Friday, 14 March
The Journey from Pine Island to Miami
We left Pine Island around 7 a.m. and it took us about an hour through busy traffic and construction to travel 28 miles to I-75 South. We then took Exit 101 and drove Hwy 951 to the Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) where we headed east. This road took us through the heart of Collier-Seminole State Park and Big Cypress National Preserve.
Miccosukee Indian Village
Along the way, we stopped at the Miccosukee Indian Village, located just off the highway, nestled in the heart of the Everglades. The village, a cultural and educational center for the Miccosukee Tribe, offered a glimpse into their history, traditions, and way of life.
While waiting for the rest of our caravan to arrive, our wagonmaster gave us our entry wristbands and Lisa and I took the opportunity to briefly explore the village. We walked through the village admiring the traditional chickees—open-air, thatched-roof structures that dotted the landscape.
Airboat Ride
After wandering through the village for a bit, we crossed the highway for an exhilarating airboat ride across the vast, sawgrass-covered wetlands of the Everglades. As we crossed the highway we saw a lot of fish jumping out of a small canal that followed the highway.
We were loaded on a large airboat that had four benches that could hold six people comfortably. The water level was very low because we were in the dry season, and the boat captain said they would discontinue the rides within a couple of weeks. The powerful boat skimmed effortlessly over the shallow waters, sending up a fine mist as we sped past cypress trees and clusters of mangroves. Along the way, we spotted alligators lurking near the banks and flocks of wading birds taking flight at our approach. Halfway through the boat ride we stopped at a replica Miccosukee Indian Village with several chickees and a boardwalk. We had a great time.
Miccosukee Indian Village
After the airboat ride, we returned to the village for lunch where we ate our packed lunch at a picnic table under a chickee. After eating, we set off to further explore the village. We visited the museum, which housed a fascinating collection of artifacts, photographs, and displays detailing the tribe’s history and way of life. The exhibits included traditional clothing, weapons, and tools, providing insight into the resilience and resourcefulness of the Miccosukee people.
One of the highlights of our visit was the cooking chickee, where we watched tribal members prepare traditional foods over an open fire. They generously served us warm fry bread topped with a mashed banana spread, a delightful combination of crispy, golden-brown dough and naturally sweet fruit. As we savored the treat, we engaged in conversation with them, learning about their culinary traditions and the role of food in Miccosukee culture.
Later, we rejoined our group for a guided tour around the village. Our guide led us through various craft booths, where artisans demonstrated their skills in wood carving, beadwork, sewing, and jewelry. Each piece they created told a story, infused with cultural significance and meticulous craftsmanship. As we watched, they explained their techniques, the meanings behind their designs, and how these traditions had been passed down through generations.
The tour ended at the museum, where the guide shared more information about the Miccosukee culture. Though the Miccosukee do not eat alligator meat, he explained how capturing the alligator became important to his people in trade and, later, in tourism.
Alligator Show
We ended our visit with an alligator show, where a skilled handler demonstrated ancient techniques for safely interacting with these formidable reptiles—an awe-inspiring display of courage and respect.
By the time we left, we had gained a profound appreciation for the Miccosukee Tribe’s rich heritage and resilience. The visit was an educational experience and a meaningful glimpse into a culture that continues to thrive amidst the modern world.
Shark Valley Visitor Center, Everglades National Park
The Shark Valley Visitor Center in Everglades National Park was just 1.1 miles from the Village, so we decided to visit before continuing our journey. The Shark Valley section of Everglades National Park is located in the northern part of the park and is known for its expansive wetlands, rich wildlife, and stunning views. The region is named after the Shark River Slough, which flows through the area.
Upon arrival, we found the parking lot quite full, but luckily, we secured a spot in the oversize vehicle section for our truck and trailer. The visitor center was small, mainly consisting of a bookstore and a ranger information desk. We browsed for a few minutes, purchased a souvenir magnet, and got our National Park Passport stamped before signing up for a two-hour tram tour through the Everglades. The tour cost $33 per person, but we paid $25 each with the senior discount.
We had just missed the 3 pm tour, so we had to wait about an hour before boarding the open-air tram. Our knowledgeable guide narrated the journey as we traveled along the 15-mile paved loop, highlighting the unique features of the Everglades ecosystem. We learned about the area’s slow-moving “River of Grass,” the diverse plant life, and the wetlands’ crucial role in Florida’s environment.
Our guide spent a significant amount of time explaining the large, elevated areas of grass and trees in the Everglades, known as hammocks or tree islands. These slightly raised landforms provide dry ground for vegetation and wildlife. Hardwood hammocks, home to trees like mahogany and live oak, were commonly used as campsites by the Miccosukee. Bayheads consist of water-tolerant trees such as swamp bay, while cypress domes form in deeper water, with the tallest bald cypress trees in the center. Pine rocklands on slightly higher ground support slash pines and rare plants. These hammocks play a vital role in the Everglades ecosystem by sustaining diverse wildlife and helping regulate water flow.
Wildlife sightings were plentiful. Along the way, we saw herons, egrets, various wading birds, and numerous alligators basking near the water’s edge. The most exciting sighting was a rare American crocodile, distinguishable from the alligators by its lighter color and more pointed snout. There were only three of these crocodiles in this area.
About halfway through the tour, we reached the Shark Valley Observation Tower, a striking 65-foot concrete structure offering panoramic views of the expansive sawgrass marsh. Climbing to the top, we were rewarded with breathtaking vistas stretching for miles in every direction, with the vast wetlands teeming with life below.
The return trip provided even more close-up encounters with wildlife, allowing us to observe alligators basking just feet from the tram, wading birds hunting in the shallows, and turtles sunning themselves on fallen logs. We saw some spoonbills flying overhead and the guide said that they would be migrating to the park soon. As we neared the end of the loop, our guide shared eye-opening details about the Burmese python, an invasive species that has wreaked havoc on the Everglades. He explained how these massive snakes, with no natural predators in the region, have decimated populations of small and medium-sized mammals, disrupting the ecosystem’s delicate balance.
By the time we returned to the visitor center, we had gained a much deeper appreciation for the Everglades’ fragile beauty, its diverse wildlife, and the importance of preserving it for future generations. The tour was engaging and an incredibly educational experience—well worth both the time and cost.
Journey Continues
After our stop, we hopped back on US-41 and took the Florida Turnpike South to exit 13. Though there was a no toll alternative route, our wagonmaster chose this route to make it easier to pull into our campground. The roads were jam-packed and it took us over an hour to travel the 37 miles. Our campground was only a couple miles from the exit.
Larry and Penny Thompson Park and Campground
When we arrived at Larry and Penny Thompson Park, night was approaching. Our caravan was in Pod #1, which was in the back of the campground. Our wagonmaster greeted us at the pod’s entrance and gave us our site assignment. We quickly set up our site before nightfall.
The campground was large, with 240 campsites divided into pods or circles, each with landscaped surroundings. The sites were paved and equipped with full hookups. The park offered shower facilities, picnic areas, a swimming pool, playgrounds, and hiking trails. It did not offer WIFI. It was adjacent to a 275-acre public park of preserved woodlands.
After we finished making camp, we relaxed with dinner and reflected on our long day.
Saturday, 15 March
Today, we venture into The Redland, a rural agricultural region nestled southwest of Miami and north of Homestead in southern Miami-Dade County. This area is renowned for its sprawling farms, lush nurseries, and abundant tropical fruit groves. The name comes from the distinctive red, iron-rich soil that characterizes the land, though we mostly encountered limestone dust and jagged rock.
Despite the stark, dusty terrain, The Redland thrives as a hub for agriculture, producing an impressive variety of crops. Towering avocado trees, sprawling mango orchards, and clusters of lychee trees dot the landscape, alongside more exotic fruits like dragon fruit, longan, and sapodilla. The area is also home to a vibrant network of fruit stands, u-pick farms, and expansive plant nurseries, supplying fresh tropical produce and ornamental plants to markets across the country.
RF Orchids
Our caravan began the day with a guided tour of R.F. Orchids at 9 a.m. This world-renowned orchid nursery, located in Homestead, is celebrated for its exceptional vandaceous alliance orchids, including rare species, fine mericlones, and numerous award-winning hybrids. Beyond being a paradise for orchid enthusiasts, the nursery has earned a reputation as a leader in the orchid industry.
Leading our tour was the founder himself, Robert Fuchs, a third-generation orchid grower whose lifelong dedication to cultivating and breeding orchids has brought him international acclaim. Inspired by his grandfather and father, Fuchs has spent over 50 years refining his craft, earning nearly 2,000 awards from the American Orchid Society (AOS) and other prestigious organizations. His expertise and deep appreciation for orchids were evident in every story he shared.
Our tour began in the public gardens, where orchids flourished amid towering palms, exotic ferns, and winding pathways. Throughout the grounds, intricate statuary added to the serene beauty of the landscape. We strolled through several open-air pavilions, designed to host weddings and other special events, each offering a picturesque setting surrounded by lush tropical greenery.
The highlight of the tour was gaining access to the private gardens surrounding Fuchs’ personal residence. Here, he shared insights into orchid cultivation, history, and care, providing invaluable knowledge about these delicate yet resilient plants. He also introduced us to the wide array of tropical plants thriving in his gardens, offering fascinating details about their origins and uses.
Before departing, we had a brief opportunity to explore the nursery’s greenhouses, where countless orchids were meticulously cultivated in controlled conditions. The sight of rows upon rows of vibrant blooms, each a testament to years of careful breeding and expertise, was a fitting conclusion to our visit.
As we left R.F. Orchids, we carried with us not only a newfound appreciation for the artistry and science behind orchid cultivation but also admiration for the passion and dedication that has made this nursery a global treasure.
Coral Castle
Our next destination was Coral Castle, where we had a guided tour scheduled for 11:00 a.m.
Coral Castle is a truly awe-inspiring limestone structure located in Homestead, renowned for its mysterious construction and the enigma surrounding its creator. Built single-handedly by Edward Leedskalnin, a Latvian immigrant, between 1923 and 1951, the castle is made up of massive coral rock blocks, some weighing as much as 30 tons. What makes Coral Castle even more remarkable is that Leedskalnin, a man of small stature—standing only 5 feet tall and weighing just 100 pounds—constructed it alone, without the aid of modern machinery. He worked primarily at night, away from prying eyes, which only deepened the legend of how he might have accomplished such an extraordinary feat.
Leedskalnin dedicated Coral Castle to his lost love, Agnes Scuffs, whom he affectionately called his “Sweet Sixteen.” She was his fiancée in Latvia, but she broke off their engagement the day before their wedding. Heartbroken, Leedskalnin emigrated to America and spent 28 years constructing the Coral Castle as a tribute to her, though she never visited it. This poignant story later inspired Billy Idol’s song “Sweet Sixteen.”
We began our visit by watching a short video that shared the history of the castle. Our guide then led us through the structure, pointing out its most notable features. Among them were a 9-ton stone door that once swung open with ease, baffling engineers when it needed repairs; a moon fountain that could tell the hour, month, and season; a Polaris telescope that aligned with the North Star; and various stone tables, chairs, and beds—all intricately carved from solid coral.
The tour was both fascinating and quirky, offering a delightful mix of history, mystery, and artistry that made for a memorable stop on our journey.
Knaus Berry Farms
After leaving Coral Castle, we made our way to Knaus Berry Farms, a beloved family-owned farm and market in Homestead, renowned for its fresh produce, mouthwatering baked goods, and inviting rural charm. Established in 1956, the farm has become a local institution. It’s best known for its cinnamon buns, often hailed as some of the best in the state. Knaus Berry Farms also operates a market offering a variety of fresh, seasonal produce, including strawberries, tomatoes, and lettuce.
When we arrived, the farm was bustling with visitors, so Lisa joined the long line for the bakery while I stood in line for some ice cream. I treated myself to a strawberry shake, and Lisa opted for a hot fudge sundae. We found a spot to enjoy our sweet treats, savoring each bite as we waited for our turn at the bakery counter. Once we finally reached the counter, we decided to take home a half dozen cinnamon rolls, and since their special of the day was oatmeal cookies, we grabbed eight to enjoy later.
Robert is Here Fruit Stand
We then drove over to another famous farm market called “Robert Is Here,” known for its fresh, locally grown produce, tropical fruit shakes, and unique selection of goods. Founded in 1959 by Robert Moehling, the stand has become a beloved destination for both locals and tourists eager to experience the best of Florida’s agricultural bounty.
What sets Robert Is Here apart is its extensive variety of tropical fruits that are often difficult to find elsewhere, including mangoes, papayas, guava, lychees, and dragon fruit. The market also offers an array of homemade jams, jellies, and salsas, many of which are crafted from the very fruits grown on the farm.
At the back of the market, we found a large courtyard featuring a pen full of farm animals and amphibians, as well as a spacious aviary housing vibrant tropical birds. Live music played in the background, and several craft and food booths were set up, creating a lively, festive atmosphere. Families with children were everywhere, enjoying the surroundings and the playful animals. We had a wonderful time browsing through the exotic fruits, soaking in the sights, and watching the animals roam freely in the large pen.
Fruit and Spice Park
To cap off our day with another agricultural experience, we purchased tickets for a taste tour at the Fruit and Spice Park, a one-of-a-kind botanical garden in Homestead dedicated to showcasing a vast collection of tropical fruits, spices, and herbs from across the globe. Spanning 37 acres, the park is the only public garden of its kind in the United States. It is home to over 500 varieties of fruits, spices, herbs, and nuts, each with its own unique flavor and cultural significance.
Some of the park’s highlights include mangoes, avocados, papayas, lychees, longan, starfruit, and even cacao. Visitors can also admire rare and exotic plants like vanilla orchids, allspice, and saffron, each contributing to the rich diversity of the park’s collection. The layout of the park is designed to provide a sensory experience, with lush gardens and winding paths that immerse you in a world of vibrant colors and aromas.
Our tour consisted of a tram ride through the park, where a knowledgeable guide shared insights about the various plants and their origins. As we journeyed through the park, we were encouraged to sample a wide variety of edible plants, some directly from the source, while others had been prepared for tasting. The tropical fruits were particularly exciting, offering us an array of flavors, from the sweet and juicy to the surprisingly sour. There was also the chance to smell or feel some plants, which added another layer of sensory exploration to the experience.
It was a fun and educational way to spend the afternoon, and the mix of tasting new flavors and learning about the diverse plants made it an unforgettable part of our day. Even when some of the plants were a bit too sour for our taste, we enjoyed the adventure of trying something new and getting a deeper understanding of the world of tropical agriculture. The experience at the Fruit and Spice Park was delicious and a delightful way to appreciate the incredible variety of plants that thrive in Florida’s subtropical climate.
We left the Fruit and Spice Park exhausted from the day’s activities and returned to our camper to recover and prepare for the next day’s activities.
Sunday, 16 March
Everglades Outpost
Everglades Outpost is a wildlife sanctuary and rescue center located in Homestead dedicated to the rehabilitation and care of injured, orphaned, and non-releasable wildlife, particularly those native to the Everglades and surrounding areas. The facility, which spans 17 acres, provides a safe haven for a variety of animals, including alligators, turtles, snakes, panthers, bears, and many other species. The outpost’s mission is to educate the public about Florida’s diverse wildlife, promote conservation efforts, and raise awareness about the importance of protecting natural habitats.
The sanctuary is also home to a collection of non-releasable animals that cannot be returned to the wild due to injury or human imprinting. These animals serve as ambassadors for their species, helping to educate visitors about the challenges wildlife face and the need for responsible stewardship of the environment.
One of the most popular attractions at Everglades Outpost is the chance to see alligators up close. The facility houses both American alligators and crocodiles, many of which have been rescued from situations where they were in danger or living in captivity. Visitors can learn about these incredible reptiles, their role in the ecosystem, and the importance of their conservation.
In addition to reptiles, the outpost also provides care for mammals, such as Florida panthers, bears, and deer, as well as a variety of bird species including hawks, eagles, and owls. The sanctuary also offers a variety of hands-on experiences, where visitors can interact with some of the animals in a safe, educational setting.
Everglades Outpost focuses heavily on education and conservation, offering guided tours where visitors can learn about the animals’ natural behaviors, rehabilitation efforts, and the ways in which they contribute to Florida’s delicate ecosystems. The outpost is a great destination for nature lovers, families, and anyone interested in learning more about the unique wildlife of the Everglades.
In addition to its animal rescue efforts, Everglades Outpost is involved in environmental advocacy, working with local organizations and governmental agencies to protect natural habitats and promote wildlife conservation in the region.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
After leaving the Everglades Outpost, we headed south toward Key Largo, about an hour away via US-1 due to traffic. Key Largo is home to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first underwater park in the United States. Established in 1963, the park is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. Spanning over 70 nautical square miles, it includes both land and water areas.
One of the park’s main attractions is its coral reefs, which are part of the Florida Reef Tract, the only living coral barrier reef in the continental U.S. The park offers glass-bottom boat tours, but due to turbulent seas, all tours were canceled that day.
Instead, we decided to explore the park by kayak. We rented a tandem kayak for two hours and paddled through the calmer waters of the mangrove tunnels. While we didn’t spot any wildlife, navigating the narrow passageways was both fun and challenging. It was fascinating to see how these salt-tolerant trees thrive in intertidal zones using specialized root systems that allow them to absorb oxygen both above and below the water.
After our paddle, we took showers and changed into dry clothes at the park’s facilities before exploring the visitor center. Inside, we found various aquariums showcasing local marine life and a small theater with a one hour educational film. Near the end of our visit, we watched the staff feed the lionfish as they striked at fish placed before them with a long stick.
Before heading back to our camper for the evening, we treated ourselves to some ice cream at a local shop—a perfect way to end the day.
Monday, 17 March
Miami Zoo
This morning, we visited Zoo Miami, also known as the Miami-Dade Zoological Park and Gardens. As Florida’s largest and oldest zoological park, it spans over 750 acres and is home to more than 3,000 animals representing over 500 species from around the world. Unlike traditional zoos, Zoo Miami features an open-air, cageless design, allowing animals to roam in expansive, naturalistic habitats separated by moats instead of fences. Nestled southwest of downtown Miami, the zoo takes full advantage of South Florida’s subtropical climate, making it an ideal home for species from Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Americas.
We rented a Safari Cycle for three hours to explore the vast grounds more comfortably. Arriving right when the zoo opened at 10 a.m., we found ourselves among a large group of high school seniors celebrating their Senior Picnic. Watching their excitement and interactions with the animals added to the lively atmosphere. The first area we traveled through was full of animatronic dinosaurs, which were interesting. I thought they were out of place, but I am sure the younger visitors greatly enjoy them. As we pedaled from habitat to habitat, we observed a fascinating array of creatures, many of which are endangered—a sobering reminder of the importance of conservation. One of the most memorable moments of our visit was feeding a giraffe fresh lettuce leaves. After we returned our cycle, we explored a couple more exhibits before heading off to our next adventure.
Biscayne National Park
After we left the zoo, we drove to the visitor center for the Biscayne National Park. This National Park is located south of Miami and is a largely water-based park covering over 270 square miles. It features coral reefs, Biscayne Bay, mangrove shorelines, and portions of the northern Florida Keys. Access beyond the visitor center required a boat. We could not find a tour available within our schedule, so we had to be content with our view from the shore. We do have a Miami shortline cruise scheduled later in the tour.
Afterwards, we headed back to our camper for a trip meeting and to prepared for our jump the next day.
Tuesday, 18 March
Today we headed out to Key West down US-1.