Top 10 Things to Do in Everglades National Park!

Tucked away in the wild heart of South Florida, Everglades National Park is one of the most unique ecosystems in the world—where alligators and crocodiles share waters, and tropical hammocks meet vast sawgrass prairies.

With so many incredible things to do, it can be hard to know where to start. So here’s a list of 10 must-do experiences that will help you explore the park’s history, wildlife, and jaw-dropping natural beauty.

1. Bike or Tram Through Shark Valley

Shark Valley is one of the best spots in the park to see wildlife up close—and by up close, we mean right next to you on the trail. The 15-mile paved loop takes you through the “River of Grass,” where alligators lounge in the sun, and wading birds search for their next meal. You can rent a bike or take the narrated tram tour, which stops at a 65-foot observation tower halfway through.

Tip: Arrive early during the dry season (Dec–April) to beat the crowds and heat.

2. Step Back in Time at the Nike Missile Site

Hidden deep within the Everglades, this Cold War relic is something most people don’t expect to find in a national park. The Nike Missile Site HM-69 was built after the Cuban Missile Crisis and operated until the 1970s, armed with surface-to-air missiles to defend against potential Soviet attacks.

Today, you can tour the preserved site—complete with missile barns, barracks, and radar equipment—on a ranger-guided tour. However, if you want to see the missiles you'll need to come during the winter months since the site only open to visitors from early December through late March.

Fun Fact: It’s one of the few decommissioned Nike sites that’s still mostly intact and open to the public.

3. Walk Among Wildlife on the Anhinga Trail

If you only have time for one trail in the Everglades, make it the Anhinga Trail. This half-mile boardwalk loop near the Royal Palm Visitor Center is wildlife central. It’s famous for its alligator sightings, plus birds like the trail’s namesake anhingas, herons, egrets, and turtles. The trail runs alongside a slough (a slow-moving stream), giving you clear views into the marsh where animals hunt, nest, and sunbathe.

Bonus: It’s easy, wheelchair accessible, and perfect for families.

4. Stroll Through the Gumbo Limbo Trail

Right next door to Anhinga Trail, this short path feels like stepping into another world. The Gumbo Limbo Trail winds through a shaded hardwood hammock filled with tropical trees, strangler figs, ferns, and air plants. It’s named for the reddish-barked gumbo limbo tree—sometimes called the “tourist tree” because it peels like sunburnt skin. It’s the perfect contrast to the open wetlands and offers a quiet, peaceful moment under the canopy.

5. Start Your Trip at the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center

Located near the Homestead entrance, the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center is the main gateway into the Everglades. Inside, you’ll find fascinating exhibits about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife, plus maps, trail updates, and ranger-led tour schedules. The center is also home to a gift shop and gallery space with rotating art exhibits. It’s a great place to get your bearings before diving into the park’s many adventures.

6. Take an Airboat Ride at Everglades Safari Park

Located along the Tamiami Trail, just down the road from Shark Valley, Everglades Safari Park offers that iconic airboat experience everyone dreams about. Glide across the grasslands at high speed, then slow down to spot gators, turtles, and wading birds. The park also has wildlife shows, a nature trail, and a boardwalk for those who want to explore on foot.

Good to Know: This is a private concessionaire and not run by the National Park Service, but it still provides an excellent intro to the ecosystem.

7. Hop on a Backcountry Boat Tour from Flamingo

At the southern tip of the park, Flamingo Marina offers ranger-led boat tours through Whitewater Bay, where the Everglades opens into a world of mangrove tunnels, creeks, and brackish water.

During the tour, there's a chance to see manatees, dolphins, and even the elusive American crocodile. The guides share fascinating facts about the Everglades’ ecology and history, and it’s a peaceful, scenic trip that shows a totally different side of the park.

Tip: Reservations are recommended in peak season.

8. See the Giant on the Mahogany Hammock Trail

This short, elevated boardwalk trail leads you into a dense, jungle-like tropical hardwood forest. It’s cool, quiet, and mysterious—home to ferns, air plants, and the largest living mahogany tree in the continental U.S. It’s a great spot for nature photography and a peaceful contrast to the open sawgrass areas. You’ll likely have it all to yourself if you come early or late in the day.

9. Catch the Sunset at Pa-Hay-Okee Trail

The Pa-Hay-Okee Overlook (which means “grassy waters”) offers one of the best panoramic views in the entire park. A short walk takes you to a raised observation platform where you can see the vast, slow-moving wetlands stretch out to the horizon. During golden hour, the light turns the grasslands into a glowing sea of gold.

10. Explore the Guy Bradley Visitor Center in Flamingo

Recently renovated and reopened, the Guy Bradley Visitor Center honors one of the first game wardens who fought to protect Everglades wildlife from plume hunters. Located right on Florida Bay, this center offers exhibits, restrooms, a small store, and amazing views of the water. It’s a perfect stop before or after your backcountry boat tour, and a great place to learn more about the park’s coastal ecosystems.

Keep your eyes peeled: Manatees, dolphins, and crocodiles are often spotted right from the dock!

Final Thoughts on Visiting Everglades National Park

Whether you're drawn to the thrill of an airboat ride, the quiet magic of a boardwalk trail, or the unexpected history hiding deep in the wetlands, Everglades National Park is an unforgettable adventure. With so much to explore, it’s worth planning at least a full day or two to soak it all in. This park is truly one of Florida’s greatest natural treasures, and no matter how you choose to experience it, you're bound to leave with a deeper appreciation for its wild beauty.

If you're planning a trip soon, don't forget to check out our Everglades itinerary (Coming Soon!) and packing tips to make the most of your visit.

And if you've already been—what was your favorite part? Let me know in the comments below!