Miami Day Trips by Car and Brightline

October 18, 2026

Miami works well as a base for day trips, and the best ones are national parks, the Upper Keys and the coast to the north. Distances below are approximate and traffic changes drive times, so leave early.

Everglades National Park, Shark Valley

Shark Valley is about 30 miles west of Miami on US-41 (the Tamiami Trail), at 36000 SW 8th St. Private vehicles stop at the parking lot. A 15-mile paved loop is covered by a narrated tram tour of about 2 hours ($36 adult, $27 senior, $19 child at the time of writing) or on a bike. Alligators often lie beside the path. Keep at least 15 feet away from them, never feed them, and bring water and insect repellent, since mosquitoes are worst at dawn, dusk and on overcast days. Parking usually fills by 10 am in peak season.

Park entry is $35 per private vehicle for 7 days. Non-US residents aged 16 and over pay an extra $100 each unless they hold an annual or America the Beautiful pass. Cards only at Shark Valley. See the National Park Service Shark Valley page for directions and the tram booking details.

Everglades, Homestead entrance

The Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center (40001 SR 9336, Homestead) is about 45 to 50 miles southwest of Miami via the Turnpike. The same entry ticket covers every entrance for 7 days, so you can pair it with the Anhinga Trail area on the same pass. It is the alternative to Shark Valley if you prefer to explore on foot.

Biscayne National Park

Biscayne National Park is mostly water, with its visitor center at Convoy Point in Homestead (the Dante Fascell Visitor Center, 9700 SW 328th St), about 35 miles south. Entry is free. Guided trips from Homestead start at $39 for a 1.5-hour mangrove kayak outing. Cruises that leave from Dinner Key Marina in Coconut Grove are closer to the city. Book through the Biscayne National Park Institute .

Key Largo and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Key Largo is about 60 miles south, roughly 1.25 to 2 hours each way depending on traffic. The state park charges about $8 per vehicle, and reef boat tours leave from the park. Tour prices vary, so check with the park concessioner before you drive down.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is about 30 miles north. Brightline runs from MiamiCentral in about 30 to 35 minutes, and fares change by date, so check the Brightline site before you book. The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi sells an all-day pass for $38 for adults and $18 for children aged 5 to 11, which suits a relaxed trip along the canals. See the Water Taxi FAQ .

Key West needs an overnight

Key West is about 160 miles from Miami along the Overseas Highway (US-1), roughly 3.5 to 4 hours each way before any traffic, and a crash can close the road. There is no passenger ferry from Miami. The Key West Express sails from Fort Myers Beach on the Gulf coast, and it does not list a Miami departure. Coach day tours from Miami exist, but they run 12 to 16 hours and leave little time on the island. If Key West is a priority, stay at least one night. If you only have a day, Key Largo or Islamorada are far easier.

Practical notes

Hurricane season runs 1 June to 30 November. If a Hurricane Watch or Warning is issued, outdoor and water trips are cancelled.
In hot months, start early and carry water. The Everglades is very hot and humid, particularly in summer.
Fill the fuel tank before heading onto US-41 or the Overseas Highway, and allow extra time in case of a crash or closure.

To compare guided options, see Everglades airboat and tram listings on Viator or Key Largo outings on GetYourGuide .