Florida Has 3 Of America’s Favorite Make Out Spots

A new survey revealed America's top 150 make out spots. Florida has one in the top 10 and one other entry on the list is right here in Southwest Florida. Who knew we were such romantics?

The lure of finding a secluded spot on the open road for a little bit of romance has always been alluring. When I was in high school, we knew where to find the less traveled roads just outside of town to take a date. You see, it's not enough to just be secluded, it needs to be romantic, and if possible - scenic. Others enjoy the thrill of maybe being spotted in an automotive hook up. An element of risk...

I've got so many stories from college, and I bet you do, too. But where is the best spot in America? Well, web site Datingnews did a survey asking people where to find the best make out spots in America, so let's see what they found out.

Taking a look at the top 10, one Florida road made that list.

1 Hana Highway, Maui, Hawaii
2 Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg, Tennessee
3 Pikes Peak Highway, Colorado Springs, Colorado
4 Lookout Mountain Parkway, Chattanooga, Tennessee
5 Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
6 Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive, Las Vegas, Nevada
7 The 17-Mile Drive, Monterey, California
8 South Mountain Park, Phoenix, Arizona
9 A1A Coastal Highway, Palm Coast, Florida
10 Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway, Rangeley, Maine

Ah, the Scenic A1A, 72 miles of mostly two-lane roadway navigate nature’s beauty, history, and true serenity along Florida's Atlantic coast. Although the A1A hugs the coast all the way down to Key West, the section that made the list is further north., starting in St. Johns County and ending in Flagler County at a seaside park. State parks, national monuments, beaches, and preserves all make for a perfect spot to pull off the road for a bit of a - break from driving. It comes in at number 9 on the make out spots list.

Another Florida location, coming in at number 21 is a bit of a head-scratcher. The survey lists the Seven Mile Bridge in the Florida Keys just outside the top 20. Now, I've been across the Seven Mile Bridge, and the views are spectacular, but I really can't remember any place to pull over to get amorous. I don't really see this as one of the best make out spots in Florida, but where there's a will.....

All the way at the bottom of the list, coming in at number 150, is the Tamiami Trail between Naples and Miami, Florida. Yes, Alligator Alley made the list. Unlike the Seven Mile Bridge, there ARE places to pull off the road on Alligator Alley for a make out sesh, but Alligator Alley certainly lacks the scenery of A1A or the Seven Mile Bridge in the Keys. But what the road from Miami to Naples does have is a whole lot of, well, nothing. 🤷‍♀️

So perhaps the hookups are based more upon the monotony of the road than romance. "I'm bored, you wanna pull over and - you know?" I mean- just look at this road! It's basically 2 hours of this -

So, as you're searching for the perfect make out spots in Florida, just be aware of your surroundings. And be careful! I'm not sure who was recommending the Seven Mile Bridge, but I don't think it's a good idea. Maybe hold off until you get to one of the Keys. And if you choose to pull off into one of the 'Scenic Views' on Alligator Alley at dusk, be aware of the bugs. Lots and lots of bugs.

It was a short work week for many. But still, the weekend could not get here fast enough and there is plenty to keep you busy. Here are 6 exciting events in Southwest Florida this weekend for the entire family.

First, Sizzle Dining is underway and has more participating restaurants this round than ever before. There are also some new pop-up lunch and brunch events in the line-up. This annual event is one of my favorites for a couple of reasons. It features fantastic pre-fix dining deals at top Southwest Florida restaurants. In addition, proceeds help feed local kids. More details below.

It's the first weekend of the month. That means it's time for Art Walk in downtown Fort Myers. Side note, this week city leaders lifted parking fees after 5pm on weekdays once again. Parking on the weekend is free most places but be sure to read the small print to avoid a ticket.

Back to school seasonal events aren't over. You'll find more below to put on your weekend calendar.

If you have any upcoming events that you would like to share, please send them here. Finally, here are your Weekend Vibes for September 6th through September 8th. Have fun at these 6 exciting events in Southwest Florida this weekend.

*Please note, events are subject to change. Especially considering the weather. It never hurts to confirm with a phone call or a quick check of social media and event websites.

This is a great way to try new restaurants as well as enjoy a new experience in some of your faves. Participating places offer a series of pre-fix dining options for three, four and five course meals. Lunches are $19 and $29. Dinner are $29, $39, and $49. Some also have a $59 option. For every meal sold $1 is donated to Blessings in a Backpack to help feed food insecure children. You get to eat and feed others at the same time. Bonus. It runs through the 25th. More info here.

Art Walk is on. The first Friday of the month, downtown Fort Myers comes alive with art. The galleries feature special exhibits, see artists in action and enjoy all kinds of activities. The event runs from 5-9pm. More information here.

This festival is also known as Moon Festival or Mooncake Festival around the world. The event at Babcock Ranch celebrates the famous Chinese festival with mooncakes, wontons and all kinds of family fun. Sunday 5pm-6:30pm, Free. Founders Square. More info here.

The 20th anniversary celebration of this popular Lehigh Acres park features live entertainment, music, dance and demos. For the kids there are games and a bounce house. Since it is a birthday party there will also be cake and ice cream. Saturday, 10am to 2pm. Free. More info here. 

This two-day festival at Naples Botanical Gardens celebrates all things Waterlilies. There will be special tours, exhibits, competitions and demonstrations. Events are suited for the entire family. Saturday and Sunday, 9am-2pm. Special residents admission is $15, children 17 and under $5, 3 and under free. Members Free. More info here.

Collier County Public Library South Regional is still celebrating back to school. Pick up some free school supplies, enjoy snacks and games too. It's for kids of all ages but geared to high school students exploring careers like EMS and others. Saturday 10am to 2pm, Free. More info here.