In the scenic expanse of Everglades National Park, visitors can now experience the unique offering of the Flamingo Lodge, the only hotel situated within the park’s boundaries. This newly opened lodge, located at the southernmost point of the Florida peninsula, overlooks the beautiful Florida Bay, providing an unmatched destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
Each of the 24 rooms at Flamingo Lodge comes equipped with balconies that offer breathtaking views of both the sunrise and sunset over the open water. The accommodations include modern amenities such as private bathrooms, kitchenettes, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable stay. Additionally, the lodge features a reception area, an on-site retail section, and elevators, distinguishing it from typical camping options available in the park.
The Flamingo Lodge is complemented by the Flamingo Restaurant, which offers a diverse menu with indoor and outdoor seating. This restaurant is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, serving dishes ranging from smoothies and breakfast burritos to regionally inspired options like the mahi-mahi sandwich and conch chowder. The restaurant also features a full-service bar, available for lunch and dinner, with an option for guests to have their fresh catch cooked according to their preference—grilled, fried, or blackened.
In conjunction with the opening of Flamingo Lodge, the park has also introduced a redesigned and reconstructed visitor center, now named the Guy Bradley Visitor Center. This center, named in honor of the first Audubon game warden, presents several new exhibits that detail the coastal ecosystem and its diverse wildlife. The design of the visitor center retains its historical significance by preserving its unique architectural features, including an expansive terrace and large windows offering panoramic bay views. The building is adorned with pastel pink and blue hues, characteristic of Mission 66 architecture and Miami Modern design elements.
The Flamingo Lodge and visitor center have been revitalized after past hurricanes in 2005 and 2017 caused significant damage. The original lodge and restaurant had been a favored attraction for nearly four decades. The planning for the recent renovations, which began in 2018, considered long-term resilience and storm protection amidst rising sea levels due to climate change. These efforts were aligned with Florida’s building codes for coastal high-hazard areas, incorporating energy-efficient features to adapt to current environmental challenges.
Flamingo Lodge represents a significant enhancement to the visitor experience at Everglades National Park, combining modern amenities with the natural beauty of the surroundings. As the only hotel within the park, the lodge provides an exceptional opportunity for guests to immerse themselves in one of Florida’s most iconic natural landscapes, while enjoying contemporary comforts. The renewed visitor center further enriches this experience, offering educational insights into the local ecology and preservation efforts.
Source: Timeout
