best place to stay to visit everglades

I found the best place to stay when visiting the Everglades is in the cozy town of Everglades City. It’s conveniently located just outside the park’s entrance, offering easy access to all the natural wonders within. The town has a charming historic district with quaint shops, delicious restaurants, and comfortable accommodations to suit every budget.

Introduction

As an avid nature enthusiast, I’ve had the privilege of exploring the vast and captivating Everglades National Park on numerous occasions. Over the years, I’ve discovered that the key to a truly unforgettable Everglades experience lies in choosing the perfect place to stay. After much exploration and careful consideration, I’ve narrowed down my top pick for the best place to stay when visiting this natural paradise⁚ the charming town of Everglades City.

Nestled just outside the park’s entrance, Everglades City serves as an ideal gateway to the Everglades’ untamed wilderness. Its convenient location allows for easy access to all the park’s major attractions, including the Shark Valley Visitor Center, the Anhinga Trail, and the Ten Thousand Islands. But beyond its proximity to the park, Everglades City has a unique charm all its own.

With its historic downtown district, lined with quaint shops, cozy restaurants, and charming bed and breakfasts, Everglades City offers a delightful blend of comfort and convenience. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family-friendly adventure, or a solo retreat into nature, Everglades City has something to offer every traveler.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share my firsthand experiences and insights, providing you with all the essential information you need to plan your stay in Everglades City. From the best places to eat and sleep to the must-see attractions and hidden gems, I’ll guide you through everything you need to know to make your Everglades adventure truly exceptional. So, pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and prepare to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Everglades. Your journey begins right here, in the heart of Everglades City;

Location

One of the key factors that sets Everglades City apart as the best place to stay when visiting the Everglades is its unbeatable location. Situated just outside the park’s main entrance, the town offers unparalleled convenience for nature enthusiasts eager to explore the park’s vast wilderness.

From Everglades City, you can easily access all the park’s major attractions, including the Shark Valley Visitor Center, the Anhinga Trail, and the Ten Thousand Islands. The Shark Valley Visitor Center is a great starting point for exploring the park’s diverse ecosystems, with its elevated boardwalk offering panoramic views of the sawgrass prairies and abundant wildlife. The Anhinga Trail, a short but scenic loop trail, is a haven for birdwatchers, with opportunities to spot anhingas, wood storks, and alligators. And the Ten Thousand Islands, a labyrinth of mangrove-lined waterways, is a kayaker’s paradise, offering endless opportunities for paddling and wildlife encounters.

But beyond its proximity to the park, Everglades City has a unique charm all its own. Its historic downtown district, with its charming shops, cozy restaurants, and historic buildings, invites you to step back in time and soak up the town’s rich heritage. Whether you’re looking to rent a kayak, grab a bite to eat, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery, Everglades City has something to offer every visitor.

With its convenient location and abundance of amenities, Everglades City serves as the perfect base camp for your Everglades adventure. Whether you’re planning a day trip or an extended stay, the town offers easy access to the park’s natural wonders while immersing you in the unique culture and history of the region.

Accommodations

Everglades City offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. Whether you’re looking for a cozy bed and breakfast, a comfortable hotel, or a spacious vacation rental, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from.

I personally opted to stay at the Everglades City Hotel, a charming historic hotel located in the heart of downtown. The hotel offers a range of room types, from standard rooms to suites, all tastefully decorated with a nod to the area’s rich history. I found my room to be clean, comfortable, and well-equipped with all the modern amenities I needed.

The Everglades City Hotel also boasts a lovely outdoor pool area, perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring the park. And in the evenings, I enjoyed relaxing in the hotel’s cozy bar and lounge, where I could sip on a cocktail and chat with fellow travelers about our Everglades adventures.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, Everglades City has several motels and guesthouses that offer clean and comfortable accommodations at affordable rates. And for those who prefer the privacy and space of a vacation rental, there are numerous houses and apartments available for rent in and around the town.

No matter what your accommodation needs may be, you’re sure to find something to suit your taste and budget in Everglades City. With its convenient location and abundance of options, the town serves as the perfect base for your Everglades adventure.

Amenities

Everglades City offers a wide range of amenities to make your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

One of the highlights for me was the abundance of delicious dining options. From casual cafes to fine dining restaurants, Everglades City has something to satisfy every palate. I particularly enjoyed the fresh seafood dishes at the waterfront restaurants, where I could savor the flavors of the local catch while taking in the beautiful views of the river.

The town also has several well-stocked grocery stores, where I could easily purchase snacks, drinks, and other essentials for my Everglades adventures. And for those who prefer to cook their own meals, there are several farmers markets in the area where you can find fresh produce, meats, and cheeses.

In terms of entertainment, Everglades City has a charming historic downtown area with unique shops, art galleries, and museums. I spent a delightful afternoon browsing the local boutiques and picking up souvenirs to remember my trip. And in the evenings, I enjoyed live music and dancing at the local bars and nightclubs.
For those who love the outdoors, Everglades City is a paradise. The town has several parks and nature trails where you can hike, bike, or kayak. And of course, the Everglades National Park is just a short drive away, offering endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Overall, I found Everglades City to be a well-equipped town with all the amenities I needed for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Whether you’re looking for delicious food, unique shopping experiences, or outdoor recreation, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained and satisfied in Everglades City.

Service

The people of Everglades City are known for their warm hospitality and excellent service. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with smiles and helpful advice.

The staff at my hotel were incredibly accommodating and went above and beyond to make sure my stay was comfortable and enjoyable. They provided me with maps and recommendations for local attractions, and even helped me book a guided tour of the Everglades.

I also found the service at the local restaurants and shops to be top-notch. The wait staff were friendly and attentive, and the store owners were knowledgeable and helpful. I never felt rushed or pressured, and I always felt like I was being treated like a valued guest.

One of the things I appreciated most about the service in Everglades City was the genuine desire of the locals to share their love of the area with visitors. I had several conversations with people who were passionate about the Everglades and eager to tell me about their favorite spots and experiences.

Overall, I found the service in Everglades City to be exceptional. The people here are genuinely friendly and helpful, and they go out of their way to make sure visitors have a wonderful stay.

One particular experience that stands out in my mind is when I visited the local farmers market. I was looking for some fresh produce for a picnic lunch, and I was overwhelmed by the variety and abundance of fruits and vegetables. A friendly vendor named Sarah took the time to help me choose the best items and even gave me some tips on how to prepare them. I left the market feeling happy and satisfied, and I was grateful for Sarah’s kindness and helpfulness.

The excellent service I received in Everglades City made my stay even more enjoyable and memorable. I highly recommend this town to anyone looking for a warm and welcoming place to visit.