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6‑Day Florida Gulf Coast Road Trip: Miami → Naples → Spring Hill

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Day 1: Miami to Naples – Arrival & Exploration

Morning: Depart Miami early and cruise the scenic I‑75 (Alligator Road). Stop at the Everglades Visitor Center for a quick airboat glimpse of wildlife.

Afternoon: Arrive in Naples and stroll the historic Naples Pier, enjoying Gulf breezes and dolphin sightings.

Evening: Dine on fresh seafood at Third Street Fish Market and watch a sunset over the turquoise waters.

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Day 2: Naples – Nature & Culture

Morning: Explore the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, walking its boardwalk through ancient cypress forests.

Afternoon: Visit the Naples Botanical Garden to admire tropical flora and art installations.

Evening: Enjoy a relaxed dinner on Fifth Avenue South followed by a moonlit walk along the beach.

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Day 3: Naples to Sarasota – Beaches & Art

Morning: Drive north to Siesta Key Beach, famous for its powder‑fine white sand.

Afternoon: Tour the Ringling Museum of Art, including the circus museum and stunning gardens.

Evening: Savor dinner at the waterfront St. Armands Circle and catch a sunset over the Gulf.

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Day 4: Sarasota to Tampa – Urban Adventures

Morning: Head to Tampa Riverwalk, cycling or strolling past museums and parks.

Afternoon: Experience thrills at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, mixing roller coasters with exotic animal encounters.

Evening: Dine in the historic Ybor City district, sampling Cuban coffee and cigars.

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Day 5: Tampa to Ocala & Crystal River – Wilderness & Manatees

Morning: Drive to Ocala National Forest for a short hike to Juniper Springs.

Afternoon: Continue to Crystal River for a guided boat tour to see gentle manatees in their natural habitat.

Evening: Relax at a riverside restaurant in Crystal River, enjoying fresh fish and a tranquil sunset.

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Day 6: Crystal River to Spring Hill – Final Highlights

Morning: Visit the iconic Weeki Wachee Springs to watch live mermaid shows and try a kayak on the crystal‑clear river.

Afternoon: Explore the Nature Preserve of Spring Hill, spotting local birds and enjoying the pine flatwoods.

Evening: Celebrate the journey with a dinner at Hogtown Bar & Grill, reflecting on the road trip’s memories.

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Time and Cost Estimates

  • Everglades Visitor Center – 1 hour, $25 (airboat ticket)
  • Naples Pier – 1 hour, free
  • Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary – 2 hours, $20 (admission)
  • Naples Botanical Garden – 2 hours, $22
  • Siesta Key Beach – 3 hours, free
  • Ringling Museum of Art – 2 hours, $28
  • Tampa Riverwalk – 2 hours, free
  • Busch Gardens Tampa Bay – 5 hours, $95
  • Ocala National Forest (Juniper Springs) – 2 hours, free (parking $5)
  • Crystal River Manatee Tour – 3 hours, $55
  • Weeki Wachee Springs – 2 hours, $30 (show & kayak)
  • Spring Hill Nature Preserve – 2 hours, $10 (parking)
  • Meals & Miscellaneous – 6 days, $250
  • Fuel & Tolls – 6 days, $120
  • Total Estimated Cost$690

Tips

To extend the trip, add a full day in the Florida Keys or explore St. Augustine on the east coast. If you need to shorten the itinerary, combine Day 3 and Day 4 by skipping the Riverwalk and heading straight to Busch Gardens, or replace the Ocala forest hike with a quick stop at Lake Louisa State Park. Either way, keep your schedule flexible to enjoy the Gulf Coast’s sunshine and natural beauty.

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