Tourist in Your Own Backyard: Wonderful getaway choices in Southwest Florida

Oct 25, 2017 07:42PM ● By Mandy Carter

Photo courtesy of Trianon Bonita Bay Hotel.

Sometimes you just need to get away―but then realize you can’t. Luckily we live in a popular tourist destination making for a wonderful local vacation!

Here is a great 3-day itinerary for being a tourist in your hometown.

Friday

p.m.

Check into the Trianon Bonita Bay Hotel. This boutique hotel is a quiet place to get away from the week’s hustle. Once you are settled into your room, head to the hotel pool bar for happy hour while enjoying views of the lake.

End the night by getting dressed up and splurging on an intimate fine-dining experience at Angelina’s Ristorante. The menu is inspired by the Italian way of dining. It begins with antipasti, followed by the first course that consists of small pasta portions. Then onto the main entrees and ending with decadent desserts. Reservations are highly recommended.

Saturday

a.m.

Photo by Mandy Carter.

Begin the morning with a Popsicle Mimosa and delicious breakfast sandwich from The Eatery by Ryan. This cozy cafe serves up a hearty or light breakfast to start your day the way you would like.

Gators, flamingos & plants, oh my! Go back in time to see old Florida with a visit to the Everglades Wonder Gardens. This historical roadside attraction also has more than 3 acres of botanical jungle to explore. Check the calendar for special events and animal encounter times.

p.m.

Time for lunch. There are so many great restaurants to choose from, but since you are on your way to hang out at the beach, enjoy a seafood lunch at Coconut Jack’s. You are sure to see some wildlife if you dine on the outdoor patio … and maybe even a dolphin. As you leave, take a photo in the big blue chair.

Bonita Beach Park is a fantastic place to enjoy some beach time. This 2.5-acre beachfront park features a boardwalk, great swimming area, a gazebo and a number of picnic shelters.

After some fun on the beach, you will enjoy letting someone drive you around the water looking for playful dolphins, mysterious manatees and an array of birds. Set sail with All Water Excursion on their weekend Sunset Dolphin Cruise.

Sunday

a.m.

Sleep in! Once checking out of your hotel, take a short drive over to the Hyatt Regency Hotel to end you staycation with an elaborate buffet breakfast on the patio at Tanglewood.

At a Glance

Mandy Carter is a local mom with a passion for family travel, a popular travel blogger including her own family blog at Acupful.com and the Digital Content & Engagement Editor for TOTI Media.

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