Things to Do in the Everglades With Kids: 7 Family-Friendly Tips

Visiting the Everglades with kids was one of the most exciting parts of our Florida road trip. We spent two days exploring the wetlands, walking the famous Anhinga Trail, racing across the water on not one but two airboat tours and driving the scenic Loop Road. Wildlife was everywhere, from alligators sunbathing beside the road to birds and snakes hiding in the water. Our kids were fascinated, and so were we.

One thing that surprised us was just how big the Everglades are. Everglades National Park covers a huge area, which makes planning your visit more challenging than you might expect. Before arriving, we found it difficult to decide which areas were worth visiting, which activities were best for families and where to stay.

In this guide, we share our favorite things to do in the Everglades with kids, along with practical tips to help you plan your visit. Looking for a great place to stay? Be sure to check out our detailed guide to the best family-friendly hotels and accommodations near Everglades National Park.

Best Things to Do in the Everglades With Kids

The Everglades are huge, and it can be surprisingly difficult to know where to start. Which entrance should you choose? Which activities are actually worth your time? And what can you skip? We asked ourselves the same questions before our trip. While we certainly didn’t see everything, the experiences we had were fantastic. Hopefully, our tips will help you plan your own visit and decide which activities are the best fit for your family.

Take an Airboat Tour in the Everglades With Kids

When someone mentions Florida, one of the first things that comes to mind is an airboat racing through the Everglades. At least, that’s what we imagined. Taking an airboat tour was high on our Florida bucket list, and it ended up being one of the highlights of our entire road trip.

Instead of choosing just one tour, we combined two completely different experiences. First, we explored the narrow Mangrove Tunnels by small boat, gliding through shaded waterways where we spotted birds, raccoons and several alligators up close. Afterwards, we boarded a larger airboat for a ride across the open Grasslands. The wind in our hair, water plants flying past and alligators resting along the banks made it feel like a roller coaster on water. Our oldest daughter absolutely loved it.

Where Should You Book an Airboat Tour in the Everglades?

You’ll find dozens of airboat tour operators throughout the Everglades. Most are located along the Tamiami Trail, the highway connecting Miami and Naples, with tours available between Homestead and Everglades City. This makes it easy to choose a location that fits naturally into your Florida road trip itinerary.

We stayed in Homestead but decided to drive to Everglades City for a tour with Captain Jack’s. Their combination of two different tours appealed to us, and the reviews were excellent. We were less impressed by the alligator park itself, although our kids enjoyed seeing the animals and even holding a baby alligator. What we remember most is how incredibly American the whole experience felt. A little over the top at times, but in a fun and memorable way.

• Compare tours: Platforms like GetYourGuide and Viator make it easy to compare reviews, schedules and prices.
• Book directly: If you have the time, you can also reserve directly with the tour operator.

Practical Tips for Families

• Book in advance: Especially between December and April, when tours often sell out.
• Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon, when temperatures are cooler and wildlife is often more active.
• Duration: Most tours last between 30 and 90 minutes, making them easy to do with kids.
• No park entrance fee required: Most airboat tours do not require an Everglades National Park ticket.
• Noise levels: Airboats are very loud, so bring hearing protection for younger children.
• Sun and water: Pack sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen and plenty of drinking water.

Hiking in the Everglades With Kids: The Best Family-Friendly Trails

Many of the trails in Everglades National Park are short, flat and built on boardwalks. That makes them perfect for families with kids, even if you’re traveling with a stroller or toddler. These walks are also some of the best places to spot wildlife. Combine two or three trails in a single day, and you’ll get a great introduction to the unique landscapes of the Everglades.

Anhinga Trail: The Most Famous Trail in the Everglades

The Anhinga Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Everglades National Park and an excellent choice for families. This short boardwalk trail, about 0.8 miles (1.3 km) round trip, starts near the Royal Palm Visitor Center and takes you past ponds and wetlands where birds, turtles and alligators are often seen just steps away from the path.

We weren’t quite as lucky during our visit. Apart from a few birds, reptiles, turtles and a snake, we didn’t spot any alligators. That may have had something to do with our youngest daughter having a bit of a meltdown after skipping her nap. Even so, we really enjoyed this easy walk. It’s accessible, stroller-friendly and one of the best hikes in the Everglades with kids.

Gumbo Limbo Trail: A Short Walk Through the Forest

The Gumbo Limbo Trail is less than half a mile long, making it ideal for families with younger children. The trail begins as a paved path before transitioning into a boardwalk. Along the way, you’ll walk through a dense tropical forest known as a hardwood hammock. Informational signs explain the area’s unique ecosystem and history.

We combined this trail with the nearby Anhinga Trail since both start from the same parking area. First, we searched for wildlife in the open wetlands, then escaped the heat beneath the forest canopy. The contrast between the two trails made for a fun and varied experience, especially on a warm day.

Mahogany Hammock Trail: Walk Among Giant Trees

The Mahogany Hammock Trail is a short boardwalk that leads through one of the most unique forested areas in Everglades National Park. Here you’ll find towering mahogany trees, some of the largest in Florida. The trail is flat, easy to follow and well suited for families with children.

We didn’t have time to visit this trail ourselves, but it was high on our list. If you’re spending more than one day in the Everglades, it’s a great addition, especially if you’d like to experience more than just the park’s famous wetlands and wildlife.

West Lake Trail: Mangroves and Waterfront Views

The West Lake Trail is located deeper inside Everglades National Park, about a 15-minute drive from the Mahogany Hammock Trail. This boardwalk trail winds through mangrove forests and along the shores of a peaceful lagoon.

The full loop takes only about 15 minutes to complete, making it a quick and easy stop during your visit. You’re less likely to spot alligators here compared to some of the other trails, but the mangrove scenery and water views offer a completely different perspective of the Everglades. Younger children may find it a little less exciting, but it’s a peaceful walk that’s worth adding to your itinerary if you have the time.

Practical Tips for Visiting Everglades National Park

• Entrance fee: Access to these trails requires admission to Everglades National Park. The entrance fee is $35 per vehicle and is valid for seven consecutive days. While it may seem expensive at first, the fee helps support the preservation and maintenance of the park.
• Bringing a stroller: The Anhinga Trail, Gumbo Limbo Trail and Mahogany Hammock Trail are all stroller-friendly. The West Lake Trail is slightly longer and may be less interesting for younger children.
• Stay on the boardwalks: Always remain on designated trails and keep a close eye on your children. Wildlife is one of the highlights of the Everglades, but it’s important to keep a safe distance at all times.

Shark Valley: Tram Tours, Biking and Boardwalks

Shark Valley is one of the most famous areas in Everglades National Park and a fantastic destination for families. A 15-mile (24 km) paved road winds through the vast sawgrass prairies, passing canals where alligators can often be spotted right next to, or even on, the path. You can explore the area by tram, rent bikes or take a short walk on one of the boardwalk trails. No matter which option you choose, wildlife sightings are almost guaranteed.

Unfortunately, we couldn’t fit Shark Valley into our itinerary, something we regretted afterwards. Even so, it’s a place we’d strongly recommend adding to your Florida road trip. Located along the Tamiami Trail (U.S. Route 41) between Miami and Naples, it’s easy to include as a stop along the way.

Things to Do in Shark Valley

• Tram tour: Take a guided 15-mile (24 km) tram ride through the Everglades, including a stop at the observation tower for panoramic views over the wetlands. Along the way, guides share fascinating information about the park’s ecosystem and wildlife. Spotting alligators is almost guaranteed.
• Bike the Loop Road: For a more adventurous experience, rent a bike and cycle the full 15-mile (24 km) loop. Halfway through, you’ll reach the observation tower, where you’ll be rewarded with incredible views across the Everglades. Wildlife is often seen along the route, including alligators, turtles and countless bird species. Traveling with younger children or short on time? You can always bike part of the route and turn around whenever you’re ready. Bike rentals are available, including child seats for children aged one and older and bikes for kids.
• Boardwalk trails: The short Bobcat Boardwalk Trail is stroller-friendly and makes a great stop for families with younger children who want a quick introduction to the area’s wildlife and scenery.

Prices and Reservations

• Tram tour: Approximately $33–34 per adult and $18 per child (ages 3–12). Children aged 2 and under ride for free.
• Bike rentals: Approximately $26 per day. Child seats (for children aged 1+) and children’s bikes are available.
• Reservations: Booking in advance through the official Shark Valley Tram Tours website is highly recommended, especially during the dry season when tours often sell out.
• Park entrance fee: Shark Valley is part of Everglades National Park, so you’ll need a valid park entrance pass. Admission costs $35 per vehicle and is valid for seven consecutive days. The same pass also covers areas such as the Anhinga Trail, Gumbo Limbo Trail and other locations within the park.

Tips for Families

• Best time to visit: Arrive early in the morning when temperatures are cooler and wildlife is often more active.
• With younger children: The tram tour is usually the most comfortable option.
• With older kids: Biking the loop is more adventurous, but be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen and snacks.
• Strollers: The boardwalk trails are stroller-friendly, but the full loop is not suitable for strollers.

Flamingo Marina: Spot Manatees and Take a Boat Tour

Located at the southern end of Everglades National Park, Flamingo is one of the best places to see manatees in Florida. These gentle giants are often spotted near the docks at Flamingo Marina, slowly floating through the water just a short distance from shore. During the winter months, your chances of seeing them are especially good.

Unfortunately, we didn’t have enough time to include Flamingo in our itinerary and had to skip it. Looking back, that’s one stop we wish we had made. If you have an extra day in the Everglades, Flamingo is definitely worth considering.

Things to Do in Flamingo

• Spot Manatees: One of the biggest draws of Flamingo is the opportunity to see manatees for free from the marina or nearby piers. These peaceful animals are not something you can easily spot everywhere in Florida, making the experience even more special.
• Take a Boat Tour: Several eco tours and wildlife cruises depart from Flamingo Marina. These excursions explore Florida Bay, passing mangrove forests and open water where you may see dolphins, birds, manatees and other wildlife.
• Visit the Flamingo Visitor Center: The small visitor center provides information about the area and is often staffed by park rangers who can point you toward the best wildlife viewing locations.

Why Families Love the Ten Thousand Islands

While alligators tend to steal the spotlight in the Everglades, manatees are often a bigger hit with younger children. They move slowly, occasionally surface for air and are easy to observe from a safe distance. A boat tour from Flamingo is also much calmer than an airboat ride, making it a great option for families with younger kids.

Practical Information

• Location: Flamingo is located in the southern part of Everglades National Park, about 37 miles (60 km) from Homestead.
• Tour prices: Most wildlife and eco tours cost between $40 and $50 per adult, with discounted rates for children.
• Park entrance fee: As with the hiking trails and Shark Valley, you’ll need a valid Everglades National Park entrance pass. Admission costs $35 per vehicle and is valid for seven consecutive days.
• Best time to visit: Morning is often the best time for wildlife viewing, and the marina is generally quieter earlier in the day.

Ten Thousand Islands: A Relaxing Alternative to Airboat Tours

Looking for a quieter way to experience the Everglades? Then the Ten Thousand Islands are a great alternative to the park’s famous airboat rides. Located near Everglades City, this vast coastal wilderness is made up of countless small islands, mangrove forests and winding waterways.

Things to Do in the Ten Thousand Islands

• Take a Boat Tour: Several boat tours depart daily from Everglades City and explore the mangrove-lined waterways, sandbars and open waters of the Ten Thousand Islands. Along the way, there’s a good chance you’ll spot dolphins and manatees, often surprisingly close to the boat. Many tours also stop at a remote beach or island, sometimes near Marco Island, where you can go shelling and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
• Explore by Kayak or Canoe: If you’re looking for a more active adventure, kayak and canoe tours are another popular option. These allow you to reach narrow waterways that larger boats can’t access, giving you even more opportunities to spot birds and wildlife up close.

Why Families Love the Ten Thousand Islands

A boat tour through the Ten Thousand Islands is much more relaxed than an airboat ride. Instead of loud engines and high speeds, you’ll gently cruise through the mangroves while keeping an eye out for wildlife. For families with younger children, this is often a more comfortable experience. Many tours also include a stop at a beach or small island where kids can search for shells. In our experience, shelling can be just as exciting for children as spotting dolphins or manatees. Most tours last between 1.5 and 3 hours, which is manageable even for younger travelers.

Practical Information

• Departure point: Everglades City.
• Duration: Most boat tours last between 1.5 and 3 hours.
• Cost: Expect to pay around $40–50 per adult, with discounted rates for children.
• Reservations: Tours can be booked through platforms like GetYourGuide and Viator or directly with local operators in Everglades City. During the dry season, booking ahead is recommended.

Canoeing or Kayaking in the Everglades: Experience the Park Up Close

Want to experience the Everglades in a more immersive way? Then a canoe or kayak tour is well worth considering. You’ll glide quietly through the mangroves and experience the wildlife from water level. It’s adventurous and exciting, but generally better suited for older children than for young kids. For families with older children or teenagers, this can be a fantastic experience.

We decided not to do a kayak or canoe tour ourselves, mainly because our children were still too young at the time. If we return when they’re older, this is definitely an activity we’d consider.

➜ View Everglades kayak and canoe tours on GetYourGuide or Viator

Loop Road Scenic Drive

The Loop Road Scenic Drive was one of the biggest surprises of our visit to the Everglades with kids. This scenic route is a small detour from U.S. Route 41 (the Tamiami Trail), but don’t be surprised if you end up spending several hours here. Not because the drive itself is particularly long, but because you’ll want to stop every few minutes to look for wildlife.

The road winds through the heart of the Everglades, passing wetlands, creeks and open water. We spotted dozens of alligators and crocodiles here, simply from the car. Some were floating in the water, while others were sunbathing right beside the road. For families with children, this is one of the easiest and most fun ways to see wildlife without having to do a long hike.

Practical Information About the Loop Road Scenic Drive

• Road trip tip: If you’re already driving along the Tamiami Trail, this detour is an easy addition to your itinerary. In our experience, it’s one of the best places in Florida to spot alligators.
• Length: Approximately 24 miles (38 km), with both paved and unpaved sections.
• Time needed: Allow around 1.5 to 2 hours, including stops for wildlife viewing and photos.
• Cost: Completely free. No Everglades National Park entrance ticket is required.
• Tip: Don’t just watch the water. Keep an eye on the roadside as well, where some of the largest.

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How to Get to the Everglades

The Everglades are located between Miami and Naples and are easy to reach, but you’ll need your own transportation or a guided tour. With such a large area to explore, seeing all the highlights in a single visit is nearly impossible. Most travelers choose either a rental car or an organized tour to get around.

By Rental Car: The Best Way to Explore the Everglades

Most visitors choose to rent a car, and for good reason. Having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to stop wherever you like, easily combine areas such as Homestead on the east side and Everglades City on the west side, and spot wildlife along the way. For families, this is by far the most comfortable option because you can explore at your own pace.

➜ Compare rental cars through DiscoverCars, Rentalcars or Sunny Cars
➜ Read our tips for driving and renting a car in Florida

Visiting the Everglades on a Guided Tour

If you only have one day available or prefer not to drive yourself, a guided tour can be a great option. Several companies offer day trips from Miami that include transportation to and from the Everglades, often combined with an airboat ride and other popular activities.

➜ View Everglades day tours from Miami on GetYourGuide

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Best Time to Visit the Everglades, Florida

The Everglades have two distinct seasons: the dry season and the wet season. Both have their advantages, but most travelers prefer visiting during the dry season.

Dry Season (December Through April): The Most Popular Time to Visit
This is generally considered the best time to visit the Everglades. Temperatures are more comfortable, usually between 68 and 77°F (20–25°C), humidity levels are lower and mosquitoes are less of an issue. Water levels are also lower, which means wildlife tends to gather around ponds and canals, making animals easier to spot.

Wet Season (May Through November): Hot, Humid and Green
During the wet season, temperatures are higher and afternoon rain showers are common. Mosquitoes are also more active. This period overlaps with hurricane season, which officially runs from June through November.

That said, we wouldn’t automatically avoid visiting during these months. We traveled through Florida in October, right in the middle of the wet season, and didn’t experience a single drop of rain during our entire road trip. The landscape is greener, and there are generally fewer visitors, which can make for a more peaceful experience.

Practical Tips

• Check the weather forecast: Especially if you’re visiting during summer or hurricane season.
• Bring insect repellent: A repellent containing DEET is useful year-round, not just in the evening. Mosquitoes can be active during the day as well, especially around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from the sun: A hat, sunscreen and plenty of drinking water are essential in every season.

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Best Family-Friendly Hotels Near the Everglades

The Everglades are much larger than most visitors expect. Because of that, the best place to stay depends largely on what you want to see and do. If your focus is on hiking in Everglades National Park and visiting places like the Anhinga Trail and Flamingo, then Homestead is an excellent base. If you’re mainly interested in airboat tours, exploring the Ten Thousand Islands and driving the Loop Road Scenic Drive, then Everglades City is often the more convenient choice.

We stayed in Homestead ourselves, but looking back, we would probably split our nights between the eastern and western sides of the Everglades to reduce driving time and experience more of the area.

Want to compare the different options in more detail? Be sure to check out our guide on where to stay near the Everglades, where we compare Homestead, Everglades City, Flamingo, Miami and Naples in depth.

Our Favorite Hotels in Homestead & Florida City

Our Favorite Hotels in Everglades City

➜ Want to compare Flamingo, Miami, Naples and different route options as well? Check out our complete guide: Where to Stay Near the Everglades

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Visiting the Everglades With Kids: Practical Tips

Exploring the Everglades with kids is an unforgettable experience, but there are a few things worth keeping in mind. These tips will help make your visit easier, safer and more enjoyable for the whole family.

• Bring Hearing Protection for Young Children
  Airboat rides are exciting, but they’re also very loud. The hearing protection provided by tour operators is often too large for toddlers and young children, so bringing your own earmuffs is a good idea. The same goes for life jackets. You’ll always receive one during the tour, but the vest provided for our youngest daughter was quite loose. Bringing your own children’s life jacket can offer a more comfortable fit.
• Protect Yourself From the Sun and Heat
  Hats, sunscreen and plenty of water are essential during any family trip to Florida, but especially in the Everglades. Temperatures can rise quickly, particularly in the middle of the day.
• Mosquitoes Are Active During the Day Too
  Always pack insect repellent, preferably one containing DEET. Mosquitoes are most active around sunrise and sunset and during the wet season, but you may encounter them during the day as well.
• Choose Activities Based on Your Children’s Ages
  Airboat tours and the short boardwalk trails are great options for younger children. Families with older kids may enjoy biking in Shark Valley or exploring the Everglades by kayak.
• Plan Your Time Carefully
  The Everglades are much larger than most people expect. If your schedule allows, consider staying for two nights. Looking back, we would probably split our stay between Homestead and Everglades City. It reduces driving time and gives you more flexibility for activities in the early morning and late afternoon, which are often the best times for wildlife viewing.
• Choose a Hotel With a Pool
  After a day spent exploring in the Florida heat, a swimming pool can be a lifesaver. It’s the perfect place for kids to cool off and burn off some extra energy while parents relax.
• Think About Where You’ll Eat
  In Homestead, you’ll mostly find fast-food restaurants and large chain restaurants. Convenient and quick, but not particularly memorable. Everglades City offers a few smaller, locally owned restaurants, including a good Italian restaurant and a popular grill restaurant with excellent reviews.
• Remember That Wildlife Is Wild
  One of the things that makes the Everglades so special is how close you can get to wildlife. Alligators can sometimes be spotted right beside the road or trail. Always keep a safe distance and stay on the designated boardwalks and paths.

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Why the Everglades Should Be on Your Florida Road Trip With Kids

The Everglades are unlike anywhere else in Florida. Where else can you speed through mangrove forests on an airboat or come face to face with a wild alligator? This unique ecosystem is one of the most remarkable natural areas in the United States, and it’s much larger than most visitors expect. For us, the Everglades were one of the most exciting and memorable stops of our Florida road trip. What makes the area so special is the variety. One moment you’re hiking a boardwalk trail, the next you’re spotting wildlife or exploring the wetlands by airboat. There’s always something to see or do, and that’s exactly what makes it such a great destination for families.

Whether you’re planning a quick stop or, even better, spending a few nights exploring the area like we did, the Everglades deserve a place on any Florida family road trip itinerary.

Plan Your Everglades Trip

Where to Stay Near the Everglades
👉 Browse the best accommodations on Booking.com

Renting a Car in Florida
👉 Compare prices on DiscoverCars, Rentalcars and Sunny Cars

Tours and Activities?
👉 Browse the options on GetYourGuide for day trips and activities

Looking for More Florida Inspiration?
👉 Read our guide: Florida With Kids, Our 3-Week Family Road Trip Itinerary

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