Whether you’re looking to plan a short road trip or an extensive adventure, there are plenty of places you can travel to from Boca Raton. With so many restaurants, beaches, nature preserves, and other attractions to explore, the only challenging decision is where to visit first. Read on to discover some of the best road trips to take from Boca Raton, FL.

Boca Raton to Sanibel, Florida

Traveling from Boca Raton to the beautiful Sanibel only takes about 3 1/2 hours, which makes this the perfect mini-road trip if you’re looking for a fun, spur-of-the-moment getaway. About 40 minutes into your journey, stop by the Sawgrass Recreation Park. This unique attraction offers 30 and 60-minute airboat tours through one of Florida’s most prized natural treasures, the everglades. Explore subtropical ecosystems as you race across the river, then visit the reptile exhibit to see dozens of exotic and native species, including iguanas and turtles. 

When you’re done hanging out with the baby alligators, set out on the road for another hour and a half until you reach the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. Stretch your legs during your adventure along its famous boardwalk, which is filled with beautiful photo opportunities. Nature lovers will enjoy spotting otters, red-bellied turtles, white-tailed deer, and a wide variety of birds during their visit. 

When you’re ready to hit the road again, set your sights on Fort Myers. Enjoy the beautiful Gulf beaches that are about 40 minutes away from Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary and filled with plenty of vibrant shops and restaurants. Go for a stroll to collect seashells or grab a bite to eat at the Pierside Grill and Famous Blowfish Bar. You can’t go wrong with one of their incredible seafood platters or a stack of their award-winning ribs. 

Once you’ve had your fill, gear up for the last leg of your journey. Sanibel sits about 50 minutes outside of Fort Myers and offers plenty of beautiful beaches, nature trails, and attractions to explore. Watch the sunset over the marina and cast a fishing line in the water to relax. If you need a place to spend the night, check into one of the many luxurious resorts in the area to rest up before making your way back home.

Boca Raton to Winter Park, Florida

If you have a bit more time to explore during your road trip, consider making the 4 1/2-hour trip to Winter Park. About an hour and a half into your drive, stop in Port St. Lucie to stretch and explore the area. Whether you decide to hike through the environmental preserves or stroll along the shopping district, you’re sure to enjoy your time in Port St. Lucie. Before you head out on the road again, stop by 1971 Roasters and Coffee Bar for a quick pick-me-up. 

The next destination is about 45 minutes away in Vero Beach. This elegant city on the Atlantic Coast is a dream destination for anyone who loves golfing, fishing, or water sports. Vero Beach also has a wide variety of boutique shops to explore. Stop by the Ocean Grill for lunch to try the famous crab burger, or indulge in a steak sandwich to keep you fueled for the next leg of your journey. 

After another hour and a half of driving, you’ll find yourself in the beautiful city of Kissimmee. While you’re there, visit Old Town to experience a recreation of a classic Florida town. This family-friendly attraction features 70 unique shops and restaurants, free entertainment and events, and theme park rides. 

When you’ve had your fill of fun, get ready for the final stretch of your road trip. In about 45 minutes, you’ll find yourself in Winter Park. A true nature lover’s paradise, Winter Park has more than 70 parks that host various festivals and events throughout the year. Unwind for the day with a traditional Italian dinner at Prato and then book a stay at the charming Park Plaza Hotel to relax before you hit the road again. 

Boca Raton to Siesta Key, Florida

The longest road trip on our list clocks in at 6 1/2 hours. If you’re looking for a true adventure, you’ll love making the trek from Boca Raton to Siesta Key. About an hour and a half into your trip, you’ll find yourself driving along Alligator Alley. Traveling this stretch of road along Interstate 75 is considered one of Florida’s rites of passage. Slow down to enjoy the beauty of the Everglades as you try to spot alligators along the side of the road. 

Once you make it through Alligator Alley, your next stop is just an hour away in Naples. Enjoy dinner at the exquisite Sails Restaurant where the flavors of Italy, Greece, and France meld together to create a delectable experience. Then spend the night at the lavish Naples Bay Resort and Marina to make sure you’re well-rested to travel again in the morning. Enjoy a refreshing breakfast and Italian coffee at Cafe on the Bay before you checkout. Then set out on the road again for about an hour and a half until you reach Sanibel. 

Collect seashells along the beach or explore the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge as you stretch your legs. When you’re ready to get behind the wheel again, head toward Punta Gorda, which is about an hour and a half away. Explore its carefully restored historic district, stroll along the Harborwalk, or enjoy shopping at many of the waterside boutiques. For lunch, stop by Leroy’s Southern Kitchen and Bar. Unlike any other restaurant in the area, Leroy’s is famous for its homemade southern cooking, blues music, and friendly staff. 

Finally, make your way to Siesta Key. About an hour outside of Punta Gorda, Siesta Key features some of the most relaxing beaches in the United States. As soon as you see the glittering, quartz-crystal sand along the shoreline, you’ll understand why. Treat yourself to a seafood dinner at The Cottage and then retire for the evening at the BeachPoint Cottages to enjoy your own cozy vacation home within walking distance of the Siesta Village. 

We hope you enjoyed our round-up of the best road trips to take from Boca Raton, FL. Did we miss one of your favorite destinations? Let us know so we can highlight it in one of our upcoming blog posts.