11 Great Road Trips to Take in Florida
Florida is a state that begs to be discovered on the open road, promising endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and discovery. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or just in search of scenic views, Florida's highways and backroads lead you to some of the most diverse and captivating destinations. From the vibrant streets of Miami to the tranquil shores of Key Largo, each road trip reveals something new. Picture cruising from Orlando to the Kennedy Space Center, where you can immerse yourself in the wonders of space exploration, or driving through the historic small towns on the way to Winter Garden, where charm and local culture await at every turn.
Each route is carefully crafted to take you through Florida's diverse landscapes—lush swamps, stunning beaches, and lovely lakes—and to introduce you to the state’s rich history and vibrant communities. These 11 great road trips to take in Florida promise exceptional experiences that will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for this fascinating region in the United States.
Tallahassee To Apalachicola
The drive from Tallahassee to Apalachicola is a 76-mile journey through US-319 S and US-98 W that takes around 1.5 hours. Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park, about 25 minutes from Tallahassee, makes an excellent first stop. Famed for its crystal-clear springs, it’s perfect for a boat tour or a picnic. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including manatees and alligators. The next stop is Panacea, a small fishing village along the way. Visit the Gulf Specimen Aquarium, an interactive lab with touch tanks featuring local marine life. It’s a fun and educational spot for families.
Another worthwhile detour is St. George Island State Park. Located slightly off the main route, this pristine barrier island is ideal for quiet beaches, hiking trails, and incredible Gulf Coast views. It’s a great place to stretch your legs and soak in the natural surroundings. Before reaching Apalachicola, consider stopping at Carrabelle. This coastal town has the 1895 Crooked River Lighthouse, where you can climb to the top for panoramic views. There’s also a small museum detailing the lighthouse’s history. When visitors arrive in Apalachicola, they can enjoy its historic charm, seafood restaurants, and the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve. This reserve highlights the area's biodiversity and provides stunning waterfront views.
Tallahassee To Suwannee River State Park
A short but fulfilling travel for a day or weekend from Tallahassee to Madison Blue Spring State Park covers 68 miles in just over an hour. About 20 miles into driving, you will come across Lloyd Railroad Depot. This historic site is the oldest brick railroad station in Florida. It’s a quick stop, but it's worth it for history enthusiasts or photo opportunities. At the 32-mile mark is the town of Monticello, boasting its historic charm. You can get a ticket for a show at the Monticello Opera House, a cultural hub with a rich history.
The trip ends at the Suwannee River State Park. Located near Live Oak, the park presents scenic hiking trails along the Suwannee River and picnic areas. The ruins of a 19th-century steamboat ferry crossing add historical intrigue to the visit.
Tallahassee To Florida Caverns State Park
I-10 W majorly connects Tallahassee to Florida Caverns State Park, which spans 69 miles. Quincy is a small town just 30 minutes into the drive. The Gadsden Arts Center and Museum is a standout showcasing regional art and traveling exhibits. It is a quick stop for art enthusiasts and a great way to start the journey. Eight miles before the destination, halt at Blue Springs Recreational Area in Marianna. This local gem is noted for its turquoise spring waters, perfect for a refreshing swim or paddleboarding. The surrounding trails and shaded picnic areas add to its charm.
You may also take an optional detour to the Chipola River Canoe Trail. Just a few minutes off the route, the 51 miles deliver a serene paddling experience with lush surroundings. Finally, reach Florida Caverns State Park, the trip’s highlight. It’s the only state park in Florida offering guided tours of dry caves, showcasing impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones. The park also has hiking trails and a visitor center. The Chipola River trail is also accessible from here.
Tallahassee To St. George Island
A memorable escape for beachgoers and nature enthusiasts alike, reaching St. George Island from Tallahassee will take 1 hour and 45 minutes. Approximately 80 miles via US-319 S and US-98 W, this trip is perfect for exploring Florida’s natural beauty. Wakulla Springs State Park, about 25 minutes from Tallahassee, is great for a boat tour to spot manatees and alligators or to enjoy a quick swim. Next up is Sopchoppy, a quaint town en route. Stop at Sopchoppy Depot Park for a picnic, or stretch your legs at Ochlockonee River State Park. It’s a peaceful place with trails and river views.
Continue along the route to Eastpoint, the gateway to St. George Island. Eastpoint is home to Lynn’s Quality Oysters, a fantastic place to relish fresh seafood with waterfront views. St. George Island welcomes with miles of pristine beaches and opportunities for swimming, shelling, and fishing. The St. George Island State Park is where you can hike, paddle, or relax by the water. Don’t miss the St. George Island Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coast.
Orlando To Kennedy Space Center
From Orlando, a short 50-mile trip will allow visitors to experience the Kennedy Space Center via FL-528 E. The American Space Museum in Titusville, just before Kennedy Space Center, celebrates space exploration history with artifacts and exhibits. It’s an engaging prelude to the main attraction. The Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is another interesting stop. The refuge is known for its diverse ecosystems, including wetlands and coastal dunes. Take the Black Point Wildlife Drive for a chance to spot manatees, bald eagles, and other native species.
Dixie Crossroads is a popular seafood restaurant in Titusville. Best known for its rock shrimp and corn fritters, it’s a great place to refuel before continuing your adventure. Finally, arrive at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Spend your day exploring exhibits like the Space Shuttle Atlantis, Rocket Garden, and the Astronaut Hall of Fame. Time your visit to witness a rocket launch for a truly magical experience.
Orlando To Highlands Hammock State Park
The 87-mile trip from Orlando to Highlands Hammock State Park takes the road US-27 S, capturing the essence of Central Florida. Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales, about an hour after starting, is a fine place to move around. This National Historic Landmark features 250 acres of lush gardens, walking trails, and the Singing Tower, a 295-foot-tall carillon with daily bell concerts. Then, make a brief stop at Spook Hill in Lake Wales, a quirky roadside attraction. This optical illusion makes it seem like your car rolls uphill. It’s a quick but fun standout for road trip enthusiasts.
Continuing along US-27, stop in Sebring at the Sebring International Raceway, one of the oldest racetracks in the U.S. Racing fans can explore the history of motorsports here. And then you reach the Highlands Hammock State Park. Featured for its 9,000 acres of old-growth hammock forest and elevated boardwalk, the park is perfect for hiking, birdwatching, or cycling. The Civilian Conservation Corps Museum provides insight into the park’s history.
Orlando To Devil's Den Prehistoric Spring And Campground
I-75 N and US-27 N will be your companions along the 102 miles from Orlando to Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring and Campground. Start your trip with the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing in Ocala, about halfway through the drive. The museum showcases a vast collection of vintage cars and highlights the history of drag racing. Then, pay a visit to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, just south of Gainesville. The park features hiking trails with scenic overlooks and opportunities to spot wild horses, bison, and alligators. The Visitor Center provides insights into the area’s unique ecosystem.
For a food break, stop at The Yearling Restaurant in Hawthorne. Noted for its Southern-style dishes, this historic spot celebrates the region’s literary heritage, as it’s near the home of author Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings. Devil’s Den is a widely famous prehistoric underground spring in Williston. This one-of-a-kind attraction allows visitors to snorkel or scuba dive in crystal-clear waters surrounded by ancient rock formations. The site also offers picnic areas and cabins for those planning to stay overnight.
Miami To Key Largo
As a perfect introduction to the laid-back charm of the Florida Keys, get behind the wheel in Miami for the next 68 miles down south to Key Largo. The Coral Castle makes for a charming stopover in Homestead. This mysterious limestone structure, built by a single man, is both an engineering marvel and a fascinating historical site. It’s about 40 minutes from Miami and has guided tours. Everglades National Park’s Ernest Coe Visitor Center is a nice attraction where you can learn about the unique ecosystem. Consider a quick hike or airboat tour to see alligators and wading birds up close. For a relaxing break, stop by Robert Is Here, a beloved fruit stand in Homestead. Enjoy fresh tropical fruits, milkshakes, or a snack from their deli. It’s a must-see spot for road trippers.
For animal lovers, the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center in Tavernier is an incredible place nearby. It allows you to see rescued birds and learn about conservation efforts. Now you proceed to the rewarding end, Key Largo, acknowledged as the “Diving Capital of the World.” Stop at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for snorkeling or glass-bottom boat tours.
Miami To Tampa
Between the two great cities of Florida, the 282-mile voyage from Miami to Tampa will also have you marveling at Florida’s west coast. You cannot begin the trip without looking right west of Miami in the Everglades, the Miccosukee Indian Village, and Airboat Rides. Here, you can understand the Miccosukee Tribe’s culture, history, and crafts while enjoying an airboat ride through the surrounding wetlands. After getting on the road, Naples, about halfway through the drive, is your initial halt. The Naples Botanical Garden is a peaceful 170-acre retreat featuring plants from around the world. Alternatively, Tin City Waterfront Shops is the go-to for waterfront dining and quirky local shops.
Continuing north, take a break at Myakka River State Park near Sarasota. The park is famous for its canopy walkway, delivering a bird’s-eye view of the treetops, and its boat tours to see alligators and other wildlife. If time permits, peruse through the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota. This museum complex has art galleries, a circus museum, and the Ca’ d’Zan Mansion, the former home of circus magnate John Ringling. A little further drive down the road, you are in Tampa. Discover the Tampa Riverwalk, a scenic 2.6-mile path along the Hillsborough River with restaurants, parks, and museums. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, with roller coasters and animal exhibits, is your place for some thrill.
Miami To Winter Garden
The 249-mile endeavor from Miami to Winter Garden will keep you on the road for about four hours. About an hour from Miami is the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach. This tranquil site comprises serene gardens, a museum, and a lakeside cafe, making it a unique and refreshing break. Alternatively, you can drive for 10-15 minutes to Palm Beach. Stroll through Worth Avenue, a historic shopping street with boutiques, galleries, and cafes. Nearby, take a relaxing walk at the Society of the Four Arts Gardens.
Downtown Orlando invites you to Lake Eola Park. Stretch your legs with a stroll around the lake, rent a swan-shaped paddle boat, or grab a bite at a nearby eatery. Consider stopping by Oakland Nature Preserve, just a few miles before Winter Garden. It has boardwalk trails leading through wetlands to Lake Apopka, providing excellent birdwatching opportunities. Lastly, Winter Garden is a charming town with a lively historic downtown. Walk through the Winter Garden Heritage Museum for local history, or head to Plant Street Market for craft beer and artisanal food. Also, take time to bike or walk along the West Orange Trail, a beautiful path passing through the heart of town.
Miami To Fort Myers
If you want to discover what makes southwest Florida unique, there is nothing better than heading toward Fort Myers from Miami. The 162-mile road trip takes approximately 2.5 hours to complete. Steer west and make your way to the prominent Big Cypress National Preserve. Just over an hour into the trip, it’s a great place for a panoramic break. Take a short hike or spot wildlife like alligators and wading birds. A few minutes off the highway, you’ll find the quaint town of Immokalee. Stop by the Immokalee Pioneer Museum to learn about the history of Florida’s early settlers. This little museum promises insight into the agricultural roots of the region.
After that, move southwest to the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. This beautiful natural reserve features a 2.25-mile boardwalk through wetlands, perfect for a peaceful walk among cypress trees and wildlife. As you continue to Fort Myers, stop for a break at the Miromar Outlets to shop or have a meal at one of the local restaurants. The final stretch brings you to Fort Myers, home to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. This historical site from the 1800s features the winter homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, along with gardens and a museum displaying their innovative contributions.
Whether you are cruising along the Atlantic coast from Miami to Key Largo or scouring the wetlands of the Everglades on your way to Fort Myers, the Sunshine State has something for every road trip. Road trips like the drive from Orlando to Kennedy Space Center present an inspiring mix of space history and technological marvels, while journeys such as Miami to Winter Garden showcase Florida’s small-town charm, vibrant downtowns, and parks.
Each route allows for moments of discovery—whether it’s stopping for a stroll through the gardens at the Morikami Museum, exploring the vast boardwalks at Big Cypress National Preserve, or taking in the stunning views at Lake Eola in Orlando. From historic museums to breathtaking parks, these 11 road trips to take in Florida invite you to slow down, soak in the scenery, and experience the state in a way that few others do.
