Alligator Alley is the nickname given to the section of Interstate 75 that runs across the Florida Everglades between Naples and Fort Lauderdale. This remote 80 mile stretch of highway has no services, so travelers need to plan accordingly before making the journey.
Are there rest stops on Alligator Alley?
There are no traditional rest stops or service plazas along Alligator Alley. The highway was purposely built without any stops to limit development in the sensitive Everglades ecosystem. So if you need to take a break, get gas or food, you’ll have to exit the highway.
Where can you stop along Alligator Alley?
There are only two exit points along Alligator Alley where you’ll find gas stations, restaurants and other services:
- Exit 80 (Snake Road) – On the Naples side, about 25 miles in. Has a gas station and fast food.
- Exit 53 (US-27) – On the Fort Lauderdale side, about 55 miles in. Has a gas station, fast food and a motel.
So be sure to fuel up and use the restroom before getting on Alligator Alley, especially if you are driving an RV, towing a boat or traveling with kids. The 80 mile stretch will take over an hour to drive with no opportunity to stop.
What should you do in an emergency or if you run out of gas?
Hopefully you’ve planned your trip across Alligator Alley carefully and won’t run into trouble. But if an emergency comes up, here are some options:
- Use a call box – There are emergency call boxes located every 2 miles where you can request help.
- Call law enforcement – Dial *FHP (*347) on your mobile phone to reach the Florida Highway Patrol.
- Wait for help – If your vehicle breaks down or runs out of gas, turn on your hazard lights and wait with doors locked. Police patrol the highway but it may take awhile for help to arrive.
- Walk to an exit – Do NOT attempt to walk along Alligator Alley unless absolutely necessary. The highway is dangerous for pedestrians with narrow shoulders. If you have no other choice, walk carefully to the nearest exit.
Tips for driving across Alligator Alley
Here are some important tips to follow when driving across Alligator Alley:
- Fill your gas tank – Don’t let it go below half a tank before getting on the highway.
- Bring supplies – Pack drinks, snacks, first aid kit, jumper cables, tire inflator, flares.
- Check your spare – Make sure you have a working spare tire in case of a flat.
- Watch for wildlife – Alligators, panthers and other wildlife may wander onto the road.
- Beware summer storms – The highway is prone to fog, rain and lightning storms.
- Pick up hitchhikers at your own risk – People may try catching rides but use caution.
- Drive carefully – Obey the speed limit and don’t tailgate. There is no margin for error.
Conclusion
Driving across Alligator Alley requires careful planning due to the lack of rest stops or exit points. Be sure to gas up beforehand, bring emergency supplies, drive cautiously and avoid stopping if at all possible. With some preparation, you can have a safe journey across this iconic section of highway running through the heart of the Florida Everglades.