Visit Everglades City and the Ten Thousand Islands of Southwest Florida, the Everglades

Drawn Together Art Contest Open to Local Students in May

Everglades

by Denise Wauters

In a community as tight-knit as ours, anything that gets the kids involved is worth paying attention to. The Drawn Together Art and Essay Contest is one of those things, and entries are now being accepted.

The contest is presented by Collier County Museums and Southwest Florida Family in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. Students across Southwest Florida — including kids right here in Everglades City, Chokoloskee, and Goodland — are invited to share what America at 250 means to them through original artwork and a short essay.

Entries are open through May 31.

Three Age Groups, One Story Each

Students enter in one of three age groups based on grade level. Pioneer is for grades K through 4, Explorer is for grades 5 through 8, and Innovator is for grades 9 through 12.

Every entry includes one original piece of artwork along with a short essay from the artist explaining the idea, inspiration, and meaning behind the piece. The theme leaves plenty of room — family roots, community pride, creativity, courage, culture, and your own Southwest Florida story all count.

How to Enter

Limited printed templates are available for pickup at participating Collier County libraries and Collier County Museums. Families can also submit their artwork digitally using the online submission link on the Collier County Museums website.

Completed entries must be returned by May 31, 2026. For full contest rules and forms, visit www.colliermuseums.com.

Where Winners Go on Display

Winners and select entries will be displayed at the Collier Museum at Government Center beginning July 11. Winners will also be showcased in the August issue of Southwest Florida Family.

It’s a real chance for local kids to see their work hanging in a museum and printed in a regional magazine — the kind of thing that sticks with a young artist long after the contest is over.

If your student needs a creative spark this month, point them toward this one. We always love seeing what the kids in our community create.

You may also be interested in Collier County Summer Camp 2026 Registration Opens March 2 or Catch a Florida Memory Program 2026.

Drawn Together: Southwest Florida Celebrates America 250 Art & Essay Contest
2026-04-30T22:22:25-04:00May 3, 2026|Community, News, School|

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FAQ’s

Are dogs allowed off leash in the park?2026-01-05T07:26:17-05:00

No. Dogs must always be kept on a leash when visiting Everglades National Park and surrounding park lands.

In most areas, dogs are not allowed on trails, boardwalks, or backcountry routes at all, even on a leash. Where pets are permitted (such as certain roadside or developed areas), they must be:

  • On a leash no longer than 6 feet
  • Under control at all times
  • Kept out of wildlife areas and water

These rules are in place to protect:

  • Sensitive wildlife (including birds, reptiles, and mammals)
  • Fragile ecosystems
  • Your dog’s safety (alligators, snakes, and heat are real risks here)

If you’re traveling with a dog, it’s best to check specific park rules before visiting or plan pet-friendly activities outside the national park boundaries.

Can I visit Goodland and Everglades City in the same day?2025-12-18T17:48:26-05:00

Yes. They’re close enough that many visitors do both in one day. It’s an easy way to experience two very different sides of the Ten Thousand Islands area.
Helpful pages: Goodland | Everglades City

Does Goodland have beaches?2025-12-18T17:46:05-05:00

No. Goodland is a working waterfront village, not a beach town. Visitors looking for sandy beaches usually head to Marco Island or other nearby areas.

Helpful page: Goodland

Drones in the Park?2025-12-18T17:32:48-05:00

Can I fly my drone in Everglades National Park?

No, drones and other unmanned aircraft are not allowed in the park, or any other National Park Service site. This includes model airplanes, quadcopters, etc. (nps.gov)

How to get to Keywadin Island, and what should I bring?2025-12-18T18:08:20-05:00

Keywadin Island is only accessible by boat. People reach it from several nearby launches, including Marco Island, Everglades City, and Port of the Islands, depending on where they’re coming from and the conditions. While the island is undeveloped, there are trash cans placed in popular areas, and on busy days boat-based vendors often come by selling items like ice cream, drinks, and simple food. Visitors should still plan ahead by bringing water, sun protection, and anything they’ll need for the day, and always pack out personal trash and respect the natural setting.

Long Term Parking in Port of the Islands2025-12-18T17:33:02-05:00

Where can I park my car if I’m leaving in a boat for an extended trip?

Check with The Ship Store at (239) 642-3133 or Port of the Islands Marina at (239) 389-0367.

 

 

Reserve Mcleod Park?2025-12-18T17:32:23-05:00

Can I reserve the Mcleod Park for an event?

To Reserve the City Park for an Event contact the City Clerk at (239) 695-4558 or email: Dsmallwood@cityofeverglades.org (CityofEverglades.org)

Trip Time to the Ocean From Port of the Islands2025-12-18T17:33:18-05:00

How long does it take to get out to the ocean from Port of the Islands

It usually takes around 45 minutes to cruise from the Port of the Islands to the ocean. The journey includes navigating through a long, no-wake zone canal, providing a delightful and unhurried ride. Bring a cover for sun protection during this slow and scenic route. About half an hour in, you’ll arrive at the expansive and naturally beautiful mangroves before reaching the open waters of the ocean.

What are the best ways to experience the Everglades?2026-03-10T18:26:57-04:00

The Everglades isn’t something you just drive through and check off a list. The best way to experience it is to slow down. Walk a boardwalk trail, spend time on the water, or explore with someone who knows the area. A mix of trails, scenic drives, and guided tours gives you a much better feel for this place than any single stop.
Helpful pages:

Things To Do  |  Parks  |  Boat Tours

Where can I park in Port of the Islands2025-12-18T17:33:50-05:00

In Port of the Islands, where can I park if I’m going out on the water?

You can park in the parking lot by Port of the Islands Marina. Check with The Ship Store at (239) 642-3133 or Port of the Islands Marina at (239) 389-0367.

Where is Chokoloskee located?2025-12-18T17:54:41-05:00

Chokoloskee is a small island community just across the bridge from Everglades City. It sits right on the edge of the Everglades and the Ten Thousand Islands, surrounded by water, mangroves, and backcountry routes.

Helpful Pages:  Chokoloskee

Where is Goodland located?2025-12-18T17:44:57-05:00

Goodland is a small waterfront fishing village located between Marco Island and Everglades City. It sits on the edge of the Ten Thousand Islands and is surrounded by water, mangroves, and working docks.
Helpful page: Goodland

Where is Ochopee located?2025-12-18T17:58:53-05:00

Ochopee is a small rural community along Tamiami Trail (US-41), east of Everglades City, right in the heart of the Everglades. It’s not a town in the traditional sense — more a stretch of road where long-time families still live and work.

Helpful page: Ochopee

Which Park to Hunt2025-12-18T17:34:10-05:00

Where can I hunt in Everglades National Forrest?

Hunting is permitted exclusively in Big Cypress Preserve. Visit our hunting page for more details.

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