Although I was born and raised in South Florida, there are many areas I have never explored. Just 35 minutes southeast of Marco Island is Everglades City, population 400! On this particular day, I believe tourists easily doubled or tripled the census. From my observations, the city boasts primarily industry of airboat rides, harvesting stone crabs, and general tourism. In addition, there are popular restaurants, some more "nooks" than actual buildings but all with incredible fresh seafood and natural ambiance. For extended stays and accommodations beyond a day trip, there are hospitable resorts, luxury RV parks, and gulf view homes wisely built on stilts. The town even offers Everglades City School, Home of the Gators! If you are near Florida's southwest coast, I think most would enjoy the downhome, quiet, easy-going nature of this small water-side town. If you have time for a boat tour or airboat ride, even better! Otherwise take advantage of a delicious meal and tour the area via car and foot. My husband and I agreed, we look forward to a return visit soon.
Everglades City Hall was erected in 1928 and was originally the Collier County Courthouse. In the early days, Barron Collier championed Everglades City as the county seat, however as Naples and Immokalee rose in population and economic influence its significance was reduced. Today the court house is instead the Everglades City Hall and reflects the area's history and esteemed legacy.
A quick google search and I happened upon this indoor/outdoor eatery with excellent reviews and incredible natural ambiance. As the lunch hour extended itself, so too did the line! And nobody complained as clearly the secret is out, Camellia's will satisfy any food craving!
The process: 1) Get in line. 2) QR code the menu or read from the board 3) Take a number, fill your soda cup, and take a seat either inside or outside. 4) The waiters will bring you your food hot off the grill. Enjoy! 5) You pay from your seat at the end of your meal.
My delicious bleu cheese burger and herb garden salad.
Ron's Mahi-Mahi sandwich and cucumber cole slaw
One of the many relaxing waterside views from Camellia's Street Grill.
The lunch line upon our departure! This was a Friday afternoon and I would expect it is even more popular on the weekends.
Cute rental cabins in Everglades City.
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.2 square miles! It seemed much larger during our explorations. In addition, these stone crab crates were abundant on every street, dock and alley.
An airboat ride in the Everglades seems like a bucket list adventure. My guess is Everglades City will exceed your expectations.
There are a variety of restaurants and seafood markets worthy of research in this small town. The fresh seafood and beautiful natural surroundings beg for a return visit.
Everglades City School is a pre-K-12th grade public school. Its setting is defined as "Distant Rural." It has a student population of 167. The student/teacher ratio is 12:1 and the population is 52% female and 48% male.
Friday Florida Field Trips might become a new addition as we escape the Wisconsin home-office for warmer temperatures. Although we often elect to eat-in versus dine-out, it's good for the economy for us to invest in these small businesses and take advantage of their unique offerings. (For this reason, I thank you for investing in Home Training!) Although I still consider Florida to be "home," there is always something new to do in our own back yard. Bloom and explore where you are planted.
Looking forward to seeing you all for our 3rd week in the February Pilates series.
Monday: Foam Roller
Tuesday: Theraband
Wednesday: Mat
Thursday: Magic Circle
Looking forward to seeing you all for our 3rd week in the February Pilates series.
Monday: Foam Roller
Tuesday: Theraband
Wednesday: Mat
Thursday: Magic Circle
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