Route 17 Florida Map

Florida is a state that offers a lot of attractions to the visitors. One of the most popular routes in Florida is Route 17, which stretches from Punta Gorda to Jacksonville. This route offers a mix of natural wonders, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, and vibrant nightlife. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports along Route 17 Florida Map.

Top Attractions

One of the top attractions along Route 17 is the Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales. This national historic landmark offers stunning gardens, a 205-foot-tall singing tower, and breathtaking views. Another must-visit attraction is the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Titusville. Visitors can learn about the history of space exploration, see real spacecraft, and even meet an astronaut.

Hidden Gems

For those looking for hidden gems, we recommend visiting the Solomon’s Castle in Ona. This unique castle is made entirely of recycled materials and offers guided tours. Another hidden gem is the Florida Southern College in Lakeland. This college features the largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in the world.

Food Scene

Florida is known for its seafood, and there is no shortage of delicious seafood restaurants along Route 17. One of the top seafood spots is Crabby Bill’s in St. Petersburg, which offers fresh seafood and a casual atmosphere. For those looking for a fine dining experience, we recommend The Ravenous Pig in Winter Park, which offers modern American cuisine.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling on a budget? There are still plenty of things to do along Route 17 that won’t break the bank. We recommend visiting the free attractions such as the Historic Bok Sanctuary in Lake Wales and the historic downtown areas of Punta Gorda and Arcadia. Another budget-friendly option is to pack a picnic and enjoy one of the many parks along the route.

Outdoor Adventures

Florida is known for its outdoor activities, and there are plenty of options along Route 17. For those looking for a relaxing day on the water, we recommend renting a kayak or paddleboard and exploring the Peace River in Arcadia. For those seeking a more adventurous activity, we recommend visiting the Myakka River State Park in Sarasota, which offers airboat tours and hiking trails.

Historical Landmarks

Florida is rich in history, and Route 17 offers plenty of opportunities to learn about the state’s past. One of the top historical landmarks is the Gamble Plantation Historic State Park in Ellenton, which offers guided tours of the antebellum mansion and sugar plantation. Another must-visit historical site is the DeSoto County Courthouse in Arcadia, which was built in 1913 and is still in use today.

Family-Friendly Activities

Traveling with kids? There are plenty of family-friendly activities along Route 17. One of the top spots is the Legoland Florida Resort in Winter Haven, which offers more than 50 rides, shows, and attractions for kids of all ages. Another family-friendly option is the Sarasota Jungle Gardens, which offers interactive animal shows and a butterfly garden.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

For those looking for unique experiences, we recommend visiting the Solomon’s Castle in Ona or taking a guided tour of the Arcadia Opera House in Arcadia. Another off-the-beaten-path experience is the TreeUmph! Adventure Course in Bradenton, which offers ziplining and obstacle courses in a natural setting.

Natural Wonders

Florida is home to many natural wonders, and Route 17 offers plenty of opportunities to explore them. One of the top natural wonders is the Myakka River State Park, which offers hiking trails, airboat tours, and a canopy walkway. Another must-visit natural wonder is the Warm Mineral Springs in North Port, which offers natural mineral water that is said to have healing properties.

Vibrant Nightlife

For those looking for a night out, there are plenty of options along Route 17. One of the top spots is the Ybor City Historic District in Tampa, which offers a lively nightlife scene with bars, clubs, and live music venues. Another must-visit spot is the St. Armands Circle in Sarasota, which offers a mix of upscale restaurants, bars, and shops.

Local Markets

For those looking for a unique shopping experience, we recommend visiting the local markets along Route 17. One of the top markets is the Sarasota Farmers Market, which offers fresh produce, handmade crafts, and live music. Another must-visit market is the Punta Gorda Farmers Market, which offers a mix of local vendors and live entertainment.

Beaches and Mountains

Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, and there are plenty of options along Route 17. One of the top beaches is the Siesta Key Beach in Sarasota, which is known for its white sand and turquoise water. For those looking for a mountain experience, we recommend visiting the Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales, which offers stunning views from the top of the singing tower.

Cultural Immersion

For those looking for a cultural immersion experience, we recommend visiting the Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota, which offers a collection of art and artifacts from around the world. Another must-visit cultural site is the Historic Spanish Point in Osprey, which offers a glimpse into the lives of the early settlers in Florida.

Art and Music Scene

Florida is home to a thriving art and music scene, and there are plenty of options along Route 17. One of the top spots is the Dali Museum in St. Petersburg, which offers a collection of works by the famous artist Salvador Dali. For those looking for a live music experience, we recommend visiting the Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club, which offers live music performances in a historic setting.

Walking Tours

For those looking for a walking tour experience, there are plenty of options along Route 17. One of the top spots is the historic downtown area of Punta Gorda, which offers a self-guided walking tour of the city’s historic buildings and landmarks. Another must-visit walking tour is the Historic Roser Park in St. Petersburg, which offers a guided tour of the city’s historic homes and gardens.

Architectural Marvels

Florida is home to many architectural marvels, and there are plenty of options along Route 17. One of the top spots is the Ca’ d’Zan Mansion in Sarasota, which offers a stunning example of Venetian Gothic architecture. Another must-visit site is the Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables, which offers a mix of European and Mediterranean architectural styles.

Historical Sites

For those interested in history, there are plenty of historical sites along Route 17. One of the top spots is the Fort De Soto Park in St. Petersburg, which offers a glimpse into the history of coastal defense in Florida. Another must-visit site is the Sarasota National Cemetery, which is the final resting place for many veterans and their families.

Biking Routes

For those looking for a biking experience, there are plenty of options along Route 17. One of the top biking routes is the Legacy Trail in Sarasota, which offers a scenic ride through parks, nature preserves, and historic sites. Another must-visit biking route is the Pinellas Trail in St. Petersburg, which offers a mix of urban and natural scenery.

Wellness Retreats

For those looking for a wellness retreat, there are plenty of options along Route 17. One of the top spots is the Safety Harbor Resort and Spa in Safety Harbor, which offers a mix of spa treatments, fitness classes, and healthy dining options. Another must-visit wellness retreat is the Zen Den Yoga School and Retreats in Boca Raton, which offers a variety of yoga classes and wellness workshops.

Adventure Sports

For those seeking adventure, there are plenty of options along Route 17. One of the top spots is the Skydive City in Zephyrhills, which offers tandem skydiving experiences for beginners and experienced jumpers. Another must-visit adventure spot is the TreeUmph! Adventure Course in Bradenton, which offers ziplining and obstacle courses in a natural setting.

In conclusion, Route 17 Florida Map offers a mix of natural wonders, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, and vibrant nightlife. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your perfect Florida vacation along Route 17.