Points of Interest between Bushnell, Florida to Winter Haven, Florida

picture of Bushnell, Florida

Roadtripping from Bushnell to Winter Haven

If you're looking for a quick day trip with a variety of stops, consider driving the stretch of FL-35 from Bushnell to Winter Haven. It's only a 45-mile drive, but if you make some strategic stops along the way, you can turn it into a full day of sightseeing.

Interesting Fact

Florida's Highway 35 was once part of the Great Michigan-California Tourist Route, a transcontinental highway that spanned over 3,000 miles.

Halfway Point - Dade City, FL

About halfway through your road trip, you'll pass through the charming town of Dade City. If you're looking for a bite to eat, check out Kafe Kokopelli or lunch at Lunch on Limoges, both located in the downtown area.

Length of the Trip

Assuming you make several stops and spend at least an hour at each location, you could easily make this a 6-8 hour trip. Depending on your starting point and pace, you could easily leave early in the morning and be back home in time for dinner.

Top 5 Places to Visit

  1. Dade Battlefield Historic State Park - This state park is a great stop for history buffs, where you can learn about the Seminole Indian War through interactive exhibits and historic reenactments. Point of interest recommendation: Attend a reenactment or living history event.
  2. Bok Tower Gardens - A beautiful garden with a 60-bell carillon that chimes every half hour, Bok Tower Gardens is a must-visit spot for nature lovers and lovers of music. Point of interest recommendation: Attend a concert or take a walking tour of the gardens.
  3. Fantasy of Flight - This aviation-themed attraction is a unique stop for those interested in planes and aviation history. The museum features a collection of planes from various eras. Point of interest recommendation: Take a biplane ride or attend a flight simulation experience.
  4. Circle B Bar Reserve - This scenic wildlife reserve features hiking trails, a boardwalk, and a chance to see alligators, birds, and other Florida wildlife in their natural habitat. Point of interest recommendation: Bring binoculars and a camera for birdwatching and nature photography.
  5. Chain of Lakes Park - A lakeside park with walking trails, a playground, and picnic areas, Chain of Lakes park is a great spot for families or anyone looking for a peaceful spot to relax. Point of interest recommendation: Bring a picnic lunch or rent a pavilion for a family gathering.

Conclusion

The short drive from Bushnell to Winter Haven is packed with plenty of day-trip worthy destinations, from historic state parks to peaceful lakeside parks. The trip offers a great variety of activities for anyone looking for a mix of nature, history, and culture. Even if you only have a day to spare, this route is definitely worth exploring.