Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bonita Springs, Florida to Ormond Beach, Florida

Driving from Bonita Springs to Ormond Beach is a stunning drive. The drive takes approximately eight hours if you take the I-4 E route (208 miles). The drive may sound long and boring, but it's far from it. The following five unexpected places to stop on the way will make it worth the drive.

Halfway Point: Bartow, FL

Located between Bradenton and Orlando in Polk County, one will find Bartow. It is also known as the "City of Oaks and Azaleas." Bartow is an unexpected oasis and is considered the halfway point on this drive. Stopping here will give you a refreshing break from the busy-ness of the city.

1. Solomon's Castle - Ona, FL

Solomon's Castle is nestled in the woods of Ona, FL, and what makes it unique is the castle itself. Solomon's Castle was designed, built, and has been continually expanded by one man, Howard Solomon since 1972. The castle is made of more than 80,000 recycled materials such as old printing plates, beer cans, and farming equipment. Howard Solomon's philosophy is that "everything can be used again, and people should not waste or throw away things that still have use in them." Touring the castle and having lunch at the Boat in the Moat restaurant is a must.

Favorite Food: Gator Bites at Boat in the Moat restaurant.

2. Bok Tower Gardens - Lake Wales, FL

Bok Tower Gardens is a National Historic Landmark and a contemplative garden. The attraction is both beautiful and peaceful. The garden, situated on 50-acres of land, is home to over 121 endangered plants. The centerpiece of the gardens is the Singing Tower, a 205-foot tower housing one of the largest carillons in the world. Daily carillon concerts and bell-ringers are a highlight for visitors.

Favorite Food: Chicken Caesar Salad at the Blue Palmetto Cafe.

3. Barberville Pioneer Settlement - Barberville, FL

The Barberville Pioneer Settlement is an open-air museum and an entertaining educational experience. Visitors walk through Florida's history on a 30-acre site filled with authentic buildings and period artifacts. Staff members are in period garb, which adds to the authenticity and historical indoor and outdoor exhibits.

Favorite Food: Smoked Sausage with Peppers and Onions at the Smokehouse.

4. Marineland Dolphin Adventure - St. Augustine, FL

Marineland Dolphin Adventure is the world's first oceanarium. It opened its doors in 1938 and has been in continuous operation since then. The attraction offers different dolphin encounters, from touching, feeding, and swimming with them. One also learns about conservation, rehabilitation, and the fragility of Dolphins' natural habitat.

Favorite Food: A variety of Seafood at Harry's Seafood located on A1A, St. Augustine.

5. Florida Agricultural Museum - Palm Coast, FL

The Florida Agricultural Museum's mission is to remind the public that Florida was built on agriculture, from colonial times to the present day. Here visitors will find exhibits that showcase the importance of agriculture in Florida's economy and educational opportunities for children and adults.

Favorite Food: Blackened Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo at the Sweetwater Grille.

In Conclusion

Driving from Bonita Springs, Florida, to Ormond Beach, Florida, offers visitors an opportunity to discover unexpected sites and landmarks. The author hopes that the five places mentioned will become favorites on your next road trip. Bonita Springs to Ormond Beach, or vice versa, will give visitors a chance to bond with family and friends while learning more about Florida's rich history, culture, and ecology.