Florida On The Beach

Come aboard as we escape the chilly, winter weather and travel to the “Sunshine State” of Florida!  Our included noon lunch is at PerkinsRestaurant in Black River Falls, WI. This afternoon, sit back and relax as you enjoy Wisconsin’s beautiful countryside. By early evening we arrive at our hotel in Schaumburg, IL. (L)

We begin our travel day by skirting our way around the bustling traffic of Chicago and into the flat countryside of Indiana. Noon lunch is included along the way as we travel south to Kentucky, “The Bluegrass State.” You’ll marvel at its beautiful countryside, lined with charming fences and streams meandering between the gently rolling hills. The limestone karst topography that underlies the hills and knobs of this unique landscape is exceWe begin our travel day by navigating around the bustling traffic of Chicago and into the flat countryside of Indiana. NEW in 2027, we have added the Indianapolis Motor Speedway attraction to our itinerary, featuring a self-guided museum tour and a guided track tour. You’ll find this attraction exciting, engaging, and educational, bringing the thrill of the Indianapolis 500 to life. Experience what it’s like to be a driver, strategist, or pit crew member in the new Qualifying Zone. Discover the history behind “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” in the Heritage Group Gasoline Alley Gallery. View iconic cars and the legendary Borg-Warner Trophy in the John H. Holliday Family Indianapolis 500 Winner’s Gallery—and much more! A noon lunch is included as we travel south to Kentucky, “The Bluegrass State.” You’ll marvel at its beautiful countryside lined with charming fences and streams meandering through gently rolling hills. The limestone karst topography underlying the hills and knobs of this unique landscape supports Kentucky’s equine industry, with green pastures rich in calcium that help build strong bones in horses. Later this afternoon, we arrive at our accommodations at the Drury Inn in Bowling Green, KY, just in time for the evening Kickback complete with drinks and food!llent for Kentucky’s equine industry, with calcium rich green pastures that build strong bones in horses. (B) (L)

After a hearty breakfast, we embark on a short journey to Nashville, Tennessee, where we'll enjoy a morning coffee break. This stop serves as Rustad Tour’s “teaser”, offering a glimpse of the rich experiences available on our Nashville-themed tours at the iconic Gaylord Opryland Hotel. You'll have a moment to explore this captivating hotel and grab a quick cup of coffee. Later, we pause for a lunch break (on your own) before continuing to Chattanooga to visit the renowned Tennessee Aquarium, acclaimed as the best aquarium in America! Here, you'll embark on an extraordinary adventure from mountain peaks to the depths of the sea, exploring the diverse ecosystems housed within the aquarium’s two buildings. The aquarium inspires a deeper connection with nature and encourages thoughtful stewardship of water and wildlife. Our coach then heads south to Marietta, Georgia, where we check into the comfortable Drury Inn. (B)

This afternoon, we cross the border with a lunch stop included along the way. Our first destination in Florida is a two-night stay at Paddletail Lodge in Crystal River, FL, famously known as the “Manatee Capital of the World.” Nestled on the scenic Kings Bay Waterfront, the lodge offers a variety of amenities and charming touches. This evening, you’ll have free time to explore and enjoy the resort’s offerings. Dinner is on your own, giving you the chance to savor local favorites and, weather permitting, dine outdoors with a captivating view of beautiful Kings Bay. (B) (L)

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast and time to enjoy the resort's amenities. A local guide will accompany us throughout the day. Our first stop is Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, where you'll have a unique “Manatee immersion experience “including insights into the language, culture, stories, and traditions of the region. Beyond the manatees, the park features rescued and rehabilitated native Florida wildlife. You’ll witness the stunning Homosassa Springs, attracting manatees, diverse fish species, and visitors alike. You can observe underwater life without getting wet in the fishbowl observatory. Our guide will narrate as we stroll along a horseshoe-shaped boardwalk to see these gentle giants in their natural habitat. We'll enjoy a relaxed lunch at Bubba Q’s restaurant. Afterwards, there’s ample time to explore Heritage Village, home to many unique specialty shops and boutiques nestled among canopied Oaks, Palms, and Magnolia trees in the historic downtown district. This afternoon, we’ll enjoy a relaxing cruise on King’s Bay. The captain shares local history, including stories about various mansions (such as John Travolta’s home), a ship graveyard, and more. We return to our hotel resort by late afternoon, leaving you time to explore the area and savor local dining flavors! (B) (L)

Rise and Shine! After a delicious breakfast buffet, we continue our journey southward, stopping along the way to Sarasota, FL. We arrive just in time for a delicious Amish-Style Buffet at Der Dutchman Restaurant, where we'll enjoy a private room and a captivating story about local Amish life and culture during our meal. After lunch, we will experience an introduction of Pinecraft with our local expert. Pinecraft is a unique, close-knit Amish Mennonite snowbird destination established in the 1920s, serving as a warm-weather retreat for thousands of Northerners each winter. Instead of horses and buggies, residents and visitors get around by foot or bicycle. We’ll take a walking tour to explore highlights such as a quilt shop and a picture gallery, with opportunities to purchase beautifully hand-crafted products. This evening, we arrive at the Pink Shell Resort for a fabulous 6-night stay! This beautiful slice of paradise is located on the Gulf Coast of Mexico. After settling into our gulf-view rooms, Rustad Tours will host a “Poolside Cookout” at the Pink Shell Resort. Following dinner, there’s plenty of time to enjoy the evening exploring the Pink Shell Resort or downtown Ft. Myers Beach! (B) (L) (D)

This morning, enjoy a scenic drive followed by a relaxing sightseeing cruise in Naples. You'll see birds of prey, playful dolphins, and luxurious homes along the way. Afterwards, take some free time to shop at the charming Old Town Tin City of Naples. Stroll along the boardwalk or pier or savor a leisurely lunch (on your own) at a cozy café. We then return to the Pink Shell Resort, leaving you plenty of time to explore the neighborhood further or unwind on the beach! (B)

After a relaxing breakfast buffet, we'll embark on a scenic drive through Florida's diverse tropical landscapes, including forests, prairies, small rivers, swamps, and lakes. By mid-morning, we'll arrive at Babcock Ranch Eco Tours, where we'll board a "swamp buggy" for a guided tour showcasing some of Florida's unique ecosystems. You'll experience a working ranch, a cypress swamp, alligators, cattle, and a variety of native birds. Every day brings new surprises. After the tour, enjoy lunch at their "Gator Shack." A mid-afternoon arrival back at our resort allows plenty of time to relax, explore, and savor one of the many nearby eateries on your own! (B) (L)

Get your cameras ready for stunning photos today! Relax and unwind as we board the “Lady Chadwick” for an island cruise to Cabbage Key Island, where an included lunch awaits along with time to explore this beautiful paradise. After a memorable day, return to the Pink Shell Resort to enjoy its wonderful amenities! (B) (L)

Time flies when you’re having fun! We’ll start the morning exploring the Edison–Ford Winter Estates. Thomas Edison and Henry Ford are two of America’s most renowned early 20th-century industrialists. Their winter homes are open for viewing, showcasing many personal artifacts. Lunch is included at the themed restaurant “Ford’s Garage.”  Afterward, we’ll tour the spring training home of the Minnesota Twins in Florida, where they train from mid-February through the end of March. You’ll experience ‘Twins Territory’ during our exclusive tour of Lee’s Health Sports Complex. Note that the stadium’s exterior was designed to resemble Churchill Downs in Kentucky and has undergone upgrades and improvements throughout the years. On our way back to the Pink Shell Resort, our coach will stop at Sun Harvest Citrus, giving you the chance to buy fresh Florida fruit or enjoy a delicious ice cream cone! Later, you can return to the Pink Shell Resort for some last-minute shopping or relax on the beach under a shaded umbrella. (B) (L)

Today is a free day for you to relax and enjoy the beautiful beachfront setting at the Pink Shell Resort, or to explore the area at your leisure. You might choose to spend part of your day on the water with a variety of cruises available, savor a meal at one of the many diverse eateries, wander the neighborhood’s walking trails and parks, or browse the charming local shops. This evening, we’ll gather to enjoy stunning views over the pool and beach during our private farewell dinner party at the Pink Shell Resort, celebrating the wonderful memories from our Florida on the Beach tour. (B) (L) (D)

This morning, our Rustad motorcoach will take you to Ft. Myer’s airport for your flight to Minneapolis. Upon arrival at Minneapolis airport, you’ll be greeted by another Rustad motorcoach and driver who will transport you back to Kerkhoven. Don’t forget to grab a cup of coffee and a cookie before heading home. We hope you’ve enjoyed your “Winter Escape” and that you’ll cherish fond memories of your Florida vacation for years to come! (B)