What Happened on Tamiami Trail Will Shock You

## Get Your Kicks (and Maybe a Few Lemons) on Route 66… Naples Style! Okay, Naples, let’s talk about something fun. Road trips! Specifically, the granddaddy of them all, Route 66. Now, I know what you’re thinking. Route 66? Isn’t that halfway across the country? We’re basking in the Florida sunshine, miles away from the dusty plains and neon signs of the Mother Road. And you’re right, geographically speaking. But that doesn’t mean we can’t capture a little bit of that Route 66 magic right here in Southwest Florida. The spirit of Route 66 is more than just a stretch of asphalt; it’s about adventure, freedom, and discovering those hidden gems that make a journey memorable. It’s about embracing the open road, even if that open road leads you to a fantastic seafood shack on Tamiami Trail instead of a classic diner in Oklahoma. So, how do we bring that iconic Route 66 vibe to Naples? Let’s explore. **Crafting Your Own Naples Route 66 Experience:** The beauty of Route 66 was its eclectic mix of roadside attractions, mom-and-pop businesses, and stunning natural landscapes. We can recreate that same tapestry of experiences right here in paradise. Forget the Cadillacs with tailfins; we’ve got sleek convertibles perfect for cruising down Gulf Shore Boulevard. Trade in the desert vistas for breathtaking sunsets over the Gulf. And instead of dusty roadside diners, we’ve got a plethora of incredible local eateries just waiting to be discovered. **1. Mapping Your Naples “Mother Road”:** Think of it as your personalized Route 66, Naples edition. Pick a starting point – maybe the iconic Naples Pier – and chart a course through the city, focusing on local businesses, historical landmarks, and scenic routes. Instead of chasing neon signs, you might be on the lookout for vibrant murals or the colorful awnings of our charming boutiques. Here are a few potential stops for your Naples Route 66 adventure: * **The Naples Pier:** Start your journey at this iconic landmark, breathing in the salty air and watching the pelicans dive for their dinner. It’s the perfect starting point for any Naples adventure. * **Tin City:** This waterfront marketplace is bursting with local shops, restaurants, and that quintessential Florida charm. Imagine it as your Route 66 trading post, filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. * **Third Street South & Fifth Avenue South:** These vibrant shopping districts are lined with unique boutiques, art galleries, and al fresco dining options. Think of them as your Route 66 main street, offering a taste of local life and upscale finds. * **The Everglades City Boardwalk:** Take a detour into the heart of the Everglades, a truly unique and wild landscape. This is your Route 66 detour through nature, a reminder of the raw beauty that surrounds us. * **Historic Palm Cottage:** Step back in time at Naples’ oldest house, a glimpse into the city’s rich history. This is your Route 66 history lesson, a reminder of the journeys that shaped our community. **2. Embracing the Roadside Attractions:** Route 66 was famous for its quirky roadside attractions, from the World’s Largest Ball of Twine to the Cadillac Ranch. While we might not have those specific landmarks, Naples has its own unique treasures waiting to be discovered: * **The Botanical Garden:** A lush oasis of tropical plants and flowers, a perfect place to stretch your legs and enjoy the natural beauty of Southwest Florida. * **The Conservancy of Southwest Florida:** Get up close and personal with the local wildlife, from playful otters to majestic bald eagles. This is your chance to connect with the natural world, a vital part of any Route 66-style adventure. * **Local Art Galleries:** Explore the vibrant art scene of Naples, discovering hidden gems and supporting local artists. This is your chance to find a unique souvenir, a piece of Naples to take home with you. **3. Dining Like a Road Warrior:** No road trip is complete without delicious food. Ditch the chain restaurants and embrace the local flavor: * **Seafood Shacks:** Indulge in fresh, local seafood at one of Naples’ many waterfront restaurants. This is your Route 66 diner experience, Florida style. * **Mom-and-Pop Italian Restaurants:** Naples has a rich Italian heritage, and you can find some truly authentic and delicious Italian cuisine at family-owned restaurants throughout the city. * **Farmers Markets:** Stock up on fresh produce and local goodies at one of the many farmers markets in the area. This is your chance to connect with the local community and sample the flavors of Southwest Florida. **4. Capturing the Spirit of Adventure:** The true essence of Route 66 lies in the spirit of adventure. Embrace the unexpected, be open to new experiences, and don’t be afraid to get a little lost along the way. Here are a few ways to capture that adventurous spirit in Naples: * **Rent a bike and explore the Gordon River Greenway:** This scenic pathway offers stunning views of the Gordon River and the surrounding mangroves. * **Take a kayak tour through the mangroves:** Get up close and personal with the unique ecosystem of the Everglades. * **Go shelling on one of Naples’ pristine beaches:** Search for hidden treasures and enjoy the tranquility of the Gulf Coast. **5. Documenting Your Journey:** Just like the travelers of yesteryear, document your Naples Route 66 adventure. Take photos, jot down notes, and share your experiences with friends and family. Create your own personal travelogue, a reminder of the hidden gems you discovered along the way. **Beyond the Asphalt: The Naples Route 66 Mindset:** Ultimately, the Naples Route 66 experience is about more than just ticking off locations on a map. It’s about slowing down, appreciating the simple things, and connecting with the local community. It’s about embracing the spirit of exploration and finding your own personal slice of paradise right here in Southwest Florida. So, gather your friends, pack a picnic basket, and hit the road, Naples style. Your Route 66 adventure awaits. And who knows, you might even find a few hidden gems along the way. Just don’t forget the sunscreen!