Sawgrass Recreation Park | Fort Lauderdale

Sawgrass Recreation Park, located in Weston, Florida, offers visitors an exciting and educational experience in the heart of the Everglades. It’s a popular destination for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the region and encounter wildlife in their natural habitat. Here's a detailed look at what you can expect during a visit:

1. Airboat Tours

Duration & Experience: The park is famous for its airboat tours, which take you on a thrilling 40-minute ride through the Everglades. These tours are led by experienced captains who provide informative commentary about the Everglades' unique ecosystem, flora, and fauna.

Tour Times: Airboats depart every 20–30 minutes from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with the last boat leaving around 5:00 p.m. It’s best to arrive by 4 p.m. if you want to enjoy the exhibits before they close.

Wildlife Encounters: During the airboat ride, you'll have the opportunity to spot various wildlife, including alligators, birds, and other native species.

2. Animal Sanctuary

After your airboat ride, you can visit the animal sanctuary at Sawgrass Recreation Park. The sanctuary is home to over 50 reptiles, including rescued alligators, iguanas, and tortoises.

The sanctuary plays a crucial role in rescuing and rehabilitating animals that have been abandoned or injured. It’s an excellent opportunity to learn about the importance of wildlife conservation and see these fascinating creatures up close.

3. Dining Options

The Gator Grill: After your adventure, you can relax and grab a bite at The Gator Grill, a gourmet food truck located on-site. The grill serves a variety of delicious meals, including Angus burgers, pulled pork, tacos, and even gator bites. The food truck operates from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and offers a perfect way to refuel after a thrilling day in the Everglades.

4. Admission & Packages

General Admission:

Adults (13+): $28.95

Children (4–12): $18.95

Children under 4: Free

Adventure Packages: If you want to enhance your experience, you can opt for adventure packages that combine airboat rides and animal exhibits. The Deluxe Adventure Package includes a souvenir bag of gems or shark teeth.

Private Tours: For a more personalized experience, private airboat tours are available. You can also choose a Sawgrass Reptile Exhibit Private Tour, which offers exclusive access to the reptile sanctuary and the chance to get closer to the animals.

5. Special Tours

Gator Nights: On select Wednesday and Saturday nights, the park offers a 60-minute nighttime airboat tour called "Gator Nights." This tour is a unique way to see nocturnal wildlife in the Everglades, including alligators with glowing eyes in the dark.

Sunrise & Night Tours: You can also book private sunrise or nighttime airboat tours for a quieter and more serene experience, giving you the opportunity to witness the Everglades at different times of day.

6. Operating Hours & Reservations

Hours: Sawgrass Recreation Park is open every day except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. It’s recommended to make a reservation in advance since the tours are quite popular and often sell out.

Location: The park is located at 1006 U.S. Highway 27, Weston, FL 33327. It is easily accessible from Fort Lauderdale, just a short drive away.

7. Unique Experience in the Everglades

Flora & Fauna: The park is nestled in the Everglades, a unique and fragile ecosystem known for its biodiversity. During your visit, you’ll have the chance to learn about the significance of this region and how it serves as an important habitat for a variety of plant and animal species.

Educational Aspect: The guides are knowledgeable and provide educational commentary about the Everglades, the species living there, and the environmental challenges the area faces.

8. Wildlife Viewing

Throughout the day, you can see a range of wildlife, especially alligators. The airboat ride takes you deep into the swamp where alligators are often spotted basking in the sun or swimming in the water. There are also plenty of opportunities to observe various bird species, fish, and even the occasional panther or bobcat.

Summary:

Sawgrass Recreation Park is a family-friendly attraction offering an unforgettable adventure into the heart of Florida’s Everglades. Whether you’re looking to ride an airboat, encounter exotic animals, or simply enjoy the natural beauty, it’s a must-visit destination for nature lovers.