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Everglades National Park at Homestead
Everglades National Park at Homestead
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40001 State Road 9336
Homestead, FL 33034+6733
305-242-7700
Good-for-Kids Rating
Babies
Toddlers & Pre-KSchool-Age KidsPre-Teens & Teens
Everglades National Park at Homestead Description
If you want to see what Florida was like before it was developed you need to see the Everglades. The 1.5 million-acre River of Grass has two entrances near Miami -- one on State Road in Homestead, the other at Shark Valley in Ochopee. The Homestead section, closer to Miami than Shark Valley, features trails offering everything from brief walks to extensive hikes. Absolutely don't miss the Anhinga Trail, a half-mile, stroller-friendly path where the kids are guaranteed to spot colorful birds, turtles, and -- the highlight -- alligators. It's also worth a stop at the Ernest Coe Visitor's Center for trail maps, great nature films and displays, and the all-important bathrooms.
Park
Hiking
Kid Tips
Toddlers & Pre-K: They'll get a thrill from watching the 'gators -- from a distance. If they do come into closer viewing range remind them to never try to chase or touch them.
School-Age Kids: Get the bird guide from the visitors' center so your child can match them to all they see. And wait till their friends back home hear about those 'gators!
Pre-Teens & Teens: This awe-inspiring setting enthralls even the moodiest of teens.
Planning Notes
- Prepare for a car ride. It takes about an hour to drive here from downtown Miami.
- Ideally, go in winter. Summer in Florida is the hot, rainy season.
- Bring lots of bug spray. There are fewer in the cooler winter, but this is a swamp area. In summer, the mosquitoes can be ferocious.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You'll be doing a lot of walking, and not everything will be paved.
- Bring rain ponchos. Florida's rainy. In summer, afternoon downpours are almost guaranteed.
- Tote your lunch along. There are no restaurants, but plenty of well-placed picnic tables -- the ultimate in dining alfresco.
Just the Facts
Hours: Park open 24 hours Visitors center: Nov.-April: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. May-Oct.: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Fees: $10 - $20
Recommended Time: Half day
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