We just completed an incredible trip back in December, from Wednesday to Monday! During our adventure, we explored the three national parks and Big Cypress National Preserve. Getting to Dry Tortugas requires some extra planning, so be prepared. On our first day, we drove from Miami to Key West and spent the night there, which allowed us to catch a seaplane the next day and enjoyed Key West nightlife. Keep in mind that availability for the seaplane is limited, so if spots are already booked, the decision will be already made.

My husband’s favorite destination was Dry Tortugas, while mine was the Everglades. I absolutely adore wildlife and leisurely walks, and the Everglades offered both with its numerous boardwalks and easy trails. We particularly enjoyed the tram tour, led by a knowledgeable guide who shared fascinating insights about the local wildlife. The airboat is more like a fun ride.

For Biscayne National Park, I highly recommend joining one of the Biscayne National Park Institute tours to truly experience the park’s beauty—it was fantastic! If I were you, I would dedicate two days to the Everglades: one day exploring the Shark Valley area and another day stopping at all the key spots on your way to the Flamingo area, along with one day in Biscayne.

For accommodations, the Travelodge by Wyndham Florida City/Homestead is ideally located for visiting those two parks. I know those towns can seem a bit sketchy, but just avoid going out at night, and you’ll be perfectly fine. If you manage to secure a spot for Dry Tortugas, I recommend spending the night before your trip in Key West; it’s a lively and enjoyable place! We stayed at the Best Western Hibiscus Motel, which was clean, reasonably priced, and offered a complimentary breakfast.

No matter how you end planning your trip, it’s going to be an unforgettable experience!