Tamiami Trail (US-41) Scenic Drive. Begin your escape along one of South Florida’s most historic and scenic roads. As you leave Miami behind, the cityscape melts into stretches of sawgrass and wetlands, where herons glide over the shallow waters. This legendary highway, also known as the “River of Grass” route, offers the perfect first glimpse of the Everglades’ wide-open beauty.

Shark Valley Visitor Center. This is the gateway to the heart of the Everglades. With boardwalks, observation decks, and wildlife in every direction, it’s one of the best places to experience the park’s vastness. Stroll along the scenic paved trail, visit the viewing tower for panoramic photos, and keep an eye out for alligators resting along the edges of the marsh.

Perhaps the most famous walking trail in the Everglades, this easy boardwalk loop winds over crystal-clear water teeming with life. From your vantage point, spot fish, turtles, colorful birds, and even alligators basking in the sun. The flat, accessible path makes it an ideal stop for a peaceful nature immersion without strenuous walking.

Gumbo Limbo or Mahogany Hammock Boardwalk. Conclude your day exploring one of the park’s quiet, shaded trails surrounded by tropical hardwood forest. These short loops showcase another side of the Everglades — thick canopy, lush ferns, and the soothing sounds of nature. It’s the perfect calm ending to a day of wide-open skies and wetland discovery.