With just over a month before the kids start heading back to school in Southwest Florida, there’s still time for a summer getaway. And if you’ve already done the Orlando theme parks or maybe one of the cities, why not check out some of the amazing Florida small towns?
One thing is a constant here in Fort Myers and Naples. The traffic. 10 to 15 years ago, 41 would be nearly vacant in late June. Now it’s like no one ever leaves. And what’s with the latest trend in Naples of waiting until someone is almost to the intersection and then pulling out in front of them? I’ve seen some crazy stuff lately.
Except for Sunday mornings. Pro tip, here. If you want to drive on 41 like it’s the old days, head down 41 in Bonita Springs Sunday morning around 9 am. There’s almost no one on the roads, and the locals that are out know that the left lane is for crime.
Aside from Sunday mornings, traffic doesn’t let up. So let’s take a look at some amazing Florida small towns to get away for a bit. Some are close, others are a full day drive. But all are in Florida. Sometimes I forget just how big this state is. And even though the population of Florida is growing rapidly, you can still find places that hold onto that small town charm.
World Atlas helped put together a list. But I’m building upon it with all that I know from living here 20+ years. I live in Estero, and I can always hear traffic from 41. I came here from a little town of about 2,500 people. So when I can get away from that noise it’s a blessing.