Alternate route to Naples (other than 75)

[scoreboard]

Friends recently arrived from Naples to Villages via 75 and said it took over 5 and one half hours due to construction and heavy traffice. Planning on visiting Naples soon and wondering if anyone has alternate route that avoids 75 as much as possible. Understand it may take longer, but could be a lot less stressful. Looking for experiences with different routes.
Thanks

[mixsonci]

My sister just drove up from Naples last Wednesday and it only took them 3 1/2 hours. I believe they took 75 but I am not sure. I can ask them but they won't be home until tomorrow evening (Saturday)

[scoreboard]

That would be great
Thanks.

[GaryW]

You could always take US 27 south all the way down to Palmdale,, Hang a right onto 29, take that over to Labelle,, turn right onto Hwy 80, to I75 South,
But going to take awhile,,,
I would take the trip down I75, and hammer down..

Lot of red lights on the back roads,,,

Or you can take 301 south to Dade City,, get on US 98 down to Bartow,, then stay on 17 south to Punta Gorda and take 75 South From there.

But your not going to save time ,,

[scoreboard]

Might try the 301 route. Scenic at least...but like you say, probably slow

[Lovey2]

75 is the most direct, if you're looking at time. Doing the speed limit, it is a little over a 4 hour drive anyway. The routes Gary mentioned are feasible, but like he said, not really time savers.

[scoreboard]

Actually I had heard that there was a fair amount of construction south of Tampa that slowed you down. Guess I was looking for a more leisurely, less stressful route than 75..especially if it wasn't that much longer in time.

[chuckinca]

301 to 471 to 98 to 4 West to 571 to 98 (around Lakeland) to 17 to 31 to 75 (in North Fort Myers) to Naples.

The stretch thru the Green Swamp is a long straight tree lined two lane highway.


nice drive, enjoy.

.

[scoreboard]

Thank you...sounds good.
Appreciate the input.