Pros & cons
PROS
- Vast selection of tropical and exotic fruits
- Famous made-to-order fruit milkshakes
- Backyard animal area that’s great for kids
CONS
- Long lines and tight parking on weekends
- Prices can feel high for some items
Overview
A South Florida institution since 1959, Robert Is Here is the beloved roadside fruit market just outside the Ernest F. Coe entrance. Think overflowing bins of rare tropicals, a bustling milkshake counter, and a backyard mini‑farm that turns a quick stop into a fun break.
What You’ll Find
- Produce galore: mangos, avocados, dragon fruit, lychee, sapodilla, eggfruit, and more you’ve probably never tried.
- Shakes and smoothies: blended to order from fresh fruit; the tart key lime is a classic favorite.
- Beyond fruit: jams, honey, salsas, pickles, jerky, and other local goods. Food trucks (like BBQ) often add easy lunch options.
- Family fun: an animal area out back with goats, tortoises, ducks, cows, and birds; live music shows up on some weekends and holidays.
Why Stop Here
It’s the easiest way to taste South Florida—exotic fruit you can sample before buying and a milkshake that actually tastes like the fruit on the sign. It’s also the most convenient “treat stop” to pair with your Everglades day.
Quick History
The name comes from a hand‑painted roadside sign set out in 1959: “Robert is here.” The kid behind the sign grew up to run this still‑family‑operated stand.
Planning Notes
- Crowds: Weekends midday get slammed; expect lines and a busy lot. Weekdays and mornings are calmer.
- Time: Most people spend up to 45 minutes, longer if you linger with the animals or wait for shakes.
- Wildlife: This is about farm animals and food, not wild Everglades sightings—save those for inside the park.
Best Time to Visit
- When: Open daily 9 am–6 pm. Go right at opening or on weekdays to avoid the milkshake rush.
- Light: Morning or late afternoon gives softer light for colorful produce and the animal yard.
- Pairing: Easiest as a pre‑ or post‑Everglades stop given its short drive from the park entrance.
Where it is
25.4474, -80.5019Robert is Here Fruit Stand and Farm
Tips for Robert is Here Fruit Stand and Farm
- 01Go early or on weekdays—weekend midday lines for shakes can be long.
- 02Order the key lime shake if you want the signature flavor.
- 03Ask to sample unfamiliar fruits before you buy.
- 04Plan 30–45 minutes; linger longer if you visit the animal area.
- 05Stop on your way to or from the Ernest F. Coe entrance.
Amenities
Near Robert is Here Fruit Stand and Farm
All places →All trails →
6.2 mi awayErnest F. Coe Visitor CenterThe main gateway for maps, advice, and a quick primerExhibit · Restroom
6.2 mi awayHomestead EntranceMain gateway to trails, wildlife, and the road to FlamingoEntrance Station · Visitor Center
6.2 mi awayEverglades National Park Main Entrance SignIconic entrance sign and quick photo stop near Coe Visitor CenterPullout
6.3 mi awayErnest F. Coe Visitor Center EV Charging StationLevel 2 top-up beside the main visitor centerParking · Restroom
8.1 mi awayGumbo Limbo TrailShaded, paved loop through a lush tropical hardwood hammockEasy · 0.4 mi · 18 min
11.2 mi awayPinelands TrailShort, shady paved loop through rare pine rocklands and karst holes.Easy · 0.4 mi · 24 min
13.7 mi awayLong Pine Key TrailFlat pine rockland traverse with bikes allowed and big winter skiesEasy · 6.1 mi · 5.5 hr
17.6 mi awayOld Ingraham Highway TrailHistoric roadbed into wild, alligator country—long, flat, exposedModerate · 22.8 mi · 6.5 hr
