The Everglades are tropical wetlands in southern Florida that are home to a complex ecosystem, providing endless spectacles for both casual visitors and outdoor enthusiasts. The plant and animal life is diverse and the ways to enjoy the Everglades are numerous.
Here are my Top 5 Things To Do in the Everglades:
- Look for gators on an airboat ride. A truly cool and memorable visit to the Everglades is not complete without getting up-close to alligators in their natural environment during an airboat ride. Skimming across the water, cutting through the sawgrass and dodging the low-hanging branches of the elegant cypress trees is a thrill. Every turn uncovers new wildlife and a new natural scene.
- Bird watching. It is no wonder avid bird-watchers flock to the Everglades – there are just so many species to see. You are likely to catch a glimpse of the Osprey, Purple Gallinule, Blue Heron, Roseate Spoonbill or Snowy Egret. The Everglades National Park has more than nine specific bird watching spots that can get you up close to some of the most majestic species that call the Everglades home.
- Fishing. Since a third of the Everglades is covered by water, fishing opportunities abound. You will find snapper, sea trout, bluegill, bass and redfish. It is very important to abide by Everglades Fishing Regulations and obtain proper permits before fishing.
- Ranger-led programs. If this is your first visit to the Everglades, a ranger-led program is highly recommended. Park rangers provide an in-depth knowledge about the park that visitors cannot get on their own. You can choose to see the Everglades by bike, tram, boat or hiking. There are various programs to choose from that may vary depending on the season.
- Geocaching. What better way to explore the outdoors than by searching for hidden treasure. Hidden containers, called geocaches, are located throughout the Everglades (like they are in destinations all around the world), and located through GPS coordinates. Using a hand-held device, or through an App on your phone, you can track the GPS coordinates and begin your search. Geocaching is a fun way to interact with the outdoors. To get started and registered, check out Geocaching.com.
Take an airboat ride through the Everglades here:
For more information on things to do in the Everglades and to find reputable tour companies as you plan your trip, contact the Everglades National Park.
