Explore Everglades National Park

Just an hour's drive from downtown Miami, where you'll experience one of the country's most important (and fragile) habitats, and the country's largest subtropical wilderness. Consisting almost entirely of swampland and marshes - which in turn serve as the state's reservoir - here wildlife enthusiasts are drawn for the chance to spot animal species such as egrets, manatees, alligators, and crocodiles, as well as rarer beasts including Florida panthers.

Moreover, one of the top things to do in the Everglades is to take a high-speed airboat tour. These thrilling vessels can whisk you deep into the wilderness. One of the best such tours for those traveling from Miami are the shared (and therefore less-expensive) Florida Everglades airboat tours for small groups. These fun family-friendly private adventures last anywhere from one to two hours and include the airboat ride, the services of a professional guide, and plenty of wildlife spotting. To sum up, exploring Everglades National Park is one of the best day trips from Miami.

Address: Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center, 40001 State Hwy 9336, Homestead, Florida

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/ever/index.htm

Phone: 305-242-7700

Entrance fee: $10 per private vehicle

Google rating: 4.5/5.0