When we go on vacation, it can sometimes be a bit overwhelming to sort through the multitude of different restaurants, activities, events, and tourist spots that exist within a single place and all of which compete for our attention. This shouldn’t be the case, as planning the vacation should be just as enjoyable as actually going on it; after all, what better way is there to get you excited for the upcoming trip? For this reason, we have gone ahead and done the hard work and put together a guide for a three-day trip during winter in Cape Coral, Florida!
Day 1: A Day of Learning and Art
When one first thinks of Cape Coral, or really anywhere in Florida, thoughts of summer and the beach probably are what first come to mind, and for good reason. However, many don’t realize that the area hosts a variety of different museums, galleries, and educational tours which are sure to make any studious mind satisfied. Why not start the day off slowly making your way through the quite echoing halls of a gallery as you lose yourself in the shapes and colors of dozens of incredible works created by the most talented of the area’s artists? After you get done appreciating the talent of the creative mind, head down to the Southwest Florida Military Museum and Library to discovery the complex military history that lies behind the pristine beaches and tourist shops. If you still have some cognitive room left, you might like to learn up on the area’s rich history at the Cape Coral History Museum. As the day begins to draw to a close, make sure you make one last stop at Wicked Dolphin Rum Distillery and take part in one of their fascinating tours of the facilities. Here you will learn the complex process that each bottle of rum must go through before it is deemed worthy of your palate. We suggest this at the end of your day as you’ll also be treated to their tasting room, where you will get to sample a wide range of different rums created in these very walls. You’ll even get to try some new creations not available to the general public yet! There are many fantastic activities you can enjoy during your holiday vacation in Cape Coral. In case you’re looking for a stay, our Cape Coral holiday rentals are an excellent choice!
Now that the sun is beginning to dip into the horizon, you’ll most likely be feeling famished and ready to try one of the many delectable restaurants that can be found around the area. For your first night, you might enjoy trying some traditional New Orleans food at Slates. You’ll find such classics as gumbo, etouffee, and seafood pasta, all of which can be enjoyed with a good strong drink such as the French 75, Hurricane, or the Brandy Milk Punch. Especially make sure you stop by if you find yourself visiting on a weekend, as they often host a variety of live music to be enjoyed as you enjoy your flavorful meal.
Day 2: Spending Some Time in Nature
One of the best things about Florida is you very rarely will ever see a strong blizzard that has the sky whited out with the falling flurries, nor will you see the ponds frozen over with skaters gliding upon their surface. Rather, you are gifted with constant cool, but not freezing, temperatures and an ever-present sun that somehow fights away the chill. For this reason, even in the middle of winter one can enjoy many of the outdoor activities that are so popular in the summer.
Start your day off at Rotary Park and explore the 97 acres of beautiful nature trails that carve there way through. Make sure to stop by the butterfly house and spend some time surrounded by these majestic fluttering insects and feel for a moment as if you stepped inside a fairy tale. Afterwards walk up the observation tower and bask in the breathtaking panoramic views that lie therein. Next, make your way to the Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve and enjoy the 365 acres of wilderness which is perfect for loosing yourself in and escaping the clamor of the city for a short time. Feel free to walk the 1.2-mile nature trail and enjoy exploring the natural mangroves that line the Caloosahatchee River. If you still are feeling energetic and the need to explore, head over to the Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park and embrace the 45,387 acres of protected wilderness. Enjoy exploring the untamed and primitive wilderness as you meander through mangrove forests, marshes, scrub habitats, and pine flatwoods. However, just make sure you bring a map and compass, as it’s easy to find yourself lost in this expansive wilderness.
After a day of hiking and exploring, settle down for a delectable meal at Point 57 where you will get to dine on a variety of Southern dishes inspired by the Florida Coast. You’ll find such entrees as stroganoff, shrimp scampi, Philly cheese steak, filet mignon, ribeye and more! Each of these dishes you are assured will be perfectly cooked as none leave the kitchen without the approval of Chef Matt Arnolds watchful eye. As well, take advantage of their diverse drink menu.
Day 3: Explore the Shops and Activities at the Shell Factory
On your third and final day, make sure you take the time to explore the variety of local stores housed at the Shell Factory. This expansive shopping center hosts a staggering 50,000 square feet of shopping space, ensuring more then just one afternoon of exploring the various wares local merchants have to offer. You’ll find everything from boutiques to kids stores, art stores, furniture stores, and all in between. If you find yourself growing wary of exploring endless shelves and displays, make sure you try one of the various activities that are perfect for a cozy winter afternoon. You might like to enjoy the thrill of flying above the ground on their ziplines, or perhaps you’d like to take the little ones and becomes miners with them as they take on the gem mining. Perhaps you are looking for some live entertainment, in which case stop by the Players Circle, which offers a range of different live performances ranging from bands to comics, live plays, and even Burlesque shows!
As your final day draws to a close, celebrate at Big Blue Brewing, where you will find the typical selection of pub food that many of us now associate with the warm feelings of comfort, such as juicy burgers piled high with toppings, or ribs grilled to perfection and topped with a tangy and sweet sauce. If any in your party aren’t quite of big fans of meat, fear not, for they also offer a range of different vegetarian options, ensuring that everyone will find something to satisfy their rumbling stomach. However, what makes them perfect for a final night is the large selection of different drinks which are perfect for a good toast to the vacation which has ended, and the memories that have been made. As a matter of fact, you’ll find that many of their house-crafted brews have been nominated, and won, several different awards.
This is but a small fraction of the various ways that one could spend three days enjoying the winter of the Florida coast. So, if your ready to have that snowbird vacation you always wished you could, contact us at Vacanza Rentals at (850) 290-2080 or book your stay online today!