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!

December Activities and Events at the Villages of Citrus Hills

The month of December has officially arrived and we are starting to bring 2019 to a close, but that doesn’t mean we aren’t going to have plenty of activities and events to keep us busy over the last few weeks of what has been a fantastic year here at the Villages of Citrus Hills.

In fact, aside from all of the holiday-themed fun on this month’s calendar, you would have a hard time distinguishing it from any of the other action-packed months that are already in the books for this year.

So, whether you are looking to take in a show or hit the golf course between the holidays, there is more than enough action to keep you busy here throughout the month of December.

The Big Show Series

The Big Show Series always brings plenty of excitement to our community, and this month will be no different when The Atlantic City Boys take the stage at the Activity Center Auditorium for two separate shows on Thursday, December 5.

This talented quartet has performed all over the country singing popular songs from groups like The Beach Boys, The Drifters, the Bee Gees, and Frankie Valli. Tickets will be $25 for members and $30 for guests.

Social Events

15th Annual Holiday Boutique - December 3rd

The seasonal social events will kick off right away this month with the 15th Annual Holiday Boutique in the Hampton Room on Tuesday, December 3 from 12 pm to 5 pm. There will be more than 50 local vendors this year, which makes it the perfect opportunity to get started or finish up on your Christmas shopping.

Santa Rocks the Dance Floor - December 17th

The Hampton Room will be rocking and rolling on Tuesday, December 17 when the Santa Rocks the Dance Floor Sock Hop gets going. This event will feature drinks and snacks starting at 6 pm followed by live dancing at 7 pm.

There will be a group of members heading to the Scottish Highland Games in Winter Springs on Saturday, December 18. This fun athletic competition will include everything from tug-o-war to axe throwing and there will also be art, music, food, and beverages for everyone who attends.

This month’s Shalom Social Dinner will be held at Skyview Restaurant on Friday, December 20. The menu options will include Rosemary-Crusted Sirloin, Baked Cod Casino, or Chicken Florentine.

Golf & Tennis

Anyone looking to add some golf gear to their holiday wish list will want to check out the Golf Shoe Trunk Sale at the Skyview Pro Shop on Tuesday, December 3 and the Golf Demo Day at the Skyview Driving Range on Saturday, December 7. Both events will be showcasing some of the best equipment on the market this year.

St. Nick Open - December 14th

The two big competitive golf events this month will be the Husband & Wife Championship on Monday, December 9 and the St. Nick Open on Saturday, December 14. Both events will include food and beverages following the round.

Residents looking to improve their golf game this month will want to attend one of the six Free Golf Clinics scheduled with PGA/LPGA Pro Mary Slinkard this month. She will be on hand to help beginners on December 2, 3, and 4. Then she will be back to work with intermediate golfers on December 9, 10, and 11.

This is also going to be a great month to get involved at the Skyview Tennis Center, which will be hosting a Free Beginner Tennis Clinic on Tuesday, December 10. All you need to participate is a pair of tennis shoes, so don’t let those common excuses stop you from attending.

Restaurant Specials

Winter Wonderland Menu - Every Friday

Skyview Restaurant is going to be running a Lobster Roll special every Wednesday in the month of December, and they will also be featuring a new collection of specials on their “Winter Wonderland” menu every Friday throughout the month, as well as a huge brunch special on Sunday, December 29.

Our friends over at the Tiki Bar are also gearing up for the holiday season with a fantastic selection of Thursday night specials planned for the month of December. With meatloaf, fried chicken, shrimp, and ribs all on the menu, you don’t have to worry about what’s for dinner on Thursday nights all month long.

New Year’s Eve - December 31st

New Year’s Eve is always one of the most exciting nights of the year here at the Villages of Citrus Hills, and The Grille is going to be hosting a first-class menu featuring all of your favorite high-end options from 5 pm to 9:30 pm on Tuesday, December 31.

Spa Specials

If you manage to find any time to pamper yourself during the month of December, you can do exactly that at BellaVita Spa by taking advantage of special offerings like The Revitalizer Facial and the Happy Holiday Massage Special.

With all of these activities and events already planned for the month of December, you should have no problem keeping yourself busy while closing 2019.

In fact, the bigger problem might be finding a way to cram all of this excitement into your busy schedule, but we think you can probably find a way.

48 Hours in Orlando: Holiday Shopping Edition

Millenia Mall

The holiday shopping season has officially arrived, and there may be no better place in all of Florida to get started than Orlando. Whether you are shopping for friends or family, there is something for just about everyone on your list at one of the many retail destinations around the City Beautiful.

There is so much great shopping in Orlando that a simple day trip may not be enough, even though it is only about 90 minutes from the Villages of Citrus Hills. And, since shopping in Orlando is such a great place for a weekend getaway anyway, here is how we recommend spending 48 hours in Orlando for holiday shopping.

Day One: Disney Springs and Local Flavors

Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’

There is no sense in kicking off a weekend of shopping on an empty stomach, so our first stop after arriving in Orlando is going to be Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’. This monument to southern style food is best known for their fried chicken sandwich, which makes it a perfect spot to fill up before diving into the holiday fun.

Not only is Homecomin’ a fantastic place for lunch, but it is also located right in the middle of Disney Springs, which just happens to be filled with more than 100 retail shops to explore. So, once you have a little southern fuel in your belly, the next stop is a little bit of Disney-style retail therapy.

For dinner on the first night of our Orlando-based shopping spree, we are heading to Whisper Creek: The Kitchen, which is located inside the JW Marriot in Grande Lakes. Conventional wisdom would suggest that taking a longer ride to a hotel restaurant is a waste of time, but that is definitely not going to be the case here. The menu is simple, but every item on it will be memorable.

The Stubborn Mule

If you want a second dinner option or just a great place for a cocktail after dinner, The Stubborn Mule is fantastic. Whether you are looking for mules, martinis, or manhattans, this spot has a specialty cocktail for every palate.

Day Two: Mall Shopping, Lobster Rolls, and Tapas Spots

We might have done more eating than shopping on day one, so let’s start day two off on the right foot by heading to The Mall at Millenia. With more than 150 luxury retailers, this might be the best place in all of Florida to find those high-end gifts to spoil just about everyone in your family.

After two (or maybe three) excellent meals on your first day in Orlando, you might be looking for something a little bit lighter for lunch on day two, so we are going to hit up Bar Harbor Seafood for one of their traditional lobster rolls and a cup of clam chowder.

The Florida Mall

We’re going right back to the mall scene after lunch, but this time it will be The Florida Mall, which is an outdoor shopping destination that features more than 250 different retailers just minutes from all of the popular Disney destinations. If you can’t find a perfect gift or two here, you simply aren’t trying hard enough.

There are few things that work up an appetite quite like shopping, so when you are ready to treat yourself to a fabulous meal, Delaney’s Tavern is the first option on the list for day two. This fun and friendly “Cheers-style” tavern has one of the most exciting menus you will find in Florida, and there are plenty of great shareable small plate dishes.

If you are looking for an after-dinner cocktail or more delicious small plates, Santiago’s Bodega is another spot that will keep you interested with both the food and the drinks. With house-made sangrias and a huge tapas menu, don’t be surprised if you find yourself staying here a little longer than expected.

Day Three: Brunch Before the Outlets

The Diner

We always start off day three of these 48-hour getaways with a brunch option, and the best place to do that is at The Diner. The Huevos Rancheros are fantastic, and everyone loves the Eggs Benedict, but don’t let yourself come here for the first time and not order those Chicken and Waffle Sliders.

It’s nearly impossible to spend two days in Orlando and not cross off most of your holiday shopping list, but if you have anything at all left to buy, the Orlando International Premium Outlets is going to be your best bet for getting the job done on this trip. This location has more than 180 retailers featuring every major name brand you might be looking for.

With everything from Disney merchandise to designer fashions, there is nothing that you can’t find at one of the many shopping destinations in and around Orlando.

So, when you are ready to get into the holiday spirit, this 48-hour trip is definitely going to be the best way to get started!

10 Favorite Weekend Getaway Destinations in Florida

Over the years, we have published dozens of articles highlighting some of the best weekend getaway destinations in Florida. But one thing that we have never done is put together an article highlighting the best of the best when it comes to getting out of town for a few days.  

If you are thinking about planning a weekend getaway of your own, we believe these ten destinations are the best places to start. So pick whichever one that you haven't been to yet and start planning your next trip! 

Daytona Beach Pier

Daytona Beach 

Everyone knows that Daytona Beach is home to the famous Daytona International Speedway. And if NASCAR is your thing, this is definitely a trip that should be on your list. But there is also a lot more that Daytona Beach has to offer for a weekend getaway.  

You can choose to stay at a wide range of excellent resorts located right along the "World's Most Famous Beach," and you won't want to leave without taking a stroll out onto the Daytona Beach Pier. 

Las Olas Boulevard

Fort Lauderdale 

Fort Lauderdale is known for two things: it's iconic beachfront and the equally iconic shopping available on Las Olas Boulevard. This is a perfect destination for anyone who is passionate about arts and culture mixed with beachfront living.  

While you are in Fort Lauderdale, make sure that you take the time to drive, ride, or stroll through Hugh Taylor Birch State Park and stop for burgers and beer at the park restaurant.  

Jacksonville 

The Jaguars put Jacksonville back on the map, but Florida residents have always known that this is a great spot for a weekend getaway. If you’re looking for an affordable way to stay at a luxury beachfront hotel, this is your destination. Jacksonville is also home to more than 20 miles of beautiful beaches, and they have the largest urban park system in the country.

Key West 

You might think you know what to expect from a weekend in Key West, but you honestly haven't lived the complete Florida experience until you’ve explored some of the outstanding bars and restaurants that are located just off of the famous Duval Street.  

Miami Sunset

Miami 

Miami is best known for the late-night club scene you will find in South Beach, but this popular tourist destination actually has something for everyone. And because there are so many tourists that frequent the area, you can always find an Uber driver, and there are often some great deals on last-minute hotel rooms. 

While you are in town, make sure that you head down to Joe's Stone Crab. They offer two versions of the Joe's experience with the casual take-out side and the formal restaurant side.  

Disney World Magic Kingdom

Orlando 

It's all about the theme parks in Orlando, and since Florida residents get discounted admission, this is the type of getaway that will make all of your friends and relatives around the country jealous.  

While you are in Orlando, head over to one of the interesting seasonal events at Epcot, and don't forget to check out The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando. 

Gallery Night

Pensacola 

When you are ready to start exploring the Panhandle, Pensacola is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. Here you will find lots of history that you can explore through walking tours. Plus, the city is also home to a thriving community of artists with galleries.  

Pensacola is also home to the National Naval Aviation Museum and the world-famous Blue Angels.  

St. Lucie Trail Golf Club

Port St. Lucie 

Most of our favorite weekend getaway destinations are cities or towns that are filled with fun things to do and great places to eat. But if you are looking for a getaway that is focused on golfing in a relaxing environment, Port St. Lucie should be at the top of your list.  

Port St. Lucie is also the winter home of the New York Mets, so make sure you plan your trip around Spring Training! 

Nights of Lights

St. Augustine 

In terms of history, no city in the country can match what you will find in St. Augustine. Known as the "Nation's Oldest City," it is here that you will find landmarks like Castillo de San Marcos, Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth, and the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse.  

But don't let the history make you think that St. Augustine doesn't have a modern flair as well. The city is also home to a thriving restaurant scene where you will be hard pressed to run out of options.  And now is the perfect time to visit as they have the Nights of Lights running nightly November 23rd, 2019 through February 2nd, 2020.

Palm Beach Zoo

West Palm Beach 

Don't let the name fool you because West Palm Beach is actually located on the east coast of Florida, just north of Fort Lauderdale. This classic "Old Florida" community is home to stunning white sand beaches, as well as four different retail districts to keep all the shopaholics happy.  

West Palm Beach is also home to the Palm Beach Zoo and the Norton Museum of Art.  

When you live at the Villages of Citrus Hills, you may never feel the urge to leave the community. But if you decide to venture out, you can’t go wrong with any of the destinations we’ve mentioned here.

5 Fun Things to Do in Dunnellon

Known for its prime location along the Rainbow and Withlacoochee Rivers, as well as its historic downtown district, Dunnellon is one of the many hidden gems residents will find located all around the Villages of Citrus Hills.

Because of its location just over 20 minutes north of our community, Dunnellon is one of the popular day trip destinations for our residents. And with everything from river tubing and horseback riding to airboat tours and shopping, there is never a dull moment in this nearby town.

Let’s take a closer look at five of the most fun things you can do while spending a day up in Dunnellon.

Tubing Down the Rainbow River

One of the most popular things to do in Dunnellon is break out a tube or kayak and spend the day floating down the Rainbow River. This is a great way to take in the beauty of the area without having to do a whole lot of work.

The best places to start any tubing or kayaking adventure here are Rainbow River State Park and the KP Hole County Park. There are companies available to rent tubes or kayaks near both locations, so the only thing you have to bring is a swimsuit.

Rainbow Springs State Park

While Rainbow Springs State Park is best known for being a perfect launch point for a day out on the Rainbow River, the park offers so many additional amenities that it actually deserves a place of its own on this list.

In addition to river access, Rainbow Springs State Park offers some of the best hiking and camping areas you will find this close to the Villages of Citrus Hills. So whether you are looking for a wilderness weekend or just a picnic outside, this is the type of location you definitely want to experience.

Happy Acres Ranch

If horses are your passion, then Happy Acres Ranch is going to be the type of place you want to visit over and over again.

This working ranch specializes in trail rides, lessons, and boarding. They have over 50 miles of trails to explore on horseback, so there is always a new path to explore while you are out riding.

In addition to being a great place for horseback riding, Happy Acres Ranch also offers campers and cottages for rent if you want to turn Dunnellon into your home for the weekend.

Airboat Tours

While exploring the Rainbow and Withlacoochee Rivers by kayak can be quite relaxing, airboat tours offer visitors a much more exciting version of that same experience. These flat-bottom boats are powered by massive fans attached to the back of them.

Local companies like Captain Bob’s Airboat Tours offer regularly scheduled tours that will get you up close and personal with all kinds of local plants and native wildlife. Plus there is the fun of actually getting to experience riding on an airboat.

Historic Shopping District

Most of the small towns throughout the state have some interesting boutique stores for shoppers to explore, but Dunnellon has the Historic Village Shops of Dunnellon, which is a collection of those types of stores that work together to create an amazing shopping experience.

The Historic Village Shops of Dunnellon also hosts a market of local crafters and artists on the first Saturday of each month. So if you are planning on shopping in town, that is the best time to visit.

With everything from tubing down the Rainbow River to exploring the Historic Villages Shops of Dunnellon, this quaint little town is packed with fun and adventure for anyone who wants to visit. And since it is located just a short drive from the Villages of Citrus Hills, there is no reason you can’t plan to head up to Dunnellon on a regular basis.