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The 9 best everglades airboat and swamp tours.

See much more than alligators during one of these exciting trips.

The Top Everglades Airboat & Swamp Tours

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If you're planning a trip to Miami or Fort Lauderdale, Florida , visiting Everglades National Park should be on your to-do list. The South Florida national park is known for its expansive beauty, as well as its varied population of wildlife that includes everything from bobcats to alligators.

To see all the Everglades has to offer, sign up for a guided tour. U.S. News consulted both traveler sentiment and expert opinion to identify the top Everglades tours. Before you go, make sure you read through the National Park Service's Wildlife Viewing Ethics to keep both yourself and the animals safe during your time in the park. When choosing the best Everglades tours, we avoided recommending operators that promote wildlife shows or encourage feeding or holding the animals for photo-ops.

Visitors should plan to pay a fee to enter the park, as it may not be included in the price of the tour ticket. You should also keep in mind that many of these tour operators are located at least 30 miles west of Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Tours that run on airboats – open-air vessels with huge fans at the back that propel the boat – can be very loud. Companies will generally offer ear protection, but if you or your companions are sensitive to loud noises, contact the tour provider to discuss options before you book.

The Best Everglades Airboat and Swamp Tours

Everglades swamp tours – one hour group tour.

Price: Adults from $60; kids from $30 Duration: 1 hour

This sightseeing trip takes you out on an airboat to cruise through the Everglades' main waterways in search of alligators, birds and interesting vegetation. Throughout the ride, knowledgeable guides share facts about the area's history and ecology. Many travelers recommend booking this tour, describing it as fun and informative, with plenty of wildlife sightings. Departures generally take place daily at 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., but availability may vary by month.

Children 5 and younger can ride for free, but still require a reserved seats. Also check out Everglades Swamp Tours for private airboat tours that last up to two hours.

Check prices & availability on:

Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures – 30-Minute Airboat Tour

Price: Adults from $35; kids from $30 Duration: 30 minutes

Located at the headwaters of the Everglades in Kissimmee, Florida (about 40 miles south of Orlando), Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures earns praise from reviewers for its personable, experienced staff and the family-friendly environment. On the airboat ride, you and up to 16 other passengers will glide through the tall grass in search of eagles, alligators, raccoons and more. In addition to airboat rides, the site houses a replica of a Jororo Tribe village, as well as a gem and fossil mining activity for kids.

Tours depart throughout the day from 9 a.m. to 5 pm. You can buy your tickets online, but there are no reservations for this tour. For a longer adventure, consider the company's hourlong airboat ride. There are also sunset and night tours, if you're hoping to avoid the midday heat and crowds.

Marsh Landing Adventures – 90-Minute Everglades Airboat Tour

Price: Adults from $65; kids from $60 Duration: 1.5 hours

For wildlife lovers who want more than half an hour to experience the Everglades, this 1.5-hour airboat ride from Marsh Landing Adventures is an excellent experience. Located in Kissimmee on Lake Tohopekaliga, Marsh Landing Adventures promises travelers an in-depth look at the headwaters of the Everglades and the plants and animals that inhabit its waters. What's more, the company says it can reach areas of the Everglades that are inaccessible to larger boats because of its small crafts. Travelers give kudos to the boat captain for their educational and entertaining delivery. Many call the experience the highlight of their Florida vacation.

Tours are offered Monday through Saturday at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Reservations are required, and there is a 1% fuel surcharge added to each ticket. Marsh Landing Adventures also offers hourlong, two-hour and four-hour airboat rides.

Everglades City Airboat Tours

Price: Adults from $47; kids from $31 Duration: 1 hour

Everglades City Airboat Tours sets itself apart from other companies by offering participants two-way headsets, which allow passengers and guides to better engage with one another throughout the hourlong ride. As you navigate through narrow creeks and shallow bays, you may spot alligators, manatees and birds. Tourists enjoy the ride and appreciate the headsets. Reviewers are also complimentary of the boat captains, who they describe as entertaining and knowledgeable.

Tours depart multiple times Monday through Saturday, although timing may be modified based on the season. It's a good idea to reserve your tour in advance. Everglades City Airboat Tours is located approximately 85 miles west of Miami and 35 miles southeast of Naples, Florida.

Buffalo Tiger Airboat Tours – 45-Minute Standard Airboat Tour

Price: Adults from $45; kids from $27.50 Duration: 45 minutes

For an excursion that combines cultural immersion and wildlife viewing, consider this outing from Buffalo Tiger Airboat Tours. The Miccosukee family-owned company's standard tour focuses on introducing visitors to the homelands of the Miccosukee people: an American Indian tribe that migrated to Florida before it became a state. During the tour, you'll not only see local wildlife, but also will get to see a Miccosukee Indian camp and take a nature walk. Visitors recommend the tour, describing it as an amazing experience thanks to the small, intimate group size.

Tours run daily at multiple times between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. The company also offers private outings.

Everglades River of Grass Adventures – Semi-Private River of Grass Airboat Tours Everglades

Price: Adults from $85; kids from $45 Duration: 1.5 hours

One perk of this tour is that it is capped at six to eight travelers per boat. During the excursion, you'll get the chance to see the famous flora and fauna of the Everglades, including herons and alligators. Visitors say this is a family-friendly tour and call the trip "memorable" and "amazing."

These tours run seven days a week; since they're semiprivate, you must call or email to find out the best times to depart. River of Grass Adventures also offers sunset tours of the Everglades.

Other Popular Everglades Tours

Shurr Adventures Everglades – Three Hour Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour Small Group Adventure

Price: Adults from $109; kids from $99 Duration: 3 to 4 hours

Enjoy an up-close view of animals and nature, and get some exercise in too, on this kayak tour of the Everglades' mangroves. As you paddle your way through the mangrove tunnels, you may spot orchids, birds and, of course, alligators. Kayakers say this tour is excellent and appreciate the patient, experienced guides who share a wealth of information about the plants and animals that reside in this unique ecosystem. What's more, reviewers appreciate that the tours are limited to just eight participants.

Tours are available Monday through Saturday from August to April; times vary by season. Children must be at least 7 years old to participate. Tourgoers will enjoy three to 3.5 hours out on the water but should plan to spend a total of four hours on-site from start to finish. Shurr Adventures Everglades also offers a full-day tour of the mangrove tunnels, as well as a motorboat tour in the Ten Thousand Islands region of Everglades National Park, among other options.

Shark Valley Tram Tours

Price: Adults from $31; kids from $16 Duration: 2 hours

These naturalist-led excursions not only include a tour around Everglades National Park in an open-air tram, they also give tourgoers the chance to explore on foot. Halfway through the tour, participants can climb a 45-foot-tall observation deck to see sweeping views of the surrounding vegetation. During the two-hour tour, travelers also have the opportunity to observe a variety of wildlife. Tourgoers enjoy learning about the Everglades from the expert guides and say riding the tram is part of the fun. Many also recommended taking a morning tour to avoid the midday heat.

From mid-December through late April, tours depart on the hour daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. From May through mid-December, tours depart at 9:30 and 11 a.m. and 2 and 4 p.m. Shark Valley Tram Tours also offers self-guided bike tours. (Note that you'll have to pay a separate fee to enter Everglades National Park for any tour.)

Everglades Florida Adventures – Ten Thousand Islands Tour

Price: Adults from $59; kids from $29 Duration: 3 hours

If you're hoping to see the Everglades by boat, but want something a little quieter than an airboat ride, consider this cruise. Departing from Port of the Islands Marina in Naples, this 45-foot passenger catamaran glides across the Faka Union Canal while guides share information about the history and ecology of the area. Tourgoers report spotting lots of birds, turtles, dolphins and manatees. They also call out the insightful crew and clean, comfortable boat as highlights.

Cruises are offered Monday to Friday at 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Everglades Florida Adventures also offers kayak and canoe rentals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Like any other form of transportation, riding an airboat may come with some risks. To stay safe on your Everglades airboat tour, be sure to choose a company run by experienced, professional boaters (most of which undergo special training and are approved by the U.S. Coast Guard) and adhere to all rules set forth by your guide. Parents should keep a close eye on children and be sure they are properly fitted for their life jackets, and all passengers should protect against the heat by wearing sunscreen and staying hydrated. Commercial airboats typically do not exceed speeds of 30 to 40 mph to ensure a safe, smooth ride, and most operators will reschedule your tour in the event of lightning or other inclement weather. Tour companies will also generally provide riders with proper ear protection, as the boats are quite loud.

Typically, passengers will feel the most comfortable in lightweight, sleeveless clothing and shorts while on an Everglades airboat tour. If you are taking a wintertime tour, keep an eye on the weather – pants and long sleeves may be a better option, but you likely won't need a heavy jacket. Be sure to bring sunglasses, sunscreen and water to protect yourself from the effects of the sun; you may also want a hat to provide further shade and keep hair in place. Passengers with long hair are advised to wear it in a ponytail or bun to keep it from becoming knotted in the wind. Tourgoers may also wish to apply some bug spray prior to embarking on their adventure.

Airboat tours last about an hour, though duration will depend on the tour company.

An airboat's top speed is about 30 mph.

Not normally, but you run a small risk of getting misted with water. If you take a tour when it is raining, expect to get wet.

In winter, you'll want to time your visit for midday, when it warms up. In summer, you'll want to visit in the morning or later afternoon when it's coolest. Visiting at these times can increase your chances of seeing wildlife, but you'll likely see all kinds of critters no matter when you visit year-round.

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create unforgettable Everglades memories at captain jack's!

Zip through Everglades City on airboat tours

Venture through a cypress forest on a swamp buggy

Get a chance to see wild alligators, birds & more

Stay safe and comfortable 

See alligators & animals up close

Hold a baby alligator

Take home gifts and memories

Everglades National Park Boat Tour

Mangrove Tunnel & National Park Combo

Ten Thousand Islands Boat Tour

Mangrove maze airboat tours.

Race through a maze of Everglades mangroves on an airboat, away from other traffic.

• Mangrove Maze Ultimate Combo

• Mangrove Maze Airboat Tour

Mangrove Tunnel Airboat Combos

• Total Everglades Combo

Mangrove Tunnel & Grassland Combo

Mangrove Tunnel & Buggy Combo

Private Mangrove Tunnel & Buggy Combo

Mangrove tunnel airboat tours.

Take a high-speed tour of Everglades City's signature mangrove tunnels!

• Mangrove Tunnel Airboat Tour

• Private Mangrove Tunnel Airboat Tour

Grassland airboat Tours

Grassland & Buggy Combo

• Grassland Airboat Tour

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Guests love us.

“There is something about flying down narrow alleys of mangrove trees that is just a rush. I could never get tired of it. The guides always give more than just a ride. You learn so much about the Everglades and the total ecosystem that it is. We most certainly will be back!

—C. from Florida

“The mangrove tour was so much fun! We saw a family of dolphins swimming along the boat, several alligators, and a few fish jumping out of the water. Riding through the mangroves was beautiful and a fun way to see the Everglades. I would recommend to anyone.”

—J. from Massachusetts

“We really enjoyed seeing the alligators. The captain of the airboat gave a lot of information about the Everglades and habitat. The addition of the two-way headsets let us all communicate during the tour. This was really a highlight of having friends down visiting us new Florida residents. Plan to bring other guests."

—K. from Florida

“We did the combo package and it was amazing! Great way to experience all 3 ways to 'see' the Everglades! Would highly recommend. All the captains for each segment were fantastic! Had a great time!"

—J.T.

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• National Parks

How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Everglades National Park

Here's everything you need to know before planning a trip to Everglades National Park.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

• Planning Your Visit

How to Get There

• Best Time to Visit

Best Things to Do in Everglades National Park

Must-see wildlife and natural features, where to stay, where to eat.

Visit Florida

Those who associate wide-open wilderness areas with the Western United States likely haven’t been to Everglades National Park. The Florida park stretches across 1.5 million acres and protects the largest designated wilderness area east of the Rocky Mountains. In the Everglades, alligators and crocodiles coexist (and are seen regularly), and the flora and fauna are so robust that this national park was the first set aside purely for its biodiversity.

“Everglades is not only a national park, but also a World Heritage Site, an International Biosphere Reserve, a Wetland of International Importance, and a specially protected area under the Cartagena Treaty,” explained Allyson Gantt, chief of communications and public affairs for Everglades National Park and Dry Tortugas National Park, in an interview with Travel + Leisure . "I love sharing the complexities and beauty of this park with visitors.”

Meet the Expert

Allyson Gantt has been a National Park Service ranger for over 25 years, currently serving as the chief of communications and public affairs for Everglades National Park and Dry Tortugas National Park.

Gantt knows first-hand what makes Everglades National Park a special place — along with the ins and outs of what first-timers should know and what not to miss.

Stephanie Pollak/Travel + Leisure

Planning Your Visit 

Everglades National Park is massive, so Gantt says it is vital to show up with a plan for what you will do and see. “Because of the geographic spread of the park, visitors may want to focus on one area if they only have a few hours or one day.”

The park is open year-round but offers two very different experiences based on when you visit. The dry season (December to April) is busier, with better weather, more wildlife, and fewer mosquitos, while the wet season (May to November) is quieter. Visitors can buy a park pass in person at the Homestead or Shark Valley entrances to the park or at the Gulf Coast Visitor Center at the Everglades City entrance. If you’re visiting during the busy dry season, especially on a weekend, buy your park pass online through Recreation.gov to avoid waiting in long lines at the entrance gate. A pass for a single vehicle or vessel is $35 and is valid for seven days. 

Even if you do buy a park pass in advance, the Homestead and Shark Valley entrances are notoriously congested with limited parking during the busy winter season. The park website says , “It is recommended to visit these areas on weekdays, arrive early in the day (before 10 a.m.), and carpool to the park if possible.”

Due to its size, Everglades National Park has three entrances in three different cities. A car is a must because the park has no public transportation and the three entrances are at least an hour from each other.

The southern section of the park is best accessed from the Homestead entrance, which is the park’s primary entrance. The Homestead entrance is outside Homestead, Florida and has the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center and the Guy Bradley Visitor Center (at Flamingo). Homestead also provides access to the neighboring Royal Palm State Park . 

The northern section of the park is best accessed from the Miami or Everglades City entrances. The closest entrance to Miami is Shark Valley, which has the Shark Valley Visitor Center. The entrance closest to Naples is the Everglades City entrance, which has the Gulf Coast Visitor Center.

lucky-photographer/Getty Images

Best Time to Visit 

As we mentioned, there are two very distinct seasons in Everglades National Park: dry season and wet season. If you come between December and April, you’ll experience the dry season, which comes with cooler temperatures and fewer mosquitos. The dry season’s preferable climate aligns with the park’s busy season — and it's also when most of the wading birds (and their predators) can be seen.

The wet season in the Everglades typically runs from May to November, and it's rainy with lots of mosquitoes. The weather and bugs that come along with South Florida summers lead to fewer visitors — which can be a major plus.

“The wetter summer season offers incredible cloud formations and calmer waters for boating and fishing,” Gantt adds. “The shoulder seasons, especially November/early December and late April into May, can be less busy times to visit, but still have plenty of opportunities to enjoy all the park has to offer.”

It’s impossible to feel bored during a visit to Everglades National Park. The expansive park has more than its fair share of interesting ecosystems and wildlife. There are marine and estuary topographies, cypresses and mangroves. There’s a lot to see and do, but for a first-time visitor, Gantt has a few specific recommendations.

Drive the Homestead Entrance Road and hike.

“The Homestead entrance has a 38-mile road with multiple stops with short trails through a variety of the park habitats,” said Gantt, who notes that this is a good way to get acquainted with the southern section of the park.

She specifically recommended the Anhinga Trail , a short route that is wheelchair accessible and starts from the Royal Palm Visitor Center. Alligators, turtles, herons, and egrets are often seen along this trail.

Join a tram tour for wildlife sightings.

Near the Shark Valley entrance is a paved 15-mile loop that goes along the Shark River Slough, where alligators, turtles, and many bird species are often found. The trail is great for walking, but if you want to do the full 15 miles, your best bet is to rent a bike or hop on the tram — both of which are available through Shark Valley Tram Tours . There’s also an observation tower in the Shark Valley area with a viewing deck that overlooks alligators, turtles, fish, and birds. 

Gantt notes that at this part of the park, “Visitation is higher and parking can be challenging on busy weekends and holidays.” 

Take an airboat tour.

There are three airboat companies that operate in the park, and Gantt says cruising through the Everglades on a flat-bottomed boat is a must during your visit. The three operators with permission to operate in the park are Coopertown, Everglades Safari Park, and Gator Park.

Visit the mangroves and Florida Bay.

From the Homestead entrance you can get to the Flamingo area, which is considered the gateway to Florida Bay. The bay and the mangrove-lined waterways that feed into it are home to much of the park’s marine life. 

“At Flamingo, we offer narrated boat tours through the mangroves and also on the open water of Florida Bay. There are several great trails in the area for paddling as well as the open area of Florida Bay. Manatees, crocodiles, and osprey are frequently seen around the marina,” said Gantt. 

Beyond the marina, which has a small store and a gas station, the Flamingo area of the park has a campground and kayak, canoe, and bicycle rentals (through Flamingo Adventures ).

Cruise through the Ten Thousand Islands along the Gulf.

If you want to play along the watery landscape of the Gulf Coast, head to the Everglades City entrance near Naples. This area is the gateway for expeditions to the Ten Thousand Islands, a maze of mangrove islands that are only accessible by boat. The Gulf Coast Visitor Center was destroyed by a hurricane in 2017 and is being rebuilt, but you can still book a boat tour to the Ten Thousand Islands with Everglades National Park Adventures . The two-hour tour takes place on a 49-passenger pontoon boat with a trained guide and occasionally an Everglades park ranger. 

Troy Harrison/Getty Images

The Everglades is essentially a giant wetland that consists of sawgrass marshes, pine flatwoods, and coastal mangroves. The boggy wilderness is both beautiful and daunting, especially when you consider that it’s home to a huge number of animals, including the Florida panther, the West Indian manatee, and the endangered leatherback turtle. 

But no creatures are as synonymous with the Everglades as the alligators and crocodiles. Gantt notes that “South Florida is the only place in the world where [alligators and crocodiles] coexist thanks to the combination of freshwater and saltwater areas.”

Beyond frequent sightings of the large reptiles, Gantt says the park has a huge number of birds, and it's “on the migratory path for a number of species, thus offering fantastic birding opportunities, especially in the winter.”

Animals aside, Everglades National Park has a large number of plants, trees, and landscapes, from coastal mangroves to hardwood forests. Remember, the park was originally protected because of its biodiversity, which is its biggest draw.

Flamingo Lodge

There is only one hotel within Everglades National Park, and it just opened in late 2023. The Flamingo Lodge is located at the southernmost tip of the Florida peninsula and can be reached via the Homestead entrance. The lodge has 24 rooms including eight two-bedroom suites that can accommodate up to six people. The highlight of each room is the east-facing balcony that provides sunrise and sunset views over Florida Bay.

Flamingo Glamping Tents and Houseboats

Beyond the new Flamingo Lodge, the Flamingo area of the park has two “glamping” options — one on land and one on water. Visitors can rent one of the safari-style glamping tents , which have a fan and electricity. You will need to bring your own sleeping pad and bag.

For a unique lodging option, book one of the 42-foot houseboats , which have kitchens, bathrooms, linens, and air conditioning. The houseboats can sleep up to six people and can be taken out on the water. 

Related: Best Places to Go Glamping in Florida

Long Pine Key and Flamingo Campgrounds

The only other in-park lodging options are the Long Pine Key and Flamingo campgrounds . Both campgrounds have RV and tent sites and can be driven to. The Long Pine Key Campground is the most accessible and is located near the Homestead entrance, while the Flamingo Campground is set deeper inside the park in the Flamingo area. Both campgrounds offer great stargazing and easy access to the Flamingo Marina, a popular launch site for fishing trips. 

Boogich/Getty Images

The new Flamingo Restaurant is adjacent to the Flamingo Lodge and is the only full-service restaurant in the park. 

“The new Flamingo Restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus a full-service bar,” said Gantt. “Anglers heading out on the water with a licensed fishing guide can also try the restaurant's Cook Your Catch offering, bringing back their fresh fish to be prepared by the restaurant.”

There are plenty of dining options in cities surrounding the park — Miami, Naples, and Homestead — but most visitors bring their own food and drinks into the park. There are picnic tables at Long Pine Key and Flamingo campgrounds.

For grab-and-go snacks and drinks, Gantt says you can find a limited selection at the park’s visitor centers (Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center, Royal Palm Visitor Center, and Shark Valley Visitor Center) and at the Flamingo marina shop.

Everglades Kayak Tours

-tour the glades-, private wildlife tours.

909 Dupont St

Everglades City, Florida 34139 

[email protected]

239-260-4577, see the real everglades with us.

Come explore the Everglades on our Kayak Tours , Motorboat Tours and other unique Private Guided Adventures . Launching from Historic Everglades City….The Capital City of The Everglades!

Our business model is simple, we only conduct Private Tours with Local Guides…focusing on the Quality of our tours not the Quantity of customers. This approach is Best For The Environment and the only way to truly experience the Everglades….just you and your own Naturalist Guide.

WE have the smallest tour group size in The Everglades…Only You!

You will get Amazing PHOTOS and VIDEOS so bring your camera and be ready for an adventure. Our tours are conducted in The Real Everglades. The Big Cypress Preserve, Fakahatchee Strand and Everglades National Park are the most diverse protected lands in the glades, and full of wildlife!

WE explore MORE locations and have MORE wildlife sightings than any other tour company!

We offer a wide variety of Kayak Tours in several locations in the Everglades.  Our most popular is the 3.5 hour Private Kayak Tour in The Big Cypress Preserve and Fakahatchee Strand Preserve .  We explore both of these beautiful routes year round as we follow the wildlife throughout their seasonal movements.  Typically early mornings and late afternoons are best for wildlife viewing. However, the weather…specifically temperature, dictates much of the wildlife activity.  Since we only do private kayak tours we can be flexible with our start times.

Our low impact philosophy allows our guests to experience the Everglades in a very unique way that will create lifelong memories. We take pride in our tours and have included something for everyone’s sense of adventure.

Our Everglades Tour Collection

Kayak Tours In The Everglades

• This Is The Real Everglades!

Everglades Motorboat Tours

Everglades Kayak Tour & Motorboat Combo – Alligators to Dolphins

Everglades birding tours.

Everglades Hiking Tour

Everglades Swamp Buggy Tour

10,000 Island Exploration

Catch Your Own Dinner Gulf to Table

Camping In The 10,000 Islands

Everglades Big 5 Tour

Kayak & Bike Rentals

• Explore On Your Own

If Kayaking is your thing you you’ll definitely want to call on us!  Our small business / private tour approach allows us to be the most flexible, accommodating and innovative tour company in the Everglades.  We’ve done it this way for 14 years now because we are serious about spotting wildlife. We are very fortunate to have so many return guests because we never run out of things to do/see and places to explore.  Here are some other kayak tour options for you to consider when booking…. 

Everglades Kayak Tours 

Sunrise kayak tour.

We call the “The First On The River Tour” because you will be! We’ll meet pre-sunrise and be on the water as the Everglades Awakens.  This is the BEST time for wildlife and we also beat the other big tour groups in and out!

Mangrove Kayak Tour

The Everglades is also home the the largest uninhabited mangrove forest in the world!  We explore this unique ecosystem through the natural tunnel systems connecting the upland areas of the Everglades to the Gulf of Mexico.

Full Moon Kayak Tours

This is a tour you’ll want to book well in advance. We set out just at sunset and paddle into the twilight to watch the full moon rise.  Headlamps are provided as we paddle back in the darkness!  We only do private tours so once the full moon is booked we are full.

   Full Day Kayak Tour

You’ll travel the ancient route used by the Calusa and Seminole Indians to travel from the upland areas of the Everglades to the rich estuaries in the bay.  This is a big day and not recommended for a first time kayak adventure.

Kayak Combo Tours

If you can get an early start you can easily combine a morning Kayak Tour with a Motorboat Tour, Hiking, Swampbuggy Tour or even an Airboat Ride.  Between your tours you can have a nice lunch in Everglades City or even bring a picnic lunch with you!

Sunset Kayak Tour

Watching the sunset is a great way to end any day!  We operate year round but the prime time for the Sunset Kayak Tour is Oct-May. Outside of that we can always attempt as long as the weather cooperates.  Another option is to see the sunset from the 10,000 islands on our Motorboat Tour.

Everglades  Cit y is the perfect basecamp for our Kayak Tours and other adventures.  It is considered The Capital City of the Everglades and is completely surrounded by the Top 4 National & State Parks. Hotels, restaurants, a grocery store and all the creature comforts right here in the middle of this beautiful wilderness setting.

The Original Everglades National Park Airboat Tour

Everglades safari t-shirt, experience the beauty of everglades national park while riding an airboat, discover the next level of family fun while our captains navigate through the pristine waters of everglades national park aboard our world-famous airboat tours. you can bet it is one of the safest social distancing options to explore your nature™..

The Original Eco-Experience Airboat Tour

Take an unforgettable journey on an airboat ride through florida's everglades national park, join our expert captains for 30 to 40 minutes of educational family fun in the florida everglades. learn about the unique plants and animals that live in your very own backyard..

Travel Deeper into Everglades National Park Aboard A Private Tour

Go off the beaten path as we journey deeper into florida's everglades national park, as expert guides, our captains have unparalleled knowledge of the trails, plants, and animals. join us for a truly unique and unforgettable experience today.

So much fun!! We did a private tour with LOU, and had an absolute blast!! Thanks to all the staff for being so friendly and knowledgeable! Make sure you go to the alligator show!

Wonderful place, excellent your guide and really awesome Alligator show. Highly recommend!!! Will definitely be back

Wondering What to Do When Visiting the Everglades?

From airboats to camping, we've listed our top picks in our latest article: Top 7 Things to Do in the Everglades!

On Vacation & Need A Ride? We Can Help!

We recommend Xpedition Tours! They provide reliable service to and from our park, from select locations.

So fun!  Beautiful tour flying around the everglades on an airboat!  Wear the ear buds they give you. And you can hold Snappy!

This place is awesome!  We saw a Snail Kite, momma alligator and her nest. The boat ride was sooo much fun. We actually drove by it and turned around just to see the place.

Planning Your Visit? Woo!

Find out everything you can do during your visit to the florida everglades, from airboats to nature walks, wildlife shows to gator bites, we offer family fun in the warm florida sun all year long. we're sure your experience will be unforgettable., ever wonder what that alligator is doing.

Top 7 Things to do in the Everglades

If you ask anyone about the Everglades, they will most probably say that it is the greatest swamp in Florida. They are close but not exactly right! It is a slow-running river that entails around nine contrasting, elegant ecosystems.

History of Airboats

In 1930, airboats started becoming popular in the United States. Many Floridians made them famously known when they began to invent them independently, these Floridians mostly lived in or near the Florida Everglades.

Ultimate Guide: Animals of the Everglades

Did you know the Florida Everglades sustains a unique environment that provides safe refuge to the wildlife that inhabits the wetlands, some of which are not found anywhere else in the world? This guide tells you all about them!

The Ultimate Guide to Everglades National Park

With so much to do in South Florida, it’s easy to miss the adventure that can be found in our very own backyard. In this article, we will shed light on one of the hidden gems often overlooked by visitors and residents alike; the Florida Everglades.

Searching For The Perfect Deal? Look no further!

We offer various discounts to make your Everglades National Park experience more memorable and less stressful on your wallet.

We recommend Xpedition Tours! transportation companies in Miami to provide you reliable service to and from our park, from select locations.

Traveling With A Group? Group Rates & Arrangements Are Available.

Group tours of all sizes are welcome to enjoy the adventure, together! Our custom made, twin rotor airboats are the largest in the industy, holding a whopping 45 visitors each!

Meet Our Partners

Park Information

Tour information, things to do in miami, navigation & more, want safari deals.

Two-Hour Everglades National Park Dolphin, Birding and Wildlife Boat Tour

• Experienced guide
• 238 Mamie St, Chokoloskee, FL 34138, USA Look for Everglades Area Tours at the Historic JT's Store. 238 Mamie Street, Chokoloskee, FL 34138. Park right in front and come on in!
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Infants must sit on laps
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Similar experiences

• You'll start at 238 Mamie St 238 Mamie St, Chokoloskee, FL 34138, USA Look for Everglades Area Tours at the Historic JT's Store. 238 Mamie Street, Chokoloskee, FL 34138. Park right in front and come on in! See address & details
• 1 Everglades National Park Stop: 2 hours Everglades Area Tours' National Park 2 Hour Dolphin, Birding and Wildlife Tours is a great option for those with limited time and is also a great introduction to the area. The entire Everglades area, including Everglades National Park, is a wonderful place for to view dolphins. With over 300 species of birds throughout the year, it is the only Park that was established for its biological and ecological considerations rather than its geological features. However, most of the 1.5 million acres in the Park are flooded and essentially out of reach for the average visitor. Everglades Area Tours can you take you to areas seldom reached by others. In comfortable captain's style seating, you will be safely brought deep into Everglades National Park's 10,000 Islands for an interpretive tour with your naturalist guide. Depending on the season, you can expect to encounter manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, bald eagles, ospreys, herons, egrets, pelicans, rosette spoonbills, as well as, numerous species of fish and shore birds. Not only will you be introduced to the wonderful birding and wildlife in the area, you will also learn about the Everglades ecosystems, it rich heritage and long history. We limit each experience to six guests, so you can expect an intimate experience in the wilderness. Don't forget your cameras, hats, sunblock and drinks Read more
• You'll return to the starting point

• LynnB990 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Through the Mangroves Easy paddle through a natural habitat few experience. Chris is an experienced and knowledgeable guide who makes learning fun. He is helpful, patient and friends with the natives! I wish we could have had more time in the preserve to experience other flora and fauna. I would, without a doubt, book with this company again but only if Chris were our guide again. Read more Written April 6, 2024
• Summitee 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Alligators and Airplants Galore Alligators=Super Cool. Bromeliads were awesome. We all had a good time! Educational, good and fun for kids. Carter was very helpful! Read more Written April 5, 2024
• W5907FMbrittanys 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fun even for teenagers Our group of five teenagers and other family members had a great time with Chris! A beautiful trip with amazing detail on the ecosystem and habitat, plus super fun seeing alligators. Not too hot or difficult, and minimal bugs made this a highlight of our trip to Marco Island. We definitely recommend! Read more Written April 5, 2024
• T8438ZTcamerons 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles 5 days kayaking in the 10,000 Island Everglades Starting and ending at Everglades City, a guide took me to a large number of mangrove covered Islands. Slept on two of them. The objective was to exercise my kayaking experience, meet Birds and dolphins and to sleep in a tent and eat good trail food. My guide was excellent in helping me to go around and even through many islands and to help me weather the sometimes rough sea. He really knew his stuff, and the supporting company did too. I'd highly recommend them. Read more Written March 30, 2024
• Donald D 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Not worth the cost. Very disappointing. Cannot recommend this tour. Took my daughter and grand-daughter to this private tour described as a dolphin, birding and shelling excursion. We saw no dolphins. We did see a raccoon and an egret (both of which are common to see in MN where we are from.) The boat was old - a screw actually popped off the base of one of the seats as we were cruising. The boat captain drove straight to what he described as a remote island (I could have swam to all of the luxury homes facing us just across the water. He told us to take about 45 min to find shells there. (My grand daughter did enjoy that.) Then we boarded again and the captain said he would do his best to find some dolphins, but headed straight back to the marina. He did detour for a couple minutes to follow another boat (I assume he was hoping a dolphin might be in the wake.) I’ve been on other excursions and the operators usually have ways to make the the trip entertaining - talking about the local flora and fauna or maybe some history. This one told us about a couple of pro football players who had houses and boats in the bay. Altogether disappointing and definitely not worth the cost. Read more Written March 24, 2024
• F9968AFeliash 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Huge recommendation The tour was our highlight during our trip through the Everglades. We could experience alligators, turtles and stunning birds and plants from very close. Chris, our guide was very knowledgeable and kind -he shared all his experience and passion for this special ecosystem with us. We learned a lot and every question has been answered and the time really was flying by. I only regret to have booked "just" 3 hours. Keep up the good work, Chris! Read more Written March 20, 2024
• Louis C 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Where are the dolphins? The good: our Captain Joe was knowledgeable and interesting. The disappointing: Saw a small handful of languid dolphins who barely broke the water, a few cool birds, and miles and miles and miles of mangroves. The shelling was OK, but pretty picked over. Did this tour previously, and it was great fun as the boat picked up dolphins to swim with us on two occasions. Joe commented that there had been a lot of boats out on the weekend, and maybe the dolphins were busy with “dolphin things” on Monday, so maybe avoid taking a Monday tour during peak season? Granddaughter did not seem to mind missing out on the dolphins swimming with us, although she had been enticed onto the tour with video of the dolphins on the last trip. Read more Written March 19, 2024
• Jim B 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Beautiful! Friendly skilled guide took us up and down a spectacular river in the Everglades. This short trip introduced you to the magic of the Everglades. It covers a section of the Turner River before it meets salt water where you see bromeliads, orchids, cypress trees and of course alligators Read more Written March 19, 2024
• U1604HHkatiea 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fabulous morning touring the mangrove We really enjoyed this tour and left feeling like we had experienced a unique and special tour. Chris was a wonderful guide. We learned a lot about the mangrove and its ecosystem, and we loved the kayaking through it all. It was a fabulous tour and we highly recommend it! Read more Written March 15, 2024
• Nancy L 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Paddle Naples Paddle Naples is a great way to get a little rowing exercise and experience the beauty of Florida on water. You see the mangroves upclose and get a little beach time. Highly recommend Mike as your guide! Read more Written March 9, 2024
• Roam566295 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Marco Island Dolphin tour Ed was a great guide. Knowledgeable, respectful of his environment and guests. Took us all around Marco Island mangroves. We saw many dolphins and birds. Had a great time shelling on the beach. Would highly recommend him to other visitors. Read more Written March 3, 2024
• M874DYedf 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fun Family Ride Family had a great time. Very informative and seeing the dolphins was great dun. Out guide Captain Kate was the best!!!! Read more Written February 23, 2024
• amyaE7071WN 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Dolphin and Shelling experience we won’t forget! We had an excellent time on this excursion! Joe was an amazing guide! He shared the history of the area and the dolphin sightings were abundant. We had fun collecting sea shells on the shore. We highly recommend this adventure! Read more Written February 18, 2024
• msga159 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic Mangrove Boat tour Admiral Joe was wonderful tour guide and pilot for our boat trip through the Florida Mangrove waterways. We saw plenty of dolphins, fish, birds and beautiful shells. Joe narrated the trip with fascinating fact about this unique habitat and the creatures that live there. Read more Written February 18, 2024
• N4508VBedwardc 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great experience Kayaking through mangroves was an incredible experience. Chris was very experienced with the wildlife and plant life and would stop to explain about both. From crocodiles, to little egg sacks smaller then your pinky, to learning about how tropical and temperate zones overlapping and the trees that come with it, I feel like I only got a glimpse of what made Big Cypress so incredible. Only regret was not coming with a full go pro battery and not being able to do the 6 hour trip to the 1000 islands. Incredible experience and I really hope to get back out there soon. Bring rain gear!! Read more Written February 14, 2024

More to explore in Chokoloskee

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Buy it with

Two-Hour Everglades National Park Dolphin, Birding and Wildlife Boat Tour provided by Everglades Area Tours

New! Buggy Combo »

• Ten Thousand Islands Boat Tour

$48–54

per adult (17-61)

$43.20–48.60

per senior (62+) or active military

$24–36

per kid (5-16)

$0–15

per infant (0-4)

+$20–35

for Park pass more »

2 attractions, 90–120 min tour, 3 hour visit, 2 attractions included.

49-seat boat

• Everglades City Boardwalk

View Location

Why Choose Everglades National Park Adventures?

• Environmental Commitment

Exclusive Nature & Culture

Comfortable & accessible boat, top questions.

• 45 minutes from Naples
• 75 minutes from Fort Myers
• 90 minutes from Miami
• 3 hours from Tampa
• 4 hours from Orlando

Don't use Uber, Lyft, or other ride-sharing services. They can't pick you up when you're done!

• Yes, all ages are welcome on all our tours.
• Any passengers aged 17 or younger must be accompanied by at least one passenger who is aged 18 or older.
• Consider bringing sunblock, bug spray, sunglasses, a hat, and water.
• If rain is forecasted, we recommend bringing a poncho.
• We are always on the lookout for manatees, sea turtles, osprey, shore birds, and dolphins.
• You might also spot alligators, raccoons, manatees and more at the Everglades City boardwalk, an attraction that is included with your tour.
• Our tours run rain or shine, except when there's a thunderstorm.
• We don't refund bookings if you cancel too close to a tour's departure time (check the policy when booking).
• Sometimes we need to delay due to thunderstorms or other unforeseen circumstances. We'll do our best to reschedule or issue a refund.
• Yes. The boat is accessible via a ramp from the dock. The boat's deck has space for wheelchairs next to its bench seats. Learn more about accessibility .
• Pets and emotional support animals are not permitted on the 10,000 Islands Boat Tour, but ADA service animals are permitted. Learn more about our ADA service animal policies .

Meet the Animals of Everglades National Park!

• 10K & Buggy Tour Combo
• Meet the Animals
• Nature & Culture
• About the Tour Boat
• Everglades National Park Passes
• Accessibility

19 Best Everglades Airboat Tours 2024 (local approved!)

Ready to book the best Everglades airboat tours?

You’re in the right place because the top 19 Everglades boat tours are all featured here.

How do I know?

As a native Floridian, I’ve been to the Everglades countless times so I know what to look out for (and what to avoid) when it comes to the best Everglades boat tours.

If you’ve never been on an airboat tour before, you should know that it’s such a uniquely fun experience, cruising over the water with nothing but air in between you and the creatures below – it’s fast, it’s fun, and it’s the best way to see the Everglades due to its swampy nature.

If you’re like, just cut to the chase already, don’t worry: the best Everglades airboat tour is this Florida Everglades airboat adventure.

It has a high rating with 1,000+ reviews, so you can’t go wrong.

⏳Don’t have time to read the whole list?

The best Everglades tour is this Florida Everglades airboat adventure.

Click here to check prices and availability.

But if you want to see what your other options are for the tours around the Everglades, Everglades sightseeing tours and more, here are more tours of the Everglades that are definitely worth your time and what I love about each.

PS – booking in advance is always highly recommended so you don’t miss out.

Easy Guide: Best Everglades Airboat Tours

1. florida everglades airboat adventure and wildlife encounter.

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 1100+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Looking for the best airboat rides in the Everglades?

Embark on an exciting adventure to the Florida Everglades with a thrilling airboat ride and wildlife encounter at Sawgrass Recreation Park .

Experience the unique subtropical ecosystem of the Everglades as you zoom across the grassy waters at speeds of up to 40 miles per hour, keeping an eye out for alligators, fish, turtles, and wading birds.

This guided tour grants you access to Sawgrass Recreation Park, along with admission to the animal exhibit and a guided airboat tour.

Discover the beauty and diversity of this fascinating environment, and get up close to native and exotic animal species, including alligators and tortoises.

Learn about the park’s important conservation efforts and enjoy access to the Reptile and Exotic Wildlife exhibits for a truly immersive experience.

Need-to-knows about this tour :

• 40 minute guided airboat ride
• Admission to Sawgrass Recreation Park
• Access to the park’s Alligator and Reptile Exhibit

2. 3 – 4 hours Everglades Tour from Miami

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 770+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3-7 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Looking for a wild adventure?

Head to the Everglades from Miami on this cool 3-4 hour small-group tour , one of the best Everglades airboat tours from Miami.

Hop on an awesome airboat ride and cruise through the Florida Everglades’ unique ecosystem.

It’s like a nature rollercoaster!

Keep your eyes peeled for alligators, crocodiles, birds, fish, and even exotic snakes – they’re all hangin’ out in their natural habitat.

And guess what? This tour is totally family-friendly, so bring everyone along for the fun!

They keep it chill with small groups, so it’s not overcrowded and you get the best experience.

Plus, they’ve got options for different departure times throughout the day, so you can pick what works for you.

• Free time exploring Everglades included
• Hotel-pick up included
• Live commentary on board

3. Everglades Airboat Tour in Fort Lauderdale

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 1300+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Looking for a fun day out in the Everglades?

Look no further than this epic 1-Hour Narrated Airboat Tour .

Hop on their speedy airboat and zip across the grassy waters at up to 40 miles per hour on one of the best everglades airboat tours from Fort Lauderdale.

Keep your eyes peeled for alligators, wading birds, and a whole bunch of amazing flora and fauna in their natural habitats.

Their guide knows their stuff and will fill you in on the fascinating history of the Everglades and why it’s so important to preserve this unique ecosystem.

The adventure starts at 9 AM and keeps going rain or shine until 4 PM, with the last tour departing at 3:30 PM.

And don’t worry about waiting forever—tours depart every 20 minutes or less.

• 1-Hour Narrated Everglades Airboat Tour from Fort Lauderdale
• Live Narration during your Airboat Tour by Expert Glademen
• See Alligators and other wildlife up close from your Everglades Airboat Tour

4. 90-min Everglades Airboat Tour in Central Florida : best everglades tour in Florida

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 750+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Staying in Orlando or the Central Florida area and want to see the Everglades?

Join this exhilarating guided airboat tour of the Florida Everglades and experience the thrill of encountering alligators and other wildlife up close and personal, all while feeling safe and secure with an expert guide by your side.

The Everglades can be an intimidating place to venture alone, but with this guided tour, you can explore this unique ecosystem with confidence.

Relax in the comfort of their stadium-like seating as you take in breathtaking views of the swamps and spot fascinating wildlife in their natural habitat.

Throughout the journey, your knowledgeable guide will provide live commentary and with a maximum of 15 travelers, you’ll have a personalized experience and ample opportunity to ask questions.

Choose from two tour duration times and multiple start times, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your schedule.

• Local driver guide
• Life jackets

5. Everglades VIP Airboat Tour with Transportation Included

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 340+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Get ready for an action-packed adventure in the mesmerizing Everglades with an experienced guide leading the way on this amazing Everglades boat trip.

Race through the “River of Grass” on an exhilarating airboat tour , and immerse yourself in the captivating world of alligators, snakes, wading birds, and unique vegetation.

With in-depth commentary throughout the tour, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the local environment and wildlife.

Your expert captains at Everglades Holiday Park know all the best spots to explore, ensuring you don’t miss a single magical moment in this pristine ecosystem.

To make your experience seamless, they offer convenient hotel pickup and drop-off in Ft. Lauderdale, so you can fully focus on the adventure ahead.

Plus, as a special memento, you’ll take home two free professional grade group photos to cherish the memories.

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• 60-minute, fully narrated airboat tour of the Everglades
• 2 free professional grade group photos

6. Central Florida Everglades Airboat Tour from Orlando

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 120+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Embark on an unforgettable 4-hour adventure as you escape to the untamed wilderness of the Central Florida Everglades from Orlando – an Everglades boat ride to remember!

Feel the thrill of Florida’s natural beauty with your choice of a 30-minute or upgraded 1-hour airboat ride, whisking you across the grassy water for an up-close encounter with the local wildlife, including alligators and birds, amidst lush vegetation.

But the excitement doesn’t end there!

Get ready for an exhilarating 20-minute alligator handling demonstration that will leave you in awe.

Watch in amazement as skilled handlers showcase their bond with these incredible creatures.

This action-packed tour is perfect for the entire family, promising fun and wonder for all ages.

They even offer convenient pick-up from select Orlando locations, making your journey hassle-free from start to finish.

• Airboat Ride through the Central Florida Everglades (length dependent upon option booked)
• Pickup and drop-off from Orlando -Disney – Kissimmee Meeting Point Locations
• Stop at ONE airboat park – tour day depends on which facility

7. Western Everglades Adventure Tour : Everglades airboat tours

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 130+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Experience the wonders of the Florida Everglades on a thrilling guided airboat adventure with Everglades Day Safari, departing from the Greater Fort Myers area.

Keep your eyes peeled for fascinating wildlife, including majestic birds and awe-inspiring alligators.

Did you know that there are more alligators per acre here than anywhere else in the world?

Prepare for an up-close encounter with these incredible creatures.

This half-day family adventure offers an unforgettable one-hour airboat ride, where you’ll get to know the Everglades’ diverse ecosystems and the incredible animals that call it home.

To top it all off, the tour includes an interactive reptile show, where you can get up close and personal with snakes and alligators.

• Expert naturalist or biologist guide
• 1-hour airboat ride
• 1-hour reptile educational program

8. Everglades Day Safari from Ft Lauderdale : best Everglades tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 390+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  10 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Get ready to escape to the wild side with an epic full-day adventure to Florida’s Everglades from Fort Lauderdale!

This small-group tour has all the ingredients for an action-packed day in nature that you won’t forget.

Hop aboard an airboat and zip through Everglades National Park like a pro, spotting alligators and other cool critters along the way.

You’ll also cruise through the stunning Big Cypress National Preserve, taking in the breathtaking sights as we go.

But that’s not all!

Get your adventure on with a nature walk through a cypress forest, where ancient trees stand tall and wildlife roams freely.

Your expert guide will share fascinating stories about the surroundings, so you’ll be a nature expert in no time!

With lunch provided and hotel pickup/drop-off in Fort Lauderdale, you don’t have to worry about a thing.

This is a small-group tour, so we keep it intimate and personal, making sure everyone has a blast.

• Transport by air-conditioned 13-passenger van
• Pickup and drop-off from select locations

9. Ultimate Everglades Experience MORNING or AFTERNOON

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1-4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Experience the untamed wonders of the Florida Everglades on this thrilling excursion from Miami , one of the best Everglades boat tours.

Hop on board an open-air, flat-bottomed airboat and zoom over the legendary ‘River of Grass,’ all while your expert guide reveals the secrets of this incredible swamp ecosystem.

Wander through the jungle trails of the farm and get up close with awe-inspiring alligators in their natural habitat.

Plus, if you choose the option, enjoy the convenience of round-trip transportation from your Miami hotel.

• guided airboat tour with a local park ranger
• round trip transportation from select starting points
• leisure to explore Everglades park, restrooms, gift shop and snack bar

10. 60 min Everglades Airboat Tour Small Group : Everglades boat trip

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 17+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Everglades with this 1-hour small group airboat tour!

Cruise through these legendary wetlands, where you’ll encounter alligators and discover rare plant life.

Your expert guides will provide fascinating insights into the diverse ecosystems and habitats of this remarkable place.

Whether it’s your first time in South Florida or not, this airboat ride will surely become a memory that lasts a lifetime.

Come join them for an hour of pure Everglades magic!

• Bottled water included
• Maximum of 7 travelers
• Infants must sit on laps

11. Everglades Holiday Park Airboat Ride

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 19+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  5 hours 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Head to Everglades Vacation Park in Fort Lauderdale and embark on a thrilling 45-minute narrated airboat tour , as you enjoy a boat tour of Everglades National Park.

Get ready to explore the one-of-a-kind subtropical ecosystem of the Everglades, gliding across the grassy waters at speeds of up to 40 miles per hour.

Keep your eyes peeled for the diverse flora and fauna that call this place home.

It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Everglades in all its glory.

Don’t miss out on this exciting adventure at Everglades Vacation Park, the home of The Gator Boys!

• round trip transportation
• 45-minute narrated airboat tour of the Everglades from Fort Lauderdale
• Live narration during your airboat tour by Expert Glademen

12. Everglades Tour with Professional Tour Guide including Pickup

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 30+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Hop on an exciting Everglades airboat tour right from Miami and get ready for an adventure through South Florida’s captivating swamps.

Your expert guide is a true Everglades specialist who’ll share the rich history and significance of this unique ecosystem.

As you glide through the River of Grass, keep your eyes peeled for the incredible wildlife that calls this place home – from snakes and alligators to turtles and more!

This quick and smooth 60-minute tour of Everglades National Park will leave you with a deep appreciation for this remarkable habitat.

Plus, you’ll enjoy the convenience of a small group tour with experienced guidance throughout.

13. Private 1-Hour Airboat Tour of Miami Everglades

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 29+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Step beyond Miami’s boundaries and embark on an exclusive private airboat tour of the incredible Everglades.

Your personal guide will lead you through the winding waterways, teeming with alligators, allowing you to learn about the fascinating wildlife and the unique ecosystem in the utmost privacy.

Encounter a diverse array of wildlife up close during this intimate small boat tour.

Embrace the tranquility of the Everglades and make the most of your time with a tailored private experience.

14. Everglades Airboat Adventure with Transport from Miami

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  5 hours 45 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Experience the enchanting wonders of the Florida Everglades on this thrilling airboat adventure and nature tour .

They’ll pick you up from your Miami hotel and whisk you away to the breathtaking 1.5-million-acre wetlands preserve.

With the National Park entrance fee already included, there are no hidden fees to worry about.

Your experienced captain will guide you through this unique subtropical ecosystem, sharing fascinating facts along the way.

Glide effortlessly along the grassy water, keeping your eyes peeled for a delightful array of wildlife, from playful alligators and graceful wading birds to curious fish and turtles in their natural habitat.

• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Minimum age is 3 years
• Pick-up transportation is mandatory

15. Private River Of Grass Everglades Airboat Adventure : Everglades National Park boat tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 75+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Embark on a truly unique and memorable Everglades adventure with this company !

Their custom small airboats, guided by experienced naturalist Captains, ensure an unforgettable journey through the majestic River of Grass.

Designed to be comfortable and suitable for all ages, their airboats offer a relaxing yet thrilling ride through the vast expanse of America’s largest wetlands.

As you glide along, your knowledgeable captain will make strategic stops to share fascinating insights about the Everglades’ intricate ecosystems.

Prepare to be amazed by the diverse wildlife that calls this pristine habitat home, including alligators, crocodiles, exotic birds, panthers, and even black bears.

• Ice cold bottle waters, cooler, light weight headsets, adult and children life vest all included

16. Private 1.5-Hour Airboat Tour of Miami Everglades

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 27+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Get ready for an unforgettable wildlife encounter in the Everglades on one of the best Everglades airboat tours.

Known for its incredible array of creatures, from alligators to turtles, fish, and a variety of birds, this tour offers a safe and thrilling way to get up close to the unique ecosystems of the area.

With just your party and the driver on the airboat, you’ll relish the intimacy of this private adventure.

Learn fascinating tidbits about the flora and fauna from our knowledgeable guide, uncovering hidden gems of information that you won’t find elsewhere.

Unlike crowded boat trips, this exclusive tour ensures a personalized experience, perfect for wildlife enthusiasts seeking an up-close encounter with alligators and other creatures.

Stay refreshed throughout the journey as drinks are included, so you can focus on soaking in the beauty of the Everglades.

• Confirmation will be received at time of booking, unless booked within 4 hours of travel. In this case confirmation will be received as soon as possible, subject to availability
• Service animals allowed

17. Everglades Air Boat Ride + Alligator Show

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 5+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Get the most out of your Miami adventure with this thrilling half-day tour to the Everglades National Park.

Hop aboard a comfortable coach for a scenic ride to the Everglades, where breathtaking views await.

Feel the excitement build as you embark on an adrenaline-pumping airboat ride through this incredible wilderness, keeping your eyes peeled for sightings of majestic alligators.

But the adventure doesn’t stop there!

Get ready for an alligator show that will leave you in awe as you learn fascinating facts about these incredible reptiles.

This tour takes you beyond the bustling city of Miami, giving you the chance to explore the natural wonders of the Everglades.

18. Everglades Airboat Safari

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Get ready for an exciting half-day adventure as you get taken on a thrilling airboat ride through the captivating Everglades National Park.

Feel the rush as you cruise under the majestic mangrove tunnels and skim through the lush marsh grass, surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Keep your eyes peeled for incredible wildlife moments as you spot alligators, turtles, deer, and a variety of birds in their natural habitat.

The Everglades is teeming with life, and this airboat ride will give you the perfect opportunity to witness it up close.

After the exhilarating ride, you’ll have some free time to explore the fascinating alligator exhibits.

Learn more about these incredible creatures and deepen your understanding of their behavior and habitat.

• Transportation to the Everglades
• Park Entrance
• Airboat Ride

19. Everglades Holiday Park Airboat Ride with Roundtrip Transfer

Hop aboard a state-of-the-art vessel for an exhilarating and unforgettable Everglades airboat ride.

Prepare to be amazed as you glide across miles of wetlands, venturing deep into the heart of the Everglades, and racing across the famous “River of Grass” at top speeds, all guided by our expert tour guide.

Safety and comfort are our top priorities, which is why your spacious airboat comes with covered protection, ensuring you have a fantastic experience regardless of the weather conditions.

Soak in the breathtaking views and immerse yourself in the beauty of this unique ecosystem.

During your hour-long Everglades airboat tour, keep your eyes wide open as you might catch a glimpse of some of the most exotic and unforgettable wildlife the Everglades has to offer.

From alligators to rare bird species, this adventure promises thrilling encounters with nature’s most captivating inhabitants.

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Visiting The Everglades

Planning a 3-day itinerary to everglades holiday park.

The Everglades are so vast, that it can be a bit overwhelming. Here is a 3-day itinerary from Ft. Lauderdale to help you make the most of your time in a relaxing vacation format.

Day 1  – Start with an Airboat Tour  This experience is right on the edge of Ft. Lauderdale, making it an easy way to start experiencing the everglades. Get up close with wildlife, watch the gator show , and grab lunch inside the park.

Day 2 – Check out our Animal Encounter . Your kids will be delighted by the up close interactions with our wildlife. For your evening entertainment, do some shopping at the nearby Sawgrass Mills shopping center.

Day 3  – Explore the everglades on your own in our jonboats . Chart your own course,  and see the Everglades in your own style. Watch the the sun set from the patio of one of the nearby restaurants as you relax from your in-depth vacation.

If you have a visit upcoming to the Florida Everglades, you are truly about to embark on the trip of a lifetime. You will see things you can’t see anywhere else in the world. You will enter a world that marries education with beauty and fun. As far as the outdoors go, you can’t beat Everglades National Park.

The National Park can become a bit crowded, which is why we are pleased to offer a conveniently located way to experience the Everglades in Broward county.

Everglades – the Ecosystem That Rules South Florida

The Everglades are encompassed by a massive, 1.5 million acre piece of land that extends between Lake Okeechobee in South Florida, all the way to the Gulf of Mexico. It is one of the most extensive tropical wetlands in the world.

You will often see the Everglades compared to a grassy, slow-moving river. In fact, you may have heard reference to the River of Grass in conjunction with the Everglades. While the Everglades does boast some beautiful marsh scenes, it also has coastal mangroves, pine flatwoods, sandy beaches and wildlife that you can find anywhere else in the world. The diverse landscape is home to an abundance of creatures, many of whom are endangered, such as the leatherback turtle, Florida panther, and the West Indian manatee.

Miami Or Everglades City? Accessing the Everglades

Everglades City is easy access from Tampa and it includes its own visitors centers, which is a plus. From Miami, you will have access to several visitors centers as well as better, privately owned exploration options.

It’s a personal preference on which one you choose. Some of it will likely have to do with where you’re coming from.

Ways to Connect with Nature in the Everglades EcoSystem

The Everglades is an expanse of diversity. In fact there’s so much to see and do that your only problem when visiting might be, “Where do I start?”

Luckily for all the first time (and returning) visitors out there, you have some incredible options.

Airboat tours are a fun and engaging way to see a portion of the Everglades that you might otherwise miss. At Everglades Holiday Park, the Everglades tours have experienced captains who will tell you all about the ecosystem, animals, and their history. You will see wildlife on the tours, such as stunning wading birds and, the all-time favorite, the American alligator. These tours are family-friendly and family-engaging. It doesn’t matter your age, you will have so much fun speeding across the water and learning about all the beautiful things you get to see!

For close interactions with local wildlife, we offer our incredible Animal Encounters.  Our encounters take place in a private section of the park so that guests and animals can relax in the setting. Our animal handlers are always there to ensure complete safety and to answer any questions visitors may have.

The encounter will include a variation of tortoises, snakes, bearded dragons, scorpions, baby alligators, and more, some of which you will have the opportunity of interacting with! Animal Encounters are available to individuals or groups as an add-on to your airboat tour or as a standalone experience.

The People Groups That Historically Lived In the Everglades

We know the Everglades for the vast natural landscapes, but the Everglades have been home and hunting ground for many people over the years. Native Americans (and later, Anglo-American settlers known as “Gladesmen”) traversed the wild land and learned how to rely on the natural resources.

Developers, however, made a different kind of mark on the land. Their goals were to alter the wetland landscape by draining the lands to make way for roads and canals. The negative impact these alterations had on the Everglades prompted conservation groups such as the Florida Federation of Women’s Clubs to raise their voices on the Everglades behalf.

With the dispersal and demise of the indigenous peoples in the South Florida region and white settlement occurring in the north, the migrations of Creek people increased as they were forced further southward. The Miccosukee and Seminole tribes lived in the area as early as the eighteenth century.

By the end of the nineteenth century, the south Florida coast was one of the last coastal regions east of the Mississippi to be settled. There were three small communities that existed along the coast of what we now know as Everglades National Park. These communities were Chokoloskee. Cape Sable, and Flamingo, and they were drawn to the isolated locations far from large, developed areas. The only way to arrive at Flamingo, for example, was by boat. Supplies that weren’t from the land were shipped from Key West, Tampa, or Fort Myers and traded for in return. The communities were never meant to nor desired to become metropolises, but their trade did well, with some vegetables from Chokoloskee reaching NYC!

National Park Visitor Centers

The park’s visitors centers are the way to visit Everglades National Park. The centers serve as the gateways to the Everglades’ wonders, providing valuable information about the park’s history, ecology, and recreational opportunities. There are interactive exhibits on endangered species such as the elusive Florida Panther, informative displays about topics such as how the Everglades became a World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve, and knowledgeable staff to answer questions and guide visitors to a deeper understanding of the delicate ecosystem of the Everglades.

Gulf Coast Visitor Center

This visitor center is located at the furthest northwest end of Everglades National Park towards Big Cypress National Preserve.

Gulf Coast Visitor Center has brochures, educational films, displays, and permits that are necessary for entering the backcountry. There are restrooms on the premises, as well as boat tours and kayak rentals available nearby. The area also has campgrounds, lodging, restaurants, and stores.

Shark Valley Visitor Center

Shark Valley Visitor Center is north of the main entrance. It’s usually open from 9:15 am to 5:15 pm, but those hours are subject to change.

There are educational displays, brochures, and films to keep the whole family entertained and books, postcards, and other items that you can purchase from the Gift Shop to take a portion of your trip home with you.

Shark Valley Tram Tours are guided and very interesting, while bicycle rentals are a little more self-directed. There are always two walking trails off the main trail that are accessible and comfortably short.

Ernest F Coe Visitor Center

This is the main visitor center within Everglades National Park. It’s open 365 days a year from nine to five, though the hours can change based on circumstance. There are many educational displays, brochures, and films available, and then the Gift Shop has everything you could want or need, including mosquito spray.

When you’re not in the building, you can explore any of the many interesting walking trails. Some are longer, some are shorter, and there’s a variety of difficulty.

Guy Bradley in Flamingo Visitor Center

Flamingo Visitor Center is open 365 days a year, typically from 9 am to 4:30 pm, but the lobby is open 24/7 with self-registration for backcountry camping.

Flamingo lies at the end of the Park’s 39 mile road and is accessed through the Park’s main entrance. Along your drive, there are many stops and pull outs along the way where you can take an hour or more to sightsee. In fact, there are so many interesting places to stop at that if you plan to see them all, you will need 4 to 6 hours just to get to Flamingo! (If you drive straight through, you likely won’t need more than an hour.)

If you drive four miles further, you will see the Royal Palm Visitor Center which will grant you access to that portion of the park.

Florida Bay and Safe Boating

Boating in the Florida Bay is not for the amateur boater. There are treacherous passes that cut through long banks of seagrass and mud. These passes may make up the shallow basins that are Florida Bay, but they are not easy to navigate.

In order to safely boat in Florida Bay, you will need the ability to “read the water” as easily as you can read a chart. Shallow areas aren’t always marked, so keeping a sharp eye out is a must (polarized sunglasses are also a huge help). You will need a weatherproof copy of NOAA chart #11451, a full understanding of the limits of your boat, and knowledge of the depth of your boat.

For a safer boating experience, check out our inland jon boat rentals. 

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The Best Things To Do In Everglades City, Florida

T he Everglades are a natural wonder. Often compared to a grassy, slow-moving river, the 1.5 million-acre wetlands preserve is not only a U.S. national park, but it’s also a World Heritage Site. If you want to experience the true untamed beauty of the South—and one of the wildest ecosystems in the U.S.—then a trip to the Everglades is a must. But because the Everglades cover so much distance, it can be difficult to know where to start. Enter Everglades City. The minuscule town of fewer than 500 people is perched on the southwest Florida coast (just 35 miles south of Naples). It offers the perfect gateway to exploring the endless expanses of the Everglades. In true Old Florida fashion, a visit to Everglades City feels like stepping back in time. With weathered seafood spots, charming small-town scenes, and unfettered access to airboat, kayak, and swamp tours of the Everglades, you’ll easily fill a weekend in this one-of-a-kind town. Here’s everything to do on a trip to Everglades City, Florida.

The Best Things To Do In Everglades City

There are so many ways to explore the Everglades, from heart-pumping airboat rides to leisurely paddles around the mangroves. Make the most of your trip by experiencing the majesty of the coastal mangroves, pine flatwoods, and sawgrass marshes from every vantage point. Start by taking a Big Cypress Swamp Tour with a ranger at the Nathaniel P. Reed Visitors Center. Check out the indoor and outdoor exhibits and watch an introductory film about the swamp, then head out with a ranger who will help you wade through the swamp to spot the incredible flora and fauna for yourself.

When you’re ready to dive a little deeper, reach out to Everglades Area Tours and get going on your next adventure. They offer a variety of naturalist-led kayak eco tours; all you have to do is decide your focus. Alligators and orchids, a mangrove tunnel, the Turner River, or Everglades National Park—the choice is yours. There are even special day trips if you want to try paddling the open ocean. One of the coolest places to see on an excursion with Everglades Area Tours is Ten Thousand Islands, a chain of islands and mangrove islets off the coast that’s partially designated as a National Wildlife Refuge.

Once you’ve taken your time to get acquainted with the otherworldly natural landscape of the Everglades, raise the stakes with a high-speed airboat tour. Captain Jack’s Airboat Tours offers tours of mangrove tunnels, cypress forest, and grasslands. See all three on the 5-hour-long Everglades Combo tour.

After a day of adventuring, head back to town and locate the little pink building. Inside the 1927 laundry house, the Museum of the Everglades ’ rotating exhibits tell the story of 2,000 years of human history in Florida’s Last Frontier. In the neighboring community of Ochopee, get your picture in front of the smallest operating post office in the U.S. The 61.3-square-foot building is a true wonder and exactly the type of nostalgic relic this area of Florida is known for.

One place you can’t leave the area without visiting is Clyde Butcher Gallery in Big Cypress Swamp. There you can see incredible black-and-white fine art photography from legendary photographer Clyde Butcher, who captures the primeval swamp in such stunning clarity that his works have made their way to well-known museums and galleries across the globe. In addition to Clyde’s work, the gallery also features photographs and paintings by his equally talented wife Niki. For an “art imitates life” experience, take one of Butcher’s guided Big Cypress Swamp walks and rent one of his two on-property bungalows for the night.

Where To Eat In Everglades City

Known as the Stone Crab Capital of the World, the dining scene in Everglades City revolves around the crustacean for roughly eight months of the year. Stone crab season runs from mid-October through May, which means you’ll have ample opportunity to indulge in the underwater delicacy. Stone crabs are different from other crab species because harvesters take just one claw from each crab before returning them to the water where they’ll slowly regenerate their appendage. The gentle harvest brings supremely fresh and succulently flaky crabmeat that’s often described as a mix between shrimp and lobster.

You’d be hard-pressed to find a seafood joint on the Paradise Coast that doesn’t sell stone crab in season, but in Everglades City, check out Grimm’s Stone Crab for fresh claws to take home. If you want your seafood prepared for you, grab a dockside picnic table at City Seafood or head to Triad Seafood Market & Café , a beloved institution that offers all-you-can-eat stone crab and has been family-owned since 1984. Another great waterfront seafood spot, Camellia Street Grill is the laidback crowd-pleaser that will satisfy everyone in your group. The menu includes everything from chicken wings and hamburgers to shrimp and grits, tacos, po’boys, and of course stone crab.

Two other special spots to try are Island Café and HavAnna Café . Island Café serves nostalgic diner food at all hours of the day, but the real treat is going early in the morning for a short stack with a side of crispy bacon. Last but not least, HavAnna Café is a tucked-away tropical oasis that offers some of the best Cuban and Cracker cuisine you’ll find anywhere. The eclectic eatery is known for its cheery garden where guests dine under umbrellaed tables in the company of tropical blooms and lush greenery. On the menu, you’ll find everything from a classic Cuban sandwich to red snapper grilled with Cuban sofrito.   

The Best Places To Stay In Everglades City

The cozy cottage and bungalow on Clyde Butcher’s 14 secluded acres are a wonderful place to fully immerse yourself in the natural world, but there are plenty of other places to stay in the area if you don’t snag a reservation. The Ivey House offers comfortable queen and king rooms, with a screened-in swimming pool. They also offer special packages for discounted airboat tours, kayak tours, and fishing charters with your stay. For a glimpse into Everglades City’s storied past, book a room at the The Rod & Gun Club a historic private club that’s now open the public as a hotel and resort. The property is built at the location of Everglades City’s first white settlement when the city was founded 1864. Over the past century, The Rod & Gun Club has hosted presidents, dignitaries, and celebrities like John Wayne, Burt Reynolds, and Jack Nicklaus. Today, it features a massive restaurant overlooking the Barron River, two bar lounges, rental cottages and inn rooms, a swimming pool, and a full-service marina.  

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Friends, colleagues react to death of Bob Graham, past Florida governor, U.S. senator

Florida's political class paid homage to the late Gov. and U.S. Sen. Bob Graham after news of his death Tuesday night at the age of 87.

His daughter Gwen, a former member of Congress for the Tallahassee area, announced his death in a social media post . He died at home in a Gainesville retirement community, surrounded by family.

Graham, a lifelong Democrat, was governor in 1979-87 and one of the Sunshine State's U.S. senators from 1987-2005.

Gwen Graham posted a statement from the Graham family, calling the family patriarch a “visionary leader, dedicated public servant and even more importantly, a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.” The family added that he devoted his life to bettering the world around him. 

“The memorials to that devotion are everywhere – from the Everglades and other natural treasures he was determined to preserve, to the colleges and universities he championed with his commitment to higher education, to the global understanding he helped to foster through his work with the intelligence community and so many more,” the family said. 

They also recalled his “work days,” the hundreds of events where he performed for a day the jobs held by average Floridians. 

“While he valued his opportunities to represent others in public office, the jobs Bob Graham most loved were those he spent working alongside everyday Floridians,” the statement said, adding that it “forever changed his perspective on Florida and his approach to public service.” 

Joe Biden calls Graham a 'colleague, friend, and devoted Floridian'

President Joe Biden, in a statement released by the White House, said Graham's "nearly 50 years of service to his beloved home state and to our country have made America a safer and stronger nation.""Bob chose a life of service, working his way up from state legislator, to governor, senator, and presidential candidate. He and I served together in the U.S. Senate, as respective chairs of the Intelligence and Foreign Relations committees in the wake of 9/11, working to heal a shattered nation and to protect America in a changing world," the president said.

"Bob stood on principle against the Iraq War," he added. "He cosponsored my landmark Violence Against Women Act, transforming the way our nation responds to domestic abuse and sexual assault. He was committed to education and to the environment, continuing work that he’d begun as governor to support public schools and universities, and to protect the water supply, wetlands, and wildlife of Florida’s iconic Everglades. He was full of humor and humanity, and I’m grateful for the support that he gave me over the years."Bob loved people, and he knew that politics at its core is about learning from and serving others. That’s why he spent more than 400 'work days' on the job with constituents, doing everything from picking tomatoes, to handling baggage, to patrolling the streets with police. He knew it matters to walk a mile in other folks’ shoes.

"In recent years, he sought to instill that same ethic and empathy in a new generation of public servants through his center in Gainesville, and by working to require civics classes in public schools. He inspired his own daughter, Gwen, to serve in Congress as well; and I’m proud to have her in my administration today, as an Assistant Secretary of Education. Bob was so proud, too."

Later Wednesday, former President Barack Obama posted on X: "Bob Graham was a friend and a consummate public servant. As a governor, senator, and legislator, he spent decades fighting for the people of Florida. He was also a champion of the environment, which is why, after the BP oil spill, I asked Bob to co-chair a commission tasked with preventing a disaster of that magnitude from ever happening again. Michelle and I are thinking of Bob’s family today, and everyone who knew and loved him."

Who is Bob Graham? Here’s what to know about the former Florida governor and senator

Bob Graham 'made a huge difference for Florida'

Jim Eaton, a Tallahassee attorney, worked in legislative affairs for Graham as governor and managed his 1986 campaign before that.

“Like all of those who had the privilege to work with Bob Graham, I’m deeply saddened to hear of his passing," Eaton said. "President Kennedy said, ‘One man can make a difference and every man should try.’  Bob Graham made a huge difference for Florida, in so many ways — environmental programs, improving education, and many others.

"Graham’s particular genius was working alongside average Floridians day-by-day at their jobs, working a full day in construction, picking vegetables, teaching classes and collecting trash at the back of a truck," Eaton added. "Work days connected him to the people of Florida in a fundamental, non-partisan way that is gone from our politics.

"We need more like him and we mourn his passing.”

Graham was 'one of my heroes'

“He is one of my heroes for a large number of reasons,” said Jon Mills, dean emeritus at the University of Florida Law School and a former Florida House Speaker. 

“I’m looking at my home office wall and I have pictures of signing ceremonies of bills related to wetlands, growth management and water quality: All things that he was integral in supporting and doing. In the environmental area, he was a hero.” 

'He was truly beloved'

Steve Schale, a longtime Democratic operative and Barack Obama’s 2008 Florida campaign director, recalled Graham’s ability to connect with people. 

“Whether staffing him at an event or grabbing breakfast at a local diner, he always took the time to make whoever wanted his time feel special,” Schale said.

“He was truly beloved. I remember one poll we did in 2012, he had virtually no negative name ID whatsoever. Even people who disagreed with him believed him to be a good man. And he was.” 

His 'genuineness' stood out; lost in current, divided era of politics

Susan MacManus, a retired political scientist at the University of South Florida, author of books on Florida politics and member of the council of advisors at the Graham Center at the University of Florida, said what stood out about how Graham was his “genuineness.” 

“Here’s a guy who was very rich, Harvard-educated, who could stand next to a person flipping hamburgers at a fast food restaurant and be conversant in a genuine way,” she said. 

MacManus said Graham was from a more cohesive era in politics. And memories of him stand in sharp contrast with the bitterly polarized politics of today. 

“Now, you see this real gap between people, the education and wealth gap. He was able to make that not even an issue,” she said. “There’s a divide now between the working class and the elites. He was not like that. And the person he was conversing with felt his equal. He was not just saying to them, ‘Hey, vote for me.’” 

Whether Graham could have emerged in the current, divisive era of politics remains a question, she conceded.  

“Bottom line is he had a genuineness about him that is just so missing in politicians today,” MacManus said. “And it was reflected in wanting to know someone’s name, and all about anyone he worked alongside on his work days, which were full days, not just 15 minutes while the cameras are there.” 

'Florida weeps for you'

Sean Shaw, son of the late Florida Supreme Court Chief Justice Leander Shaw, who Graham appointed to the court in 1983, posted on X, “This hurts." 

“Bob Graham was the best of Florida. Ethics, Environment, Diversity. People. Without Bob Graham, there would be no Chief Justice Leander Shaw. And it was the honor of a lifetime for me to campaign by his side.” 

Shaw, a former state representative, said of Graham, “Florida weeps for you.” 

'A statesman who truly cared'

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis, a Republican whose family owns Panama City’s Captain Anderson’s restaurant, also wrote on X that Graham “will long be remembered as as a statesman who truly cared for the state of Florida. 

“He was a longtime customer of Captain Anderson’s and was kind enough to take me to lunch in the FL Senate dining room and share some wisdom when I was just a student in community college.” 

A 'good man ... a great Floridian'

Republican U.S. Sen. Rick Scott, who also served two terms as Florida governor, called Graham a “good man and a great Floridian who dedicated his life to our state. 

“His legacy will live forever,” Scott said on X. “Not because of any title he held, but for what he did with those opportunities to improve Florida and the lives of families in the Sunshine State. Ann and I are heartbroken to learn of his passing.” 

Florida's other U.S. senator, Republican Marco Rubio, added: "Bob Graham was a selfless public servant, whose legacy and impact will live on. From his days in the state House to his days in the governor’s mansion and the U.S. Senate, Bob Graham always understood whom he served. It was a core value, one that he lived out even after he retired from public service. Florida, and the nation, lost a very good man."

Fellow Democrats mourn Bob Graham's passing

State Sen. Shevrin Jones, D-Miami Gardens, posted on X, “In times of loss, we remember a giant among us. Bob Graham was not just a governor or a U.S. Senator, he was a beacon of leadership and a devoted family man. His legacy of compassion and dedication will endure.” 

Nikki Fried, the state’s Democratic Party chair and a former state agriculture commissioner, recalled that “growing up in Miami, (Graham) was the first political name I learned as he was beloved by all. His love for our state may have only been matched by his love for his Florida Gators.” 

Florida's current governor on Bob Graham's passing

Graham's daughter, Gwen, ran unsuccessfully for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination in 2018, when Florida's current governor, Ron DeSantis ran and was first elected as the Republican nominee. She has since been a critic of the DeSantis administration.

DeSantis posted on X Wednesday morning his reaction to Graham's death, hours after many of the remembrances had begun rolling in.

"Florida mourns the loss of former Governor and U.S. Senator Bob Graham today," DeSantis wrote. "He was a devoted public servant who, among other important work, made enormous achievements in conserving Florida's natural resources. We are grateful for his service to our state and nation. May he rest in peace."

A 'great public servant,' lost

Former two-term Florida Gov. Jeb Bush also commented Wednesday morning on X: "Florida and our country has lost a great public servant. Bob Graham served Floridians with a servant's heart, with integrity and with civility. Columba and I are praying for the Graham family."

'Always understood whom he served'

Republican U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, elected to the U.S. Senate six years after Graham left in 2005, remembered his qualities.

“Bob Graham was a selfless public servant, whose legacy and impact will live on," Rubio said, adding that he "always understood whom he served."

"It was a core value, one that he lived out even after he retired from public service. Florida, and the nation, lost a very good man," Rubio said.

Lawson recalls what Graham meant

Former U.S. Rep. Al Lawson, D-Tallahassee, remembered the former governor and U.S. senator as a guide.

"Gov. Graham gave African-Americans the opportunity to play major roles in state government," Lawson said. "He was my role model. Gov Graham cared about poor people in the state and opened up doors to help them live a better life. He was a beloved governor throughout the state because he put people over politics."

Former state Sen. Rob Bradley remembers Bob Graham

Former state Sen. Rob Bradley, a Fleming Island Republican, posted on X that "Bob Graham loved Florida. Never stopped fighting for her."

In a personal memory, Bradley – who served in the Senate 2012-20 – said "in 1988, he gave a group of kids a personal tour of the U.S. Senate floor after we randomly ran into him. I next visited with him 30 years later at the Florida Capitol. We talked land conservation. May he rest in peace."

Bob Graham: A possible vice president

Former U.S. Rep. Mark Foley of West Palm Beach wrote with an anecdote about Graham after the Sept. 11, 2001 terror attacks.

“There were no commercial flights so Bob Graham (and former U.S. Reps.) Ileana Ros- Lehtinen and Lincoln Diaz-Balart and I met at Andrews Air Force Base to be flown by Mil-Air (military airplane) to Hialeah,” Foley said.

“During the trip I approached Bob, who always had a reporter’s notepad in hand, … and said, ‘Senator, if Al Gore had picked you instead of Joe Lieberman, we’d be flying on Air Force 2 now to Florida instead of this old relic of an Air Force parachute plane.’ “

The 2000 presidential election was famously decided by 537 votes in Florida. If Graham “was on the ticket, ‘Gore-Graham’ would have swept Florida and the presidency (and) would have altered the course of history,” said Foley, a Republican.

Tallahassee's first Black leadership mayor remembers Graham

In 1978, Graham "made a decision that shaped my professional life," former Tallahassee Mayor John Marks said. Graham appointed him to the Florida Public Service Commission, making him the then-youngest, at age 29, and "first African-American ever to hold such a position."

"This decision marked a significant milestone not only in my career but also in state government's efforts to embrace diversity and inclusivity," said Marks, in office 2003-14, the longest-serving mayor in Tallahassee history.

"I was deeply honored by the governor's trust and foresight, which provided me with an invaluable platform for growth and public service. He will forever be remembered as a humanitarian, a statesman and an architect of change."

Obituary: Bob Graham, former Florida governor and U.S. senator with a common touch, dies at 87

Jim Rosica and other staff of the USA TODAY Network-Florida contributed.

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Looking for fun things to do this weekend April 19-21? Top 5 events in Palm Beach County

As spring barrels toward summer, there is still the time to venture outside enjoy festivals and the area's incredible entertainment. This weekend go kayaking at Grassy Waters, get some irie vibes at Reggae Sundaze in Northwood or check out some seriously cool cars at Concours D'Elegance in Delray Beach.

In addition to the top five events listed there's always something great happening at places like  The Norton Museum of Art  or the  Maltz Jupiter Theatre. On top of that you could always just enjoy a great meal with an equally great view at one of Palm Beach County's  waterfront restaurants  from Jupiter to Boca Raton. Plus, we've curated a list of the best things to do all year in the county, and here it is: your bucket list of 55 fun must-try things to do in Palm Beach County.

1. Kayak Cruise at Grassy Waters Preserve

Turn off your phones, throw off your digital shackles and get back to nature as you cruise the shallow waters of the Everglades. Learn about the history and ecology of the preserve during this guided tour. It's the real world, you will get wet, maybe muddy and it will be wonderful.

The event is 10 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, April 20. 8264 Northlake Blvd., West Palm Beach. $10 per person. Reservations required. Space limited. Information: 561-804-4985.

2. Sunday on the Waterfront featuring Sir Jac

Let's go crazy (let's get nuts) with Sir Jac and this Prince tribute concert. With superb musicianship and costumes, this show nails the look and sound of the legendary artist. Enjoy one hit after another like "Little Red Corvette," "Purple Rain," "Raspberry Beret" and many more.

The event is 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, March 21. 104 Datura St., West Palm Beach. Free. Information: wpb.org

More: Here are the 18 best waterfront restaurants in central Palm Beach County

3. Delray Beach Concours D’Elegance

Held at Old School Square, the Delray Beach Concours D'Elegance will showcase an incredible $100 million worth of classic and contemporary cars including a 1931 Cadillac 452 Fleetwood Convertible Coupe, 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing, 1986 Porsche 962 Racecars, Ferrari F40, 1904 Oldsmobile, 1967 Lamborghini Miura, DeLorean Time Machine, and a Ford GT40. There also will be live music, artists, and more. Proceeds will benefit Achievement Centers for Children & Families, Delray Citizens for Delray Police, Delray Fire Benevolent, and the Community Classroom Project.

The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, April 21. 51 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach. Free. Information: delrayconcours.com

4. Reggae Sundaze at Northwood Art & Music Warehouse

Get that "irie" feeling flowing at this event, put on by 561 Music Podcast, that will feature four bands including Mad Mellow, The Future Buds, Stony Vibes and the More Better Band. There will also be live artists, vendors, food trucks and more.

The event is 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, April 21. 933 28th St., West Palm Beach. $10. Information: northwoodartandmusic.com

More: After brief closure, West Palm Beach's Blind Monk restaurant opens in larger space

5. Maki's Community Yoga

After six years, Maki's has moved into a bigger space and now her classes will be held at Crazytrain CrossFit just a few steps from the original location at Grandview Public Market. Despite the location change, participants can still feel the flow, release the tension, stretch and strengthen in her free classes.

The classes are 9:30 a.m. Sundays. 1016 Clare Ave., West Palm Beach. Free, donations welcome. Information: mindfulboutique.com

Reminder: West Palm Beach GreenMarket coming to a close

In case you haven't marked your calendar, let this be your reminder that this is the final weekend of the West Palm Beach GreenMarket. There are no plans by the city to host a couple mini-markets over the summer during the evenings as happened last year. But there are some markets in the county that do carry on despite the heat

Eddie Ritz is a journalist at  The Palm Beach Post , part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach him at  [email protected] . Help support our journalism.  Subscribe today .