Florida Historic Road Trip Guide
TAMIAMI TRAIL- A Historic Road Trip Into Florida’s Soulful Past & Savory Present!
The now famous Tamiami Trail was created from the simple idea of connecting Tampa to Miami, the Gulf to the Atlantic, hence the combining of the two names, Tampa and Miami. This historic stretch of asphalt and history is also known as the Windows to the Gulf Coast Water Scenic Highway, and it travels along US 41 from the Sarasota Charlotte County line to the Manatee Hillsborough County line for a total of 70 unforgettable Florida miles.
A trip down this road is a trip into Florida’s past. This trip back in time is due in part to the sweat and hard work of hundreds, if not thousands of men, and to one man by the name of Barron Gift Collier. Collier, a southwest Florida millionaire amassed a fortune by selling advertising on trolley cars, and funded the construction of this road after the State ran out of money in the early 1900s. Collier’s money paid for the dynamite to break apart the swampland and the oxen and men to move it. Working in 95 degree heat, humidity, mosquitoes, and alligator-filled swampland, the workers manipulated the land and built up the road to prevent flooding. They
labored for years on the painstaking task of cutting through thick tropical forest and wilderness to open southwest Florida to the rest of the world.
The Tamiami Trail, was finally opened in 1928 and the rest is well, as you know, history. Finally in December 2003, Tamiami Trail (US-41) was officially designated as a Florida Scenic and Heritage Highway by the State of Florida with an unveiling event was held in the City of Sarasota on January 29, 2004.
I found that on my journey across the historic freeway, there are many attractions that offer truly unique and unforgettable experiences for the wanderer or the whole family. Recreational opportunities, shopping, and sightseeing, are abundant stretching through many exciting Florida cities such as Sarasota, Port Charlotte , and Ft. Meyers all rich with culture, architecture, recreation, and history. There are also many areas of archaeological importance along the Trail as well as natural wonders, historical and architectural sites which represent the area’s rich culture and heritage. Human habitation along the Trail dates back 12,000 years!
DAY 1
My journey across the historic freeway began as I rented a 2014 bright yellow Mustang convertible from All Star Travel and I am so glad I did. The salty sea air mixed with the sun shining down on my skin created a combination that was priceless on my senses. I began my drive on Highway 41 from Tampa, head east on I-4 and take exit 3, following the signs for US-41 towards Miami.
From Miami, follow the US-1 north and shortly after joining onto I-95, take exit 1B for US-41. I drove past St. Petersburg and the smaller town of Ruskin enjoying the gorgeous views of Tampa Bay as I drove.
I decided to stop in small town of Palmetto as I had heard they offer some historical points of interest. Palmetto Historical Park offers an exciting way to experience the history of Florida. You can explore the different exhibits and buildings, check for mail at the 1880 Post Office, visit the Schoolhouse opened in 1935 and even try on pioneer clothing in the Cottage Museum. Don’t miss the Military Museum, Chapel and 1914 Carnegie Library built in 1914. The Palmetto Historical Park is free to enter.
Next I drove onto Sarasota as I had some more must-see’s I needed to mark off my list. I also decided it was the perfect place to stop for a bite and spend the night. Sarasota is glistening with white sandy
beaches and crystal blue water. Along with all that impressive natural beauty I had heard about a fascinating place called the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art where history, art and circus come alive. I also visited Ca’ d’Zan, https://www.ringling.org/ca-dzan the extravagant 56-room Venetian Gothic mansion built for John and Mable in 1926. The Circus Museum brought the circus alive with memorabilia and artifacts such as authentic sparkling costumes, the private rail car of John and Mable Ringling built in 1905, nostalgic circus posters, and the world’s largest miniature circus model.
After an action packed day I treated myself to a meal at El Toro Bravo I ordered the Huevos Rancheros, which is two fried eggs over corn warm tortillas with beef and red sauce and refried beans. All I can say is WOW! Then I rolled over to the Orange Octopus https://www.myorangeoctopus.com/ for some espresso coffee and a coconut dream sundae. I’ll feel guilty later.
After my third yawn I decided to call it a night so I will be fresh on the road tomorrow morning, so I checked into the La Quinta Inn & Suites Sarasota . A nice cozy room with soft sheets and a nice view was exactly what I needed.
DAY 2
I woke early and refreshed and the sunshine and long stretch of road was calling my name. So after a hearty breakfast I jumped (literally because it’s a convertible) into my rental car from All Star Travel. I was headed to Venice, known for its beautiful beaches and people.
As you get to Venice, the road comes close to the water and you should definitely get out and stroll along the miles of trail on each side of the Intracoastal Waterway. Glorious water views, artist inspired sunsets, and one-of-a-kind fishing awaits you at the Venice Fishing Pier at Brohard Park Watch the fisherman pull fish the size of dogs out of the water or if you’re feeling lucky, partake yourself. Rentals of a rod, reel and bait are available on the pier. No fee or fishing license is required. If you have the time, you should give it a go.
I was starving and my stomach was not letting me forget it. I pulled into a welcoming looking place called Gold Rush BBQ. The smells wafting out of there made my mouth water.
I ordered a full rack of BBQ ribs, a side of coleslaw, cornbread and tumbleweed fried onions! It was hands down the best BBQ I ever had. I even crammed down come key lime pie. Hey, when in Florida…
eat key lime pie, right?
I jumped back into the car and headed towards Port Charlotte where the road leads more inland. I decided to stop at Port Charlotte Beach Park to stretch my legs. It’s a small strip of white sand and it’s serene. I watched some fisherman catch some fish for a while, but I knew I needed to get back on the road.
I had one to-do on my list in Punta Gorda, the Muscle Car City Museum https://musclecarcity.net/. I heard it was worth the trip so I sped into the parking lot and decided to see for myself. The Museum was awesome, filled with hot rods from the 50’s and muscle cars from the 60’s and 70’s. It was something you should definitely stop to see if you are a muscle car enthusiast. I bought a baseball has as a souvenir then headed back on the road, feeling a little cooler.
I finally made it to Ft. Meyers by early evening. I choose a place called the Beached Whale I ordered the fish & chips and an ice cold beer. There was live music that took you away to a tropical island- wait I was in the tropics. I relaxed by the water and began to yawn.
I found the Hampton Inn & Suites Ft. Myers-Estero Another lovely end to another lovely day.
DAY 3
The next morning I grabbed a donut and coffee and jump back on the trail. I drove until I hit Naples. There was one thing I HAD to do while was here, fly a jet pack! I heard it was a must. So I put my fear aside and went to Captain CJ’s Jetpack Adventure. It took less than half an hour to learn and I can’t believe I and actually went through with it. And I’m so glad I did! It was an experience of a lifetime! You have to try it while you are here!
But if you are not up for that much adventure about 20 miles south of Naples is Collier Seminole State Park offering an incredible adventure through the
Everglades. Much of the 7,000 acres lie within one of the largest mangrove swamps in the world. It also is home to one of the three original stands of rare royal palm in Florida. While you are there take the opportunity to check out the site of a National Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark, the Bay City Walking Dredge which was built in 1924 to create the Tamiami Highway.
I headed back on the road. I was excited to see the Big Cypress National Preserve and the Everglades. The Everglades National Park, is on the way to Miami, and is the only sub-tropical preserve in North America, containing both temperate and tropical plant life. It is also the only place in the world where alligators and crocodiles exist (somewhat peacefully) side by side. This unique landscape is the third largest National Park in the U.S. It has over 1.5 million acres, and there are three Visitor Centers to help you.
Big Cypress National Preserve is the swampy home to endangered
species that include the American crocodile, and the West Indian manatee. You can see these species through a section of the Florida National Scenic Trail which passes through the preserve. The Florida
National Scenic Trail is a total of 1,400 miles that travels from the Gulf Islands National Seashore to the Big Cypress National Reserve. And of course there are many other shorter trails. Also check
out Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk at Fakahatchee Strand Preserve and Shark Valley at Everglades National Park .
A good place to take boat tours into the Ten Thousand Island NWR. Also learn about camping and kayaking and the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge. and for even more fun and history visit Clyde Butcher’s Big Cypress Gallery.
Also visit nearby Everglades City and Chokoloskee
Interesting Everglades City places to stay:
Ivey House Bed and Breakfast
Florida Everglades list of hotels
There is so much to see and do you could literally spend weeks here camping and exploring. West of the post office is the historic and funky eatery, Joanie’s Blue Crab Café in Ochopee. Joanie’s specializes in local foods, including frog legs, catfish, alligator, blue crab and grouper. The building is crammed with all sorts of memorabilia and weird stuff, dating back to 1928, the year the Tamiami Trail was completed.
DAY 4
As my road trip winds down, it could not end in more culturally lively area. I will reach Miami later today and there are a few things I need to experience while I am there. As popular as Miami is for its beaches, he city is equally known for its spicy cuisine, trend-setting fashion and nightclubs that will keep you dancing in the morning hours. But, if scoring some cash is what excites you, Miami offers resorts and gaming entertainment that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
The MICCOSUKEE Resort & Gaming Hotel an oasis in the desert by many, this nine-story resort at the southeastern edge of the Everglades can’t help but attract attention. The casino has something for everyone, no matter what your age. It features over
1,900 video machines, 58 poker tables, a 1,200-seat bingo hall, and a separate gaming area. There’s an indoor pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, spa, fitness center, indoor play area for kids, arcade, plus Club Egret
child care for kids 12 and under. If golf is your game, head to the Miccosukee Indian Village, where a 27-hole golf club and tennis courts are only about 15 miles away. The MICCOSUKEE Restaurant features some exciting cuisine like breaded catfish and frogs legs
that are deep-fried. Menu items include authentic pumpkin and Indian fry bread, burgers, salads, and south-of-the-border dishes. The Miccosukee Platter offers a sampling of local favorites, including gator bites.
The EMPEEKE AAWEEKE restaurant Their all-you-can-eat international buffet serves up endless salads, cold cuts, chicken, seafood, meat dishes, and desserts.
This historic and scenic drive ends in a city that never sleeps with, shopping, dining, dancing, swimming, and outdoor recreation. And if you have any energy left, don’t miss exploring South Beach, the Art Deco District, Calle Ocho, Coopertown Airboat tours and little Havana!
This historic road trip was exciting, relaxing and unforgettable. Renting a car and cruising along the Tamiami Trail offers you a glimpse into two of Florida’s gems; the coastline and the Everglades! Beauty and history go hand in hand on this trail and I would recommend it to anyone looking to see Florida at its absolute finest!
For the best rates on rental cars, check out All Star Travel. They have a wide variety of vehicles, and I promise you will not be disappointed in their service. I like to follow their blog for updated travel tips and great destinations!
Story provided compliments of AllStarTravel.com.