Siesta Key has so much to see and do, that many people stay close by for their entire vacation. However, sometimes it’s nice to get away for the day and discover other areas of the Sunshine State. With it being February, romance is on a lot of our minds. What better way to spend Valentine’s Day, or a similar romantic day, and get out to explore Florida – just the two of you. Here are some of the best romantic one-day trips from Siesta Key.
Forget the crowded theme parks. Instead, take a peaceful ride one-thousand feet above the city at sunrise. You will see swamps, forests, and plenty of orange groves. Weather permitting, balloon companies like Painted Horizons offer flights seven days a week, including couples-only flights.
Just an hour or so drive south of Siesta Key is Bonita Springs, home to Lovers Key Beach – the perfect spot for couples looking to get away for the day. This gorgeous two-mile-long sandy beach has all kinds of amenities and lots of water options, like kayaking, canoeing, pedal boating, etc. You can also bike or just lounge about on the beach and enjoy the sun. Don’t forget to watch a spectacular sunset before you head back to Siesta Key.
Feel like a teenager again by taking in a movie at the Ruskin Family Drive-in Theatre. With over 50 years of continuous service, this theatre in South Hillsborough County is called the last family drive-in. It features a 2,000 square foot screen, clean restrooms and parking area, and a snack bar.
Take a short drive over the Skyway Bridge and you will find St. Petersburg’s oldest living museum, an amazing botanical paradise situated in the midst of the city. The century-old Sunken Gardens is home to over 50,000 tropical plants, along with cascading waterfalls and even a flock of flamingos. It’s a beautiful place to get away from everything without truly getting away.
Riding through a mangrove in an airboat ride is something every couple should experience. There are plenty of airboat and swamp buggy companies to choose from, like Captain Jack’s near Naples, which offers alligator shows and an animal sanctuary as well.
There are very few places in Florida that allow horseback riding on the beach, but C Ponies is a company that specializes in this romantic activity, and they serve the Sarasota and Tampa Bay areas. including a special sunset ride that is very popular for proposals and other special occasions.
If your ideal romantic getaway is doing something adventurous like zip-lining through the Canyons in Ocala, then head over to mid-state for the time of your life. Enjoy zips 155 feet high and 1,150 long. You can also go kayaking, horseback riding, and even take a wine tour. They even have a nighttime zip lining tour.
Enjoy a breathtaking view of Orlando at night on the 400-foot tall Wheel at ICON Park. This is more like an observation wheel rather than a Ferris wheel. From up here, you can see all of the popular destinations like Disney and Universal Studios, as well as natural landmarks. You can also stop at the bar and pick up a glass of wine or champagne to make the experience magical.
The Bubble Room in Captiva is one of the most unique restaurants you’ll ever visit, featuring crazy décor and humongous desserts. It is a one-of-a-kind dining experience that you and that special someone will talk about for years to come. February is a great time to do something fun, different, and romantic in Florida. However, all of these activities don’t need to be enjoyed solely around Valentine’s Day. Whenever your trip is planned, these great romantic day trips will be here waiting for you and your special someone to experience together.
