Living in Wellen Park means having some of Florida’s best hidden gems right at your fingertips. Sure, we love hanging lakeside, grabbing tacos, and catching live music under the Heritage Tree—but when you’re craving something new, you don’t have to go far to find it.
We put together a list of 10 day trips you can take—all within an hour’s drive of Downtown Wellen. From wild nature preserves and fossil-filled rivers to luxe resorts and off-the-radar trails, these spots are perfect for spontaneous weekends, family outings, or just breaking the routine.
Bonus: we included a fully interactive map so you can explore, plan, and get directions in one click. Let’s hit the road.
1. Fort Myers River District (1 Hour)
Historic charm meets modern flair in the heart of Fort Myers. Stroll palm-lined streets filled with eclectic shops, riverfront dining, and vibrant murals. Catch a rooftop sunset, explore art galleries, or time your visit with one of the area’s monthly art walks or food festivals.
2. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium (45 Minutes)
An absolute must for families and sea-life lovers, Mote Marine offers hands-on exhibits, touch tanks, and an impressive lineup of marine residents—from sea turtles and otters to sharks. This is more than an aquarium; it’s a working research lab that blends fun with real conservation work.
3. Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor (50 Minutes)
Port Charlotte’s newest resort destination is perfect for a luxurious afternoon. Even if you’re not booking a room, you can still enjoy the restaurants, rooftop bar, or waterfront boardwalk with scenic views of Charlotte Harbor. Great for a date day or an upscale escape.
4. Red Bug Slough Preserve (50 Minutes)
Looking for a quiet nature break? Red Bug Slough in Sarasota is a hidden gem. This 72-acre preserve is ideal for leisurely strolls, birdwatching, and spotting turtles and butterflies in their natural habitat. It’s peaceful, shaded, and refreshingly off the radar.
5. Boca Grande on Gasparilla Island (50 Minutes)
Boca Grande is a charming and elegant barrier island perfect for a laid-back day trip. With quaint streets, stunning beaches, a historic lighthouse, and some of the best tarpon fishing in the world, it’s a coastal escape that feels like a hidden treasure.
6. Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park (55 Minutes)
One of Florida’s largest state parks, this 45,000-acre preserve is a paradise for paddlers and nature lovers. With mangrove-lined waterways, hiking trails, and birdwatching galore, it’s perfect for a full day of exploring or an early morning kayak session.
7. The Celery Fields (50 Minutes)
Sarasota’s top birding hotspot is also a haven for walkers, runners, and anyone who enjoys a sweeping view. Climb the hill for a panoramic sunrise, walk the loops through wetlands and marshes, or just sit back and watch the herons do their thing.
8. Peace River Fossil Hunting (1 Hour)
Looking for a one-of-a-kind Florida adventure? Head to the Peace River near Arcadia and try your hand at fossil hunting. This river is famous for ancient shark teeth, mammal bones, and even the occasional mammoth tooth. Grab a sifter, a permit, and see what you can uncover.
9. Historic Spanish Point (50 Minutes)
Step back in time at this 30-acre bayside museum in Osprey. It blends Native American history, pioneer homesteads, and beautiful gardens under the care of Selby Gardens. With shaded walking paths and educational exhibits, it’s a thoughtful and scenic day out.
10. Ann & Chuck Dever Regional Park (30 Minutes)
Replacing beach picks for something a little different, this Englewood-area park has a massive aquatic center with slides, lap lanes, and a splash pad. It also offers shaded walking trails, a disc golf course, and ball fields. Perfect for families, fitness enthusiasts, or anyone looking to cool off and relax.
Make It a Map-Based Adventure
To make things even easier, we created a clickable map of all these destinations. Pop it open, choose your next mini road trip, and go explore:
Living in Wellen Park means having access to a slice of everything: outdoor escapes, culture, food, and family fun. You don’t need to plan a whole vacation to feel like you’re getting away—just pick a direction and go.
More adventures coming soon, so stay tuned!
