Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Florida → Everglades National Park: Into the River of Grass

Fly from New York to Fort Lauderdale and begin your journey south into one of America’s most extraordinary ecosystems — the Everglades. After lunch, embark on an airboat ride through the “River of Grass,” where naturalists introduce you to the unique wildlife that thrives in these wetlands, from alligators to wading birds. Continue with a ranger-led tram tour through Shark Valley, offering panoramic views and insightful lessons on Everglades hydrology, ecology, and ongoing conservation efforts. As the day winds down, travel along the famed Overseas Highway into the Florida Keys and check into your hotel in Marathon for the evening.

Day 2 – Key Largo & Marathon: Coral Reefs and Mangrove Wilderness

Begin your morning with a glass-bottom boat tour over the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States. Watch vibrant fish and coral formations come to life beneath you as marine naturalists explain reef ecology, bleaching, and pressing conservation challenges. After lunch, continue to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for a guided kayaking adventure through winding mangrove tunnels. Learn how these remarkable root systems serve as nurseries for marine life, protect coastlines, and anchor the region’s biodiversity. In the late afternoon, enjoy some beach time at Cannon Beach — swim, and explore the shallow-water ecosystems — before returning to Marathon for dinner. Overnight in Marathon.

Day 3 – Marathon: Wildlife, Waterways & Island Life

Start your day with a half-day snorkeling excursion, discovering the diverse marine life that inhabits the warm, clear waters of the Keys. In the afternoon, visit the renowned Turtle Hospital, where marine biologists rehabilitate sea turtles suffering from boat strikes, cold shock, entanglement, and other human impacts. A behind-the-scenes tour offers an inspiring look at conservation in action and the dedicated efforts to protect endangered marine species. Overnight in Marathon.

Day 4 – Marathon → Key West: Shipwrecks, History, Island Culture & Boat Ride

This morning, travel farther south to Key West, the southernmost point in the continental United States. Begin at the Key West Shipwreck Museum, where stories of daring rescues, the wrecking industry, and the treacherous coral reefs bring maritime history to life. Climb the 65-foot observation tower for sweeping views of the turquoise coastline. After lunch, take a walk down to South Beach and , later stroll along Duval Street’s vibrant shops, galleries, and historic neighborhoods. After dinner, dive into a team challenge at an escape room, working together to solve clues and complete your mission before time runs out. Overnight in Marathon.

Day 5 – Marathon → Fort Lauderdale → Departure

Begin your final morning in the Florida Keys with breakfast and time to pack up before starting the journey north. Travel from Marathon through Key Largo and along the scenic Overseas Highway, enjoying views of mangroves, blue water, and the unique landscapes of the island chain one last time. Continue on to Fort Lauderdale Airport for your return flight to New York.