Road Tripping from Cape Coral to Lake Wales: A Guide to the Best Driving Route
If you're looking to take a road trip from Cape Coral to Lake Wales, you're in for a treat. This scenic drive takes you through some of the most beautiful areas of Florida. The journey itself could be an adventure, thanks to the variety of routes available to you. In this article, we'll explore some of the different routes you can take and how long it will take you to get there.
Route 1: Take the US-17 and FL-64 E
This is the most direct route to Lake Wales from Cape Coral and will take you through some of Central Florida's most picturesque countryside. Take the US-41 from Cape Coral to I-75, then continue on to FL-64 E. This route is approximately 131 miles and could take you around two and a half hours to reach your destination. There are plenty of places to stop and stretch your legs along the way, such as the Florida Railroad Museum in Parrish and the Gamble Mansion Historic State Park in Ellenton.
Route 2: Take the I-75 N and FL-70 E
If you're looking for a more leisurely drive, take the I-75 N to FL-70 E. This route takes you through some of the quieter areas of Florida and offers some breathtaking views. Stop off in Myakka River State Park for a picnic and enjoy a walk along the boardwalk. This route is approximately 140 miles and should take you around two and a half hours.
Route 3: Take the FL-29 and US-27 N
For a scenic drive with hills and winding roads, take the FL-29 and US-27 N from Cape Coral to Lake Wales. It's one of the best routes for nature lovers, with the Fisheating Creek Wildlife Management Area just 40 minutes from Lake Wales. This is a great place to park up and stretch your legs before the last leg of your journey. This route is approximately 177 miles and could take you around three hours.
Recommended stopovers
One of the best things about a road trip is the ability to stop off and explore new places along the way. Here are some recommended activities to make your journey more enjoyable:
- Take a detour and visit Arcadia, which is known for its antique shops.
- Stop by Solomon's Castle and take a tour of the quirky home of the late sculptor, Howard Solomon.
- Stretch your legs at Highlands Hammock State Park and explore the picturesque scenery.
- Visit one of the many citrus stands and enjoy some fresh Florida oranges or grapefruits.
Final Thoughts
There are many different routes to take when driving from Cape Coral to Lake Wales, each with their own charm and character. The route you choose will depend on the type of adventure you're looking for, but all of them are guaranteed to provide you with a scenic and memorable experience. No matter which route you take, make sure you leave plenty of time to explore the different stops and attractions along the way. Happy road tripping!