The Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center is the main entrance to Everglades National Park. Located in the park’s Florida City entrance, the visitor center serves as an information hub for visitors and park staff. The building contains exhibits about the park, an auditorium for special events, and a gift shop. The center is also the starting point for many of the park’s guided tours and activities.
History of the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center
The Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center was named after Ernest F. Coe, who was instrumental in the establishment of Everglades National Park. Originally a landscape architect, Coe worked with the National Park Service to create the park in 1947. The visitor center was built in his honor and opened to the public in 1974.
What You Can See and Do at the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center
The Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors. The center features several exhibits about the park, including a diorama of a Florida panther, and an interactive map of the park. There is also an auditorium for special events, such as films and lectures. The gift shop offers souvenirs and other items related to the park.
In addition to the exhibits, the visitor center offers a variety of guided tours and activities. Ranger-led tours are available for a range of topics, from bird-watching to exploring the park’s ecosystems. The center also offers educational programs for children and adults, as well as a Junior Ranger program.
Hours and Admission
The Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center is open year-round. The center is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Admission to the center is free.
Getting to the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center
The Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center is located at the Florida City entrance to Everglades National Park. The center is located off of U.S. Highway 1, approximately 45 miles south of Miami. Visitors can access the center by car or public transportation.
Nearby Attractions
The Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center is close to a variety of attractions in the Florida City area. Visitors can explore the city’s historic district, take a tour of the nearby Everglades Alligator Farm, and visit the Robert is Here fruit stand. The center is also a short drive away from other attractions in the area, such as Biscayne National Park, Everglades National Park, and Big Cypress National Preserve.
Plan Your Visit to the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center
The Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center is the perfect place to start your visit to Everglades National Park. With its exhibits, tours, and activities, the center is a great way to learn more about the park and its wildlife. Whether you’re looking to explore the park or just take in the scenery, the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center is the perfect place to start.
