Road Trippin' to the Everglades: Your Jeep Wrangler Adventure Guide

miamiconvertibles
May 27
4 min read

Updated: 22 hours ago

If you’re visiting Miami and picked up a Jeep Wrangler from us at Miami Convertibles (good call, by the way), it’s time to throw on those sunglasses, slap on some sunscreen, and hit the road. One of the coolest and most unique day trips you can take from Miami Beach is a wild ride west to the Everglades National Park. Picture this: cruising in your open-air Jeep with the wind in your hair, palm trees fading behind you, and nothing but Florida wilderness ahead.

The Route: From Beach to ‘Glades

The Everglades are just about an hour and 15 minutes from Miami Convertibles' HQ in Miami Beach. It’s an easy, scenic drive mostly along the Tamiami Trail (US-41), and honestly, this is where your Wrangler shines. Windows down, maybe a little reggae or salsa on the speakers, and the vibes are immaculate.

You’ll want to head for Shark Valley Visitor Center, which is a great starting point for first-time Gladers. It’s located at 36000 SW 8th Street, Miami, FL 33194. Trust the GPS, it knows.

What to Expect in the Everglades

The Everglades are not your average national park. They’re this massive, slow-moving river of grass filled with sawgrass marshes, mangroves, and yes—alligators. Lots of them. But don’t worry, they’re usually more afraid of you (as long as you’re not tossing Cheetos in their direction).

You’ll see all sorts of wildlife—gators, turtles, herons, anhingas, and maybe even a manatee or panther if the universe really wants to impress you. This place is raw, wild, and beautifully untouched.

Activities: Airboats or Bikes?

You’ve got two main options when you get there, depending on your mood and energy level:

1. Airboat Tours

If you want to feel like you’re in a Nat Geo special, hop on an airboat. There are plenty of operators around Shark Valley and nearby areas like Gator Park and Coopertown. Expect to pay around $25-$40 per adult for a standard 30-45 minute ride.

These boats zip over the water and take you deep into areas you can’t access by foot. Plus, the guides are usually hilarious and loaded with facts about the local ecosystem.

Book your Airboat tour here

2. Bike the Loop

Feeling active? Rent a bike at Shark Valley for about $20 per adult and tackle the 15-mile paved loop through the Everglades. It’s flat, peaceful, and perfect for taking in the wildlife at your own pace.

You’ll likely see more animals this way, since it’s quieter than an airboat. There’s even an observation tower halfway through the loop with a killer view of the glades.

What to Pack (Don’t Skip This!)

Here’s your essential Everglades day trip packing list:

Sunscreen (Florida sun doesn’t play)
Polarized sunglasses (better for spotting gators)
Bug spray (yes, even in winter)
Water bottles (hydration is key)
Snacks (there’s limited food inside the park)
Binoculars (for the bird nerds among us)
Camera or smartphone (you’re gonna want pics)
Comfortable walking shoes or sandals with grip
Light jacket or poncho during wet season (May–October)

Where to Eat

There aren't a ton of food options inside the park, so it's smart to eat before you go or bring your own snacks. But if you're hungry after your airboat ride or bike trek, swing by Robert Is Here Fruit Stand & Farm in nearby Homestead. It’s a legendary roadside joint for fresh fruit smoothies, Cuban sandwiches, and exotic fruit you’ve never heard of (jackfruit, anyone?).

Or check out Havana Harry’s in Coral Gables on your way back—it’s a little off the trail but worth the detour for a killer Cuban meal.

Entrance Fees

As of 2025, entrance to Everglades National Park is $30 per vehicle, and that covers everyone inside your Jeep. It’s good for 7 days, so if you want to come back and explore another section of the park, you’re covered.

You can also use your America the Beautiful National Parks Pass if you’ve got one.

Other Cool Things to Do in the Area

If you’ve got more time (or energy), consider:

Anhinga Trail at Royal Palm – A short, easy boardwalk trail loaded with wildlife.
Gumbo Limbo Trail – Shady and lush, with lots of tropical plants.
Big Cypress National Preserve – Just a bit west of Shark Valley with amazing scenery and some chill spots to stop and explore.
Miccosukee Indian Village – Learn about the history and culture of the native tribes who have called this area home for centuries.

Final Thoughts: Why the Wrangler is the MVP

This trip is tailor-made for a Jeep Wrangler. The raised chassis gives you a better view, the rugged tires love these backroads, and if you’ve got the top off? Instant Florida freedom. Trust us, you don’t want to be cooped up in a sedan while driving through such raw nature.

So pack your bag, fire up the Wrangler, and make your way to the wildest part of Florida. The Everglades are calling—and you’ve got the perfect ride to answer.

Need a Jeep for your trip? Check out our selection at Miami Convertibles. We’ve got the latest Wrangler models locked, loaded, and ready for your next adventure.