Sunshine, Springs & Southern Charm

 

9 Days | Florida | Crystal River, The Villages & Ocala
Leave the cold behind and journey south for a warm, adventure-filled getaway! This 9-day tour combines Florida's natural beauty, vibrant local culture, and plenty of relaxation — all with premium accommodations, engaging excursions, and a laid-back pace perfect for winter weary travelers.

 

Tour Highlights

 

Day 1: Heading South

• Say goodbye to Pennsylvania’s winter chill as we travel south to Fayetteville, NC. Enjoy dinner on your own and a comfortable overnight stay.

 

Day 2: Arrive at the Plantation on Crystal River

• Welcome to the eco-friendly Plantation on Crystal River, a 232-acre resort nestled along Florida’s Kings Bay. This serene setting is known for its natural springs and resident manatees. Enjoy a relaxing evening and included dinner at the hotel.

 

Day 3: Scenic River Cruise & Leisure at the Resort

• Take a narrated cruise through the famous springs of Kings Bay, home to the West Indian manatee and the iconic Three Sisters Springs. Spend the afternoon enjoying optional resort activities — from golfing and spa treatments to boating, fishing, or even swimming with manatees (optional, extra cost). Dinner is included again tonight.

 

Day 4: The Villages – America’s Friendliest Community

• Arrive at The Villages, Florida’s premier retirement community. Enjoy a guided trolley tour and get a thorough orientation of this dynamic town. Then, pick up your golf cart rental (one per room) — your primary mode of transportation for the next four days!  Check in for your 4-night stay at TownePlace Suites by Marriott, located just steps from Spanish Springs Town Square, where free nightly entertainment awaits.

 

Day 5: Silver Springs Adventure

• Explore the legendary Silver Springs Nature Park and enjoy a Glass Bottom Boat tour — one of Florida’s oldest and most fascinating natural attractions. In the afternoon, return to The Villages to explore shops, dine, or dance to live music under the stars.

 

Day 6: Horses & Art in Ocala

• Visit Chasin’ A Dream Horse Farm, a working thoroughbred broodmare farm where you’ll learn about foaling and breeding with opportunities for great photos.
  Afterward, tour the impressive Appleton Museum of Art, followed by a hands-on art session with a professional docent. Enjoy another lively evening back at The Villages.

 

Day 7: Free Morning & Orange Blossom Opry

• Spend your morning exploring The Villages at your leisure. In the afternoon, enjoy a matinee performance at the Orange Blossom Opry, known for its high-energy variety shows and musical talent. The evening is yours to enjoy more food, music, and fun.

 

Day 8: Begin the Journey Home

• Travel north and overnight in Fayetteville, NC. Dinner is on your own.

 

Day 9: Return to Pennsylvania

• Return home to the Keystone State — rejuvenated, sun-kissed, and filled with memories of warm weather and great company.

 

What's Included

• 8 nights of accommodations

• 8 breakfasts and 2 dinners

• Scenic narrated Crystal River cruise

• Guided trolley tour of The Villages

• 4-day golf cart rental

• Silver Springs Nature Park & Glass Bottom Boat tour

• Visit to Chasin’ A Dream Horse Farm

• Entry to the Appleton Museum of Art + art session

• Matinee at the Orange Blossom Opry

• Deluxe round-trip motorcoach transportation

 

Tour Pricing

• $3070 per person single occupancy

• $2450 per person double occupancy

• $2240 per person triple occupancy

• $2140 per person quadruple occupancy

 

Deposit: $200 per person due upon booking

Final balance due: December 4, 2025

Cancellation deadline: December 4, 2025