Sawgrass Recreation Park in Weston offers one of the classic ways to experience the Florida Everglades: aboard an airboat. Located just outside Fort Lauderdale, the park takes visitors out onto the water and deep into the sawgrass for a fast-paced ride through one of Florida’s most unique ecosystems.

The general admission airboat adventure lasts approximately 40 minutes and is led by an experienced captain who shares information about the Everglades, its history, and the wildlife that calls it home. As you glide across the water, keep your eyes open for wild alligators, turtles, fish, birds, and other animals. Wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, which is part of the adventure of exploring the Everglades in its natural state.

The experience continues back on land with admission to the park’s animal sanctuary and exhibit areas. Sawgrass Recreation Park cares for a variety of adopted and rescued reptiles and mammals, giving visitors an opportunity to see even more wildlife up close while learning about the animals and the importance of protecting the Everglades. Upgraded adventure packages are also available with additional animal experiences and souvenirs.

For an entirely different experience, the park also offers Gator Nights on select evenings. These nighttime airboat adventures head into the Everglades after dark, when captains search for the glowing eyes of alligators and other nocturnal wildlife. Private, sunrise, and nighttime airboat experiences are also available for visitors looking for something beyond the standard daytime tour.

With the combination of an airboat ride, wildlife encounters, animal exhibits, and the chance to experience the Everglades up close, Sawgrass Recreation Park makes for an exciting introduction to South Florida’s wild side.