Hello,
My friend and I (age 17 and 18) and going to take a roadtrip to Florida. My grandmother who has a winter home in Naples, right on the Gulf has offered for us to stay there, since it's free, we'd like to try and take advantage of it, it is also quite nice. However, we're also aware there isn't much to do in Naples. Are there any side trips we could take, possibly leaving in the morning, spending the day there and returning in the evening? And maybe once staying in a hotel for the night if it wasn't worth going only for the day. We love beaches, but we can get that for the most part in Naples. Also, shopping, fun sites (keep in mind we're in our teens ; ) relaxing and the arts, especially theatre and dance. I'd love suggestions, thank you so much!!!

I'd suggest a little nature side trip. Corkcrew Swamp is wonderful (do a google search). Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel is also great. Bring your binoculars and cameras.

How nice of your grandmother! I remember we drove RT 41 Tamiami Trail into the Everglades and it was a fun drive as we saw alligators sunning themselves all over the sides of the road. I don't know how long of a drive it is, but I bet your grandmother does. Again, don't know how long of a drive for you, but going over to Sanibel Island for a day would be fun. It has a nice marina that might offer some sailing.

Younger people hang out on Fort Myers Beach. Times Square area has lots of inexpensive restaurants and shops. Get a henna tattoo and have your hair done in beaded braids. It might be worth the drive one day to do this.

It is kind of hot for Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary but it could be interesting if you are wildlife minded. I don't usually recommend this but an Airboat tour through the Everglades might be fun for someone your age.

LMF

There is a cool restaurant called The Bubble Room in Sanibel Island. Sanibel Island is a very unique place with quaint shops. ALso check out the Florida State Parks in the area. There is one where you can ride bikes thru trails in the park. Do a web search for the parks. Enjoy.

This is a little further afield, but you could go to Miami. There are two routes there--one highway, or the other which brings you closer to the Everglades. The smaller road is more scenic. We drove the summer before last and if memory serves, it was just a bit more than two hours. South Beach in Miami is a sight to see! All that Art Deco architecture and a fabulous beach. You can cycle, rollerblade, or just stroll around.

In Naples, it's lots of fun to go downtown in the evening. Most of the art galleries are open, the restaurants are hopping, and it's the place to go to see and be seen. There's a very nice theatre downtown, too. And Naples also has a well- regarded art museum and symphony. You might find that there is more to do in Naples than you originally thought!

Naples def. has more to do than I think you are assuming..... Where is the home in Naples?

If it is closer to Bonita, the Ritz beach, and the Vanderbilt Inn beach are fun places to be in the sun.... if the house is a little farther south the Pier is great! (Great even if you have to drive the 10-15 minutes to get there)

A day at Ft. Myers beach can be nice and the Bubble Room IS a very fun resturant.
Although you arent yet 21 Pelican Larry's is fun, and the atmosphere in "downtown" Naples (3rd/5th street) area is a really neat atmosphere... think the unique combonation of an upscale Jimmy Buffett song

Waterside is a really neat place to shop

I personally wouldn't reccommend Corkscrew unless you are huge nature lovers, it is hot and can be buggy.

Where are you coming from?
I grew up in Naples, email me if I can be of more help

Ruby
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