Grab your snacks and get your playlists ready, we’re going on a road trip!

Whether you've got a three-day weekend coming up that you want to take advantage of or you're looking for a getaway from Cape Coral, we have some suggestions to make the most of your weekend trip.

1. Everglades National Park

Distance: Just under 2 hours

Immerse yourself in the largest subtropical wilderness in the united states. Everglades National Park is a 1.5-million-acre wetland preserve. Often compared to a grassy, slow-moving river, the Everglades is made up of coastal mangroves, sawgrass marshes and pine flatwoods that are home to hundreds of animal species. Perfect for the outdoorsman in the family!

Finally, the National Park Service has also designated four additional entrance fee-free days for 2020 so don't forget to mark your calendars! Dates are listed below:
Saturday, April 18 – First Day of National Park Week
Tuesday, August 25 – National Park Service Birthday
Saturday, September 26 – National Public Lands Day
Wednesday, November 11 – Veterans Day

2. St. Petersburg

Distance: 2 Hours 

Where to stay: The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club

Welcome to the beachfront community of St. Petersburg. Spend part of your weekend getaway hiking Fort De Soto Park, which has scenic trails that run along the coast. Enjoy the local art scene with a visit to the Salvador Dali Museum, or a visit to specialty shops and galleries in the Grand Central District. When hunger strikes, check out the eclectic restaurants in the city, such as Brick and Mortar, Jimmy Hula’s.

3. Anna Maria Island

Distance: 2 Hours

Where to stay: Bali Hai Beach Resort

Anna Maria Island is an ideal place to relax and getaway from it all. This stretch of land, 7 miles long is home to the island’s three cities – City of Bradenton Beach, City of Holmes Beach and City of Anna Maria. All three cities provide access to spectacular beaches, accommodations and outdoor activities — while at the same time offering an enjoyable selection of shops, restaurants, performing arts, wildlife, history and other attractions.

4. Boca Grande

Distance: Under 2 Hours

Where to stay: Gasparilla Inn & Club

Boca Grande is a serene and naturally beautiful area, but there is no shortage of things to keep you and your family amused during the daytime. The Boca Grande Lighthouse Museum is an interesting and educational day trip. For the art lovers, the Paradise Island Gallery has some stunning pieces of art on display and is definitely worth a visit. For a little more excitement, hike through the Cayo Costa State Park. This excellent location has miles of stunning beaches, acres of pine forests, and water that is rich with sea life.

5. Naples

Distance: 1 Hour

Where to stay: Vanderbilt Beach and Harbour Club 

Naples is a city on the Gulf of Mexico in southwest Florida that’s known for its high-end shopping and golf courses. The Naples Pier, first erected in 1888, is the city’s symbol and is a popular fishing and dolphin-spotting destination. It’s flanked by miles of beaches with calm waters and fine white “sugar” sand, including those at Clam Pass Park and Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park.