Best route to view of Florida Everglades

[Bob___Ann]

When returning from the Keys we are considering cutting across Florida on Hwy 41 to view the Everglades. Is this the best way to view the Everglades?
Thanks

[avan]

There is NO view from Alligator Alley, Wanderingbob. OTOH, there is lots to see, even motoring by, along Tamiami Trail (41). Mickey48 - if you're looking for gators, take 41 and start paying attention (if the sun is out) about 10-15 miles east of Rt29 (the road to Everglades City). Assuming you're driving a MH, your high perch will be perfect for seeing the gators sunning themselves on the north bank of the canal on the north side of the road.

As you all go by Port of the Islands (10 miles west of Rt29) wave to me. BTW, Flamingo is the east end ENP Visitor Center SW of Homestead, FL

[CoastieSCPO]

Some real good advise here, especially concerning Robert if Here! We lived near that locally owned place for nearly 30 years. Now, they are not cheap, but the store has some of the best fruits and vegetables both domestic and tropical anywhere. The shakes are not bad either!

[mickey48]

nice info. my wife and i will be leaving florida keys in mid oct for our trip noth home, from a 3 week stay at bluewater key rv resirt. We to would be intrested in the everglades ans gator sight seeing. so please give more details and or web sites. we have pleanty of time. and what is Flamingo you are talking about?

[wanderingbob]

The view from Alligator Alley and 41 will be about the same , If ya ain't gonna stop and play tourist take the Alley !

[tomkaren13]

Enjoy but do not forget Bug Spray!

[dcason]

If you are going to flamingo, stop at Robert is here fruit veg stand to get a fruit milk shake (delicious and many flavors)...makes a great breakfast.

Midway campground to stop for the night.

[agesilaus]

Ditto on Shark Valley and either take the tram tour or rent bikes for the loop trail. Bikes only if you aren't concerned about Alligators since you will be very close to them. You can see the glades better from the Flamingo Rd but Shark Valley is a close second. There is also a boat tour from the other end of the glades at Everglades City. That's the north west part of the park on US 41. You'll also pass a number of air boat ride concessions on 41

[coolmom42]

You will be able to see some a bit from the highway. But I recommend that you turn in at the Shark Valley Visitor Center. View the exhibits in the visitors center, take time to do the tram tour. Well worth it.

https://www.nps.gov/ever/planyourvisit/guidedtours.htm

[NCWriter]

If you have time, allow a couple of days to drive down to Flamingo and spend a night or two. You can reserve electric sites at the campground there. Rangers at the Visitor Center have programs in the winter months and will point out the crocs that live in same waters with gators, a rarity. A couple of fun boat rides you can sign up for into the back water and into Florida Bay.

If you are more short on time as you head north, near Homestead turn west to walk the Anhinga Trail for amazing close up views of birds and gators.

If you are really tight, timewise, drive up to 41, and allow a few hours to take the open air Shark Valley tram ride into the glades. You can book this online. Parking is available though a bit tight there.

Ideally, do all three. If you are doing this in the summer it will be sweltering, and park activities are limited. Winter is the ideal time to see the glades.