48 Hours in Fort Myers

Located about three and a half hours south of the Villages of Citrus Hills, Fort Myers offers everything a traveler could want from a South Florida town along the Gulf Coast.

Between the local wildlife, outstanding food, and history that is unique to the area, there is more than enough to keep you busy over a weekend trip to Fort Myers.

If you’re looking to plan your next 48-hour getaway, these are a few ideas we would recommend for exploring Fort Myers.

Day One - Burgers, Boats, Southern Food, and Ghosts

Assuming that you are going to be hungry when you first arrive in Fort Myers, our first stop is going to be Fat Katz for a delicious lunch. This fun and friendly gastropub goes all out to class up the typical sports bar favorites like burgers, cheesesteaks, and salads. Don’t skip the hummus dip!

Once we have our bellies full, the next stop on our Fort Myers getaway will be the History and Eco River Cruise from Pure Florida Fort Myers. This 90-minute cruise will get you out on the Caloosahatchee River where you can see tons of local wildlife, as well as unique views of all of the most popular Fort Myers attractions.

For dinner on our first night in Fort Myers, we are heading to Fancy’s Southern Cafe for one of the best southern-style meals you will find anywhere. This amazing restaurant plays all of the southern hits like Fried Okra, Fried Green Tomatoes, Chicken-N-Waffles, and Country Fried Steak in an upscale, white-tablecloth atmosphere.

After dinner, the plan is to head back out into the city to participate in the Haunted History of Fort Myers Walking Tours. These 90-minute tours leave at 8 pm on most evenings and take guests past some of the most famously haunted spots in Fort Myers.

Day Two - Wildlife, Crab, History, and Steak

After staying out late with the ghosts on our first night in Fort Myers, we are going to kick off day two by getting back out in nature at Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve. You can spend as long as you want exploring the trails that lead off of the 1.5-mile raised boardwalk here, and you can expect to see a wide range of South Florida wildlife as you venture through the preserve.

Now that we’ve worked up an appetite at Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, we’re heading to Trap House Krab and Seafood for a unique lunch that will blow your mind with flavor. You pick your combination of seafood here, and everything is served in similar aluminum take-out pans topped with the most amazing garlic butter sauce you’ve ever tasted.

You can’t come to Fort Myers for the first time without visiting the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, so that is where we are heading next. This gorgeous campus offers a collection of historic buildings surrounded by award-winning gardens, which is what makes this one of the most popular tourist destinations in Fort Myers.

Our second dinner in Fort Myers is going to take us to El Gaucho Inca, which serves Peruvian and Argentinian style dishes that will completely blow your mind. Definitely start with the Trio Ceviche, and then just order whatever meats and sides look most appealing to you from there. You will not be disappointed!

If you are looking for a nightcap following the meal, you can take a quick ride up to The 86 Room in the River District for a craft cocktail with a classic speakeasy-style vibe. The drink menu is always changing here, but feel free to ask for your favorite!

Day Three - IMAG, Crave, and Shopping

The IMAG History and Science Center is the first stop on our last day in Fort Myers, and you definitely don’t have to be a kid to enjoy everything that this place has to offer. With 60 different exhibits, live shows, a massive aquarium, and 3-D movies, there really is something for everyone to enjoy here.

We like to finish up our 48-hour getaways with a fantastic brunch option, and one of the most popular places for breakfast and brunch in Fort Myers is Crave. There are plenty of options to choose from on their locally sourced menu, but the best place to start is always going to be their selection of twists on Eggs Benedict.

Before heading back home, we are going to make one last stop in Estero to check out the shopping at Coconut Point. There are more than 100 unique shops to explore in this open-air mall, so you can grab plenty of souvenirs to remember your 48-hours in Fort Myers.

After spending 48 hours taking in all that Fort Myers has to offer, you will have just barely scratched the surface of what is possible in this fun South Florida town. So don’t think twice about planning what will surely be the first of many quick getaways to Fort Myers!

A Nature Lover’s Dream: Relocating to Florida’s Nature Coast

Florida’s Nature Coast

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think about what your life might be like if you were living in Florida?

If you’re like most people, the first things that come to mind probably involve beaches, great weather, and spectacular theme parks. While those are all great reasons for spending your retirement years in Florida, the area called the Nature Coast offers quite a bit more to its residents.

This nine-county section of Florida lies along the Gulf Coast as the northern peninsula bends into the panhandle. Residents here still have access to amazing beaches, great weather, and are under 1.5 hours from the theme parks. But they are also exposed to nearly endless opportunities to pursue their passion for nature in a variety of different ways.

A Storied History

Antebellum Home in Citrus County

Not only is Florida’s Nature Coast a great place to experience the outdoors today, but it has been that way for multiple centuries. Ancient American Indians have left shell mounds and other ruins that can be explored in a variety of state and local parks throughout the region.

There are also plenty of Antebellum-era homes to visit and explore.

Many of these old mansions have actually been turned into museums over the years, so in addition to appealing to nature lovers, there is also plenty here for history buffs.

An Abundance of Trails

Biking the Nature Coast Trail

The Nature Coast is filled with all kinds of trails that run through, and in some cases even connect, its parks. Many of these trails are part of the Rails to Trails program and are paved right over old railroad tracks.

Two of the most popular trails in the area are the Nature Coast State Trail and the Withlacoochee State Forest Trail. Both of these trails are great for walking, jogging, bicycling, and in some areas even horseback riding.

They give you the opportunity to do these things in some of the most beautiful natural environments you will find anywhere. The trails of the Nature Coast go much further than the standard paved variety. There are plenty of more involved hiking trails and just as many water trails as land trails.

If you are an avid canoe or kayak paddler, there are an amazing number of places to explore starting from either the Suwannee, Waccasassa, or Withlacoochee rivers.

Rare Wildlife Species

Swimming With Manatees

While you are out exploring the trails of the Nature Coast, you will be in close contact with the 19 rare or endangered species of wildlife that make their homes here. With as many parks and reserves as there are in this region, you will always have another opportunity to explore the habitats of different local wildlife.

One of the most popular endangered species in the area is the West Indian Manatee. These large sea mammals migrate to the warm waters along the Nature Coast every winter. You can find them floating all through the springs around Crystal River, or learn about them from dry land at Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park.

Catch of the Day

Tarpon Fishing

If you prefer to be more active in catching wildlife than observing it, the Nature Coast also has plenty to offer. It is widely considered to be one of the best places in the entire world for tarpon fishing. There are dozens of different companies offering fishing charters throughout the region, but you can find just as much enjoyment fishing from your own canoe as well.

In addition to great fishing, the Nature Coast region also offers great scalloping and stone crabbing, which you just can’t do in most places. Whether you prefer to dive for scallops yourself, catch stone crab from a boat, or buy both from local vendors, the seafood along the Nature Coast is always fresh.

Your friends and relatives will certainly appreciate the close proximity that your new home in Florida’s Nature Coast will have to all of the tourist attractions they are interested in, but the outdoor opportunities are what many local residents’ value more than anything.

Luckily for residents of the Villages of Citrus Hills, they can have the best of both worlds right at their front door.

5 Reasons Your Grandkids Would Like You to Move to Florida

Everyone has a good idea why making the move to Florida would work for them, but one of the things that we often fail to consider is how that move could have a positive impact on the younger generations of our families.

No matter what ages your grandchildren might be, every young kid loves having the opportunity to brag about their “cool grandparents” living it up down in the Sunshine State. But even more than that, there are plenty of tangible benefits that those grandkids can enjoy on account of your Florida residency.

So, if you are still on the fence about whether making the move is right for you, take some time to consider these five reasons your grandkids would love for you to head south to Florida this year.

Theme Park Excitement

Disney World

The very first thing at the top of just about every grandkid’s list is going to be having easy access to the theme park capital of the world.

Whether we are talking about young kids that are excited to visit the Magic Kingdom or teenagers gearing up for a trip to Universal’s Islands of Adventure, there are major theme parks dedicated to serving all age groups here in Florida.

Having grandparents that live anywhere near Orlando makes the process of getting down to Florida and visiting those parks so much easier than it would be otherwise. Busch Gardens in Tampa is also just under 90 minutes away.

White Sand Beaches

Right behind the theme parks, is the fact that Florida offers beautiful white-sand beaches that can serve as a massive sandbox for those grandkids to play in.

Between building sandcastles, digging holes, and riding those mild Gulf Coast waves, you would be hard-pressed to find a youngster that doesn’t love heading to the beach.

And having grandparents that live down in Florida makes getting to those gorgeous beaches just a little bit easier.

Warm Winter Weather

Another reason that your grandkids would love for you to relocate to Florida is that you would be giving them an opportunity to escape the colder weather that they might be dealing with back home.

Many new Florida residents find that their grandchildren actually visit with them more after they move south than they ever did before..

Virtually Endless Golfing

If your grandchildren happen to be into golf, the warmer weather will give them opportunities to practice a bit more than their competitors back home in the north during the colder months.

Having the ability to get out on the course a few extra times each year could make a difference for developing college scholarship worthy skills.

Fun With Manatees

You can take your grandkids to the zoo in pretty much any major city around the country, but there is only one place where you can take them to swim with manatees. The Gulf Coast of Florida is proud to be that place.

Whether your grandkids are obsessed with animals or you are just looking for a cool way to impress them, it doesn’t get much better than swimming alongside our giant sea cows down here in paradise.

Between all of the things that you can do here in Florida and the fabulous climate that you get to do them in, it’s no surprise that grandkids from all over the country travel here throughout the year to visit their grandparents.

So if you aren’t totally sold on Florida being a great place for you to retire, make sure you consider the impact it could have on your grandkids!

5 Fun Things to Do in Clearwater

Located on the Gulf Coast just west of Tampa, Clearwater is a little more than 90 minutes away from the Villages of Citrus Hills. And while those 90 minutes might not seem like much, spending time in this beachside paradise will make you feel like you are miles from anywhere resembling your normal life.

If you are looking to plan a weekend getaway to the beach or simply want a fresh day trip destination, the Clearwater area is packed full of things to do. Let’s jump right into the warm water and check out five fun things to do on your next trip to this white sand paradise.

Hit the Beach

When a destination is known around the world for its beautiful white sand beaches, spending some time enjoying those beaches should be at the very top of every visitor’s list.

Clearwater Beach is the most popular beach destination in the area, and it offers an absolutely gorgeous stretch of pristine sand and crystal clear water. This is the perfect place to lay out, walk with your feet in the water, or go for a swim.

So grab a towel, kick off your shoes, and get ready to hit the beach.

Beach Walk

When you are ready for a break from the beach, the Beach Walk pedestrian area offers a nice place to stroll along a paved sidewalk under the shade of palm trees.

The road is pushed back a bit from this area, which is also filled with local shops, restaurants, and an old-time ice cream parlor.

You won’t believe some of the cool things you will find in the boutique shops along the Beach Walk, so this is the perfect way to get your shopaholic fix in Clearwater.

Pier 60

Another popular destination that isn’t far from the beach is Pier 60. This 1,080-foot fishing pier is the perfect place to cast a line in Clearwater, day or night.

There is a small fishing shop right on the pier that can fix you up with everything you need to catch local fish like Spanish mackerel and spotted trout.

The pier also features a constant flow of entertainment from local musicians and jugglers, so there is always something to see and do here. It’s also a wonderful spot to watch the sunset.

Kayaking & Standup Paddleboarding

Whether you prefer to kick back in a kayak or do your paddling while standing up, there are a number of fantastic paddling options around Clearwater for anyone who prefers to relax out on the water.

Spending some time exploring the waters around Sand Key Park, Moccasin Lake Nature Park, or Cliff Stephens Park is an activity that you could base an entire trip around.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium

In addition to everything there is to do outdoors, Clearwater is also home to the famous Clearwater Marine Aquarium. This massive aquarium features all kinds of marine life on display, including Winter, the dolphin who served as the inspiration for the movie Dolphin’s Tale.

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium specializes in marine rehabilitation, so you can also learn quite a bit about how they are working to improve conditions for marine life along the Gulf Coast.

From kicking back on the beach to paddling kayaks through untouched nature parks, everything in Clearwater is focused on relaxation. So the next time you feel the need for a day or two of recovery, let Clearwater help you reconnect to nature in whatever way works best for you.

Benefits of Living in Citrus County



Florida is a big state with a wide range of different options that appeal to different people for different reasons.  

But if you are considering relocating to the Sunshine State, Citrus County, which just so happens to be the home of the Villages of Citrus Hills, presents one of the best options you could choose for a number of reasons.  

Residents of Citrus County are in a position to enjoy all of the best aspects of Florida at the same time. They get to experience the famous Florida climate. They are right next to the Gulf Coast, while still not too far from the Atlantic Coast. Great cities like Tampa, Orlando, and Gainesville are just a short drive away, and the entire region is filled with amazing state parks and forests.  

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most significant benefits of living in Citrus County: 

53% Will Never Be Built On 

Many people who relocate to Citrus County don’t realize this fact until after they move here, but more than half of the county is protected areas that will never see any type of construction. This assures residents that Citrus County will never suffer from becoming overbuilt the way other parts of Florida have.  

Ideal Climate 

The location of Citrus County along the Gulf Coast near the central part of Florida gives it one of the best climates in the entire country. The average high in the summer is in the low 90’s, and the average low in the winter is in the mid-40’s. This moderate climate allows residents to avoid the cold winters without having to endure the 100+ degree summers that residents find in southern Florida and Arizona.  

Low Cost of Living 

Like all Florida residents, those living in Citrus County are not subjected to any state income tax. However, unlike some of the more urban parts of the state, Citrus County residents enjoy a relaxed atmosphere where they don’t have to worry about gouging prices that you might find in many popular tourist areas. The cost of living is very reasonable in Citrus County.  

Parks and Trails 

Whether you are looking for large state parks, great walking trails built from abandoned railroad lines, or small community parks that offer some of the best sunset views you will find anywhere, Citrus County has them all. There are an unbelievable number of different parks and trails throughout the county that all offer their own unique version of nature in Citrus County.  

Day Trips to “Old Florida” Towns 

Mount Dora

Another advantage that the geographic location of Citrus County offers is that residents are within a short drive of quite a few different “Old Florida” towns that all make for great day trips. Many of these small towns have great historic shopping districts, outstanding restaurants, and plenty of history and art museums.  

An Enormous Amount of History 

From the historic sites of the Second Seminole War to the shell mounds of ancient natives, Citrus County is packed with tons of great history and plenty of places to learn all about it. The county also has a long history of producing outstanding thoroughbred horses, including multiple Kentucky Derby champions.  

Gulf Coast Lifestyle 

Living in Citrus County places you right in the heart of the Gulf Coast Lifestyle. Fishing, boating, and sunbathing at the beach will all be only minutes away. You can also participate in popular local activities like collecting scallops, catching stone crab claws, or swimming with the manatees.  

Close to Tampa and Orlando 

While the communities of Citrus County are known for their small-town environments, the big-city lifestyle is never very far away with both Tampa and Orlando being only a short drive away. This gives Citrus County residents access to great shopping, cultural events, and professional sports teams that many people like to experience from time to time.  

As you can see, Citrus County is one of the most optimal locations for an active adult lifestyle in Florida. Make sure to include a tour through Citrus County and the Villages of Citrus Hills on your next trip to Florida so that you can see the area for yourself.