Everglades National Park, Gulf Coast Visitor Center

This welcome center operated by Big Cypress Natural Preserve tells the story of the Big Cypress Swamp and the diverse ecosystems and public lands that make up the Western Everglades. Check out the nature walk in the bag of the center that overlooks a mangrove-lined waterway. Manatee, alligators, birds and other wildlife may be spotted. The center hosts the annual Swamp Heritage Festival each year in early December.