Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Bringing back the Everglades is one of the biggest, most ambitious environmental res-
toration projects in US history, one that combines the needs of farmers, fishers, urban
residents, local governments and conservationists. The success or failure of the program
will be a bellwether for the future of the US environmental movement.
Tours
Everglades Adventure Tours
TOUR
(EAT; 800-504-6554;
www.evergladesadventuretours.com
;
tours from $69)
We already like the guys at EAT for being based out of the same headquarters as the Skunk
Ape people; we like them even more for offering some of the best private tours of the
Everglades we've found. Swamp hikes, 'safaris,' airboats and, best of all, being poled
around in a canoe or skiff by some genuinely funny guys with genuine local knowledge of
the Grassy Waters; it's an absolute treat. The EAT guys have set up a campsite at Skunk
Ape HQ; it costs $30 to camp here, and there's wi-fi throughout the camp.
Sleeping & Eating
Swamp Cottage
COTTAGE
(
239-695-2428;
www.clydebutchersbigcypressgallery.com/swamp-cottage
; cottage $275;
)
Want to get as close to the swamp as possible without giving up on the amenities? This
two-bedroom cottage, which sits behind the
Big Cypress Gallery
, may be the answer
you're seeking. It's like a beach cottage, except the 'beach' is one of America's great wet-
lands. It's comfortably appointed, and if not luxurious, it's certainly cozy.
Joannie's Blue Crab Café
AMERICAN
( 239-695-2682; Tamiami Trail; mains $9-17; 9am-5pm)
This quintessential shack, east of Ochopee, with open rafters, shellacked picnic tables and
alligator kitsch, serves delicious food of the 'fried everything' variety on paper plates.
There's live music most days.
