Whether you’re a nature lover, thrill-seeker or just looking for an exciting way to spend the day with your crew, Greater Fort Lauderdale makes it easy to explore one of Florida’s most iconic natural wonders: the Everglades. West of Fort Lauderdale lies a vast ecosystem where sawgrass stretches to the horizon, airboats glide through shallow waters and wildlife roams freely. And the journey there? That’s half the fun.
This day-trip itinerary is perfect for everyone under the sun — from families to couples, friend groups and even cruise-goers looking to make the most of their time onshore.
Start your day with a drive west from Fort Lauderdale, heading toward Coral Springs and the edge of the Everglades.
One of the area’s hidden gems is the Sawgrass Trailhead off Atlantic Boulevard. While it’s best known among locals for its breathtaking sunset views, it’s also a great spot for a midmorning nature walk or a quiet moment before the day’s big adventures begin. There’s a well-maintained trail, ample parking and it’s stroller-friendly if you’ve got little ones in tow. And if you can’t make it here in the morning, loop back at the end of the day to catch the sky lit up in pinks and oranges for a magical sunset photo op.
Tasty Pit Stops in Coral Springs
Fuel up for your Everglades adventure with Sunday brunch or a hearty lunch any day of the week at Big Bear Brewing Company in Coral Springs, a local favorite for casual dining and craft beer. The menu features everything from juicy burgers and pizzas to fresh salads and beer-battered fish.
For dessert, head over to nearby Cherry Smash, a beloved ice cream parlor tucked inside a vintage-inspired wonderland. The second you step inside, you’ll be surrounded by antique toys, retro signs and a rainbow of quirky memorabilia hanging from the ceiling. Choose from classics like mint chip and cookie dough or go bold with their more decadent, over-the-top creations. This spot is a must for families or anyone with a sweet tooth — and the perfect sugar rush before a swamp tour.
Unique Everglades Experiences
There are several ways to experience the Everglades.
For a classic introduction to this iconic ecosystem, Everglades Holiday Park is a crowd-pleaser. It offers guided airboat tours through the wetlands, where you’ll glide past sawgrass and cypress while spotting gators, birds, turtles and more. The tours are family-friendly, relatively short (about an hour) and ideal for cruise passengers with limited time. There’s also a wildlife presentation featuring rescued reptiles, perfect for kids and animal lovers alike.
Want a more immersive option? Book a full-day excursion with Everglades Day Safari, which includes hotel pickup, airboat rides, a nature walk, a wildlife drive through Big Cypress and lunch at a local restaurant. It’s a deeper dive into the ecosystem and ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive experience with everything taken care of.
Another solid choice is Sawgrass Recreation Park, which offers both daytime and nighttime airboat tours. That’s right — you can cruise through the swamp after dark. Spot gators glowing in the light, hear the rustle of nighttime critters and enjoy the thrill of exploring under the stars. Night tours are limited and popular, so book ahead if you're interested.
After all that adventuring, you’ll be ready for a bite (or two). If you're still near Sawgrass Recreation Park, stop by the Gator Grill, a casual counter-service spot right next door. Try their famous gator bites, pulled pork sandwiches or grab a quick snack before heading back to the city.
Prefer a sit-down dinner? Head into Weston and dine at Negroni, a stylish restaurant offering a diverse menu of international comfort food, including sushi and craft cocktails. It’s the perfect end to an amazing day — especially if you're in the mood to trade your airboat for an aperitivo.
What to Pack for Your Everglades Day Trip
If you want to make sure your Everglades day trip lives up to the hype, packing the right essentials is key. Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, bug spray and plenty of water will go a long way. If you’re taking an airboat ride, sunglasses and a light jacket can come in handy, as those boats move pretty fast. And don’t forget your camera or phone — you’ll want to capture the incredible views and maybe even a gator selfie.
Whether you’re here for a weekend, a cruise stop, or you’re a local looking to explore your own backyard, this Everglades itinerary is a one-of-a-kind day trip perfect for everyone under the sun.