A Family Escape into Nature: Experience Everglades National Park
As South Florida enjoys one of its most pleasant seasons, there’s no better time to explore one of the planet’s most extraordinary natural wonders — Everglades National Park. Stretching from Lake Okeechobee to the Gulf of America, the Everglades stands as one of the world’s largest tropical wetlands, offering families an unmatched opportunity to experience adventure, learning, and connection with nature.
Covering 1.5 million acres of diverse ecosystems, the Everglades is often called the “River of Grass” — a vast, slow-moving sheet of water that sustains countless species of wildlife and provides clean water for millions of Floridians. About 20 percent of this region is protected within the park’s boundaries, making it the third largest national park in the continental United States, after Death Valley and Yellowstone.
Perfect Weather, Perfect Time for Family Fun
With cooler temperatures, clear skies, and fewer crowds, this season is ideal for outdoor activities. Families can rent bikes and explore the Shark Valley Tram Trail, where it’s common to spot turtles, herons, and alligators sunbathing just a few feet away. The trail leads to the Shark Valley Observation Tower, a 70-foot-high spiral structure offering 360-degree views that stretch up to 20 miles across the wetlands — a perfect spot for photos and picnics.
For those who prefer to take to the water, Flamingo Adventures offers kayak, canoe, and pontoon boat rentals, allowing families to explore the mangrove tunnels and the open waters of Florida Bay. Every turn reveals another breathtaking glimpse of nature’s harmony.
A Living Lesson in Conservation
Pedro Ramos, Superintendent of Everglades National Park and Dry Tortugas National Park, reflects on the deep and lasting bond between Floridians and this natural treasure: “Our country has had a long and profound relationship with the Everglades.This vast ecosystem is one of the oldest and most pristine places on the planet, home to a unique biodiversity that sparks curiosity and admiration in both children and adults. The Everglades are also a fragile environment that depends on our ongoing efforts toward ecological restoration. Its health is directly connected to our quality of life, as its waters and ecosystems sustain much of Florida’s environmental balance. Protecting and understanding the Everglades is not only a responsibility but also an opportunity to reconnect with nature. Every visit is a way to learn, to enjoy, and to contribute to the care of this natural treasure that belongs to all of us.”
A Paradise Worth Protecting — and Visiting
Recently named one of the most photographed natural destinations on the U.S. East Coast, Everglades National Park continues to capture hearts and lenses alike. A study by Chicks Gold found over 835,000 Instagram postsfeaturing the park, confirming it as Florida’s most visually captivating natural attraction.
But beyond the photos, the Everglades represents something greater: a living symbol of balance, resilience, and beauty. Visiting this park is not just about sightseeing — it’s about discovering a place that defines Florida’s spirit.
So as the cool breezes roll through South Florida, gather your family, pack your curiosity, and head toward the Everglades. The weather is perfect, the wildlife is waiting, and the Gulf of America glistens in the distance — reminding us that nature, when preserved, always finds its way to inspire.
