Last Updated on December 13, 2024 by JJ
Everglades City, nestled in the heart of Florida’s wilderness, is a charming destination that blends untouched natural beauty with Old Florida charm. Known as the western gateway to Everglades National Park, it offers adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts a unique chance to explore the legendary wetlands. From airboat tours and mangrove kayaking to savoring the freshest stone crabs, Everglades City is a hidden gem. Here’s your guide to the best attractions, dining spots, and accommodations to make the most of your visit.
Explore the Gulf Coast Visitor Center
Start your journey at the Gulf Coast Visitor Center, the perfect launch point for exploring Everglades National Park. Here, you can pick up maps, learn about the park’s ecosystems, and book guided boat tours through the scenic Ten Thousand Islands. Rangers offer insightful advice and educational talks, helping visitors understand the flora, fauna, and conservation efforts of the Everglades. The center is also the departure point for various boat tours that reveal mangrove forests, tranquil waterways, and marine life like manatees and dolphins.
Web Links:
Stay Nearby:
Dine Nearby:
Discover the Ten Thousand Islands
The Ten Thousand Islands is a labyrinth of mangrove islets offering a serene escape into nature. Kayak or paddleboard through these waterways, where you’ll encounter diverse wildlife such as ospreys, herons, and even playful dolphins. Guided eco-tours are available and often highlight the area’s rich history, including the legacy of the Calusa people who once thrived here. The unspoiled beauty and sense of solitude make this a must-visit for photographers and nature lovers.
Web Links:
Stay Nearby:
Dine Nearby:
Savor Stone Crab at City Seafood
A trip to Everglades City isn’t complete without savoring freshly caught stone crab at City Seafood. This waterfront eatery offers a casual dining experience with views of the bay. Known for their stone crab claws, fried grouper, and shrimp baskets, City Seafood delivers authentic Florida flavors. Visit during stone crab season (October to May) to enjoy the freshest harvest.
Web Links:
Stay Nearby:
Stroll Through Everglades National Park
Immerse yourself in the diverse ecosystems of Everglades National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Trails such as the Anhinga Trail offer close encounters with alligators, turtles, and wading birds. For a deeper dive into the park’s biodiversity, join a ranger-led night hike or backcountry canoe trip. Each section of the park offers something unique, from expansive sawgrass prairies to lush cypress domes.
Web Links:
Stay Nearby:
Take an Exhilarating Airboat Tour
Experience the thrill of skimming across the marshes on an airboat tour. Operators such as Wooten’s Everglades Airboat Tours provide exhilarating rides through mangrove tunnels and open wetlands. These tours often include wildlife spotting, educational commentary, and even opportunities to hold a baby alligator. Airboat tours are a quintessential Florida experience and offer a high-adrenaline way to see the Everglades.
Web Links:
Visit the Museum of the Everglades
Dive into the region’s history at the Museum of the Everglades, located in a historic 1927 building. This museum features exhibits on the indigenous Calusa people, early settlers, and the area’s transformation into a gateway to the Everglades. Photographs, artifacts, and personal stories bring the history of Everglades City to life. Admission is free, though donations are encouraged.
Web Links:
Stay Nearby:
Join the Everglades Seafood Festival
Every February, the Everglades Seafood Festival celebrates the town’s seafood heritage. Visitors can enjoy live music, local crafts, and delicious dishes like stone crab claws and fried fish. The family-friendly festival also includes rides, games, and a vibrant community atmosphere, making it one of the highlights of the year.
Web Links:
Shop at Local Artisan Stores
Explore the town’s artisan shops, such as the Everglades Trading Post, where you can find unique souvenirs, books on local wildlife, and handcrafted items. Many stores feature traditional Seminole crafts like beaded jewelry and woven baskets, providing a cultural connection to the region’s history.
Web Links:
Explore Chokoloskee Island
Just a short drive from Everglades City, Chokoloskee Island offers a quieter, more historic escape. Visit the Smallwood Store Museum, which preserves the island’s past as a vital trading post. The island is also a great spot for birdwatching and fishing.
Web Links:
Kayak Through the Mangroves
Rent a kayak or join a guided tour to paddle through the intricate mangrove tunnels of the Everglades Wilderness Waterway. These calm waterways are perfect for spotting wildlife like manatees, otters, and colorful birds. Guided tours often provide fascinating insights into the region’s ecosystem.
Web Links:
Where to Stay in Everglades City
- Rod and Gun Club: Rod and Gun Club
- Everglades City Motel: Everglades City Motel
Where to Eat
- City Seafood: City Seafood
- Camellia Street Grill: Camellia Street Grill
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Everglades City is during the winter (November to April), when cooler temperatures make outdoor activities more enjoyable. Wildlife is also more active, offering prime viewing opportunities.
Plan your trip to Everglades City and discover a world of natural beauty and authentic Florida charm!
