions. Driving yourself around offers the most flexibility and is the most convenient if you’re staying in a rented vacation villa.

Note that you’ll need a US or International Driving License to hire a car in Orlando. There are toll roads in the city, including the routes from the airport to Orlando’s main attractions. And the gas stations closest to the theme parks and the airport charge inflated gas prices.

Accommodations

With more tourists than residents, you’ll find a broad range of accommodation available in Orlando. There are thousands of rental homes close to the theme parks and major attractions, many with luxury amenities like a gym and a swimming pool. And there are over 450 resorts and hotels to choose from.

The best advice we can offer is to first decide what kind of accommodation best suits your family and then shop around. Generally, hotels inside the more popular theme parks will charge premium prices, and you can rent a villa a few miles from the gates for a fraction of the cost.

If you are traveling as part of a large family group, a vacation rental home will usually be your best value choice. But if you are traveling alone or just with your partner, you may find a hotel room more convenient and affordable.

The hotels are mainly clustered in three areas: International Drive, Kissimmee, and Lake Buena Vista.

If you are not hiring a car, International Drive (I-Drive) is your best option. Along the 11-mile length of I-Drive, you’ll find attractions, stores, restaurants, and hotels side by side. These attractions include The Orlando Eye, Aquatica, Sea World, and Universal Studios. Most of the hotels here offer free shuttle services to the major theme parks.

If you prefer somewhere quieter and away from the busy parks and attractions, you’ll like Kissimmee. It is only a short drive from Disney World and International Drive but far enough away to avoid the noise and crowds. You’ll find lots of high-quality vacation rental homes in this area. Kissimmee also makes a great base for exploring other parts of Florida beyond the city, such as the Kennedy Space Center.

If you’ve come to Orlando because you’ve always dreamed of visiting Walt Disney World and intend to spend most of your time there, stay in Lake Buena Vista. It is the most convenient location for reaching all 5 Disney Parks. Lake Buena Vista is also a prime destination for outlet shopping and golfing.

As mentioned earlier, Orlando benefits from fine sunny weather year-round, but there are distinct seasonal variations. Orlando’s weather can be summarized into two seasons: one warm and dry, the other hot and wet.

From mid-October to April, the weather is typically warm and dry, with daily temperature maximums ranging from 70 0 F to 84 0 F and minimums from 49 0 F to 65 0 F. There is little rainfall during this period.

From May to mid-October, the weather tends to be hot but wet. The average daily temperature maximum hovers around 90 0 F and the minimum around 75 0 F. During the summer, there are frequent rainstorms that are short but sharp.

While hurricanes rarely hit Orlando, there is a small risk. The hurricane season occurs toward the end of the summer between mid-August and mid-October. There are often bargain vacation deals offered during this period, but it’s a good idea to check the Orlando weather updates before visiting.

Attractions

Orlando boasts the world’s best selection of major theme parks and other must-see attractions, such as the Kennedy Space Center, the Holy Land Experience, and Central Florida Zoo.

You can’t possibly see everything during a single visit. Here is a brief selection of highlights.

Walt Disney World

It’s no big secret that the majority of tourists headed for Orlando go there to see the mouse. Walt Disney World is the world’s most visited resort welcoming 58 million guests per year before the pandemic.

Walt Disney World is divided into four parks, of which Magic Kingdom is the best known. That’s where you’ll find Cinderella’s Castle and all your favorite cartoon characters. Epcot Spaceship Earth is where you can visit other countries and experience different cultures.

The Hollywood Studios park offers visitors an insiders view of movie magic. There you can tour movie studios, see stunt people in action, and watch live special effects. If you’re interested in African animals, you’ll love the Kilimanjaro Safari Experience at Animal Kingdom where you can see big game animals running free in their natural habitats.

Universal Studios Florida

Not to be outdone by Disney, Universal Studios offer a combined working movie studio and theme park experience in Orlando designed with the help of Steven Spielberg.

There are 7 themed islands withing Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Each island is dedicated to a major theme franchise, such as the Marvel Superhero Island and the Jurassic Park Island. There you can meet your favorite movie characters and enjoy thrilling themed rides.

Many younger visitors are lured by the magic of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Here you’ll find Hogsmeade village, Diagon Alley, and Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Orlando Sea World

This world-famous sea life center is renowned for its huge aquariums where you can enjoy whale and dolphin shows. A behind the scenes tour is a great way to learn about marine conservation as well as seeing the baby dolphins at play.

Sea World also features adrenaline-pumping rides including a selection of refreshing water rides. Those who enjoy roller coasters will be eager to ride the Kraken Virtual Reality Coaster, the Manta Coaster, and the Mako Hyper Coaster.

While you’re in Florida, you won’t want to miss this opportunity to get up close and friendly with a whole bunch of crocodiles, alligators, and other reptiles. Gatorland features daily shows and demonstrations where you can learn all there is to know about Florida’s most famous animals.

Gatorland also features 2 exciting ziplines: the Gator Gauntlet and the Screamin’ Gator. These ziplines zip you through the air over the crocodile and alligator pens. You might also enjoy the self-guided swamp walk and the Gator Gully Splash Park for younger visitors.

The Airboat Ride & Gatorland Adventure is our Editor's Choice for the best tour of the Everglades Park

Robert Baker

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The 9 best everglades airboat and swamp tours.

See much more than alligators during one of these exciting trips.

The Top Everglades Airboat & Swamp Tours

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If you're planning a trip to Miami or Fort Lauderdale, Florida , visiting Everglades National Park should be on your to-do list. The South Florida national park is known for its expansive beauty, as well as its varied population of wildlife that includes everything from bobcats to alligators.

To see all the Everglades has to offer, sign up for a guided tour. U.S. News consulted both traveler sentiment and expert opinion to identify the top Everglades tours. Before you go, make sure you read through the National Park Service's Wildlife Viewing Ethics to keep both yourself and the animals safe during your time in the park. When choosing the best Everglades tours, we avoided recommending operators that promote wildlife shows or encourage feeding or holding the animals for photo-ops.

Visitors should plan to pay a fee to enter the park, as it may not be included in the price of the tour ticket. You should also keep in mind that many of these tour operators are located at least 30 miles west of Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Tours that run on airboats – open-air vessels with huge fans at the back that propel the boat – can be very loud. Companies will generally offer ear protection, but if you or your companions are sensitive to loud noises, contact the tour provider to discuss options before you book.

The Best Everglades Airboat and Swamp Tours

Everglades swamp tours – one hour group tour.

Price: Adults from $60; kids from $30 Duration: 1 hour

This sightseeing trip takes you out on an airboat to cruise through the Everglades' main waterways in search of alligators, birds and interesting vegetation. Throughout the ride, knowledgeable guides share facts about the area's history and ecology. Many travelers recommend booking this tour, describing it as fun and informative, with plenty of wildlife sightings. Departures generally take place daily at 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., but availability may vary by month.

Children 5 and younger can ride for free, but still require a reserved seats. Also check out Everglades Swamp Tours for private airboat tours that last up to two hours.

Check prices & availability on:

Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures – 30-Minute Airboat Tour

Price: Adults from $35; kids from $30 Duration: 30 minutes

Located at the headwaters of the Everglades in Kissimmee, Florida (about 40 miles south of Orlando), Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures earns praise from reviewers for its personable, experienced staff and the family-friendly environment. On the airboat ride, you and up to 16 other passengers will glide through the tall grass in search of eagles, alligators, raccoons and more. In addition to airboat rides, the site houses a replica of a Jororo Tribe village, as well as a gem and fossil mining activity for kids.

Tours depart throughout the day from 9 a.m. to 5 pm. You can buy your tickets online, but there are no reservations for this tour. For a longer adventure, consider the company's hourlong airboat ride. There are also sunset and night tours, if you're hoping to avoid the midday heat and crowds.

Marsh Landing Adventures – 90-Minute Everglades Airboat Tour

Price: Adults from $65; kids from $60 Duration: 1.5 hours

For wildlife lovers who want more than half an hour to experience the Everglades, this 1.5-hour airboat ride from Marsh Landing Adventures is an excellent experience. Located in Kissimmee on Lake Tohopekaliga, Marsh Landing Adventures promises travelers an in-depth look at the headwaters of the Everglades and the plants and animals that inhabit its waters. What's more, the company says it can reach areas of the Everglades that are inaccessible to larger boats because of its small crafts. Travelers give kudos to the boat captain for their educational and entertaining delivery. Many call the experience the highlight of their Florida vacation.

Tours are offered Monday through Saturday at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Reservations are required, and there is a 1% fuel surcharge added to each ticket. Marsh Landing Adventures also offers hourlong, two-hour and four-hour airboat rides.

Everglades City Airboat Tours

Price: Adults from $47; kids from $31 Duration: 1 hour

Everglades City Airboat Tours sets itself apart from other companies by offering participants two-way headsets, which allow passengers and guides to better engage with one another throughout the hourlong ride. As you navigate through narrow creeks and shallow bays, you may spot alligators, manatees and birds. Tourists enjoy the ride and appreciate the headsets. Reviewers are also complimentary of the boat captains, who they describe as entertaining and knowledgeable.

Tours depart multiple times Monday through Saturday, although timing may be modified based on the season. It's a good idea to reserve your tour in advance. Everglades City Airboat Tours is located approximately 85 miles west of Miami and 35 miles southeast of Naples, Florida.

Buffalo Tiger Airboat Tours – 45-Minute Standard Airboat Tour

Price: Adults from $45; kids from $27.50 Duration: 45 minutes

For an excursion that combines cultural immersion and wildlife viewing, consider this outing from Buffalo Tiger Airboat Tours. The Miccosukee family-owned company's standard tour focuses on introducing visitors to the homelands of the Miccosukee people: an American Indian tribe that migrated to Florida before it became a state. During the tour, you'll not only see local wildlife, but also will get to see a Miccosukee Indian camp and take a nature walk. Visitors recommend the tour, describing it as an amazing experience thanks to the small, intimate group size.

Tours run daily at multiple times between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. The company also offers private outings.

Everglades River of Grass Adventures – Semi-Private River of Grass Airboat Tours Everglades

Price: Adults from $85; kids from $45 Duration: 1.5 hours

One perk of this tour is that it is capped at six to eight travelers per boat. During the excursion, you'll get the chance to see the famous flora and fauna of the Everglades, including herons and alligators. Visitors say this is a family-friendly tour and call the trip "memorable" and "amazing."

These tours run seven days a week; since they're semiprivate, you must call or email to find out the best times to depart. River of Grass Adventures also offers sunset tours of the Everglades.

Other Popular Everglades Tours

Shurr Adventures Everglades – Three Hour Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour Small Group Adventure

Price: Adults from $109; kids from $99 Duration: 3 to 4 hours

Enjoy an up-close view of animals and nature, and get some exercise in too, on this kayak tour of the Everglades' mangroves. As you paddle your way through the mangrove tunnels, you may spot orchids, birds and, of course, alligators. Kayakers say this tour is excellent and appreciate the patient, experienced guides who share a wealth of information about the plants and animals that reside in this unique ecosystem. What's more, reviewers appreciate that the tours are limited to just eight participants.

Tours are available Monday through Saturday from August to April; times vary by season. Children must be at least 7 years old to participate. Tourgoers will enjoy three to 3.5 hours out on the water but should plan to spend a total of four hours on-site from start to finish. Shurr Adventures Everglades also offers a full-day tour of the mangrove tunnels, as well as a motorboat tour in the Ten Thousand Islands region of Everglades National Park, among other options.

Shark Valley Tram Tours

Price: Adults from $31; kids from $16 Duration: 2 hours

These naturalist-led excursions not only include a tour around Everglades National Park in an open-air tram, they also give tourgoers the chance to explore on foot. Halfway through the tour, participants can climb a 45-foot-tall observation deck to see sweeping views of the surrounding vegetation. During the two-hour tour, travelers also have the opportunity to observe a variety of wildlife. Tourgoers enjoy learning about the Everglades from the expert guides and say riding the tram is part of the fun. Many also recommended taking a morning tour to avoid the midday heat.

From mid-December through late April, tours depart on the hour daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. From May through mid-December, tours depart at 9:30 and 11 a.m. and 2 and 4 p.m. Shark Valley Tram Tours also offers self-guided bike tours. (Note that you'll have to pay a separate fee to enter Everglades National Park for any tour.)

Everglades Florida Adventures – Ten Thousand Islands Tour

Price: Adults from $59; kids from $29 Duration: 3 hours

If you're hoping to see the Everglades by boat, but want something a little quieter than an airboat ride, consider this cruise. Departing from Port of the Islands Marina in Naples, this 45-foot passenger catamaran glides across the Faka Union Canal while guides share information about the history and ecology of the area. Tourgoers report spotting lots of birds, turtles, dolphins and manatees. They also call out the insightful crew and clean, comfortable boat as highlights.

Cruises are offered Monday to Friday at 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Everglades Florida Adventures also offers kayak and canoe rentals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Like any other form of transportation, riding an airboat may come with some risks. To stay safe on your Everglades airboat tour, be sure to choose a company run by experienced, professional boaters (most of which undergo special training and are approved by the U.S. Coast Guard) and adhere to all rules set forth by your guide. Parents should keep a close eye on children and be sure they are properly fitted for their life jackets, and all passengers should protect against the heat by wearing sunscreen and staying hydrated. Commercial airboats typically do not exceed speeds of 30 to 40 mph to ensure a safe, smooth ride, and most operators will reschedule your tour in the event of lightning or other inclement weather. Tour companies will also generally provide riders with proper ear protection, as the boats are quite loud.

Typically, passengers will feel the most comfortable in lightweight, sleeveless clothing and shorts while on an Everglades airboat tour. If you are taking a wintertime tour, keep an eye on the weather – pants and long sleeves may be a better option, but you likely won't need a heavy jacket. Be sure to bring sunglasses, sunscreen and water to protect yourself from the effects of the sun; you may also want a hat to provide further shade and keep hair in place. Passengers with long hair are advised to wear it in a ponytail or bun to keep it from becoming knotted in the wind. Tourgoers may also wish to apply some bug spray prior to embarking on their adventure.

Airboat tours last about an hour, though duration will depend on the tour company.

An airboat's top speed is about 30 mph.

Not normally, but you run a small risk of getting misted with water. If you take a tour when it is raining, expect to get wet.

In winter, you'll want to time your visit for midday, when it warms up. In summer, you'll want to visit in the morning or later afternoon when it's coolest. Visiting at these times can increase your chances of seeing wildlife, but you'll likely see all kinds of critters no matter when you visit year-round.

You might also be interested in:

• Best Miami Tours
• Best Miami Boat Tours
• The Top Museums in Miami
• The Top Things to Do in Florida
• The Best Medical Travel Insurance

Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida

Tags: Tours , Vacations , Travel , Florida

World's Best Places To Visit

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• # 4 Bora Bora

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create unforgettable Everglades memories at captain jack's!

Zip through Everglades City on airboat tours

Venture through a cypress forest on a swamp buggy

Get a chance to see wild alligators, birds & more

Stay safe and comfortable 

See alligators & animals up close

Hold a baby alligator

Take home gifts and memories

Everglades National Park Boat Tour

Mangrove Tunnel & National Park Combo

Ten Thousand Islands Boat Tour

Mangrove maze airboat tours.

Race through a maze of Everglades mangroves on an airboat, away from other traffic.

• Mangrove Maze Ultimate Combo

• Mangrove Maze Airboat Tour

Mangrove Tunnel Airboat Combos

• Total Everglades Combo

Mangrove Tunnel & Grassland Combo

Mangrove Tunnel & Buggy Combo

Private Mangrove Tunnel & Buggy Combo

Mangrove tunnel airboat tours.

Take a high-speed tour of Everglades City's signature mangrove tunnels!

• Mangrove Tunnel Airboat Tour

• Private Mangrove Tunnel Airboat Tour

Grassland airboat Tours

Grassland & Buggy Combo

• Grassland Airboat Tour

4 Attractions Included with All Our Tours

When you book direct.

Animal Sanctuary

Alligator Show

Hug an Alligator

Why Choose Captain Jack’s?

Local Roots

Safety & Experience

Two-Way Headsets

Alligators & Animals

Quietest & Comfiest

Personal & Popular

Refreshments & Gifts

Guests love us.

“There is something about flying down narrow alleys of mangrove trees that is just a rush. I could never get tired of it. The guides always give more than just a ride. You learn so much about the Everglades and the total ecosystem that it is. We most certainly will be back!

—C. from Florida

“The mangrove tour was so much fun! We saw a family of dolphins swimming along the boat, several alligators, and a few fish jumping out of the water. Riding through the mangroves was beautiful and a fun way to see the Everglades. I would recommend to anyone.”

—J. from Massachusetts

“We really enjoyed seeing the alligators. The captain of the airboat gave a lot of information about the Everglades and habitat. The addition of the two-way headsets let us all communicate during the tour. This was really a highlight of having friends down visiting us new Florida residents. Plan to bring other guests."

—K. from Florida

“We did the combo package and it was amazing! Great way to experience all 3 ways to 'see' the Everglades! Would highly recommend. All the captains for each segment were fantastic! Had a great time!"

—J.T.

• Mangrove Tunnel & National Park Combo
• Mangrove Tunnel & Grassland Combo
• Mangrove Tunnel & Buggy Combo
• Private Mangrove Tunnel & Buggy Combo
• Grassland & Buggy Combo
• Lodging Nearby
• Total Everglades Stay & Play
• Online Gift Shop
• Animals & Alligator Show
• Everglades City Boardwalk

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12 things to know before visiting Everglades National Park

Mar 26, 2024 • 6 min read

Here's what you should know before setting out on the waterways of the Everglades © Maridav / Shutterstock

Around an hour's drive from Miami on Florida's  southern tip, Everglades National Park offers 1.5 million acres of natural wonder. Covering an area the size of Rhode Island , this complex and vital ecosystem of wetlands, swamps, mangroves and forests is North America 's  biggest protected sub-tropical wilderness reserve.

Teeming with wildlife such as alligators, crocodiles, manatees and birds, the park is laced with hiking and biking trails, dotted with campsites and has waterways navigable by kayak, canoe and boat. On any given day, you can hear airboats whizzing by, wading birds splashing about and fishing rods whirling in the wind as they're cast. In the park's more silent and serene nooks, you're likely to hear nothing at all.

Amid the awe, however, there are plenty of ways to get the most out of your trip here. Having lived nearby for nearly a decade, guiding friends and families deep into the Everglades, I've gotten to know a few dos and don'ts, tricks and tips. Here's everything you need to know before you visit Everglades National Park.

1. Avoid the "snowbird season" crowds

There's a joke in South Florida from the fall through early spring (October–March): the leaves don't change, but the colors of the car license plates do. That's because while the rest of the Eastern USA is freezing, Florida remains warm, so travelers – known locally as snowbirds – migrate down here for the cooler months. Expect the Everglades National Park to be particularly busy during this time.

The best way to avoid the crowds in the Everglades is to get up early during the summer months (June–August) and visit in the morning. Note that the park is often muggy by noon, and temperatures regularly reach at least 90°F (32°C).

2. There are four entrances to the park, so find the best one for your journey

The Everglades only has four entrances . Two are in Homestead: the Flamingo Visitor Center, which is a gateway to an extensive network of canoeing facilities; and the Royal Palm, which is primed for walking adventures. The latter also has several paved and well-packed dirt trails nearby. 

The other two entry points are found west of Miami. Shark Valley is the busiest and is known for its gator-surrounded, 15-mile bike trail; the Gulf Coast Visitor Center in Everglades City, meanwhile, attracts fewer people. It is primarily a gateway for boating and exploring the nearby series of mangrove islands. Depending on where you are traveling from in Florida and the traffic levels, it can take hours to drive between each park entrance, so plan wisely.

3. To access most of the Everglades, you'll need an airboat

Airboats – flat-bottomed watercraft with giant fan propellers at the back – aren't just kitschy tourist vehicles for gawking at gators. They are actually vital in delicately navigating the wet prairies, both in terms of helping preserve the vegetation and avoiding debris that would otherwise damage a fishing boat. Should you want to plan an excursion, there are three authorized airboat businesses in the park itself that provide services: Coopertown Airboats , Everglades Safari Park and Gator Park .

4. Snag a permit ahead of time if you want to fish solo

The Everglades are a mix of saltwater and freshwater landscapes, equating to a fishing utopia. When fishing independently, you'll need a license for both saltwater and freshwater fishing – two separate permits in Florida that you obtain from the Florida Fishing and Wildlife Conservation Commission . Cell service is extremely limited in the park, so save a potential headache by registering for the right license online ahead of your visit. If you are embarking on a chartered journey, your captain should already have a license, but check beforehand.

5. Support and book excursions with local tribes

The Calusa, Tequesta, Seminole and Miccosukee tribes all have deep roots in the Everglades region. Along the Tamiami Trail (US Hwy 41), you'll see a number of Miccosukee destinations – notably the Miccosukee Casino & Resort , as well as the Miccosukee Village and Airboat Rides . At the village, there is a museum where you can learn more about the tribe and tour exhibits of their earliest clothing, tools and beadwork.  

6. Don't bring pets – they're not allowed on the trails 

What do the popular Otter Cave Hammock Trail , Rowdy Bend Trail and Gumbo Limbo Trail have in common aside from awesome names? You can't bring your pets with you… or on any of the walking trails in Everglades National Park. Besides, they probably wouldn't fare too well with a camouflaged gator anyway. 

7. Opt for an ethical animal sanctuary

The Everglades has a number of wildlife sanctuaries, but not all are animal-friendly, so do your research before visiting. Aside from spotting blue herons in their natural environment along the Anhinga Trail or manatees coasting in the Florida Bay , Everglades Outpost is an ethical option if you want an up-close encounter . The nonprofit rehabilitates injured gators, reptiles and more from the nearby land before releasing them back into the environment.

8. Give wild animals their space

If you do have an encounter with a manatee in the open waters or a gator quietly lurking in the mangroves, leave them alone. Refrain from feeding the animals, and if there is a visibly sick or young creature with parents nearby, tread lightly as their defense mechanisms may kick in. Additionally, bird nests – for the likes of wood storks and herons – are a common sight. Let those be, too.

9. Yes, there is a Cold War missile site in the park that you can visit

Constructed after the Cuban Missile Crisis in the early 1960s, the HM69 Nike Missile Base was once a hub for protecting the US against a possible attack by the Soviet Union. The site has three missile barns, an assembly building, barracks and two missiles today. The Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center   runs tours from December through March.

10. The Everglades is vital to the entire state, so help where you can

As well as being home to endangered or threatened species, such as the Florida Panther and West Indian Manatee, the Everglades provides drinking water for more than eight million Floridians. When you visit, remember that your actions – and what you may leave behind – have a lasting impact.

If you're looking to support the park's vitality, The Alliance for Florida's National Parks accepts donations, with funds supporting youth environmental education programs, ranger-guided tours, habitat protection programs and more. 

11. Please, please, please bring sunscreen and sun gear

Too many tourists and locals that let their guards down do it every year; they forget their sunscreen and sun gear and end up looking like a painful ripe tomato in the ensuing days. Pack more than enough sunscreen and protective gear like hats, sunglasses and sun-protective shirts for your adventure, and set a timer for reapplying sunscreen. Whether canoeing the Flamingo District or birdwatching Paurotis Pond , you'll need it. 

12. Don't swim in the water and keep your limbs inside boats

It's the same mantra in every national park: don't touch the wildlife. Well, that notion comes in various forms in Everglades National Park. During the scorching summer months, it can be incredibly tempting to take a quick dip in seemingly calm waters, but just remember that there may be alligators, crocodiles, snakes, reptiles and more lurking in the waters. In the same vein and as any guide will tell you, keep those limbs inside the airboats. The wildlife will generally leave you alone, so long as it's reciprocal.

Keep planning your trip to Everglades National Park:

Figure out the best time to visit Get up close with nature on  these hikes Add  these experiences  to your itinerary Take a road trip to the park on  these drives through Florida  

This article was first published Jan 23, 2023 and updated Mar 26, 2024.

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40 Best Stops Between Orlando and Everglades National Park

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How long is the drive from Orlando to Everglades National Park?

The direct drive from Orlando to Everglades National Park is 282 mi (453 km) , and should have a drive time of 4 hrs 52 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Orlando to Everglades National Park, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Miami Beach , Miami , Fort Lauderdale , Kissimmee , West Palm Beach , Winter Haven , Melbourne , Homestead , Fort Pierce , and Delray Beach , as well as top places to visit like Old Town and Fun Spot America– Kissimmee, or the ever-popular Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park.

Top cities between Orlando and Everglades National Park

Winter haven.

Fort Pierce

West palm beach, delray beach, fort lauderdale.

Miami Beach

Best stops along Orlando to Everglades National Park drive

Disney's blizzard beach water park.

Fun Spot America– Kissimmee

Brevard zoo, wild florida airboats & gator park, legoland® florida resort, bok tower gardens, sebastian inlet state park, mckee botanical garden, the national navy udt-seal museum, first data field, florida oceanographic coastal center, jupiter inlet lighthouse & museum, mccarthy's wildlife sanctuary, henry morrison flagler museum, gumbo limbo nature center, mizner park, fort lauderdale beach, e las olas blvd, hollywood beach broadwalk, hollywood beach, dolphin mall, miami beach boardwalk, bayside marketplace, 1390 ocean drive association inc, south beach.

Art Deco Welcome Center

Other popular road trips from Orlando

Explore nearby places.

• Everglades National Park
• Chokoloskee
• Everglades City
• Florida City
• University Park
• Olympia Heights
• Palmetto Bay
• Hialeah Gardens
• South Miami
• Miami Springs
• Coral Gables
• Miami Lakes
• Green Meadow

All related maps of Everglades National Park

• Map of Everglades National Park
• Map of Chokoloskee
• Map of Ochopee
• Map of Everglades City
• Map of Copeland
• Map of Coopertown
• Map of Flamingo
• Map of Naranja
• Map of Florida City
• Map of Homestead
• Map of Tamiami
• Map of Princeton
• Map of Goulds
• Map of Cutler Bay
• Map of Sunset
• Map of University Park
• Map of Sweetwater
• Map of Olympia Heights
• Map of Palmetto Bay
• Map of Goodland
• Map of Kendall
• Map of Pinecrest
• Map of Doral
• Map of Hialeah Gardens
• Map of South Miami
• Map of Medley
• Map of Miami Springs
• Map of Coral Gables
• Map of Hialeah
• Map of Miami Lakes
• Map of Green Meadow

Everglades National Park throughout the year

• Everglades National Park in January
• Everglades National Park in February
• Everglades National Park in March
• Everglades National Park in April
• Everglades National Park in May
• Everglades National Park in June
• Everglades National Park in July
• Everglades National Park in August
• Everglades National Park in September
• Everglades National Park in October
• Everglades National Park in November
• Everglades National Park in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Everglades National Park?

Get inspired for your trip to Everglades National Park with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Everglades National Park Itinerary
• 2-Day Everglades National Park Itinerary
• 3-Day Everglades National Park Itinerary
• 4-Day Everglades National Park Itinerary
• 5-Day Everglades National Park Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from orlando to everglades national park.

Yes! You can drive from Orlando to Everglades National Park.

How far is Everglades National Park from Orlando by car?

The drive from Orlando to Everglades National Park is 282 miles (453 km).

How long does it take to drive from Orlando to Everglades National Park?

Driving from Orlando to Everglades National Park should take you 4 hrs 52 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Orlando to Everglades National Park?

Gas from Orlando to Everglades National Park would cost around $25 to $58 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Orlando to Everglades National Park?

You could check out Old Town and Fun Spot America– Kissimmee, or the always popular Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park!

What are the best cities to visit between Orlando and Everglades National Park?

People love visiting Miami Beach, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale, among others.

What's the weather like in Orlando?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

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There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Orlando.

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I’d like to see Everglades, sanibel and weeki wachee, but I know that’s ambitious. Not sure if going up the Atlantic side would be better, although not much interests us

Here’s what I was thinking but please lmk if you have any recommendations!

Thursday layover- pop over to biscayne NP

Monday pm- hotel in Miami

Tuesday- drive east thru Everglades, hit sanibel for Tuesday night.

Wednesday- drive up to weeki, try to get to Orlando for hotel Wednesday night

Should I omit sanibel? Weeki? Do a short Everglades hop on our layover?

Kids love animals, not sure if manatees are easily seen anywhere this time of year. I love retro/kitsch. Sanibel has been on my bucket list since we love shells. But I know fuss is a lot of driving for the littles

4 replies to this topic

Your trip sounds doable but wanted to give you this info. I recently research Weeki Wachee as I wanted to take my younger grandchildren. Having went there as a child myself and again when my first granddaughter was small I loved this park. However it looks like they have done away with the boat ride, the animal and bird shows and other activities. The only thing left from what I can tell is the Mermaid shows (there are 2 and both worth seeing). There is a nice swimming area which is part of the springs so very clear. A canoe / kayak area and tubing and a giant slide. It looks like they improved the seating for the springs and the picnic area from what it was and the slide looks newer that when I was there last. Its very sad to see this park go the direction its going.

This is great to know!! (Sad that it’s going in that direction but helps me be more informed). Thank you!!

I don't think your plan is impossible but you are going to be on the move and not seeing much.

As far as the Everglades go, forget it in June. The Everglades have the most horrible, massive swarms of mosquitoes on the planet. Not kidding. Even the park rangers will tell you to skip the Everglades June through September. You can actually see the black swarms from your car driving through.

https://www.floridastateparks.org/WeekiWachee

Wow, that's a lot of moving around, changing lodging each night with relatively young children in tow. Unless you can spend two nights and thus 1 full day for Sanibel , skip Sanibel.

Or skip Weeki Wachee and add a night at Sanibel.

Homosassa Springs State Park has several manatees that are unable to survive on their own and stay in the spring area at the park and are fed daily by the park rangers.

https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/ellie-schiller-homosassa-springs-wildlife-state-park

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High School Sports | High school scores and top performers from…

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Subscriber only, high school sports | high school scores and top performers from thursday, may 16.

Boys Track & Field

CLASS 2A STATE FINALS

At University of North Florida Hodges Stadium

Team scores (top 3 & locals):

1.    Montverde Academy 52

2.    Florida High 49

3.    Bolles 45.25

27. Lake Highland Prep 7

31. Mount Dora 6

40. Bishop Moore 5

Individual events (first place & locals in top 10):

100 – 1. Kennith Martin (Eastside) 10.57, 3. Miles Outerbridge (Montverde) 10.92

200 – 1. Micahi Danzy (Florida High) 20.88, 6. Jayvian Greene (Montverde) 21.86, 7. Outerbridge (Montverde) 21.98

400 – 1. Danzy (Florida High) 45.88, 4. Greene (Montverde) 47.63, 8. Ayden Henley (Montverde) 48.90

800 – 1. Jake Officer (Episcopal) 1:51.87, 2. Lucas Coan (Montverde) 1:54.31, 4. Mabon Hatchette (LHP) 1:56.14, 8. Connor Critoph (Montverde) 1:57.15

1,600 – 1. David Serra (Ransom Everglades) 4:15.10, 5. Liam Griffiths (Bishop Moore) 4:20.46

3,200 – 1. Serra (Ransom Everglades) 9:09.15

110 hurdles – 1. Tavon Simmons-Roberts (Cocoa) 14.48

400 hurdles – 1. Nieko Garnes (Andrew Jackson) 53.58, 7. Zackary Cho-Sam (Mount Dora) 56.81

400 relay – 1. Bolles 41.16

1,600 relay – 1. Montverde Academy (Coan, Shaban, Greene, Henley) 3:16.50

3,200 relay – 1. Cardinal Newman 7:48.08, 3. Montverde Academy (Simkins, Shaban, Polcaro, Moss) 7:59.58, 7. Lake Highland Prep 8:10.01

High jump – 1. Ralphel Smith (Titusville) 6-5.5

Pole vault – 1. Alex Georgiev (Montverde) 16-2.75, 5. Kris Kupinski (Mount Dora) 14-3.25

Long jump – 1. Camren Williams (Palm Bay) 23-7.5

Triple jump – 1. Elijah Kellum (Gradford) 45-9.75

Shot put – 1. Bryce Webb (Cardinal Gibbons) 57-0.75

Discus – 1. Isaiah Farmer (Florida High) 162-10

Javelin – 1. Preston Kuznof (Atlantic) 221-2

Girls Track & Field

1.    Montverde Academy 117

2.    Bolles 76

3.    Episcopal 36

7. Trinity Prep 24

16. Lake Highland Prep 13

26. Mount Dora 8

31. Bishop Moore 7

39. Eustis 3

100 – 1. Dasia Reed (Montverde) 11.92

200 – 1. Alivia Williams (Montverde) 24.011, 2. Reed (Montverde) 24.018, 3. Ellise Dickinson (Montverde) 24.24, 7. Nakira Hudson (Montverde) 25.02

400 – 1. Williams (Montverde) 52.80, 2. Dickinson (Montverde) 54.21

800 – 1. Brooke McCoy (Episcopal) 2:11.53, 4. Noelle Vu (Mount Dora) 2:16.54, 5. Angelica Wolfe (Montverde) 2:16.63

1,600 – 1. Mackenzie De Lisle (Bishop Verot) 4:59.82

3,200 – 1. Addison Dempsey (Cardinal Mooney) 10:35.87, 5. Annabella Tomasic (LHP) 10:53.71

100 hurdles – 1. Michelle Smith (Montverde) 13.77, 5. Dhamariah Williams (Montverde) 14.42, 7. Jizelle Holland (Montverde) 14.75

400 hurdles – 1. Smith (Montverde) 57.82, 5. Williams (Montverde) 1:02.92

400 relay – 1. Miami Carol City 46.93

1,600 relay – 1. Montverde Academy (Williams, Smith, Reed, Dickinson) 3:40.75

3,200 relay – 1. Bishop Kenny 9:13.84, 6. Bishop Moore 9:46.56

High jump – 1. Tatiana Matthews (Dunnellon) 5-3.75, 3. Victoria Hill (Trinity Prep) 5-3.75

Pole vault – 1. Presley Wolfe (Bolles) 11-3.75, 4. Kylee Brown (Montverde) 10-4, 5. Cadence Sorensen (LHP) 10-4, 6. Kate Guthrie (Mount Dora) 10-4

Long jump – 1. Tristen Evatt (Yulee) 19-11.5, 2. Hill (Trinity Prep) 19-2.5, 4. Smith (Montverde) 18-8.5, 6. Skyler Carter (Eustis) 17-8.75

Triple jump – 1. Hill (Trinity Prep) 39-4, 3. Holland (Montverde) 38-10.5

Shot put – 1. J’nia Simpson (Tampa Catholic) 42-3.5, 4. Saleigh Simpson (LHP) 38-10.5, 8. Carly LaMorte (Bishop Moore) 36-1.75

Discus – 1. Simpson (Tampa Catholic) 143-3

Javelin – 1. Alexa Schwartz (North Broward Prep) 146-7, 6. LaMorte (Bishop Moore) 114-10

FHSAA STATE TOURNAMENT 

At Hammond Stadium, Fort Myers

Class 6A semifinals

Buchholz 12, Bloomingdale 0

Dwyer 8, Viera 0

Class 1A championship game 

Jay 6, Bozeman 3

Spring games

Thursday result:

Oviedo 49, Olympia 0

Friday games:

Winter Park at Dr. Phillips, 7

Bartram Trail at Seminole, 7

Lake Buena Vista at Ocoee, 7

Kissimmee Liberty at Cypress Creek, 7

Winter Springs at East River, 7

Orlando Christian Prep at Lakeland Christian, 7

Titusville at Orange City University, 7

Jacksonville Westside at Oak Ridge, 7

Jamboree: Gateway & Cocoa Beach at Colonial, 6

Jamboree: Lake Brantley & Lake Mary at Lake Howell, 6

Jamboree: Deltona Trinity & Trinity Prep at Pierson Taylor, 6

Varsity content editor Buddy Collings can be contacted by email at [email protected]. 

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Fastest routes from Brevard to Orlando: Here's what you should know before planning a trip

Toll routes are the fastest way to get from brevard to orlando..

With summer vacation approaching, many Space Coast families will be heading to Orlando to enjoy its theme parks and other attractions. But with that comes battling the inevitable sluggish Central Florida traffic.

Here are the best ways to get to your destination quickly.

Non-toll routes

The fastest way to get to downtown Orlando from South or Central Brevard is to take State Road 520, then head west on State Road 50, according to Michael Williams, deputy communications director at Florida Department of Transportation.

If you're coming from North Brevard, you'll want to head to the downtown Orlando area by taking State Road 50 all the way to Orlando, Williams said.

Toll roads are more time-efficient

No matter where you're coming from, your trip will be faster if you take the routes with tolls, as these roads are the most direct and have the highest average speeds, according to Williams.

"Toll roads provide travelers with a choice that typically has greater reliability, less congestion and quicker travel times," Williams said. "Also, toll roads and other limited access roads in Central Florida are patrolled by Road Rangers who can render several services for free, including changing a flat tire, providing one gallon of gas, making minor mechanical repairs and towing a disabled vehicle to a safe spot."

If you're coming from South or Central Brevard, you'll want to take State Road 528 to State Road 417, then head north to westbound State Road 408, Williams said.

Those coming from North Brevard generally take State Road 50 west to State Road 408.

For theme parks via toll roads out of Central Brevard: For Walt Disney World, take State Road 528 west and then proceed south on State Road 417. For Universal Studios: Take State Road 528 west to I-4 East; then look for the Universal Orlando exit (Exit 75A).

Does weather, time of day impact best route?

Toll roads are considered the fastest routes for everyone, including motorcyclists, regardless of weather or time of day, according to Williams. However, some times are busier than others.

These roads will experience heaviest traffic from around 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. daily, according to Williams. Traffic is lightest between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m.

Preparing for your trip: Know what Orlando traffic looks like now

Before heading out, you can map your trip on apps like Google Maps or Apple Maps. Not only will these apps show you how long you can expect your drive to take, but they'll also show you if there are crashes or other delays along your route.

You can also check live traffic feeds from Florida Highway Patrol and FL511 , which will show you crashes, fires and other incidents along your route. FL511's feed allows you to map your trip with directions that can be printed ahead of your drive.

Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles recommends checking your vehicle's fluids and tire pressure before making a trip away from home, and also making sure you have your proof of insurance and registration with you. It's also a good idea to make sure you have a spare tire and to check its pressure prior to your trip, according to FLHSMV.

Finch Walker is the education reporter at FLORIDA TODAY. Contact Walker at   321-290-4744  or   [email protected] . X:  @_ finchwalker .

Crime and Public Safety | Gables man was driving boat that struck and…

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Crime and public safety | gables man was driving boat that struck and killed high school student, fwc report says.

The man who owns the home where investigators found a boat that they suspect struck and killed a 15-year-old Ransom Everglades student was piloting the vessel at the time of the crash, according to a report released Wednesday by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Carlos Guillermo Alonso, 78, owns the Coral Gables home at 11025 Tanya St. where the boat was docked when FWC agents seized the vessel Tuesday afternoon. He was the only person in the boat at the time of the hit-and-run crash last weekend, the report said.

The report states that a 42-foot 2017 Hanse Fjord operated by Edmund Richard, 30, was towing two girls behind the boat around 4 p.m. Saturday about a mile west of Mashta Point off Key Biscayne. One of the girls was on a wakeboard and another was on a wake surfboard. The girls fell off their boards at different times and in different locations, and both were in the water simultaneously, the report said.

The wake boarder was Ella Riley Adler, a 15-year-old freshman at Ransom Everglades School in Coconut Grove. She died from her injuries.

Go to Herald.com for the full report.

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