Dante Fascell Visitor Center Biscayne National Park
Biscayne National Park: a stunning aquatic wonderland where 95% of the park is water, offering boat tours, snorkeling, and serene coastal exploration.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Dante Fascell Visitor Center Biscayne National Park
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Biscayne National Park: a stunning aquatic wonderland where 95% of the park is water, offering boat tours, snorkeling, and serene coastal exploration.
"A relaxing experience with calm waters and beautiful surroundings, perfect for a low-key outdoor escape."
Book Boat Tours Early
Secure your spot on popular boat tours like the Heritage of Biscayne by booking in advance.
Pack for the Sun
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat. The Florida sun is intense, especially on the water.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Boca Chita Key
Island accessible by boat
Tranquil turquoise waters, scenic trails, picnic spots, and camping await on this picturesque island. Perfect for a day trip or overnight stay.

Heritage of Biscayne Boat Tour
Departs from Dante Fascell Visitor Center
A 3.5-hour adventure exploring Biscayne Bay and the northern Florida Keys, rich with history and stunning views.

Convoy Point Boardwalk Trail
Adjacent to Dante Fascell Visitor Center
A short, dog-friendly stroll offering beautiful coastal views and a peaceful escape. Great for a quick nature walk.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Water: Biscayne is 95% Water!
Visitor Center Essentials & Free Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Boat Tours Early
Secure your spot on popular boat tours like the Heritage of Biscayne by booking in advance.
Pack for the Sun
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat. The Florida sun is intense, especially on the water.
Dog-Friendly Grounds
Leashed dogs are welcome on the visitor center grounds, but not inside. Grab a free BARK ranger tag!
Explore the Museum
The visitor center museum offers fascinating insights into the park's underwater habitats and shipwrecks.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Boat Tours Early
Secure your spot on popular boat tours like the Heritage of Biscayne by booking in advance.
Pack for the Sun
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat. The Florida sun is intense, especially on the water.
Dog-Friendly Grounds
Leashed dogs are welcome on the visitor center grounds, but not inside. Grab a free BARK ranger tag!
Explore the Museum
The visitor center museum offers fascinating insights into the park's underwater habitats and shipwrecks.
Free Canoe Tours
Check for free canoe tours on the 3rd Saturday of the month during Park After Dark events.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Biscayne National Park for its stunning natural beauty and unique aquatic environment, highlighting the relaxing paddleboarding and informative boat tours. The free admission and friendly staff at the Dante Fascell Visitor Center are frequently mentioned positives. Some note the limited dining options and the need for advance booking for tours.
"We visited Biscayne National Park in Miami and spent our time paddleboarding around the visitor center area. It was such a relaxing experience—calm waters, gentle flow, and beautiful surroundings. Even though we didn’t explore far, just being out on the water made it a peaceful and enjoyable visit. Highly recommend for a low-key outdoor escape!"
Zoe M
"Did the Heritage of Biscayne Boat tour on top of a visit the visitor center. Visitor center was clean, staff was friendly and had everything you need for a day in the park. Captain BJ and Kathy were great on the boat tour. Very informative and passionate about their job. A definite need to do if you're visiting the park."
Justin Fugate
"We came at the end of the day and had time to see the museum and talk with the park rangers. The museum is incredibly informative about the underwater habitats of Biscayne Bay, and there is also a theater that shows videos that the pakr service has put together about the park. There are a lot of boating and water activities you can buy tickets for and rentals at this location as well. There is also a great short trail leading from the visitor's center that you can walk too."
Hannah
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Dante Fascell Visitor Center is located at 9700 SW 328th St, Homestead, FL 33033. It's accessible by car and is the primary entry point for many park activities. Parking is available on-site.
Public transportation options directly to the visitor center are limited. It's generally recommended to have a car for easier access to Biscayne National Park. Consider ride-sharing services if you don't have a vehicle.
From Miami, take Florida's Turnpike South to Exit 16 (SW 137th Ave). Turn left (south) onto SW 137th Ave, which becomes SW 328th St. Continue on SW 328th St for approximately 5 miles, and the visitor center will be on your right.
While the visitor center is the main hub, the park's vastness means many areas are only accessible by boat. The visitor center provides essential information and access to tours that take you to these remote locations.
Yes, ample parking is available at the Dante Fascell Visitor Center, which is convenient for visitors accessing the museum, gift shop, and tour departures.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Biscayne National Park and the Dante Fascell Visitor Center is free! This makes it an accessible destination for everyone looking to explore.
The visitor center typically operates from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, but it's always a good idea to check the official National Park Service website for the most up-to-date hours, especially on holidays.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book boat tours, such as the Heritage of Biscayne tour, in advance, especially during peak season, as they can sell out. You can often book through the Biscayne National Park Institute.
Absolutely! The visitor center offers free admission, a museum, a short boardwalk trail, and sometimes free canoe tours on the 3rd Saturday of the month as part of their 'Park After Dark' events.
The visitor center offers rentals for various water activities like kayaks and paddleboards, allowing you to explore the waters near Convoy Point.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At the visitor center, you can explore an informative museum about the park's marine life and shipwrecks, walk the Convoy Point boardwalk trail, and book various boat tours and water activity rentals.
Yes, there's a short, dog-friendly boardwalk trail at Convoy Point, adjacent to the visitor center, offering scenic views of the bay.
You might spot various bird species, marine life in the shallow waters, and if you're lucky, manatees or dolphins. The museum provides detailed information on the park's diverse ecosystems.
Yes, families can enjoy the visitor center's museum, the easy boardwalk trail, and boat tours. The park's focus on water activities makes it an engaging experience for children.
While the immediate area around the visitor center is more for paddling, many boat tours take visitors to prime snorkeling and diving spots within the park's protected waters.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no full-service restaurants at the Dante Fascell Visitor Center. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks, or plan to dine before or after your visit. Picnic areas are available.
Yes, picnic areas with grills are available at the visitor center grounds, making it a great spot for a packed lunch while enjoying the coastal scenery.
Homestead, Florida, located a short drive from the park, offers a variety of local restaurants and eateries. You can find everything from casual diners to international cuisine.
The visitor center may have a small gift shop that sells some basic snacks and drinks, but it's best to come prepared with your own provisions.
Generally, there are no dining facilities on the islands like Boca Chita Key. Visitors must bring all their food and water if planning to spend extended time there.
📸 📸 Photography
The Convoy Point boardwalk offers beautiful sunrise and sunset views over the bay. Boat tours provide unique perspectives of the coastline, islands, and marine life.
Yes, the park is home to diverse birdlife and marine creatures. Remember to maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive bay views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Waterproof protection for your gear is advisable due to the water environment.
Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. However, commercial photography or videography may require a permit. Always check with park rangers if you have specific questions.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer colors. The golden hour before sunset is particularly stunning over the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Pet Owners
🛶 Water Sports Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Biscayne's Aquatic Realm
For those seeking adventure, boat tours are a must. The Heritage of Biscayne Boat Tour is highly recommended, providing a 3.5-hour journey through the park's northern keys and Biscayne Bay. These tours offer opportunities to see diverse marine life, learn about the area's ecology, and visit iconic spots like Boca Chita Key. Many tours also include opportunities for snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, revealing vibrant coral reefs and a variety of fish.
Beyond organized tours, visitors can also enjoy activities like paddleboarding and kayaking near the visitor center. The calm waters around Convoy Point are ideal for beginners and offer a peaceful way to connect with the natural beauty of the park. Remember to always check weather conditions and prioritize safety when venturing out on the water.
Planning Your Visit: Tips from the Community
Packing essentials are key to a comfortable experience. The Florida sun can be intense, so bringing plenty of water, sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent is highly advised. Many visitors recommend wearing comfortable shoes for walking trails and bringing waterproof bags for electronics. For those planning to spend time on the islands or on a boat tour, packing a lunch and snacks is also a good idea, as food services are limited.
Free activities are a significant draw for many visitors. The visitor center itself is free to enter and explore its museum. Keep an eye out for special events like the 'Park After Dark' series, which sometimes includes free canoe tours on the third Saturday of the month. These community-driven tips highlight how to make the most of your visit by being prepared and aware of the unique opportunities Biscayne National Park offers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit