Visiting Naples and looking for a unique day trip getaway? Nestled on the edge of the expansive Everglades National Park, Everglades City offers a gateway to one of Florida's most unique and diverse ecosystems.
Many of the guests in our luxury Naples Florida rentals want to get a real taste of “Old Florida” and Everglades City is a great place to experience it! Just a short drive from the vibrant city of Naples, this quaint town beckons with its rich natural beauty and a plethora of outdoor adventures waiting to be discovered.
If you're planning a day trip from Naples, Everglades City promises an unforgettable experience filled with wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, and cultural insights. Here's your guide to making the most of your excursion.
Airboat Tours
Kickstart your adventure with an exhilarating airboat tour through the winding waterways of the Everglades. Feel the rush as you glide across the marshes, surrounded by lush mangroves and towering cypress trees. Knowledgeable guides will regale you with tales of the region's history and point out native wildlife, including alligators, birds, and maybe even the elusive manatee. Several tour operators in Everglades City offer various packages, ensuring an immersive and informative experience for visitors of all ages. Everglades City Airboat Tours is a wonderful outfit that is still family owned.
Explore Everglades National Park
As the largest tropical wilderness of any kind in the United States, Everglades National Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders. Take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk trails of the Gulf Coast Visitor Center, where you can observe the intricate ecosystems of the mangrove forests up close. Don't miss the opportunity to embark on a ranger-led nature walk or hop on a guided boat tour to delve deeper into the park's fascinating flora and fauna.
Visit the Museum of the Everglades
Immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of the region by paying a visit to the Museum of the Everglades. Housed in the historic former laundry building of the town, this quaint museum offers a glimpse into the lives of early settlers, Native Americans, and pioneers who shaped the destiny of Everglades City. Browse through exhibits showcasing artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia that chronicle the area's evolution from a remote frontier outpost to a thriving community.
Kayaking and Canoeing
For a more tranquil exploration of the Everglades' waterways, consider renting a kayak or canoe and paddling through serene channels teeming with wildlife. Navigate through mangrove tunnels, glide past secluded islands, and marvel at the breathtaking beauty of this pristine wilderness. Whether you're an experienced paddler or a novice, there are plenty of rental outfitters in Everglades City offering equipment and guided tours tailored to your skill level. We recommend Tour The Glades – Private Wildlife Tours which is led by locals!
Indulge in Local Cuisine
After a day of adventure, satisfy your appetite with a taste of authentic Everglades cuisine at one of the town's charming eateries. Sample fresh seafood delicacies like stone crab claws, gator bites, and conch fritters, sourced locally from the surrounding waters. Pair your meal with a refreshing craft beer or a signature cocktail inspired by the flavors of the Everglades, and savor the unique culinary heritage of this coastal community. We recommend Triad Seafood and the Rod and Gun Club.
A day trip from Naples to Everglades City promises an immersive journey into the heart of one of Florida's most iconic landscapes. Whether you're exploring the wilderness by airboat, delving into the region's history at a museum, or paddling through tranquil waterways, there's no shortage of adventures to be had in this enchanting destination. So pack your sense of adventure and embark on a memorable escapade into the untamed beauty of the Everglades.
As always, if you are staying in one of our luxury Naples Florida rentals, we will be happy to provide personalized food, adventure and shopping recommendations and more! Check out our properties and visit us soon.