Day Trips
Looking for an exciting day trip that will create some unique vacation memories?
You picked the right area of Florida to find those - we have some interesting and varied Day Trips and State Parks for you to consider!
Located on the Grand Barrier Island of Gasparilla, this community is a step back into “Old World” Florida.
Here you will find a seven mile long island that boasts no high rises and no traffic lights,
a 125+ year old lighthouse, and a street with 100+ year old Banyan trees.
Seven miles of wide, pristine, sugar white sand beaches offer shelling, swimming, and just plain relaxing.
Galleries present the works of local artists and many shops offer unique treasures from around the world.
Boca Grande restaurants each have their own style, featuring dishes made from the freshest local seafood as well as international specialties.
Try an escape to Boca Grande - relax, shop, dine, fish, and unwind…
772-539-7005
Come join a professional guide, Fred Mazza, in exploring Florida’s ancient past hidden in the beds of our rivers.
Appropriate for all levels of experience. Anyone with enthusiasm to explore the really old Florida is cordially invited!
Fossil-hunting is done by digging and sifting gravel from shallow river bottoms - even kids can do it.
Our walk-in trips allow you to park and fossil-hunt within walking distance of your vehicle all day. Or take advantage of our popular canoe or kayak trips.
All tours are set up by reservation. Weekends and weekdays are available all year - just email us through our contact form on the website or give us a call.
1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota - 941-388-4441
Explore the secrets of the sea through touch pools, viewable working labs, and high-tech interactive exhibits
that showcase the world-renowned research of Mote Marine Laboratory.
See sharks, manatees, and sea turtles, along with more than 100 other species of marine life.
Open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week, 365 days a year, including all holidays.
Nestled between the sparkling waters of Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, this place is truly unique in concept, history, and ambience.
It’s easy to relax, unwind, and let your cares fade away.
St. Armands Circle is the vision of its founder, circus magnate John Ringling. His influence is still present today in the design of the streets radiating from the island’s hub.
Whether shopping for trinkets and treasures, high fashion or home décor, gourmet snacks to candlelit feasts under the stars, you’ll find it all on the Circle.
Located just west of Ft. Myers, these islands are a wonderful escape over the three mile causeway to a refreshing pace of life.
Here you will find white sand beaches brimming with shells, unmatched wildlife viewing, and a family focused village atmosphere.
On Sanibel, 25 miles of multi-use paths function as sidewalks, bike paths, and recreational trails beside buildings no taller than the tallest palm tree.
Education centers such as the J.N. “Ding” Darling 6,400 acre National Wildlife Refuge will introduce visitors to the island’s marine and wildlife habitats.
Visitors to both islands enjoy the languid pace of island life, great restaurants, shops, and museums.
1200 W Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda - 941-639-8721
The Village is Florida’s unique hometown hang out and offers activities for everyone.
Shopping, dining, live entertainment, and water adventures await both locals and visitors.
With over 30 boutique shops and 5 different restaurants, you are sure to find something that pleases you and your family.
7101 Palmer Blvd, Sarasota - 941-371-6377
Come and explore this haven for over 150 exotic and domestic animals in need of a safe, permanent home.
See tigers playing in their habitats and pools, hang out in the charming petting zoo, and enjoy educational demonstrations.
This is a place that promotes animal welfare and the human-animal bond in our world.