family road trip florida

Florida Road Trip: 31 Amazing Places You Won’t Want To Miss

Florida is the perfect family road trip destination and a great family vacation idea with relaxation , art and culture , plus family-friendly activities ! We have road tripped the state 4 times and can’t wait to share with you all about the beautiful beaches , theme parks , natural wonders and historic sites .

The state is huge and has so much to offer from white sandy beaches to Disney World to Universal Studios to natural springs . Our Ultimate Florida Road Trip will take you from one end of the state down to island hopping in the Florida Keys and back up to the Florida panhandle.

High level List Of Top Activities To Do

• Orlando CityPass
• The Fury Ultimate Water Adventure
• Little Havana Tour
• Visit the Dry Tortugas

Have you thought about renting an RV for your trip? We highly recommend it!

*Be sure to check out our FREE Ultimate Florida Road Trip With Your Family eBook below!

Table of Contents

The Ultimate Florida Road Trip Map

St. Augustine

There are so many things to do in St Augustine Florida , it’s an amazing way to start your ultimate Florida road trip. We recommend 2 nights, but really you could stay a week. If you are staying 2 days visit:

St. Augustine Alligator Farm

You can spend hours here exploring all the different alligators, feeding them, and watching the shows. Plus for only $5 you can take your picture with a baby alligator!

Fountain of Youth

It seemed like such a tourist trap to us, but really there is more to it than just the fountain. The grounds are beautiful and filled with multiple history lessons – including the Timucuan Village and seeing them fire a cannon! The road to get to the Fountain of Youth is also amazing with a canopy of old oaks covering the street. Needless to say it is worth it to go.

St. George Street

You can end your day by visiting St. George Street. It is filled with restaurants and one of our favorite stops: Hyppo for homemade popsicles! They even had a champagne flavored one.

And yes, those are our dogs. St. Augustine is super dog friendly!

We also recommend checking out Historic Tours of America , they offer great packages and other ideas of things to do in the area. The trolley was an amazing way to get around town and really learn a lot about St. Augustine. It also meant we didn’t have to drive and find parking everywhere we went.

Or you could check out this trolley tour that takes you to three of St. Augustine’s museums: The Old Jail, St. Augustine History Museum and The Oldest Store Museum!

For even more history, consider visiting the Castillo de San Marcos Monument, booking the Old Jail Tour, or visiting the Oldest Store Museum!

Check out more fun activities in St. Augustine! Where to Stay:

Compass RV Resort offers another good location in St. Augustine with only a 15-20 minute drive to get downtown. This campground also has two dog parks!

Another option is Ocean Grove RV Resort that is about 7 miles from the historic district. This campground includes a boat launch, restaurant, golf cart rental, and more!

If you want to rent an RV check out our post on How To Rent An RV and How To Plan An RV Trip .

Hotel:  Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront

We did not stay in a hotel when we were there but given where this hotel is located we think it would be a great place to stay. If you stay here you could walk to a lot of the downtown attractions or easily get on the trolley.

You can’t come to Florida and not go to Orlando. Plan on at least 3 days for all of these things to do in Orlando, Florida :

Magic Kingdom

Visit Magic Kingdom for 1 day. We have done it multiple times and really feel you can see the majority of the park in 1 day. Here is a post we wrote about our tips for visiting in 1 day here: 11 Tips For Visiting Magic Kingdom In 1 Day

Here are some tips from Global Munchkins:  Disney World Tips & Tricks and also The Best Disney Family Shirts for your trip!

Plan on heading to Animal Kingdom? Our friends at We3Travel share what the best ride is in Animal Kingdom and all of Disney!

Universal Studios

We had put off going to Universal Studios until our kids were a little older. When our youngest turned 6 we figured it was a good time to go! We had an absolute blast and loved every minute of it. There was plenty to do with younger kids and the older ones could go on almost all of the rides.

We also had a great time going to Volcano Bay and highly recommend if you are going to Universal plan a day at Volcano Bay!

Ideally we would recommend 3 days to explore Universal. 1 day for each park and 1 day for Volcano Bay. There are 2 parks in Universal – Universal Studios VS Islands of Adventure we recommend visiting both and have done both in one day if you are short on time. Great tips from Global Munchkins on visiting Universal: The Best Universal Orlando Tips From A Pro Have teens? Merlot Mommy shares: The Best Rides for Teens at Universal Orlando Resort

Visiting during Halloween? Be sure to check out The Ultimate Guide to Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights

Go tubing at Kelly Rock Springs and visit Downtown Disney. This has been one of our favorite things. The water is crystal clear and with all the beautiful greenery and perfect water it is a can’t miss destination!

You start from the top of the spring on an inner tube and float all the way down to the beach. AMAZING!

You can learn more about it in our post: Tubing By Orlando The Best Non Disney Experience and for more springs check out: Best Springs In Florida

If your kids are 12 or younger we recommend also making a stop at LEGOLAND Florida for a day. The size of the park is so much easier to manage then Disney World and in a day you can pretty much do every ride and see the shows.

If you are interested in visiting Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando or LEGOLAND Florida, you may want to consider using the Orlando CityPass ! CityPass will allow you to order tickets to any of these locations on one convenient website and give you a great discounted price!

Escape Game

If you haven’t checked out the Escape Game yet, you are missing out! At Escape Game Orlando you can test your teamwork and sleuthing skills by trying to escape from one of eight themed rooms with your team or family in under an hour. It is a ton of fun for the whole family and a great teamwork exercise as well!

You can check out our post about our experience at The Escape Game here!

Orlando Museum of Art

If you are looking to take in some culture or expand your horizons a bit while in Orlando, check out the Museum of Art! Take a look at the museum’s calendar of events and see if there is something exciting happening in the art gallery, or just stop in anytime and take a tour!

You could also plan a trip over to the Kennedy Space Center and maybe catch a launch, or Swim or Snorkel with the Manatees!

Get tickets here for the Kennedy Space Center!

Have older kids? Check out this post on things to do with teens in Orlando .

Where to stay:

Luxury Villa :  If you are looking to kick back with a big group or want to experience a luxury vacation home check out the Luxury Villas! We stayed here for a week with friends and it was AMAZING!!

Orlando RV Resort With our RV we always stay at the Thousand Trails Orlando. Its proximity to all of the things we listed above is great and you are a little ways away from the hustle and bustle of Orlando. If you want a more glamorous place to stay than Disney’s Fort Wilderness is for you. We spent a day there and it was pretty awesome and we know other RVers who call it their FAVORITE place to stay in the whole US.

Camp Margaritaville – For a fun vacation style RV resort stay here!

If you want to stay outside Orlando, Mill Creek RV Resort is in Kissimmee – only about 30 minutes from the Orlando theme parks. Also, all of these sites are on concrete patios!

Another option outside Orlando is in Davenport. Only 25-30 minutes from the Orlando theme parks, Mouse Mountain RV Resort offers a selection of standard and premium sites.

If you want to splurge stay at the Fort Wilderness Resort ! We haven’t stayed here but went and visited once and it was amazing.

Embassy Suites on International Drive If you are looking for a hotel and want to give your kids a special treat then stay at the Legoland Hotel . They have gifts for your kids once they complete a scavenger hunt in your room, all the legos you want to play with in the lobby and some amazing shows.

Then of course there are all the Disney properties. To be honest we always look for ways to cut costs so we can take more trips and do more things. In that mindset we stayed at an Embassy Suites that provide breakfast was close to Disney – so that is always an option too.

Here is a great list of the Best Hotels For Families In Orlando .

If you are a waterpark family check out: Best Water Parks In Orlando. 

From here you could head to our next stop Miami or make a stop in Jupiter. There are a lot of great things to do in Jupiter, Florida and it is a more under the radar location!

Welcome to Miami! Miami has a very cool vibe to it. We recommend doing the following:

Little Havana

Miami has an amazing Cuban presence and vibe to it. Head into Little Havana and grab some ice cream at Azucar and then walk down the street to see if you can hear any cuban music coming from the bar/restaurants and do a little dance in the street.

Next head into Wynwood and check out the amazing artwork on the sides of the building. This is an up and coming area in Miami and has an awesome vibe to it! You can also park and get out and walk around Wynwood Walls to check out the artwork and restaurants in the area.

South Beach

Go to South Beach and see what South Beach is really like! We didn’t get a chance to get out of our car due to how busy it was. But it was cool to drive down A1A and take in everything South Beach has to offer.

Miami Seaquarium

We had a great time exploring the Miami Seaquarium and all the exhibits. Grab your Seaquarium tickets here ! Don’t forget to check out Miami Beach while you are there!

If wildlife is more your thing check out Tropical Botanical Garden & Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary at Flamingo Gardens

Check out our post on: 7 Things To Do with Kids in Miami

Check out these other great activities in Miami!

RV Park: Miami Everglades RV Park 

We stayed at the Encore RV park. We had to drive a ways to get into downtown Miami – but it was still worth it since the RV park was so nice and quiet. Plus they had a great pool, hot tub and mini golf course!

Hotel:  Check out this highly rated family friendly hotel:  InterContinental Miami

VRBO: Check out this Mediterranean-style cottage with private swimming pool!

Luxury Villa : If you are looking to house up to 12 guests in style with an infinity pool, fitness room and home theater, consider this Luxury Villa !

Another idea is to take a cruise when you are in Miami! The Carnival Vista looks amazing!

Florida Keys and Key West

Ever wonder the distance from Miami to Key West ? Well, it’s about 160 miles. Crazy, right?! That 3 hour drive could be a road trip in itself! Well, now you know the distance from Miami to Key West , on your Florida Keys Road Trip , check these amazing stops:

Feed the Tarpons

Stop at Robbie’s and feed the Tarpons. It is a really cool experience. For just a few bucks, you get a bucket of fish that you then feed to the large tarpon that hang out by the pier.

So fun! Just look out for the Pelicans, they’re savage!

Grab lunch at Sunset Grille

This is a cool restaurant on the water that has a pool! It is a great place to stop, eat lunch and take a swim before heading on. Make sure to check out their Key Lime Pie! Once you are done swimming walk up the stairs that go under the bridge and walk out on the famous 7 Mile Bridge.

7 Mile Bridge

You can’t avoid it on your way down to Key West, but I wanted to add it so you can be sure you have your camera ready. I love this bridge and the idea of the water surrounding you on all sides!

While you are on the way to Key West, you might want to check out Long Key State Park! Here is a video of our time there:

Key West – Fort Zachary Taylor

Explore the fort and spend time at the beach enjoying the Atlantic Ocean! The beach doesn’t have soft white sand beaches, most in the Keys don’t due to the reef but that’s OK. The color of the water and the ability to snorkel right off the beach make up for it! There is also a small restaurant here where you can grab lunch and a beer.

Key West – Mallory Square

Then head to Mallory Square for the Sunset Celebration. There are a variety of fun shows for the whole family. Yes, some of the comments can be a little crude (they do try really hard to make it family friendly) – but normally will go right over your kids head. We were able to drink from a coconut and enjoy some great food too.

Key West – Fury Ultimate Adventure

The Fury Ultimate Adventure is one of our favorite things we have done! Spend 6 hours on a large catamaran where they feed you all day and provide all you can drink soda plus beer and wine at the end the end of the trip. While you snorkel, parasail, jet ski and play on huge inflatables in the middle of the ocean. Such an amazing time!!

You can learn more at our post: The 4 Best Water Activities With Kids In Key West.

Key West – Dry Tortugas

If you can fit it in, take the boat tour out to the Dry Tortugas. It is an amazing and magical place. Seriously, it is an island 70 miles off of Key West with the bluest water you have ever seen and a beach filled with conch shells. And the fort offers the best photo opportunities.

Get Dramamine and be prepared for the long and bumpy boat ride.

Here is our post on it: Dry Tortugas – One For The Bucket List Or if you have enough time, plan on camping on the Dry Tortugas! We didn’t get a chance to do it but it is on our list to go back and stay for a few nights. Here is a post from a family of 5, Currently Wandering, who spent a few days on the Tortugas (lucky!): Family Camping In Dry Tortugas National Park You can check out: https://www.historictours.com/keywest/index.php for more ideas and discounted packages on things to do in Key West. We really enjoyed the aquarium and the kids loved being able to feed the sharks!

More On The Florida Keys

We spent 2 1/2 months in the Florida Keys. You can check out all of our posts on our time there on our: Florida Keys page .

Check out these post from We3Travel: Family Fun In The Florida Keys and Florida Keys Roadtrip to learn more as well!

You can check out even more activities in Key West here! Check out all the great kayaking options in Florida parks here !

Where To Stay:

RV Park: Boyds Campground We haven’t stayed here but we have heard if you want to be close to Key West this is a great place to stay with your RV.

Another option located a little over an hour from Key West is Pelican RV Resort in Marathon.

If you are looking for a less expensive option and somewhere that is in a quieter location, we recommend Sunshine Key – which is where we stayed. It is a good 90 minute drive into Key West so be prepared for that. Or, if you can get in, the Bahia Honda State Park is amazing – especially if you get right on the water.

Hotel: Casa Marina Resort , in Key West. The property is beautiful and not right in the middle of downtown Key West – which we think is a great fit for being with a family in Key West.

If you can stay in the Keys for longer we also recommend Hawks Cay! The only problem with staying here is you won’t want to leave but will instead want to stay at the hotel and enjoy all the amenities.

For a road trip it would be great for a couple day break but we really recommend it if you are looking for a week long stay in one place.

Everglades National Park

Shark Valley

Make a stop at the Shark Valley Visitor Center in the northern end of the Everglades and take a tram ride (may have to buy tickets well ahead of time for this) or if you have your bikes or want to rent them you can take the 15 mile bike ride into Shark Valley – which we recommend! You don’t need tickets to do the biking.

You can learn more about the tram and about renting bicycles here: Shark Valley Tram Tours

It is one amazing and wild ride as you pedal right past gigantic alligators!!! And depending on the weather you may even be riding through rain puddles with alligators sitting right in them. Once you reach the lookout you can climb to the top and have an amazing view of the Everglades.

At 15 miles round trip it is a long ride, but the path is paved and flat – but like in our case – if it is windy, it can be challenging.

Be prepared when you get to Shark Valley Visitor Center that there may be a line to get into the parking lot. They have a small parking lot and they only let so many people in.

We just sat in our car and waited our turn. It took about 20 minutes or so. A few other people parked on the road outside the entrance.

If you have your bikes I recommend waiting for a spot in the lot since you will be there a while.

You can also tour Everglades National Park by Airboat!

Check out even more things to do in The Everglades here!

Check out our post on Shark Valley here: 7 Things To Do With Kids in Miami .

Where to Stay:

RV Park:  If you are up for National Park Camping we recommend Midway Campground. It is a 21 minute drive from there to Shark Valley. If you don’t mind a 45-minute drive, Riptide RV Resort in Key Largo is another good option.

Hotel:   Best Western Plus Kendall Hotel & Suites We did not stay here but do to its location it would be great for visiting Shark Valley. It is about a 38 minute drive to Shark Valley Visitor Center.

Highlands Hammock State Park

Looking for things to do in central Florida other than Orlando? Stop at the Highland Hammock State Park. It is a beautiful park and we recommend taking at least 1 of the hikes before heading out.

The Cyprus Swamp – Highland Hammock Trail is one of our favorite hikes. A couple of our kids were a little freaked out about it but when it was said and done everyone had fun!

RV Park: Highland Hammock State Park campground. We stayed here and it was great! Lake Josephine RV Park and Buttonwood Bay RV Resort , located in Sebring, are two other great options since they’re only about 20 minutes from the State Park.

Hotel:   The Inn On The Lakes   We did not stay here but due to its location we would recommend it.

Clearwater Beach

Voted one of the best beaches in Florida. Clearwater is a beautiful beach with white sand and aquamarine water and beautiful beach resorts . Just be prepared that it can be very busy.

If you can spend a day hanging out at the beach and then head to the main street to check out the shops and restaurants and grab some food and drinks.

Bring Florida home with you with this awesome hurricane drink recipe!

Dolphin Tale

Visit Hope from the movie Dolphin Tale 2 at the Clearwater Aquarium and be sure to take the free boat ride over to the museum that is dedicated to the movie. And be on the look out for dolphins in the ocean on the ride!

If you are looking for something different to try while in Clearwater, why not try a customizable helicopter tour? Check it out here!

Check out more great activities to do in Clearwater! Plus things to do in Tampa Bay with families ! Or maybe take a road trip to Siesta Key .

RV Park: It is a bit of a drive, but we stayed at Lazy Days and made the 1 hour drive into Clearwater Beach. The Dunedin RV Resort , a closer option, is only a few miles from Clearwater.

Hotel: Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort would be a great place to stay due to its proximity to the beach! Check out these three spacious Clearwater Beach resorts perfect for families too.

VRBO: Check out the Clearwater Beach Vacation Rentals .

Luxury Villa: Check out these villas .

Port St Joe Florida in Gulf County

We recently spent a week in Port St Joe, Florida and were so pleasantly surprised with how awesome the forgotten coast is! If you are looking to visit a new place in Florida this is it. 

You can kayak and snorkel in the bay. Take a boat out to look for dolphins. Have a campfire on the beach and find some of the best shells we have ever found! 

Gulf County, Florida is beautiful! The beaches are huge and you can walk for miles up and down them. I am so glad we found this hidden gem in Florida! 

You can learn more about it here: 21 Fun Things To Do In Port St Joe Florida

Finish your trip by stopping in Destin for a day of relaxation. If the weather is going to be warm enough when you go then get a hotel room on the beach and plan on just kicking back and relaxing for your last few days.

If you aren’t ready to relax Destin also offers an amazing pirate boat adventure for the kids, private catamaran tours with Smile N Wave and a dolphin cruise . Plus there is under the sea bowling and a lot of yummy restaurants in the area. We also loved The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park  just outside Destin!

The sunsets are amazing so be sure to catch it each night you are there! And you will want to try the Crab at the Crab Trap !

Here is our post on Destin (we have visited multiple times and we totally miss it when we leave!).

Check out more activities to do while you are in Destin!

RV Park : Camp Gulf on the beach! It is by far one of our favorite RV parks and we highly recommend paying the extra to stay on the beach.

About half an hour from Destin is The Hideaway Retreat in Navarre, FL. With large, beautiful oak and magnolia trees surrounding the sites, this campground on the Santa Rosa Sound offers lots of shade and a true outdoor atmosphere.

About an hour the other direction is Emerald Coast RV Resort in Panama City Beach. With two heated pools, a hot tub, fitness center, and more, this campground offers plenty to do when you aren’t visiting Destin.

Hotel: Hilton Sandestin The hotel is actually pretty close to the RV park. You can walk on the beach to the hotel from the RV park and get a drink at their bar/restaurant. A great way to watch the sunset!

VRBO: Check out this awesome house with a pool and hot tub and only a few blocks from the beach!

Recommended Itinerary for 14 nights

You could replace Clearwater with Port St Joe if you wanted to spend more time on the Panhandle of Florida. 

And if you want to get our free eBook on the Ultimate Florida Road Trip With Your Family click here!

The ebook documents everything in this post, along with an area for notes under each city. You can easily print it and use it for your planning and when you go on your trip.

You’ll see the Atlantic Coast and the Gulf Coast on your trip and enjoy one of the best road trips for families in the United States!

More Florida Travel Ideas

Florida has so much to offer. If you can, we recommend staying for months – we stayed for 6. But if that isn’t an option this road trip could take approximately 2 weeks.

It could be longer or shorter depending on how much time you spend at each location. You will be covering a lot of miles but it is worth it to see all of these amazing places.

There are so many amazing places to visit in Florida, from small towns to big cities. It is impossible to list them all! Here are a few more awesome stops that our blogger friends have written about:

Things To Do In Naples Florida

20+ Things To Do In Florida On The Ultimate Sunshine State Road Trip

Florida Beaches: 25 Best Family Vacation Destinations

Places To Visit In Florida

29 Things to Do in Amelia Island

17 Best Florida Beaches

Things to Do in Tampa Bay in a Day . Don’t forget to check out St. Petes Beach in St. Petersburg while you’re there! You can also visit Cocoa Beach, Blue Springs, Crystal River, Vero Beach and so many more amazing places!

A trip to Florida can be spent doing day trips all over the state. Or you can pick one place to stay for your whole trip. 

You may also want to check out some of the great things to do in Fort Lauderdale. See JN Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island. Or check out the Barrier Islands in the Gulf of Mexico.

There are some great scenic drives in Florida to check out too and some awesome Florida Small Towns !

Anna Marie Island is another great place to check out!

More Posts To Check Out

Looking for another Road Trip? Check out these great East Cost Family Vacation Spots !

How about other fun things to do around Florida?! Check out:

Where to see Manatees in Florida

9 Delicious Port St Joe Restaurants You Will Want to Try

25 Exciting and Fun Things To Do In Myrtle Beach, SC

9 Outstanding Places to Visit with Kids in Atlanta, Georgia

7 Amazing Things To Do In Asheville With Kids

29 Brilliant Things To Do In Gulf Shores, Alabama

National Park Road Trip

14 Amazing RV Parks in Destin Florida

East Coast Road Trip 25+ Spots You Don’t Want to Miss!

The Ultimate Guide to The Harry Potter World Rides

8 Things to do in Jupiter Florida

6 Best Springs in Florida

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42 thoughts on “Florida Road Trip: 31 Amazing Places You Won’t Want To Miss”

This seriously has me questioning renting an RV and heading off on a road trip adventure. I never thought of laying out a 14 day itinerary like that. It sounds amazing!!! What a fantastic post!

Finally going to take a few days off this weekend to be with family. Thanks for the list of florida road trip ideas. Really great photos too, especially of Dry Tortugas, wish I could jump right into the photo. Can you tell I really need a break? haha

Thanks! Dry Tortugas is amazing – we can’t wait to get back!!

Good site for those who want to travel here in Florida, one trip I would suggest is instead of heading towards Orlando on route 4, go over to Route 1 after Daytona and take the turn in to the Cape Canaveral Seashore. It has hiking trails, bike trails and you can also go to the beach. For the children continue on to the Space Center and take the tour, we had our grandson and he had a wonderful time there. After that yes on to Disney. Good blog.

Great suggestion! Hoping to visit this area on our next time in the state!

Hi, great itinerary. Any chance of a link to the original google map please?

Unfortunately, no. We plotted the map just to grab the picture of it. Next time, we’ll try to save them. Thanks for the idea!

HI could you confirm the period of year in which you did the trip?

We did this mainly in the fall/winter months, but it could be done pretty much at any time. Parts of Florida can get uncomfortably hot during the summer months, but the coastal areas can still be nice.

What were some of the most Dog friendly places you visited. The reason I ask is I am wanting to do a spontaneous road trip and wanted to make sure my four legged friend could come with me as I will not have anywhere else to put him while I am on the road. Or visiting certain places.

To be honest, there are tons of dog friendly places we’ve visited. It seems more and more businesses are being accommodating to pets. But off the top of my head, St. Augustine, Asheville, San Diego and Denver were all very dog friendly cities. Pretty much all of those cities had water bowls on the side walk, we went to a dog night at a brewery in Asheville (including a special dog-safe brew) and other events that dogs were welcome. Hope that helps!

Hello! We are going on our first ever RV holiday next month – March 2018 – around Florida. We are heading to Destin from Clearwater. Where should stop on that last leg? It’s a bit far for our 2, 7 & 8 yr olds. We managed to get the last beach front spot at Camp Gulf! Thanks, Isabel

We’ve heard great things about Apalachicola National Forest, although we’ve never been there. That may be somewhere to consider.

Certainly you found a bunch of Florida road trips spots. Amelia Island, 30A, and Anna Maria Island are among my Florida favorites.

Thanks! We need to explore Amelia Island and Anna Maria Island!

Sorry you forgot the Space Coast! There are so many fun & interesting things to do, including the Kennedy Space Center which is totally geared for the entire family (and maybe a rocket launch!), wonderful beaches, cruise ships, surfing and fishing possibilities, air boating, eco river tours, Brevard Zoo. Our state has so much to offer. Hope you’ll come again and check out our Space Coast fun!

We’ll definitely be back that way at some point. I didn’t really think of Florida as a big state, but it’s huge! So many places to see, we just ran out of time.

I ytuly enjoyed your honesty and thoughts about this. We are taking a road trip there soon amd have seen much, but not the keys!!! Thanks for the inspiration!!!

The Keys are an amazing destination, one of our favorites. Hopefully you can get down there.

If someone asks me about great post for weekend, which probably create a wonderful mood, definitely it would be yours!

What a beautiful post, I am preparing to move to Fl and I am looking forward to it and freaked out at the same time! I will have to take some time and explore the keys for sure. Thank you.

You’re welcome! The Keys are amazing!

Hi, We are coming over from England with our 5 & 7 yr olds and want to do an RV trip but have a couple of concerns; 1) Are RV parks very expensive 2) Are they isolated ie: do you need a car to get to all the places or can you drive your RV to them. Such as staying at Orlando for 3 nights how do you get to all the parks?

Great blog has given us a great guide on what to do thanks.

Thanks, The Jefferson family

Some RV parks can be expensive. If you stick to state parks, it ranges around $40 USD per night. RV parks are usually a bit away from attractions. If you rent a relatively small RV (something like 30′ or less) you can drive that around town to grocery stores, restaurants, etc. and find parking for it. If you plan to visit attractions like Disney, they do have oversize and RV parking. Worst case scenario, in places like Orlando, you can always get an Uber. Best of luck, have a great trip!

You should really add Naples and if you can. It has great beaches and other things like zoos

Thanks for the suggestion! We’ll add that to our list for next time!

South Florida- our old stompin’ grounds! Our first stop when we hit the road was the Keys. We love it so much down there. The camping has really gone crazy in price since then. But we hope to get back down there soon. Key West has so many awesome places to explore and fine- the back streets off Duval are so much fun to explore. Thanks for the walk down memory lane!

Frank and Grainne The Roving Foleys

The Keys are amazing, and yes, a bit pricier than other places! We hope to get back down there again soon too!

Thank you for your suggestions. You hit the tourists spots, do you have a blog that maybe hits the places in between that are more off the path and less tourist oriented?

We don’t at the moment, but pass along some good spots if you find them.

I think If you have a positive attitude and constantly strive to give your best , you will always find home!) No matter what!

Great advice!

I’ve enjoyed exploring your blog. So many great places – so little time : ). We just got back from camping in Florida over Christmas break and enjoyed St Augustine, too. We spent two nights but could easily have spent more, but Sanibel used up most of our time. If you get a chance, try kayaking at Blue Spring State Park – the manatees swam right under us! Perhaps next winter we can make it to the Everglades and Keys and try out some of your ideas. Best, Gwen

We definitely want to check out Blue Spring State Park. We’ve heard great things about it! Glad you had a fun trip!

I have lived in Florida for 49 yrs and have never taken a road trip here to see what all I have been missing. The keys is our first stop. We live in High Springs Florida right across the road from Ginnie Springs, Poe Springs and Blue Springs. We will start in Pensacola and travel the beaches down to Naples and cut over to Miami and head down to the keys, back up and hug the coast all the way up to St Augustine. Our next trip will be inland and discover all the things we have missed.

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This is a great list. Florida has so many fun things to do.

Thanks! Yes it does!

Thanks “Bryanna” for sharing a great recommended list. I really love Florida and make a vacation with road trip. I’ve been visited Maximum’s places on your list. I mostly like Shark Valley, Clearwater Beach, Mallory Square, 7 Mile Bridge. But you can also add Disney world to your list.

We tried to give some options other than the usual things people do in Florida.

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Florida!

15 Best Florida Road Trips And Scenic Drives

May 15, 2023 //  by  Florida Trippers

Planning the best Florida road trip can be a daunting task, even if you’re a native. Florida is one of the few states where you could drive eight hours and still be in the same state!

Millions of tourists make Florida a hot destination because of the variety of activities. There are just so many things to do in Florida !

Roller-coaster enthusiasts will love the theme parks. Birders and nature junkies will love the best Florida hiking trails . Overworked vacationers will love the beaches in Florida .

Whether you’re a beach bunny, have an adventurous spirit, or want some rest and relaxation, there is something for everyone in Florida.

With that being said, because the state is so large, it’s hard to know where to go first! There’s so much ground to cover. Luckily, we’re here to help.

We’ve mapped out our best Florida road trip ideas to make your vacation memorable!

We’ll take you through the top destinations in the state so you won’t have any problem finding fun and interesting things to do in the Sunshine State.

Let’s go on the best road trip around Florida!

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Miami to Key West

• Downtown Miami
• Coral Castle
• Everglades National Park
• Dry Tortugas National Park
• Seven Mile Bridge

The journey from Miami to Key West is one of the most scenic drives in Florida! The drive is lined with greens and blues from the beaches and palm trees.

This is a great Florida road trip with kids!

It will take you through some of the most beautiful attractions the Sunshine State has to offer. It has something for everyone, no matter your interests. It’s easy to pick and choose to tailor the perfect Florida itinerary for you!

Starting in the iconic city of Miami , you’ll breathe in the South Florida culture before heading to some scenic attractions for outdoor enthusiasts.

Paddlers especially will want to make a stop at some of the best kayaking trails in Florida in the Everglades.

You can even see a real castle! Look out for Coral Castle, made completely of stone. As you head further south, you’ll start to breathe in the salty air of the Atlantic as you visit coral reefs and beaches.

When you finally land in Key West, you’ll have access to some of the most beautiful Florida beaches as well as some incredible historical sites. Don’t forget to have a piece of Key lime pie while you’re there!

There really are so many things to do in Key West !

Central Florida Road Trip

• Circle B Bar Reserve
• Celebration
• Rock Springs/Kelly Park

The drive from Tampa to Cocoa Beach will take you directly across the state, allowing you to see the best of Central Florida !

You get nature, theme parks, and even a quaint town owned by Disney! These are some of the best places to stop in Florida!

Starting in Tampa allows you to soak up the emerging city’s culture, restaurants , and nightlife before moving on to more scenic pursuits.

As you approach Lakeland , you’ll be able to walk through the Circle B Bar Reserve and see a lot of wildlife.

Along the drive, you can stop by Bok Tower, a Carillion tower that rings as it’s played like an instrument before you approach Disney World or Universal. Spend a couple of days at the parks while staying at a cozy Airbnb!

Before you approach Cocoa Beach, make a stop at Rock Springs/Kelly Park where you can take a dip or even tube down one of Florida’s prettiest springs near Orlando .

When you make it to your destination of Cocoa Beach, you’ll enjoy the shorelines of one of the best family beaches in Florida !

If you are planning a road trip to Florida, you need to check out these highlights!

Florida East Coast

• Amelia Island
• St. Augustine
• Daytona Beach
• Kennedy Space Center
• McKee Botanical Gardens

Driving the East Coast is the Florida equivalent of driving the Pacific Coast Highway. Start with the best things to do in Amelia Island before moving down to Miami.

You’ll experience a smorgasbord of different Florida attractions!

Amelia Island might just be the prettiest island in Florida , but don’t spend too long there!

St. Augustine just to the south has incredible historic sites and castles. It is also the oldest city in the United States.

If you plan your best Florida road trip just right, you can attend one of the many festivals held in Daytona Beach like Biketoberfest.

After you’ve enjoyed the beach, head down to Merritt Island to visit the Kennedy Space Center!

If you stop in Vero Beach , you must pay a visit to the McKee Botanical Gardens which showcases the best of Florida flora.

Then as you arrive in Miami, relax on South Beach, one of the best beaches in Miami , and soak up the sun as a reward for your journey!

This is a great Florida East Coast road trip the whole family will love!

Haunted Florida Road Trip

• Spanish Military Hospital Museum
• St. Augustine Old Jail
• Cassadaga Hotel
• Tampa Theatre

This road trip is perfect to welcome fall in Florida which is when things start to get spooky! There are over 570 documented haunted sites in Florida.

This Florida road trip for adults and kids alike starts off in Tampa , where the old historic theaters are haunted! Try the Tampa Theatre downtown or the Capitol Theatre in Clearwater.

Ybor City also offers walking ghost tours that take you through the historic buildings.

From there, head to Orlando and visit Lake Eola. It is said a small brown terrier runs along the lake’s east shore before vanishing into thin air.

Afterward, Cassadaga is waiting for you! This is one of the most haunted places in Florida !

A spooky forgotten town full of psychics, check out the Helen Cassadaga Cemetery or the Cassadaga Hotel.

Then head to Daytona Beach to tour the Ponce de Leon Lighthouse! One of the best lighthouses in Florida , it is also haunted!

Finally, head to St. Augustine, the motherlode of haunted cities in Florida.

There are so many St. Augustine ghost tours to take that will leave you feeling spooky like the Old Jail and the Spanish Military Hospital Museum.

Florida Springs Road Trip

• Ginnie Springs
• Devil’s Den
• Rainbow Springs
• Ichetucknee Springs

A road trip to Florida’s natural springs can be perfect for summer or fall! They are the most scenic places in Florida!

The 72-degree waters will cool you down during the hottest summer day. During the winter, manatees migrate to the springs to keep warm.

Start your tour in Weeki Wachee to watch mermaids swim in the spring waters before heading north on US 19 to Crystal River, a spring near Tampa . If you time it right, you can attend their Manatee Festival!

Take US-41 to get to Rainbow Springs State Park , which actually has six waterfalls! Then hop back on US-41 to head north to Devil’s Den, a diver’s haven!

Get back on, you guessed it, US-41, and keep going north and you’ll hit three springs grouped very close together! Take your pick between Gilchrist Blue Springs , Ginnie Springs , or Ichetucknee Springs . Or visit them all!

End your journey by driving north for just another hour and you’ll reach Madison Blue Springs, where you can swim and relax as your final reward!

If you are planning a road trip in Florida, you definitely need to check out some springs!

Tampa to Naples Roadtrip

• Ca D’Zan
• Florida Domes
• Edison & Ford Winter Estates
• Ringling Museum

For a relatively short day trip, make the drive from Tampa to Naples! Along the way, you’ll hit some major Gulf Coast cities, each with its own architectural gems.

This is the best Florida West Coast road trip!

In Tampa, you can take advantage of some of the best museums in Florida , Tampa restaurants , and even the lovely Curtis Hixon Park. If you decide to spend an evening there, there’s even a speakeasy !

When you head south to Sarasota , a treasure trove of attractions awaits you! Skip the traditional beaches and head out to Beer Can Island , a truly secluded spot.

Or check out architectural masterpieces like the Ringling Museum and the Ca D’Zan!

Next up in Fort Myers , you can tour the Edison and Ford Winter Estates! Yes, the Thomas Edison of the lightbulb and the Henry Ford of Ford Motors. You can see their homes, their vintage Ford vehicles, and even their laboratory!

As you pass through Cape Coral , you’ll get to drive through Matlacha, a charming village. The homes are painted with bright neon and pastel colors. It actually feels more like Key West than Cape Coral!

When you land in Naples , you can take advantage of the fabulous Naples beaches , especially on Marco Island .

If you charter a boat, you can make your way to the Florida Domes, the sunken remains of a millionaire’s former home, now a haven for Florida wildlife.

Anyone interested in history will agree this is one of the best driving trips in Florida!

Everglades Road Trip

• Anhinga Trail
• Nine Mile Pond
• Mahogany Hammock Trail
• Pa-Hay-Okee Overlook

The Everglades National Park is a gigantic place to explore. It’s hard to know where to start! Luckily, this road trip through the park will allow you to experience a little bit of everything the park has to offer.

Enter the park from the southernmost entrance off the Ingraham Highway. Here you’ll start your journey at the Coe Visitor Center.

As you start driving, right off the bat, you’ll have your pick between the Anhinga Trail or the Gumbo Limbo Trail, some of the best hikes in Florida.

The road continues through the Pinelands and into the Dwarf Cypress Forest whose leaves actually change during fall in Florida!

After passing Rock Reef Pass, stop at Pa-Hay-Okee Overlook. You’ll have the best views of the enormous sawgrass prairies from the elevated platform.

After another 20 miles, you can see the nation’s largest mahogany tree on Mahogany Hammock Trail!

Unfortunately, it doesn’t make for a great photo op. The tree is 90 feet tall and the shorter trees shroud the mahogany’s height.

Keep on to Nine Mile Pond for canoeing and kayaking!

If you’re driving towards the end of March to early April, stop at Mrazek Pond. During this time, and only this time, it becomes one of the best birding spots in the country.

After passing several optional hiking trails, you’ll arrive at the Flamingo Visitor Center, your final destination. Here, you can book an airboat tour to see the nooks and crannies of the park not visible from the road.

It is clear the Everglades is one of the top places to go on a road trip in Florida!

Waterfall Road Trip

• Falling Waters State Park
• Big Shoals State Park
• Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park

There are amazing waterfalls in Florida ! On this Florida road trip, you’ll discover the best sound is a waterfall crashing down in front of you!

Start in Chipley in the Panhandle with a bang. Falling Waters State Park is home to the largest of Florida’s waterfalls at 73 feet high!

From there, head to Bristol to get to Torreya State Park. Consider skipping this waterfall if you’re not a strong hiker.

Afterward, the following three waterfalls are thankfully close together. First, see the “Disappearing” Waterfall at Camp Branch Conservation Area.

Then head to Big Shoals State Park, which also offers river rafting! Just to the south is Falling Creek Falls.

As you head south to Gainesville , you’ll reach Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park. Here the waterfall was created by a series of sinkholes. You can even stand inside the sinkhole right next to the waterfall!

Finally, you’ll end your journey with a refreshing reward at Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon just outside of Ocala .

Here, you’ll get not one, but six waterfalls! You can also enjoy swimming, tubing, kayaking, snorkeling, and more.

UFO Sighting Tour

• Gulf Breeze
• Fort Walton Beach
• Panama City
• Unidentified Flying Objects?

Did you know that next to California, Florida has the most UFO sightings of any other state? On average over 30 sightings are reported each month in Florida!

If you’re skeptical about whether or not life is out there, it doesn’t matter. This Florida road trip will take you through the best places in the panhandle.

Start in Panama City , where two bright orbs were seen zig-zagging over Tyndall Air Force Base. As you head west, ride the shoreline, as this has been a popular sighting place.

As you approach Fort Walton Beach, look out for a white diamond-shaped craft with a vapor trail as well as saucer disks.

Even if you don’t see anything, you’ll have an enjoyable night walking the beach and looking at the stars through binoculars.

You’ll eventually land in Pensacola where the most sightings have been recorded. Head to the Gulf Breeze neighborhood especially! Keep your eyes peeled!

North Florida Road Trip

• Wakulla Springs State Park
• Castillo de San Marcos
• Big Talbot Island State Park

Begin your journey across the top of the state in the panhandle at Falling Waters State Park, the tallest natural waterfall in Florida!

Then head to Marianna, the only open-air-filled caves in Florida. Outside of the Florida Caverns, you can also hike, bike, or camp on the Chipola River.

Then you’ll head to Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park, beautiful and perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It’s also one of the best springs for camping in Florida .

Next, get a taste of the prehistoric as you travel to Devil’s Den . A natural spring, Devil’s Den is actually a karst window, which means it’s a huge open cave over a river. Divers will love descending the depths!

Next, it’s time for St. Augustine. History buffs will love exploring the oldest city in the United States! Stop at the Castillo de San Marcos to see a real Florida castle!

You’ll end your North Florida Road Trip at Big Talbot Island, one of the best things to do in Jacksonville ! The beaches here are covered with driftwood and dried tree branches, creating the illustrious Boneyard Beach!

Florida Castles Road Trip

• Solomon’s Castle

Did you know that there are real castles in Florida ? Europe has nothing on the Sunshine State!

This Florida road trip takes you from St. Augustine all the way down to the West Palm Beach area to see the best castles in Florida!

When you start in St. Augustine, you’re practically in the castle capital of the state! Here you have Castle Warden which eventually was turned into the first Ripley’s Believe It Or Not!

You also can see Villa Zorayada which is a replica of the Alhambra Palace. Don’t forget the historic Castillo de San Marcos, once a Spanish fortress of war. Castle Otttis is also here, but because it’s privately owned, tours are rarely available.

From there, head to St. Pete to see the Don Cesar. Built originally to be a “pink castle,” today it functions as a high-end resort and spa ! You can even take ghost tours of the grounds.

Next up is Solomon’s Castle. The home and art studio of Howard Solomon, the castle is made entirely of aluminum. You can even have lunch at the Boat on the Moat!

Finally, you’ll head down to the mysterious Coral Castle. Made of 1,000 tons of coral rock, the structures have been arranged into elaborate gardens complete with bougainvillea.

Surfing Road Trip

• St. Augustine Beach
• Cocoa Beach
• Boynton Beach

Similar to the East Coast Road Trip, this Florida road trip will take you along the Atlantic coast. This is where all the best waves are!

So if you’re a surfer, load up the car for these can’t-miss surfing spot s in Florida !

Start north at Jacksonville Beach before hitting St. Augustine. From there you can hit Flagler Beach before heading to Daytona Beach.

If you visit Daytona on Christmas Eve, you can even see Santa surfing! This is a great winter in Florida activity.

Then you can hit the waves at New Smyrna Beach before heading down to Cocoa Beach. Don’t forget the Sebastian Inlet, just to the south of Melbourne.

The last leg of your trip will take you to the beautiful beaches of Jupiter, where you can take a break to see the limestone formations!

From there, hit West Palm Beach before concluding your trip to Boynton Beach.

Scenic Hiking Road Trip

• Blowing Rocks
• Big Talbot Island
• Ocala National Forest

This Florida road trip from Jacksonville to Jupiter is designed to take you on some of the most unique hiking trails the state has to offer. You won’t see sights like these anywhere else.

First, start at Big Talbot Island in Jacksonville, where the Black Rock Trail will take you to the beach. You’ll see dried, sun-bleached trees creating Boneyard Beach!

Next in Gainesville, you’ll find the Prairie Paynes Loop Trail. Here bison and wild horses roam free. Hop down to Dade City to attempt the four-day, 39-mile Citrus Hiking Trail!

Head down to Bok Tower outside of Lakeland next. The tower is actually a Carillon bell that can be played like an instrument!

You’ll finish your tour at Blowing Rocks in Jupiter, where waves crash up against limestone as you walk along the beach.

Overall, this is one of the best road trips in Florida for nature lovers!

Brewery Road Trip

• Cigar City Brewing
• 7venth Sun Brewing Company
• Hourglass Brewing
• Persimmon Hollow Brewing Co.

Craft beer is having a revival, not only in Florida but across the country! To taste the best that local breweries have to offer, take the Brewery Road Trip!

Start in the Tampa Bay area where you can hit up the highest-rated brewery in Florida, Cigar City Brewing. There are plenty of other breweries in Tampa to check out too.

Likewise, you can visit Cycle Brewing in St. Pete and 7venth Sun Brewing Company in Dunedin.

Next, head to some Orlando breweries ! Grab a Grove IPA or Side Chick Blonde at Deadly Sins Brewing. Try out Hourglass Brewing or Persimmon Hollow Brewing Co. as well!

Finally, head to Jacksonville and grab a pint at Green Room Brewing. You can even bring your own food or order from a binder of restaurants that deliver right to the bar!

This is one of the best weekend road trips in Florida for adults!

Florida Keys State Park Road Trip

• Bahia Honda State Park
• Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park
• Curry Hammock State Park
• Oleta River State Park

There are beautiful state parks in Florida , rivaling those across the country.

This South Florida road trip will take you from Jupiter all the way to the end of the Florida Keys to enjoy some tropical state parks!

Start to the north of Jupiter at Jonathan Dickinson State Park to walk through pine scrub flatwoods and mangrove forests.

Then head to Fort Lauderdale to Hugh Taylor Birch State Park to see native Florida wildlife like butterflies, turtles, and of course, alligators .

Right on Biscayne Bay in North Miami Beach, you’ll head to Oleta River State Park next. Here you can find the greatest concentration of Australian pine trees!

Now you’ll be crossing the bridge to the Keys and traveling west. In Key Largo, stop at the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. You’ll love snorkeling among the reefs and seeing the tropical fish!

Next up at the Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park , you can see fossils frozen in time in the Key Largo limestone.

Then head to Curry Hammock State Park, housing one of the best beaches for shelling .

Finally, at scenic Bahia Honda State Park , you can walk up to the gorgeous, dilapidated bridge.

Since you’re at the end of your journey, sit and relax on the beach and stay for one of the most beautiful sunsets in the state.

Hopefully, this Florida road trip planner helped you plan an epic vacation!

The Perfect 1-Week Florida Road Trip Itinerary (Stops & Activities)

Looking for ideas to plan the perfect 1-week Florida road trip itinerary?

Well, you’ve come to the right place! I’m here to be your virtual travel guide, sharing all the best details and must-see spots for an unforgettable week-long trip.

From vibrant cities like Miami to pristine beaches like Siesta Beach and everything in between, Florida has a variety of landscapes and adventures. And hey, why listen to me? Well, I’ve explored lots of places in this beautiful state as a former resident and can offer some insider tips and hidden gems. 

Ready? Let’s dive into this 7 day Florida road trip itinerary through the Sunshine State!

Table of Contents

Florida Road Trip 1 Week Itinerary

While it’s (surprisingly) difficult to plan a Florida road trip 1 week itinerary, I’ll do my best to give you some great ideas to help you plan and find what’s best for you. You’ll be starting out in Miami, heading to the Gulf Coast, central Florida and then back to Miami. 

Note: This itinerary assumes you’ll be flying into Miami International Airport (MIA) and that you’ll be driving from there. (As an alternative, you can also reach Miami by bus .)

Day 1 – Miami

Welcome to the vibrant city of Miami, where the sun always shines and the energy is contagious! Your road trip is about to kick off with a bang as we dive headfirst into the captivating charms of the Magic City. 

Explore Miami Beach

Miami Beach is a must-visit destination in Miami. Start your day right with an incredible breakfast at The Front Porch Café, known for its mouth watering pancakes and cozy beachfront vibes. 

The Miami Beach area is famous for its white-sand beaches, clear waters, and Art Deco architecture. Take a stroll along Ocean Drive and admire the colorful buildings, or rent a bike and explore the area on two wheels. You can also rent a beach chair and umbrella and soak up some sun on the beach.

Explore Little Havana

Make sure to swing by Little Havana, a vibrant neighborhood that exudes the spirit of Cuba. Stroll along Calle Ocho, inhale the aroma of freshly rolled cigars, and savor a strong cup of Cuban coffee. Immerse yourself in the rhythmic beats of salsa music and witness the passionate art of salsa dancing. It’s a sensory experience you won’t want to miss!

For a delicious lunch, head over to Versailles, an iconic Cuban restaurant in Little Havana, where you can savor authentic dishes like Ropa Vieja and mouth watering Medianoche sandwiches. 

Check out Wynwood Walls

Wynwood Walls is an outdoor art gallery that features colorful murals and graffiti art. The area is home to many art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. Take a stroll around the area and admire the vibrant street art. You can also grab a bite to eat at one of the many food trucks in the area (if you haven’t eaten already).

Enjoy the Nightlife

When dinner time rolls around, make your way to Joe’s Stone Crab, a Miami restaurant famous for its heavenly seafood and lively atmosphere.

Miami is known for its vibrant nightlife. Head to South Beach and party the night away or enjoy a night out at one of the many clubs or bars. You could also check out a rooftop bar in downtown Miami and enjoy a drink with a view (or even a view from a boat ).

That’s it for day one in Miami! Get some rest and get ready for another exciting day on your Florida road trip.

Day 2 – The Everglades

You wake up early on Day 2 of your Florida road trip excited because you’re going to explore the Everglades! The park is located just a short drive from Miami, making it an easy trip.

It’s time to trade the cityscape for a little bit of untamed wilderness. You’ll be driving along the Tamiami Trail since you’ll head to Naples later today while stopping off to explore parts of the Everglades.

Note: You won’t have a chance to see all of the amazing things in this National Park, but you’ll still have a chance to see quite a bit. However, if you’re up for a 2+ hour detour to head to the official Park, I’d say do it! Otherwise, follow this itinerary for a more direct route.

Take an Airboat Tour

Your day will kick off with an adrenaline-pumping airboat tour through the heart of the Everglades. You’ll zip across the shimmering sawgrass prairies on the lookout for alligators lurking beneath the surface and colorful birds soaring above. Get ready for a wild ride that will leave you with plenty of memories.

Pro-Tip: Morning or dusk is a great time to look for alligators.

Your airboat tour should take about an hour or so and afterwards it’s time to grab some lunch. Coopertown Airboat tour not only has a great tour of the Everglades but also a restaurant where you can try anything from alligator bites to frog legs!

Shark Valley Visitor Center

After lunch and your airboat tour, head to Shark Valley to see the park’s famous observation tower . The tower offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and you might even spot a few alligators out sunbathing below.

While at Shark Valley, there’s a 15 mile trail to explore via bikes or by a tram tour. This trail offers great views of the Everglades and park’s diverse habitats, including sawgrass marshes, cypress swamps, and hardwood hammocks.

Drive Scenic Loop Road

Get ready for a scenic and adventurous drive along Loop Road in Big Cypress National Preserve—it’s an absolute gem for this itinerary! This scenic route (Route 94) will take you deep into the heart of the Everglades. 

You’ll navigate the winding road and catch plenty of alligators sunbathing near the roadside. With every twist and turn, you’ll find new landscapes—vast sawgrass marshes, towering cypress trees, and, of course, plenty of wildlife. 

Quick note: this is a dirt road so make sure your car is up for this!

Drive to Naples & Watch the Sunset

As the day draws to a close, it’s time to make your way to the charming coastal city of Naples. You’ll continue to take the Tamiami Trail until you get to Naples. From there, you can either check in to your hotel or head out to the famous Naples Pier to catch the sunset and a quick dinner.

Day 3 – Naples

On day three of your 1 week Florida road trip, you’ll be exploring the beautiful Gulf Coast city of Naples. Naples is known for its beaches, high end shopping, and world class golf courses, so get ready for an exciting day!

Enjoy your morning in the sun

Kickstart your day with a quick breakfast or a coffee pick-me-up. Then, hit the beach (Vanderbilt Beach is a nice spot) for some sunshine or, if you’re feeling adventurous, opt for a more active way to spend the morning. Go swimming, take a stroll along the shore, go paddle boarding or kayaking to explore the waters nearby.

Visit the Highlights in Naples

After your morning in the sun, grab some lunch and then explore one of Naples’ highlights – either the Naples Botanical Garden or the Naples Zoo.

The Naples Botanical Garden is a truly stunning place to visit with plenty of walking trails and wildlife, plus plenty of tropical plants and beautiful blooms to enjoy. If you opt for the zoo, you’ll find a variety of different animals (giraffes are a big hit!) and it’s a great family friendly activity for the afternoon.

Nearby Marco Island is also a great place to explore if you have the time. There are two beautiful public beaches there. Plus, it’s a beautiful island with plenty of great shelling opportunities if you want to hunt for treasures like sand dollars or starfish.

Explore Fifth Avenue South

Head to the popular Fifth Avenue South , about a mile in distance, that has a great selection of shops, bars, and restaurants to explore. This area is the picture of classy and Old World charm. Plus, it’s Naples’ top shopping spot. 

A popular spot for dinner and drinks in Naples is Bar Tulia 5th Ave. Enjoy the lively atmosphere with an incredible cocktail and pair it with some of the best food, like the Truffle pizza or pasta dishes.

Depending on when you go to dinner, you might have a chance to catch the sunset again. Head to a spot for drinks on the patio to watch the sunset (a popular spot is the Sand Bar in the Ritz Carlton) or head back to the Naples Pier to catch one more incredible sunset here.

After a full day out in the sun and then spending the evening eating incredible food in Naples, it’s time for some much needed rest. Start prepping for Day 4 in Siesta Key as you continue your road trip adventure!

Day 4 – Siesta Key

Good morning, beach lovers! Today, we’re off to stunning Siesta Key—one of Florida’s most breathtaking coastal destinations. 

The ride from Naples to Siesta Key is just under two hours. You’ll take Golden Gate Parkway east and then 75N most of the way till you get to Route 72 or Clark Rd, where you’ll take that west to Siesta Key. You’ll cross over the Stickney Point Bascule Bridge, and then you’ll have arrived! 

Head to the Beach!

Kick off the day with a solid breakfast at Sun Garden Café for mouthwatering eggs benedict, chicken and waffles, omelets, and plenty more.

From here, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got your swimsuits on, because it’s time to hit the beach. Siesta Key Beach is often rated the #1 Beach in the USA! And you’ll see why when you’re there. Imagine incredibly soft, white sand and crystal-clear blue turquoise waters. You’ll definitely want to make sure you don’t miss this one, so make sure to get there early for parking! 

This beach is the perfect place to start your day whether it’s a stroll along the shore, swimming in the easy waves or soaking up the sun from the sand. With concession stands, restrooms and all the best kinds of amenities, you can easily spend the morning into the afternoon here. 

Explore Siesta Key Village

Now it’s time to explore the vibrant Siesta Key Village. This charming area is packed with a little bit of everything from boutiques and local shops to cozy cafés just begging to be explored. Hunt for unique treasures or souvenirs. When hunger strikes, Siesta Key Oyster Bar is a great place to stop and offers fresh seafood, sandwiches, and of course, oysters!

If you’re not into shopping, you could also use the afternoon to explore the Point of Rocks—a hidden gem that is absolutely perfect for snorkeling. Head into those clear waters and you’ll be amazed by the colorful marine life and mesmerizing underwater scenery.

Dinner, Drinks & Fun

As the sun begins to set, it’s time to find yourself a cozy spot on the beach (if you didn’t head to the Village yet) to relax and witness the incredible sunset.

After the sunset, or if you’re already in the Village area, you’ll gear up for an evening filled with a casual dinner and live music. Treat yourself to incredible seafood at The Hub Baja Grill or sip on tropical drinks at Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar. And hey, don’t forget to let loose and dance to some awesome live music at the Beach Club.

That’s a wrap for the day in Siesta Key! Sadly, you don’t have enough time to visit one of my other favorites nearby, Anna Maria Island , but you can add that one in for the next time you visit. You’ll be headed to the St. Pete and Tampa area on Day 5 so rest up and get excited to explore the Tampa Bay area!

Day 5 – Tampa & St. Pete

On the fifth day of your Florida road trip, you will explore the vibrant cities of Tampa and St. Petersburg. These two cities are located just a short drive away from each other, making it easy enough to explore both in one day.

From Siesta Key you’ll leave over the Siesta Key North Bridge, take State Highway 758 east until you get to 75N. You’ll be on 75N for a little under an hour and you’ll take exit 8 for the Selmon Expressway that leads to Tampa. The drive is a little over an hour total.

Breakfast & The Riverwalk

Start your day in Tampa by grabbing breakfast at Oxford Exchange, one of my favorite places in Tampa . This is a restaurant, gift store, coffee shop, and much more all in one! It’s a great way to start the day, and it’s about a 10-ish minute walk from the Tampa RiverWalk area. 

After breakfast you’ll head to the Riverwalk, a scenic trail that runs along the Hillsborough River. You can choose to walk this path or rent bikes, whatever you’re feeling up to. There’s lots to see here along the way with plenty of great views. Walk to Armature Works which is along the northern end of the Riverwalk. This is a great place to grab drinks or food before you head to St. Pete.

Explore the St. Pete Area

After exploring Tampa, head to St. Pete, which is known for its beautiful beaches and lively arts scene. Visit the Salvador Dali Museum, which houses the largest collection of Dali’s work outside of Spain. The museum is located in downtown St. Petersburg and is a must-see for art lovers.

You can also walk along the St. Pete Pier, a scenic boardwalk that offers stunning views from the water with plenty of places to eat and drink and explore.

Dinner & Drinks by the Water

In the evening, head about 20 minutes west to the St. Pete Beach area on the main road, Gulf Blvd. This area is known for its restaurants and nightlife. Grab dinner and drinks at Bongos Beach Bar & Grille, a great spot where you can sit outside in the sand with your dinner and watch the sunset on the beach. 

Day 5 has officially wrapped up, and you’ll be on your way to Orlando tomorrow so prepare for another long but exciting day ahead! 

Day 6 – Orlando

Visiting a theme park in Orlando on the sixth day of your Florida road trip is an exciting way to cap off the second to last day of your journey! I highly recommend waking up as early as possible for today since you’ll be trying to cram a lot into one day.

From Tampa to Orlando, you’ll take I-275 N to I-4 E which you’ll be on for most of the way there. The trip should take you about an hour and a half, but that’s without traffic. 

To make the most of your one day in Orlando, consider purchasing an early entry pass or a pass for the shorter lines. I also only recommend choosing only one park to explore as that will be more than enough for the day (and then some!) Make a list of the must-ride or must-see places for the day, since it’ll go by quickly.

Head to a Theme Park

I would suggest grabbing a quick breakfast and coffee at your hotel before you head out (it’s cheaper that way before you head to the parks!). 

From there, I’d recommend heading to and spending the day at Disney’s Magic Kingdom, Universal Studios, or Islands of Adventure.

Magic Kingdom is probably the most popular of all of the Disney Parks, Universal Studios is a great option if you’re traveling with kids, and Islands of Adventure is a great option for adults (it’s actually my favorite!)

Lunch & Final Rides

In the afternoon, you’ll grab lunch at whichever park you chose for the day. Make sure you’re referencing your list of must-rides or must-sees. Time flies in a theme park with the long lines and constant walking from one place to another. Prioritize any rides you haven’t yet gotten to since you’re in the final stretch of the day.

Dinner nearby the Park

Depending on which park you chose for the day, closing time might be looming around the corner. This is a great time to head to a spot nearby for dinner. Depending on when your flight is the next day, this could actually be your final dinner of the trip!

If you explored Disney, head to Disney Springs and check out Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant or STK Orlando. If you went to Universal, head to CityWalk and try out VIVO Italian Kitchen or Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food.

Both of these spots have great restaurants, shops and plenty of other things to do, so take your time and enjoy your night.

That’s a wrap for Orlando. It went by pretty quickly, didn’t it? It’s time to check into your hotel and rest up for your next and final day of your 1 week road trip in Florida.

Day 7 – Space Coast & Drive back to Miami

On your last day of the road trip, you’ll be visiting the Space Coast and then heading back to Miami. It’ll be a full day, so I recommend waking up early for it. 

From Orlando, you’ll take 408 E to 50 E, and then 405 to cross the NASA Causeway Bridge to the Kennedy Space Center.

Explore the Kennedy Space Center

Start the day early with a quick breakfast before getting on the road. Check out Easy Luck Coffee & Bodega or Moma’s Cafe, both of which you can’t go wrong with!

Your first stop will be the Kennedy Space Center in Titusville, Florida, which is almost an hour away from Orlando by car.

The Space Center opens around 9am, and you’ll want to get there as early as possible to avoid crowds. You’ll spend the morning into the afternoon exploring the Kennedy Space Center . There’s lots to do here so you’ll want to make a list of your top 3 or 4 things to do upfront. A few examples to get you started include the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, the Rocket Garden, and the Apollo 8 firing room. 

Cocoa Beach & Drive Back to Miami

Grab lunch at the Orbit Cafe, which offers a decent variety of options or the Rocket Garden Cafe that overlooks the Rocket Garden.

After a few hours at the Space Center, it’s time to get back on the road and head to nearby Cocoa Beach. It won’t be a long visit, but you can spend some time relaxing on the beach, swimming, or walking around at this world-famous beach. You can even swap out lunch at the Kennedy Space Center for lunch here on the Cocoa Beach Pier (better & cheaper food, in my opinion).

It’s an almost 4 hour trip back to Miami (without traffic) so you’ll want to make sure you leave enough time for the drive back, whether checking into your hotel or heading to the airport! Make sure you factor that into your plans for the afternoon. You unfortunately won’t have a lot of time to make stops on your drive back to Miami.

You’ll take A1A S and FL-404 W to I-95 S, and from there, you’ll be on I-95 S for most of the way back to Miami.

Final Night in Miami or the Airport

Once you’re back in Miami, check into your hotel for the night or head to the rental car drop off and the airport for your flight.

If you’re staying for the night, you might be exhausted from the week and want to grab takeout or order in for dinner at the hotel. Totally understandable. If you’re still up for a dinner out on your last night, I’d recommend checking out the Taco Stand in Wynwood or the Lobster Shack in Miami Beach for a casual dinner.

As you wind down for the night, it’s time to reflect on such an incredible 1 week road trip through Florida. You’ve covered a lot of ground from Miami to the Gulf Coast to Orlando and then back again. You’ve also managed to see some of the best sites in Florida all in one road trip!

More Road Trips Ideas in Florida

Naturally, only having a week for a road trip in Florida isn’t exactly a lot of time. You might have an extra day or so to explore some other areas, and there’s plenty to explore! Here are some additional destinations for your Florida road trip itinerary that we didn’t cover but would make a great stop on your trip:

• St. Augustine
• Daytona Beach
• West Palm Beach
• Anna Maria Island

Florida Road Trip Map 

Need a visual of all of the towns we covered on this trip? Here’s a great map of this epic 1-week Florida road trip itinerary. 

You might have a few lingering questions about your road trip in Florida. Here are some common questions and answers for you to help plan your trip.

How many days are needed for a Florida road trip?

It all depends on what you want to do and see. Some people can be satisfied with a week-long experience visiting cities like Miami, Tampa, and Orlando. Others prefer to take their time and explore different parts of the state, like the Everglades or the Florida Keys. A two week road trip would give you enough time to explore and enjoy several areas of Florida.

How to plan a road trip to Florida?

Planning a road trip in Florida can be both exciting and overwhelming. Start by making a list of destinations that you want to see and then research different routes that work those places in. It’s best to book hotels and any attractions ahead of time as places fill up quickly! Plus, it’ll be helpful to budget the cost of your trip. 

Final Thoughts: Florida Road Trip 1 Week Itinerary

I hope this 1-week Florida road trip itinerary has been helpful in planning your next vacation. From the vibrant cityscape of Miami to the thrilling theme parks of Orlando and everything in between, we’ve covered a lot of ground!

It can be a lot to plan a road trip, but hopefully I’ve done some of the leg work for you with laying out places to visit. Feel free to change up this itinerary if you’re looking for something a little different, or keep it as is if it sounds like a good fit! Oh, and make sure you book your hotels and buy passes for attractions ahead of time!

So grab a map (or your phone, let’s be real) and get ready for an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning landscapes, exciting experiences, and plenty of memories to be made!

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The Perfect 2-Week Florida Road Trip Itinerary + Map

T his is the perfect Florida road trip itinerary! Having spent many years living in Florida and exploring the state extensively, I can confidently say that this road trip covers many of the must-see locations, with the option to include additional destinations if you have extra time. I recently took my husband, (who’s from Spain) on this journey, and he loved every place we visited. Even if you’re a Florida native, you’ll still enjoy this adventure!

Florida offers an ideal setting for a road trip, thanks to its abundant attractions and year-round sunshine. This itinerary is tailored for road trip enthusiasts of all kinds, whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, on a girls’ getaway, or even as a solo adventurer.

Table of Contents

2-Week Florida Road Trip Itinerary Overview

Day 1 + 2: miami, day 3, 4, + 5: florida keys, day 6 + 7: captiva island, day 8 + 9: sarasota, day 10, 11, + 12: orlando.

Day 13 + 14: Saint Augustine

Pack your bags.. it’s time for a road trip!

Note: Starting and Ending Point of the Florida Road Trip Itinerary

The starting and ending point of your Florida road trip itinerary will depend on a few factors.

• The cost of renting a car in Miami and dropping it off in Orlando was only a $50 price difference. Almost all rental car companies will let you drop off in a different place. It made a lot more sense for us to just spend the $50 than to drive all the way back to Miami.
• If you live in Florida, then starting either in Miami or Saint Augustine (whichever is closer to your city) would be best.

Miami is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and diverse range of attractions. There’s truly something for every kind of traveler! The peak tourist season is during the winter months, from December to April, when the weather is warm and dry. However, this is also when prices for accommodations and activities tend to be higher. If you prefer lower prices and can handle some rain, you can consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (May to June) or fall (September to November).

We flew into Miami International Airport and picked up our rental car, then drove to our hotel in South Beach. After check in, we grabbed lunch and started checking off our must-do things and must-visit places in Miami!

A perfect afternoon at Nikki Beach Miami

Sunrise on South Beach

Best things to do in miami:.

• Spend a day at Nikki Beach in South Beach (this was one of our favorite things we did in Miami)
• Explore Little Havana and eat authentic Cuban food
• Visit Wynwood Arts District
• Eat tacos at Taquiza in North Miami Beach (literally the best tacos I’ve ever had in my life)
• Walk around and admire all the pastel art deco buildings
• Grab a cocktail at one of the many bars, nightclubs, and lounges in areas like South Beach, Downtown Miami, and Brickell
• Get brunch on Ocean Drive (we did this before heading to the Keys)

Where to Stay:

• Casa Boutique Hotel ☆☆☆ ($$)
• SLS South Beach Miami ☆☆☆☆ ($$$)
• The Savoy Hotel & Beach Club ~ Miami Beach ☆☆☆☆ ($$$$)

The art deco buildings are the cutest

BEST tacos & blue corn tortilla chips ever at Taquiza

Make sure to get some good sleep on your last night in Miami because the next morning it’s time to grab some brunch and head down to Key West!

Driving time from Miami to Key West: approx. 3 hours, 32 mins.

On the morning of day 3, we woke up and headed straight to brunch. There are so many amazing brunch spots all over Miami, so you won’t have any difficulty finding one. Following your meal, it’s time to embark on the road trip journey to Key West! We suggest heading directly to Key West so that you can gradually make your way back to Miami while exploring the other Keys. This approach will considerably reduce the length of your next long drive, which will be on day 6.

A bit about The Florida Keys – they are a picturesque and unique chain of islands located at the southern tip of Florida, extending into the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. The Florida Keys are known for their stunning natural beauty, vibrant marine life, and laid-back atmosphere.

There are hundreds of keys in the Florida Keys, but the most famous ones (listed from north to south) are:

• Big Pine Key

Related post (for couples): A romantic getaway in Key West

Smathers Beach - Key West

The Perry Hotel Key West is the perfect place to unwind

Must-do things in key west:.

• Spend an afternoon at the beautiful Smathers Beach – this is a great place to take some photos!
• Wander around Downtown Key West – we loved exploring downtown without a GPS.
• Take a sunrise or sunset sailing tour – We planned to do this, but decided on taking a day trip to Bahia Honda. Next time, we definitely want to do the sailing tour. If you stay at The Perry Hotel they can arrange a sailing tour for you!
• Eat at Lobster Shack Key West – If you’re into seafood, you must try this place.
• Grab a drink at Green Parrot Bar – This bar was voted best bar in Key West and has happy hour & live music!
• Visit the popular tourist spots – Southernmost Point Buoy, Southernmost House, Key West lighthouse, etc.
• Try the Cuban food at Havana Cabana – we loved having lunch here and we thought the food was mouth-watering

The best place to stay:

• The Perry Hotel Key West is dog-friendly, if you’re bringing your furry friend along on your road trip!
• Stay here for 2 nights and then check out early and head to Bahia Honda State Park

Driving time from Key West to Bahia Honda State Park: approx. 45 mins. 

Incredible Cuban food at Havana Cabana

Early morning swims at The Perry Hotel

After the 45 minute drive from key west, you’ll arrive at bahia honda state park.

This state park is one of the most beautiful in all of the Florida Keys. The azure waters, pristine white sand, flourishing nature—it’s a dream come true. Here’s the lowdown:

• Navigate your way there by clicking this link for Google Maps directions.
• Entrance costs $8.00* per vehicle (+.50 cents per person). The limit is 8 people per vehicle.
• Bahia Honda State Park offers a range of amenities, including camping, cabins, pavilions, picnic spots, showers, and restrooms.

We spent about 6 hours at the park. Our time mostly consisted of snorkeling, indulging in a picnic, soaking up the sunshine, and reveling in the breathtaking array of blue hues surrounding us. Camping is definitely on our agenda for the next visit!

Since we need to start making our way back north, it’s time to head to either Islamorada or Key Largo for the night. We recommend staying at Drop Anchor Resort in Islamorada, so we will use that as an example.

Driving time from Bahia Honda State Park to Drop Anchor Resort Islamorada: approx. 1 hour

Alll the shades of blue at Bahia Honda

A stunning place to spend an afternoon

Stay the night at drop anchor resort in islamorada.

This super cute pastel hotel right off the main road, is also perched right on the beach. They offer 12 different kinds of rooms, many of them with ocean views. There are quite a few restaurants close to the hotel. For those seeking underwater adventures, the nearby dive shop, Key Dives, offers both scuba diving and snorkeling experiences.

Rest well because after checkout in the morning, it’s time to set off on the longest drive of the whole Florida road trip itinerary!

Driving time from Drop Anchor Resort to Captiva Island: approx. 4 hours, 38 mins. 

Drop Anchor Resort - Islamorada

Drop Anchor Resort in Islamorada, FL

Don’t worry too much about the long drive because there are many things to do and see along the route –.

• Stop at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo and take a glass bottom boat tour or go snorkeling. There are beautiful coral reefs and lots of marine life here!
• Take an Everglades airboat tour (you can book this through lots of different companies or on GetYourGuide)
• Visit the Naples Pier
• Swim or take a looong walk on the sand at Fort Myers Beach

This is definitely one of our favorite places on the whole Florida road trip itinerary! Right when we arrived to Captiva Island, we absolutely fell in love. The peace and serenity that this island brings is unparalleled. We went straight to our hotel (South Seas Island Resort) and checked in. When we got to our room, we couldn’t believe our eyes *see photo belows*. The room was a dream!

Note: After the devastating hurricane in 2022, South Seas Island Resort has been rebuilt in many parts. Some of the hotel areas may not look the same as before.

Just... wow. Am I right?

We had to make a little bed on the balcony because it was just so beautiful

There aren’t many places to stay on Captiva Island, but even if there were, we would still recommend South Seas Island Resort . We had an amazing stay and there were lots of things to do and many delicious food options.

Things to do on Captiva Island/South Seas Island Resort:

• Kayaking with manatees and dolphins – This was the most exciting morning of our whole road trip! We set off from the South Seas coast around 9 am and in the first 10 minutes of kayaking we were surrounded by dolphins playing. Then we paddled a bit farther and saw a few manatees under the water – they were so cute!
• Sunset dolphin boat tour – This was so much fun and we saw dolphins and manatees again, but this time more than 50 dolphins! Everyone on the boat was so excited and it was a great vibe 🙂
• Enjoy lunch on the beach at Island Tacos – The cutest little food truck with amazing Mexican food. We loved the tacos and quesadillas.
• Rent a golf cart and explore the island – Make a reservation ahead of time
• Swim, relax, and drink a cocktail at the beautiful South Seas Island Resort ocean front pool
• Have dinner at Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grill on Sanibel Island – The food is delicious and they have live music often. In our opinion, we could have eaten at this restaurant every day for a week haha.
• Take a sunset walk on the beach – The sunsets are extra beautiful and colorful here!

Driving time from Captiva Island to Sarasota: approx. 2 hours, 15 mins. 

Dolphin tour off Captiva Island

Ocean front pool at South Seas Island Resort

Tropical dinner vibes at Doc Ford's

Sunset walk on the beach

Sarasota is my hometown, so it will always hold a special place in my heart! It’s a vibrant city known for its cultural richness, beautiful beaches, and artistic flair. Nestled on the southwestern coast of Florida, Sarasota frequently wins the title of having one of the best beaches in the United States, Siesta Key Beach, renowned for its powdery white sands and clear turquoise waters.

Overall, Sarasota is a blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and a laid-back coastal lifestyle, making it an appealing must-visit destination.

The sunsets at Siesta Key are some of the best we've ever seen

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art

My parents still live in Sarasota, so we just stayed with them and didn’t have to get a hotel for this part of our trip! There are quite a few great hotel options in Sarasota though. I recommend staying either near Siesta Key or Lido Key area. Here are some choices:

• The Sarasota Modern, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel ☆☆☆☆ ($$)
• The Westin Sarasota ☆☆☆☆ ($$$)
• The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota ☆☆☆☆☆ ($$$$)

Best things to do in Sarasota:

• Sunbathing and swimming at the #1 beach in the USA – Siesta Key! My husband (to remind you – he’s from Spain) had never seen a beach with sand so white and water so clear. Siesta really is amazing + the sand NEVER gets hot!
• Visit the unique The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art – I have probably been here about 20 times in my life and it never gets old. Make sure to see the art museums, the circus museum, and the Ca’ d’Zan mansion.
• Shopping and Lunch at St. Armands Circle – Eat at Cha Cha Coconuts (they have the best fried shrimp) and then get ice cream at Kilwins (my favorite flavor is the cake batter.. yummm).
• Brunch with your feet in the sand at The Sandbar Restaurant on Anna Maria Island – This one is in Bradenton Beach area, but it’s worth the drive to eat here then explore Anna Maria Island!
• Wander around the beautiful Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Downtown Sarasota

If you’re traveling as a couple, don’t miss 15 romantic things to do in Sarasota !

Driving time from Sarasota to Orlando: approx. 2 hours, 20 mins. 

We drove up to Brandon to play at TopGolf - so much fun!

Brunch with our feet in the sand at Sandbar Restaurant

Next up on the Florida road trip itinerary is Orlando! There are e n d l e s s things to do there. It is one of the most popular places to visit in all of the USA. People usually flock here for the theme parks, but there are many other fun activities and places to see. We opted for a mix of theme parks and a nearby incredible nature landscape – the springs!

For a 3-day Orlando adventure, especially if you’re a fan of theme parks, I suggest deciding between dedicating 2 days to either Universal or Disney. While you could opt for a day at each, it will mean missing out on the full experience of either park. In our case, we chose to immerse ourselves in the world of Universal. However, we did add a touch of Disney magic by spending one evening at Disney Springs for a dinner at Rainforest Cafe.

Kelly Park Rock Springs - near Orlando

Universal Orlando's Volcano Bay

There are hundreds of hotels in Orlando! Depending on if you choose Universal or Disney, you will likely pick a hotel that’s close to the park or on park property. Often if you stay at the hotels on park property, they have guest benefits (like getting into the park early, fast passes, etc.)

We stayed at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel on Universal Orlando property and would recommend it to anyone and everyone! The hotel looks like it’s straight from Portofino in Italy, has incredible food, transport to the parks, guest benefits, and so much more. Read the post linked below for more details about this hotel and the Universal parks.

Related post: Loews Portofino Bay Hotel + Universal Orlando

Best things to do in Orlando:

• Explore the Universal Orlando Parks (Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay)
• Visit the Disney Parks (Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios + Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon)
• Enjoy an evening at Disney Springs and eat at one of the many amazing themed restaurants
• Stroll around I-Drive (International Drive)
• Spend a day floating around Rock Springs Kelly Park (about 45 minutes away from Orlando). I go to Rock Springs every time I go to Orlando. There’s something so magical about it. Don’t forget a tube to float on!

Driving time Orlando to Saint Augustine: approx. 1 hour, 40 mins.

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando

A fun day at Islands of Adventure

Day 13 + 14: saint augustine (last stop on your florida road trip itinerary).

Saint Augustine stands out as a unique stop on the road trip, often overlooked but has SO much to offer! Nestled on the northeast coast of Florida, it holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the continental US.

Thanks to its rich history, vibrant culture, and captivating architectural beauty, Saint Augustine is a true gem and a destination that shouldn’t be missed. And let’s not forget the allure of the beautiful St. Augustine Beach!

Sand dunes of Saint Augustine Beach

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

Where to stay in saint augustine:.

For a central city stay, consider The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens or Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront—they’re both excellent options! If a beachfront retreat is more your style, Embassy Suites by Hilton St Augustine Beach Oceanfront Resort is a solid choice.

Best things to do in Saint Augustine:

• Wander on St. George Street – This pedestrian only street is lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions.
• Get spooky with a night time haunted tour or pub crawl
• Indulge in a homemade popsicle from The Hyppo – I am obsessed with this place! The watermelon hibiscus and pink grapefruit flavors are my absolute favorite!
• Visit the historic Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
• Have a picnic at Saint Augustine Beach

For those flying out of Orlando, make your way to the Orlando Airport on the morning of Day 15 and return your rental car.

If you find yourself with some additional time, extending your stay in the Keys, exploring the Clearwater/St. Pete area, or taking a detour to Cocoa Beach are all worthwhile options!

We hope you enjoyed this Florida road trip itinerary! Have a great time and don’t forget the snacks 🙂

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Carrie Salter

Hi! I'm Carrie Salter, a travel blogger originally from the USA, but now traveling and living abroad full time. I share travel guides, travel tips, and inspiration from around the world!

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7 best road trips in Florida

Apr 10, 2024 • 6 min read

Florida is well-suited for road-tripping © Philip Lange / Shutterstock

There's no denying Florida's appeal. This narrow peninsula packs in an abundance of hedonistic pleasures, from white-sand beaches to fantasy-fueled amusement parks.

And with historical monuments, natural wonders and roadside attractions sprinkled liberally across the state, Florida is particularly well suited for road-tripping. Here's our pick of the best road trips in the Sunshine State. 

1. North Florida's backwaters and byways 

Best road trip for springs, manatees and mermaids Pensacola–Weeki Wachee; 510 miles; 5–7 days

Kick off your trip in Pensacola and delve into the city's past at Historic Pensacola Village . Then cruise towards the alluring white-sand beaches of the Gulf Coast, meandering back roads and byways to discover northern Florida's hidden treasures along the way.

Experience crystal-clear springs, including the Spanish-moss-lined Wakulla Springs , where you can take a tour in a glass-bottomed boat, and Ichetucknee Springs , which you can enjoy from the relaxed comfort of an inner tube. See manatees (between November and March) from the viewing platforms at Blue Spring State Park , then round off your trip with a classic roadside attraction starring the performing "mermaids" of Weeki Wachee .

Planning tip:  Florida's springs are significantly colder than its oceans. Consider packing or renting a wetsuit, particularly during visits in the winter months.

2. The Florida Panhandle

Best road trip for a taste of Florida's western edge Perdido Key–Tallahassee; 254 miles; 3–4 days

The Florida Panhandle on the Gulf Coast is blessed with beach bliss and southern charm. Start your eastward journey near the Alabama border in Perdido Key , a barrier island with turquoise waters and expansive wetlands.

Eastward, make sure to hop on Scenic Highway 30A in South Walton County. Stops include Rosemary Beach, where  La Crema Tapas & Chocolate  serves up a decadent chocolate fondue; the Alys Beach Nature Trail , which has elevated boardwalks to navigate the 20-acre preserve of coastal forest; and Seaside , which is dotted with pastel-painted houses with picket fences. Fun fact: Seaside is where  The Truman Show  was filmed. End your trip with a visit to Tallahassee, the capital of Florida and home to the  Museum of Florida History .

3. Highway 1 

Best road trip for tracing the Atlantic Coast Amelia Island–Miami Beach; 475 miles; 6 days

Drive the length of Florida all the way down the coast, and you'll get a sampling of all the highlights of the Sunshine State. You'll find historic towns, family-friendly attractions, the Latin flavor of Miami and miles and miles of beaches right beside you, inviting you to stop as often as you want.

Start your trip on Amelia Island, a glorious barrier island with the moss-draped charm of the Deep South, and continue on down to see-and-be-seen  Miami Beach . Detours worth making include St Augustine , the oldest permanent European settlement in the US; the undeveloped, pristine beaches of  Canaveral National Seashore and the Space Coast  where, if you time it right, you can see a rocket shoot into space.

Planning tip: November through March is peak "snowbird season" in Florida, making driving along Highway 1 – and other major coastal routes – a bit more of a crawl as US holidaymakers travel south for some winter sunshine.

Want to linger in Miami for a few days?  We have the itinerary for you

4. North Florida

Best road trip for exploring the central heart of Florida Jacksonville–Ocala; 112 miles; 3–4 days

With nearly one million residents, Jacksonville is Florida's largest city (nearly double the population of Miami). After gawking at giraffes at Jacksonville Zoological Gardens  and being inspired at the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville , head southwest to Gainesville, the home of the University of Florida. Very much loaded with students when school is in session, the town is also home to the Florida Museum of Natural History and the stunningly blue Ginnie Springs  nearby.

Cap off your trip with a stop in Ocala, with outdoor adventures aplenty, including the woodsy, lake-loaded Ocala National Forest and, for gear heads, the Don Garlist Museum of Drag Racing , which houses nearly 100 race-tested vehicles.

5. Walt Disney World and beyond

Best road trip for the whole family Kennedy Space Center–Sanibel & Captiva Islands; 288 miles; 6–10 days

This trip links up most of Florida's best family-friendly attractions , including sprawling white-sand beaches and all the sights you can squeeze into your vacation and more.

Begin at NASA's Kennedy Space Center  to wonder at the science and ambition behind 20th- and 21st-century space exploration (and buy some astronaut ice cream, naturally). From there, hop on I-4 westbound toward Central Florida and its more imaginative delights. Let your inner child loose in the  Magic Kingdom  at Walt Disney World ®  but don't stop there; you'll find plenty more to entertain you in dizzying Orlando , including Universal Studios and  Harry P Leu Gardens , for when you crave a short respite from the frenetic pace.

Next, cross the state toward Tampa , turning south when you arrive near the coast. Be sure to check out the historic buildings and wrought-iron balconies of Ybor City and the lovely beaches in Sarasota  before winding up on the beaches of Sanibel and Captiva Islands.

Can't get enough of Florida's theme parks? These are the best ones to visit

6. The Everglades 

Best road trip for seeing wildlife Homestead–Everglades City; 170 miles; 2–3 days

The enticing Everglades  make  South Florida truly unique. This ecological wonderland is the USA's largest subtropical wilderness, flush with endangered and rare species, including its star attraction, the alligator – and there are lots of them. It's not just a wetland, swamp, prairie or grassland – it's all of the above, twisted into a series of soft horizons, long vistas and sunsets that stretch across your entire field of vision.

From the town of Homestead , head for the park's southeastern entrance and get ready to immerse yourself in nature. Be sure to plan pitstops to  kayak in Flamingo , take a tram tour in Shark Valley and search for Bigfoot in Ochopee  before heading on to Everglades City to uncover the region's history at the volunteer-run  Museum of the Everglades .

Detour:  Work in a bonus national park by visiting Biscayne National Park , a boater's paradise 20 minutes east of Homestead.

Add  these experiences  to your Everglades itinerary

7. Overseas Highway to Key West 

Best road trip for island hopping John Pennekamp State Park–Key West; 102 miles; 3–5 days

Short of hopping on a plane, there's no better way to enjoy such an utter feeling of escape from the mainland than driving through the Florida Keys . The motto here seems to be "do whatever the hell you want." 

Pull off the highway for biker bars, seafood grills and blissful beaches wherever and whenever the crazy spirit of these islands moves you. Highlights on this 102-mile route include John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park , the USA's first underwater park; historic Indian Key and forested  Lignumvitae Key ; and the marvel of engineering that is the overwater Seven Mile Bridge. 

Planning tip:  Embark on your Overseas Highway adventure as early in the day as possible, as some stretches tend to be congested after 11am, particularly on weekends.

Keep planning your trip to Florida:

Looking for more great experiences? Here are our top picks in Florida Have a smooth trip with these things to know before you go Check out our budget-friendly tips before you book Get in some towel time at  our favorite beaches in Florida

This article was first published November 2020 and updated April 2024

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2-Week Florida Road Trip Itinerary (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 3, 2024

Enjoy my personal favorite 2-week Florida road trip itinerary, based on my experiences of growing up in the state.

There are plenty of incredible things to do in Florida . And taking a trip around Florida is a great idea, whether you go solo or with friends and family.

While there are many great places to visit in the US, Florida is a destination on its own.

Known for its beaches, sunshine, wildlife and a variety of attractions, Florida has so much to offer a traveler. 

Whether you’re visiting from out of the country or just out of state, taking a road trip through Florida will give you the best opportunity to see and do amazing things.

From racing through all of the rides at the theme parks in Orlando to being lazy along the beaches of Daytona or Miami , you can go as fast or slow as you like. 

Find yourself immersed in the history of St. Augustine , the oldest town in North America, or at the cutting edge of space at the Kennedy Space Center.

Absorb the Latin and Caribbean influence in Miami’s Little Havana or Tampa’s Ybor City or set out to explore the wildlife and uniquely Floridian landscapes of the Everglades or the Florida Keys. 

There really is so much to do, and you’ll find some of the best beaches in the country here. And driving gives you the best opportunity to experience Florida at its finest.

So let’s get into this incredible Florida road trip. 

Table of Contents

Arrive in and Enjoy Orlando (3 days)

Drive to st. augustine (1 day) / daytona beach (1 day), drive to miami with stops at kennedy space center and/or cocoa beach (1 day), explore miami (3 days), road trip to key west (1-2 days), take in key west (1-2 days), make your way to tampa (2 days), return to orlando (1 day), to/at the florida panhandle, northeast florida, condensed florida road trip itinerary, beginning your 2-week florida road trip.

Where you begin your ultimate Florida road trip is up to you. If you are driving your own vehicle into or from another part of the state, then pick up on this itinerary at its closest destination.

For example, if you’re traveling from the East Coast then you’ll likely take Interstate 95 straight down and your first stop would be St. Augustine or Daytona Beach. 

But if you are flying into Florida then we’d recommend you consider both beginning and ending your Florida road trip in either Orlando or Miami.

This road trip in Florida is circular , so you can pick up on it wherever it is most convenient for you.

But Orlando is in Central Florida, has a great airport for both domestic and international flights and will allow you to strike off in any direction you’d like. 

On that note, let’s begin! 

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

If you are flying into Florida, Orlando is a great place to begin your Florida road trip. It is located right in Central Florida so you can start off in any direction.

There is a large international airport that will allow you many rental car options. And there are also plenty of awesome things to do in Orlando itself.

So whether you are flying in on a long journey and want a few days to adjust or you are ready to hit the road, Orlando is your best first stop. 

Orlando is most known for its various theme parks. But there are also plenty of other great things to do in Orlando . 

You could easily spend a few days at either Disney World or Universal Studios parks. 

Disney World offers great attractions such as the iconic Magic Kingdom and Epcot as well as rides such as Pirates of the Caribbean, Big Thunder Mountain and Space Mountain.

Spend time exploring Downtown Disney whether you venture into the park or not. 

At Universal Studios you can see your favorite superheroes and ride The Hulk, Spiderman, Transformers and Revenge of the Mummy.

Of course, if you’re a fan of Harry Potter you can’t pass up the opportunity to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter through either Universal or it’s joint park Islands of Adventures. 

If you’re just looking for a great place to people-watch while grabbing a delicious bite to eat and maybe a concert or show of some sort, Universal City Walk at the front gates of the park will keep you busy for hours. 

If you’re not interested in theme parks, head down to International Drive and take your pick of entertainment options. You could walk or drive your way through days of activities.

A few of our favorite ideas are I-Drive Nascar, Ripley’s Believe It or Not, iFly indoor skydiving and Wonderworks . 

There are tons of great restaurants in this part of Orlando and most hotels along I-Drive have shuttles that will take you to virtually all of the top Orlando attractions.  

READ MORE: Plan the perfect 3 days in Orlando with this itinerary .

After leaving Orlando you can literally head in any direction. But we recommend that you start by heading northeast along Interstate 4 toward Daytona Beach.

The drive will take approximately 1 hour and will connect with Interstate 95.

From here you can either stop for the day in Daytona Beach or travel another hour north to St. Augustine.

You could also travel inland through the Ocala National Forest State Park or Blue Spring State Park, for scenic views on the way to St. Augustine.

If you spend the day in St. Augustine don’t worry as you’ll pass right through Daytona Beach on your way to Miami. 

But we’d recommend that you plan to visit St. Augustine as it is the oldest city in America and is full of history and the small-town charm for which Florida is known.

In St. Augustine, the obvious first thing you’re going to want to do is to explore the historic fort, Castillo de San Marcos . Built by the Spanish who settled the area, this fort has seen it all over the past few hundred years. 

Then wander through Old Town St. Augustine along St. George Street . Grab a bite to eat at The Columbia restaurant and wash that down with ice cream or other sweets from Kilwins .

Step into whatever shop grabs your attention to pick up a souvenir or anything you might have forgotten to pack.

Pick up a bottle of wine from San Sebastian Winery or some whiskey from Ice Plant Bar . And be sure to catch the sunset from at or along the Bridge of Lions . 

There are several beaches to enjoy, a lighthouse you can climb and a fun trolley that will take you all over the small city and fill you in on the history and quirky facts of the area. 

It’s only a 40-minute drive north to Jacksonville and Jacksonville Beach if you have time and are interested.

READ MORE: Check out these great things to do in St. Augustine

From St. Augustine, you will drive an hour south on Interstate 95 to reconnect with Daytona Beach .

If you didn’t stop before, now is a great time to spend a day enjoying a world-famous beach that came to fame for the car races that eventually launched NASCAR and the famous Daytona 500 . 

While the races are now held at their own huge Daytona International Racetrack (worth a stop if you are interested in car racing) Daytona Beach remains one of the few beaches in Florida where you can still drive on the beach.

You could spend a few days relaxing at Daytona Beach in one of the many oceanfront hotels or resorts. But to keep things moving, we’d advise just one day here. 

Read Next: Check out our post on all of the best things to do in Florida!

After leaving Daytona you will become pretty familiar with Interstate 95 as it will take you around 4 hours to travel south to Miami along the Atlantic Coast.

But there is a great stop along the way to break up the drive about an hour south of Daytona. 

The Kennedy Space Center (KSC) is the heart of NASA’s space program when it comes to launching spacecraft.

From Apollo 11 to the Space Shuttle program to the next phase in space travel to the moon, Mars and beyond, KSC deserves a stop from a historical standpoint.

You can easily make a day trip from Orlando if you’d prefer to keep moving.

But if you have ever wanted to see any of the rockets that have carried astronauts to the moon, or even have the chance to meet and have lunch with an astronaut, then make time for KSC. 

If you’re more into surfing than into space, the world-famous Cocoa Beach is right next door.

Stop into Ron Jon’s Surf Shop to pick up your beachwear for the rest of the Florida road trip or take your photo with the statue of Kelly Slater , the hometown surf hero and arguably best surfer of all time.  

You can quickly hop back onto Interstate 95 and continue the 3-hour drive south to Miami. 

Fort Lauderdale, Vero Beach, and West Palm Beach are also on the route to Miami.

As a big city, Fort Lauderdale is packed with shopping, skyscrapers, restaurants, and a few nice beaches. It’s nothing super special in my opinion, but if you want to include another stop on the way to Miami you can stop in Fort Lauderdale for lunch!

No Florida road trip is complete without a stop in Miami. And while you could easily plan a whole vacation around the city itself, we’d recommend no fewer than 3 days here.

If you’re planning to drive to Key West (which we highly recommend!) then you may want to give yourself one day in Miami between Key West and Tampa just to break up the drive.

Otherwise, there is no end to the number of things you can do in Miami!

We’d advise that you divide your time in Miami between Miami Beach and the downtown area.

Plus there are a lot of great things to do in the near vicinity of Miami – including day trips to the Everglades National Park which houses the Shark Valley Visitor Center, and to Biscayne Bay National Park . 

Miami Beach is best known for the glitz and glamour of South Beach . And while you don’t have to be a millionaire to enjoy this part of the beach, you’ll definitely find plenty of ways to spend money at the many shops, restaurants and bars that line South Beach. 

Here there are also nearly a dozen beaches spread out along the ocean for you to enjoy. Many will offer kayak and SUP rentals and some will be less crowded than others. 

In downtown Miami, there is also plenty to explore.

From enjoying the Cuban influence on the city in Little Havana , where you can sip Cuban coffee and eat authentic Cuban sandwiches, to admiring the massive amount of street art of Wynwood Walls , you are sure to stay entertained.

Enjoy Bayside Market or the Wharf to gawk at mega yachts, or take a sunset cruise along Millionaire’s Row to see some of your favorite celebrities’ homes.

If you’re interested in professional sports, Miami has them all depending on the season. 

READ MORE: Plan your perfect 3 days in Miami with this itinerary . 

From Miami, you are within a 4-hour drive to Key West. This drive is in itself one of the top Florida road trips and well worth the time. 

Although Key West should be your ultimate destination for this part of the road trip, it is going to be incredibly tempting to stop at many places along the drive.

The northern Florida Keys (smaller islands) tend to feel much like the rest of the state of Florida.

But once you get around halfway down the Florida Keys you will see the stunning crystal blue water, flourishing palm trees and coral-white sandy beaches for which the Keys are known. 

Some great stops along this portion of the Florida Keys road trip include: 

• Islamorada – See (and/or feed) massive tarpon at Robbie’s Marina
• Marathon Key – Count all of the miles as you drive across the 7-mile bridge
• Big Pine Key – Enjoy a few hours (or the day) at the pristine Bahia Honda State Park 
• Key Largo – Snorkel or kayak in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Once you reach Key West you will immediately see and feel the vibrant life for which the island is known.

From the colorful houses and buildings to the nightly sunset celebrations, Key West is all about the high quality of living. 

Depending on how long you took to drive from Miami to Key West, you’re going to want to spend at least 1-2 days taking in the sights.

Of course, when you are in Key West you have to visit the Southernmost Point in the US . There’s a statue in the shape of a buoy that you can’t miss.

Wander through the old, colorful neighborhoods and be entertained by the quirky merchandise advertised in storefronts along Duval Street .

You could also spend the day on the water, renting everything from kayaks and SUPs to jet skis, powerboats or even going for a parasailing ride. 

But whatever you do to stay busy enjoying Key West during the day, be sure to make it to Mallory Square for sunset.

With dozens of popular bars nearby made famous by the likes of Ernest Hemingway , you can grab your favorite drink and cheer the many street performers and artists who make their living at the water’s edge each night.

The whole area turns into a party once the sun goes down so you can stay as social as you’d like at that point. 

You could also take a day trip to the nearby Dry Tortugas National Park . Full of stunning coral reefs where you can kayak or snorkel, Dry Tortugas National Park is home to some of Florida’s most beautiful marine life.

READ MORE: Plan the trip with these awesome things to do in Key West!

The drive between Key West and Tampa is a long but scenic one along the Gulf Coast of Florida. We’d recommend you stop in Miami and finish doing anything you failed to check off your itinerary when you were there before. 

Regardless of whether you stop or not, you’ll pick up Interstate 75 in Miami and head northwest to Tampa.

This part of Florida is known for the number of smaller cities and towns that serve as vacation destinations, second homes and retirement communities and for good reason.

You could stop at any number of them as you need for a bite to eat, to fill up on gas or just stretch your legs. Naples , Fort Meyers , Venice and Sarasota are a few of the more popular places. 

Fort Myers Beach is a popular spot for a beach day, and Sanibel Island is a gorgeous place to visit between the Florida Keys and Tampa.

But Tampa and the surrounding area on the Gulf Coast are also worth 2-3 days of your Florida road trip itinerary.

If you aren’t tired of beaches yet (Florida has tons of them!) there are plenty of options to enjoy a different kind of west coast Florida beach. Florida’s Gulf Coast tends to have calmer, warmer water so the beaches are relaxing and dreamy.

But there is also lots of things to do in Tampa itself that make it worth your time. 

Venture into Ybor City , once the thriving center of Tampa, where the Cuban influence in the neighborhood can still be seen and experienced in hand-rolled cigars, the food and the historic buildings.

There’s even a small park nestled in the area that is literally owned by Cuba and wild chickens roam the streets.

In downtown Tampa, you’ll want to spend your time along the Riverwalk where most of the best activities will be.

Ride a water bike (yes, it is a bike-like machine you ride on the water), rent a SUP or stroll along the Hillsborough River and stop as you please. Check out a few museums and find plenty to eat at Armature Works .

You can also enjoy the beaches of Clearwater or Honeymoon State Park . Or get your thrills at Busch Gardens or Adventure Island .  

If you have time for a day trip, a quick visit to Crystal River to kayak or swim with manatees is a popular excursion from Tampa! Or head to the nearby town of Tarpon Springs and check out the famous Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks.

READ MORE: Plan your perfect 3 days in Tampa with this itinerary !

As all good things must come to an end, your Florida road trip will end where it began in Orlando.

From Tampa, it is just over an hour along the other side of Interstate 4 to reach Orlando. 

If you already spent a few days enjoying the city then you can plan to drive straight from Tampa to the Orlando international airport to catch your flight.

Just give yourself a little extra time for traffic and to return your rental car. 

But if you have a few days left for Orlando, enjoy your time there! You can get around the city without a car, so if you want to save a few dollars on the rental and potential parking fees go ahead and drop off the car and catch a ride to your hotel from there. 

Other Excursions for Florida Road Trips

Florida is a rather large state and with so much to offer it is really impossible to see it all in two weeks.

In fact, there are entire sections of the state that we left off this 2-week Florida road trip itinerary to make sure you experienced the most you could in such a short amount of time. 

So if you have more time and/or want to see and do more than just the major Florida attractions and highlights, there are many more options!

Here are some additional Florida road trip ideas. These will require a little more driving. But the rewards of the experience will be worth it for sure! 

Read Next: Check out all of the other great places to visit in Florida !

• Swim with (or just view) manatees in the wild (Crystal River)
• Snorkel for scallops (Steinhatchee or Cedar Key)
• Float down a crystal clear spring (Itchetucknee) 
• See the original Blue Angel airplanes ( Pensacola )
• Enjoy Panama City Beach or Fort Walton Beach
• Walk through history in St. Augustine (if you didn’t already)
• Collect prehistoric shark teeth (Fort Clinch State Park)
• Ride horses on the beach (Amelia Island)
• Play/watch a round of golf at The Players Championship at Sawgrass

If you were to break down the state of Florida into the most-visited cities in which to spend your time, these would include Orlando, Miami and Tampa.  

So in worst case, if you had no interest in visiting the Florida Keys, St. Augustine, Daytona Beach or Cocoa Beach then you could have a much more condensed Florida road trip between Orlando, Miami and Tampa. 

Of course, you’ll miss out on the opportunities in some of the smaller cities and towns along the way.

But you will spend less time driving between places and more time exploring all the great things to do in and around the cities themselves. 

We’d still recommend that you make a circular route between the three cities. But whether you started in Orlando, Tampa or Miami would be entirely up to you.

The entire loop between these three cities is around 600 miles, leaving you plenty of time in the cities themselves. 

Wherever you choose to spend time during your Florida road trips we hope that you enjoy the state as much as we do!

There is a reason people flock to the state year after year and we want you to see why! 

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Lindsay Harvey

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Thanks for the insightful and detailed plan.

I am wondering if you have ever made a whole round trip of FL, starting from Tampa, and covering the panhandle, across via Tallahassee to Jacksonville, Daytona Beach, Orlando, Cocoa beach, West Palm beach, down the coast line to Miami, Key West, and back up West coast towards Naples, Fort Myers? Would love to get any tips/suggestions/recommendations on places to visit.

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Fun Florida Road Trips for Families

Terri Marshall

Florida’s a classic family road trip destination. Start your journey in Miami, Tampa or Orlando. They all make great starting points. Then, pick your route. Maybe your kids are all about the beaches. Head to Daytona on the east or Clearwater on the west coast. Prefer to discover the “real” Florida? Take an airboat ride through the Everglades to see the wildlife. Here are 10 of SheBuysTravel’s kid-approved Florida road trips to kick off your vacation planning.

From the sugary white sands of the Panhandle beaches to the reptile-filled swamps of the Everglades to the quirky culture of Key West—no matter which direction you choose, Florida road trips deliver plenty of family fun and the chance to explore the state’s hidden gems . Choose one of these 10 routes — or combine a few depending on how much time you have — and get ready to make some unforgettable family vacation memories.

Most of my life, road trips have occupied a spot on my family’s summer calendar. The adventures continued with my own kids when they were young. Now, when our schedules align, the grandkids and I uphold this long-standing family tradition. With such a diverse landscape and innumerable family attractions, the Sunshine State makes an ideal place to take to the road with your favorite people.

1. Pensacola to Apalachicola Florida Road Trip

Florida’s Panhandle makes for a scenic road trip. In Pensacola, start at the National Naval Aviation Museum where my grandson-approved flight simulators and virtual reality experiences add to the exhibits to educate and entertain. Driving east, you’ll pass plenty of Florida beach towns — Panama City Beach and Destin are among our favorites — where you’ll no doubt want to spend a little time in the sun and sand. If your kids are like my grandkids, prepare to be buried in the sand.

For off-the-beach entertainment in Destin, head to The Track . This family recreation center with go-karts, bumper cars and boats, miniature golf, bungee jumping and an arcade will entertain the kids for hours. For dinner, we loved the Back Porch where a long porch and chairs in the sand literally means seafood on the beach. For us, it was a win-win as we lingered over dinner and cocktails and the kids played in the sand.

Things to Do Along the Way

Moving further east, Florida’s “forgotten coast” boasts charming small towns like Apalachicola and Carrabelle, stellar fishing and oysters aplenty. Be sure to visit St. George’s Island for a climb to the top of the storied lighthouse. In Carrabelle, you’ll find the world’s smallest police station housed in a phone booth.

The Apalachicola River Paddling Trail Systems offers nearly 100 miles of prime trails for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. In the nearly 900 square miles of the Apalachicola National Forest, canoeing, kayaking, swimming and hiking keep the kids moving. If you’re up for camping, Wright Lake includes 18 campsites with picnic tables, grills, tent pads and fire rings.

Read More: 11 Shining Florida State Parks

2. Lake City to the Black Bear Scenic Byway and Beyond

As a Floridian, for years I traveled up and down I-75 without detouring off the highway in Lake City. Don’t do what I did.

Instead, stop to check out this charming town for great eats and intriguing nature. Start the day with breakfast at Shirley’s—a decades-old diner serving up biscuits and gravy, cheese grits and all the diet-busting cuisine a road trip deserves. Then, work off some of those calories at Falling Creek Falls, where a short .6 boardwalk hiking trail leads to a spectacular root beer-colored waterfall.

Next, head south to FL-40E to travel along the Black Bear Scenic Byway into the Ocala National Forest. Keep the kids on the lookout for black bears, which can sometimes be seen roadside. Break up the ride with a dip in one of the cool clear springs. With more than 600 springs, rivers and lakes there’s plenty to choose from, but Juniper Springs with its working water wheel is a favorite with our group. While you’re there, stroll along the boardwalk that leads around the back of the spring into more serene nature and a bridge that overlooks Fern Hammock Springs where sand boils bubble up.

Pancakes and Manatees Along the Way

Exiting the forest, continue your spring exploration at DeLeon Springs. We like to arrive in the morning to make our own pancakes at the Old Spanish Mill Grill & Griddle House. Pitchers of batter and a griddle await at each table along with toppings like pecans, chocolate chips and blueberries. It’s messy and delicious!

Continue 15 miles south to Blue Spring State Park . A designated manatee refuge, Blue Spring State Park harbors an estimated 250 to 300 manatees from November through March. Stroll along the boardwalk and watch manatees feed and care for their calves. In warmer months, swimming, canoeing, kayaking and snorkeling take the stage.

3. Central Florida Backroads

Although widely known for its many theme parks centered in the Orlando area , Central Florida’s backroads make for some of the state’s best road trips. Off U.S. Hwy 192 in Kenansville, Wild Florida Airboats & Gator Park is a thriller. My three grandkids especially loved feeding alligators, speeding through the headwaters of the Everglades and a slow, slow, slow sloth encounter.

For a fun overnight option—and a big winner with my grandson, Benjamin, Westgate River Ranch offers glamping along with a plethora of activities. Try archery, rock-climbing and airboats, or choose a more laid-back experience at the petting zoo.

As you travel east on U.S. Hwy 60 to Lake Wales, add Bok Tower Gardens to your list. Although the main attraction at the center of the botanically blessed 250-acre garden remains the 205-foot-tall “singing” tower with its carillon bells, my grandkids adored the Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden. Among the highlights were the riverwalk with fountains, hammocks for giggles and a stage where they displayed their acting skills—a career path we’re not encouraging.

One of the world’s most colorful theme parks, LEGOLAND always draws cheers from my crowd. On hot summer days, the LEGOLAND Water Park makes a big splash with body slides, tube slides, a lazy river and pools. Skip the towels when it’s time to dry off and jump in one of the air dryers to add to the fun.

Lakeland’s Safari Wilderness Ranch surprised us all with its large herds of exotic game roaming free across 260 acres of wilderness. We rode in customized safari vehicles to see ostriches, giraffes, zebras, water buffalo and more to the delight of everyone.

Read More: Best Places to Discover Florida’s Unique Wildlife

4. A Barrier Islands and Florida History Road Trip

Travel Florida A1A down the coast from Fernandina Beach to Cocoa Beach for a beachside road trip like no other. From picturesque beachside communities to isolated barrier islands to the Kennedy Space Center and a colorful surf shop, these 210 miles deliver a Florida east coast sampler platter.

Once a pirate’s haven, the Victorian seafood village of Fernandina Beach provides a remarkable blend of chic and beach. Explore a few downtown shops even the kids will love like Villa Villekulla—a Pippi Longstocking-inspired toy store. Stop for lunch at Timoti’s Seafood Shak complete with an enclosed pirate playground. Nearby, Amelia Island State Park offers horseback riding on the beach. Casting a line in the surf or from the mile-long George Crady Fishing Pier keeps the family fisherpeople happy.

Stops Along the Way

Undeveloped and rich in natural beauty, Little Talbot Island boasts more than five miles of pristine beaches. Combing the beach for shark’s teeth always keeps my grandkids entertained. Between Big and Little Talbot Islands, the salt marsh waters make ideal kayaking territory. Hikes through the dunes and driftwood add adventure.

Scooting on down the road, Florida’s earliest history unfolds in Flagler County at St. Augustine. Explore the Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States—you can never go wrong with cannons (or so my grandsons say.) Save a rainy day with a visit to the Pirate & Treasure Museum. You’ll also find lots of free things to do in St. Augustine.

5. A Sand, Surf and Space Road Trip

While spring breakers flock to Daytona Beach and its infamous boardwalk, our go-to spot is New Smyrna Beach. With no cars on the beach, the kids can build sandcastles, play on their boogie boards and try surfing.

Worth exploring, the 73-acre Smyrna Dunes Park has a two-mile elevated boardwalk that winds through sand dunes. The platform provides primo viewing of marine life, reptiles and unique vegetation. The park also has picnic areas, pavilions and an observation tower.

Florida’s Space Coast

Continuing south, space takes the stage in Cape Canaveral at the Kennedy Space Center. A day surrounded by rockets inspired my youngest grandson. That means I landed in the gift shop buying an astronaut suit.

Located along Florida’s Space Coast an hour’s drive from Orlando, Cocoa Beach’s soft cocoa-colored sand distinguishes it from other beaches. Designated the east coast surfing capital, you’ll find veteran surfers alongside beginners riding the waves. No visit for our family happens without a stop at the massive two-story Ron Jon’s Surf Shop stocked with anything you could possibly need for a beach day including rentals. On the Cocoa Beach Causeway, the kitschy Dinosaur Store’s selection of dinosaur teeth, shrunken heads and arcade games are sure to delight.

6. Exploring Florida’s Southeast Corner

A1A takes you all the way to Miami with plenty of alluring beaches along the way. For a break from the beach, get out on the water with a River Explorer Boat Tour from Vero Beach. Pontoon boats cruise along the Indian River Lagoon on a guided tour. Be on the lookout for dolphins and manatee.

Further south, the beaches of Palm Beach County offer a multitude of experiences. One of my grandkids’ favorite areas of Florida, we’re always on the lookout for the best kayaking, paddle boarding and snorkeling spots.

Fewer beachgoers and smooth water make Coral Cove Park at the north end of Jupiter a family favorite for a day filled with snorkeling and paddleboarding. When they’re ready to kayak, the Loxahatchee River Center provides the ideal atmosphere.

When you’re ready to refuel, the Dune Dog Café serves up hot dogs and seafood with a fun Caribbean vibe. More sand and sea options as you continue down the Atlantic Coast from Palm Beach to Fort Lauderdale and on to Miami’s South Beach, where art deco and Cuban cuisine unite.

7. Naples to Miami via the Tamiami Trail

For an immersion in Florida’s iconic natural wetlands, nothing beats a drive on the Tamiami Trail. Beginning in Naples on Florida’ Gulf Coast, the road travels southeast through the Big Cypress National Preserve, the Everglades National Park and Biscayne National Park before reaching Miami.

Live alligators and other intriguing exhibits can be found at the Oasis Visitor Center in Big Cypress National Preserve. In Everglades National Park , Junior Ranger programs keep the kids engaged. Hiking trails, biking trails, canoe trips, airboat rides and tram tours showcase the “river of grass” and its diverse wildlife including the superstar gators. If you’re up for a night in the swamp, front country camping sites Long Pine Key Campground and Flamingo Campground accommodate tents and RVs.

Fishing and snorkeling await in Biscayne National Park, which is 95% underwater. In Miami, a visit to Little Havana offers a glimpse into Cuban culture and some of the best Cuban food anywhere.

8. Head Out to Sea: Miami to Key West

Head to the Florida Keys on the 124-mile Overseas Highway. From Miami to Key West, it’s one of Florida’s most scenic drives. Discover underwater wonders as you and the kids snorkel at America’s first undersea park— John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. If you’d rather stay dry, glass-bottom boat tours provide a peek beneath the surface.

Don’t miss the chance to feed the family’s sweet tooth at Mile Marker 100.5. Here you’ll find the colorful Key Largo Chocolates , which serves incredibly delicious chocolate truffles and ice cream. Try my favorite…key lime pie on a stick!

If you have little fishermen in your family like I do, a stop in Duck Key for a family fishing trip guarantees smiles—and maybe even some fish. Include an overnight stay at the fab Hawks Cay, one of the nation’s top family resorts.

Don’t miss the Turtle Hospital in Marathon located at mile marker 48.5. Here volunteers rescue rehabilitate and release sick and injured sea turtles. The daily guided educational tours explain more about these adorable creatures. We even got to meet a few of the loveable patients.

Arriving in Key West, let the kids work off excess energy with a climb to the top of the iconic lighthouse. Key West Aquarium has open tanks to let little hands touch starfish and other mellow sea creatures. End the day at the Mallory Square sunset celebration amid street performers and irresistible conch fritters.

9. Road Trip in Florida’s Central West Coast

Hugging the Gulf of Mexico, Florida’s West Coast brings more beautiful beaches to the landscape. Beyond the beaches, charming communities offer unique experiences. Explore the sponge docks in Tarpon Springs. Then, watch the kids grow wide-eyed at the realization that sponges don’t only come from Target! Be sure to indulge in a taste of Greece at one of the many Greek restaurants in town.

Clearwater Beach represents the quintessential beach town on Florida’s Gulf Coast. A boardwalk-style promenade lined with shops, restaurants and beachside attractions, the Beach Walk attracts walkers, joggers, roller-bladers, skateboarders and cyclists. Rent bicycles and join the fun.

If you want to venture further, the Pinellas Trail offers an escape into nature. Or, check out the Courtney Campbell Trail—a 9.5-mile bike trail connecting Clearwater to Tampa Bay. Be sure to schedule some time at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.

Things to Do in Tampa

Venture into Tampa’s downtown district where a 2.4-mile Riverwalk winds alongside the Hillsborough River. Take a break from the sun with a visit to the Glazer Children’s Museum . More than 170 interactive exhibits spread across 20 themed areas will ignite the imagination of your little ones.

My grandkids can never resist a milkshake. If you have the same taste in your family, head to Hyde Park’s iconic Goody Goody. You’ll find tasty burgers, pies, all-day breakfasts, short-order diner plates and milkshakes in a classic American diner atmosphere.

Read More: Manatees and More at The Plantation at Crystal River

10. Explore Florida’s Southwest Gulf Coast

Continuing south from Tampa Bay, more sugary white sand beaches unfold in places like St. Pete Beach, Anna Maria Island, Sarasota and Venice. You’re literally spoiled for choice when it comes to the Sunshine State’s Gulf Coast beaches.

But, if you continue to Florida’s Southwest coast toward Fort Myers, you’ll find Sanibel Island. Arguably one of Florida’s prettiest beaches, Sanibel boasts soft white sand, an abundance of seashells and a laid-back vibe. Be sure to check out the J.N. “Ding” Darling Wildlife Preserve . This 6,400-acre pristine mangrove estuary provides sanctuary to dolphins, manatees, countless reptiles and more than 252 species of birds.

Whatever road you choose, you’re certain to return home with priceless memories of your family’s fun Florida road trip. Drive safe!

3 responses

Can you recommend a family resort all inclusive if possible in the Clearwater Beach AREA. CLOSE TO PIER 60. and possibly a kids camp/structured activities Traveling with 5 children. 2 families and grandparents

This was truly wonderful to read!!! Thanks for all the great ideas! I can’t wait to visit some of them with my family. 🙂

I’m so happy you enjoyed it! Please let us know when you visit and what you think!

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101 BEST FLORIDA ROAD TRIPS

By   Mike Miller  Updated July 15, 2023

The Florida road trips, and scenic drives you will learn about on this website are the best way to enjoy and experience the real Old Florida out on the back roads.

Road Trips  are all about the scenery and driving routes.  They go through interesting places where you can stop if you'd like or drive on through.  Each of our road trip pages include driving maps.

These trips are designed to take you off congested highways including interstates.  We make sure, however, that your route is on paved roads not too far from restaurants and food, gas stations, and rest rooms.

Our focus is on on tree canopied routes through historic old towns and rural scenic countryside.  Some of the routes are designated Florida Scenic Highways or Byways by the Florida Department of Transportation.  

FLORIDA REGIONAL ROAD TRIPS THROUGH SMALL TOWNS

We have divided Florida into 8 regions, and each regional web page has a listing of recommended day trips. Each regional web page also has it's own interactive Google Florida state map focused on the region.

Northwest Florida Road Trips and Scenic Drives

1.  Pensacola to DeFuniak Springs on US-90 2.  DeFuniak Springs to Seaside 3.  Pensacola to Seaside on US-98 4.  Panama City Beach to Grayton Beach on Highway 30A 5.  Chattahoochee Loop through Sneads and Marianna 6.  Big Bend Scenic Hwy from Apalachicola to St Marks

North Central Road Trips and Scenic Drives

1.  Quincy to Gainesville on US-90 2.  Panama City to Carrabelle on US-98 3.  Gainesville to Cedar Key on SR-24 4.  Gainesville to Micanopy and McIntosh on US-441 5.  Micanopy to Cross Creek on CR-346 and CR-325 6.  Cross Creek to Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Grave 7.  White Springs to Suwannee along the Suwannee River 8.  Big Bend Scenic Highway from Apalachicola to St Marks

Northeast Florida Road Trips and Scenic Drives

1.  Fernandina Beach to St Augustine Beach on SR-A1A 2.  Jacksonville to Spuds on SR-13 along St Johns River 3.  Korona to Atlantic Ocean at Highbridge Road 4.  Highbridge Road to St Augustine on SR-A1A 5.  Orange Park to Crescent City on US-17 6.  Nature Drive North of St Johns River and Jacksonville 7.  Satsuma Loop through Welaka and Crescent City

Central East Florida Road Trips & Scenic Drives

1.  Anderson Drive from Highbridge to Ormond Beach 2.  South Daytona Beach to Ponce Inlet on S Atlantic Ave 3.  New Smyrna Beach to Edgewater along Halifax River 4.  Oak Hill through Kennedy Space Center to Titusville 5.  Williams Point thru Cocoa/Rockledge on Indian River 6.  Merritt Island to Georgianna on South Tropical Trail 7.  Pineda Causeway to Mathers Bridge on S Tropical Trail 8.  Indialantic to Sebastian Inlet on SR-A1A 9.  Wabasso Beach to Vero Beach on Jungle Trail 10. Fort Pierce to Jensen Beach along the Indian River 11. New Smyrna Beach Pioneer Trail Shortcut

Central Florida Road Trips and Scenic Drives

1.  Maitland to Orlando through Winter Park 2.  Lake Buena Vista to Windermere on SR-535 3.  Orlando to Winter Haven on US-17 4.  Orlando to Mount Dora on US-441 5.  Clermont to Lake Wales on US-27 6.  Lake Wales to Lake Placid on US-27 7.  Mount Dora to Groveland on SR-19 8.  Winter Haven to Wauchula on US-17 9.  Lake Wales to Frostproof on Scenic Highway 17 10. Polk City to Auburndale on CR-557 and CR-559 11. Mount Dora to Altoona to Villages and Return 12. Lake Griffin Scenic Loop via Lady Lake and Weirsdale 13. Yalaha Scenic Loop from Howey in the Hills 14. Mount Dora to Melrose through Ocala National Forest 15. Mount Dora to Cross Creek, Micanopy, and McIntosh 16. Mount Dora to St Leo through Dade City 17. Lake Apopka Loop via Apopka, Montverde, Howey 18. Emeralda Island Scenic Loop west of Eustis 19. Haines Creek Lock between Lakes Griffin and Eustis 20. Fort Gates Ferry Drive across St Johns River 21. Green Mountain Scenic Byway around Lake Apopka 22. Sugarloaf Mountain Loop near Montverde and Ferndale 23. On Top Of The World near Ocala to Melrose

Central West Florida Road Trips and Scenic Drives

1.  Bushnell to Floral City through Istachatta 2.  Inverness to Crystal River on SR-44 3.  Weeki Wachee Springs, Aripeka, Hudson on CR-595 4.  Holiday, Palm Harbor, Tarpon Springs and Dunedin 4.  New Port Richey-Tarpon Springs west of US-19 5.  Gospel Island - Inverness & Lake Tsala Apopka 6.  Gobbler's Drive - Floral City & Lake Tsala Apopka

Southwest Florida Road Trips and Scenic Drives

1.  Port Charlotte to Boca Grande thru Placida on CR-771 2.  Fort Myers to Iona on McGregor Boulevard 3.  LaBelle to Immokalee on SR-29 4.  LaBelle, Alva, Olga along the Caloosahatchee River 5.  Cape Coral to Matlacha and Pine Island 6.  Vanderbilt Beach to Port Royal through Old Naples 7.  Fifth Avenue Historic District in Old Naples 8.  Naples to Chokoloskee through Everglades City 9.  Naples to Miami on Tamiami Trail - US-41 10. Naples to Fort Myers Beach along the Gulf of Mexico

Southeast Florida Road Trips and Scenic Drives

1.  Fort Pierce to Jensen Beach along the Indian River 2.  Jupiter to Hobe Sound via Jupiter Island on the Ocean 3.  Jupiter to North Palm Beach on SR-A1A 4.  Palm Beach to Lake Worth Inlet among the mansions 5.  Palm Beach to Boynton Beach on SR-A1A 6.  Boynton Beach to Fort Lauderdale on SR-A1A 7.  Coconut Grove to Goulds on Old Cutler Road 8.  Miami to Fort Myers - Belle Glade, Clewiston, LaBelle 9.  Martin County Scenic Highway west of Stuart

STATE WIDE FLORIDA ROAD TRIPS

Some trips cross several regions of the state and many actually go from coast to coast.  These trips focus on staying on one highway - usually a lesser traveled one - and show you a part of Florida you would never see if you stay on the Interstates.

Fort Gates Ferry Across the St Johns River

Scenic Drives Along Florida Rivers

Old Florida Towns on the Indian River Lagoon

Old Florida Towns on the Forgotten Coast

Old Florida Towns on the St Johns River

Old Florida Places on the Suwannee River

Old Florida Towns US-1/SR-A1A, Fernandina-Key West

Old Florida Towns on Scenic Highway 17

Old Florida Towns on US-17 South of I-4

Old Florida Towns on US-17 Georgia to Punta Gorda

Old Florida Towns on SR-19 Groveland to Palatka

Old Florida Towns on SR-20 Niceville to Flagler Beach

Old Florida Towns on US-27 Georgia to Miami

Old Florida Towns on US-41 Georgia to Tampa

Old Florida Towns on SR-44 Crystal River to New Smyrna

Old Florida Towns on SR-60 Clearwater to Vero Beach

Old Florida Towns on SR-70 Bradenton to Fort Pierce

Old Florida Towns on SR-80 Fort Myers to Palm Beach

Old Florida Towns on US-90 Pensacola to Jax Beach

Old Florida Towns on US-301 Georgia to Sarasota

Road Trip Maytown Road from Osteen to Oak Hill

Road Trips on the East-West Highways

Road Trips on the North-South Highways

Florida Cracker Trail

Espanola Florida and the Old Brick Road

Florida Scenic Highway 30A

Old Spanish Trail

Florida Solo Travel For Women

Road Trips on the East-West Highways With Maps

Road Trips on the North-South Highways With Maps

FLORIDA TOWNS for information on hundreds of towns along with histories and Google interactive maps.

BEST FLORIDA ROAD TRIP CARS for the ones I've owned and driven on more than 2,000,000 miles of road trips.

Drive an electric car on your Florida road trips? Here are some Florida hotels with charging stations.

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Surfside, Florida. Home of the Famous Surf Club

Apr 24, 24 06:16 PM

The best Florida road trip for families – 20 places you MUST visit

Perfect for kids and adults.

If you’re anything like me, one thing you’ll know Florida for is Disney. The happiest place on earth and a trip all families want to do once in a lifetime. But while my kids love theme parks and we can find the magic of imaginary worlds enchanting for a day or two, at heart my husband and I are travellers, and the thought of going all the way to Florida and dedicating our entire holiday to theme-park food and endless queues was not something we really wanted to do.

What we yearned to do was explore - we fancied a road trip. But while our kids are now 9 and 12, and so much easier to travel with, it’s extremely daunting to try and plan a massive adventure like this when you’re so far away. Fortunately, the Hertz road trip planner is a fantastic inspiration for a journey like this (or in fact a road trip around pretty much any state in the US that you’re keen to visit), so we downloaded the Florida version, adapted it for the 10 days of holiday we were managing to squeeze out of our October half term break, and headed to Miami. For what turned out to be without a doubt the most amazing family trip of our lives.

So here’s what we did, in the order we did it, with the tips we learned along the way. Feel free to adapt it according to the time you have, and spend longer anywhere you can. But if you can avoid it, don’t miss anything out. This is our family’s list of the 20 things you MUST do and see if you and your clan head to Florida. And one thing to add, which took us entirely by surprise, is that we came back not only full of the most amazing memories and with a camera overloaded with incredible pics, but also inspired, energised and with the kids’ dreams and ambitions stretched beyond previous limits. When an astronaut tells you to reach for the stars, it’s hard not to take their advice.

1) Hang with the cool kids in Miami Beach

With promises of the Florida Keys and Space Centres, I have to admit Miami wasn’t on the top of my ‘can’t wait to get there’ list – I thought it might be too busy and fast for a family holiday, but I was so wrong. Miami is a fabulous city. The beach is a dream – white sand for as far as you can see, punctuated by lifeguard huts, making you fee like you’re in an episode of Baywatch. Nightlife is fun and funky – but accessible. We were welcomed with open arms with the kids everywhere we went. And the coast is so stunning it’s clear to see why celebs and millionaires like David Beckham make this part of the world their home. A boat trip past the most expensive homes give you a glimpse into another world.

Cool kids on Miami Beach

Where to Stay: The Betsy Hotel on Miami’s famous beach was an incredible place to start our adventure. Resplendent in 1930s art deco design combined with Colonial-style architecture there’s a true feeling of low-key, old-school glamour here – and the rooms are perfect for families. The kids cosied up on a double sofa bed in the separate living area leaving plenty of privacy for mum and dad. The roof-top pool was a highlight for us all. Sipping on a frose cocktail in the deep end, I was able to convince myself I might just be able to blend in with the cool crowd no doubt about to descend on the bar as the sun set.

Where to Eat: Joining the celebs at the Sugar Factory is a lot of fun and for one night only I was just about able to throw caution to the wind and let my kids inhale mocktails literally swimming in gummy bears and multi-coloured rainbow hamburgers (not thinking about the e-numbers). America knows how to do things big, and the Sugar Factory does that, and then some. We’ve still got stashes of nerds and Haribo in the boys’ backpacks that couldn’t physically be eaten in one sitting.

Dinner on the rooftop at Juvia  is another experience – more full-on A list glamour, but just as welcoming to the boys, even offering a kids’ menu with some exciting and adventurous options. We sipped cocktails in the warm Miami air, overlooking the twinkling city beneath us, whilst dining on some of the best sushi we’ve ever eaten. Even though jet lag was getting the better of us by desert, we managed to squeeze some in.

2) Enjoy some street art at Wynwood Walls

If you’re looking for an Instagram moment, this is the place to come. This uber-cool regeneration project has brought art (and tourism) to a part of town which previously had neither, and now locals and visitors alike can pass an afternoon viewing street art from some of the best in the business, on the walls and containers of this incredible, accessible, open-air art gallery. The creativity has become catching – with the roads surrounding Wynwood Walls boasting a less curated but equally exciting array of artwork. The perfect backdrop to your first family holiday snaps.

3) A little bit of educational fun at Frost Science

Located on the Miami waterfront, if you want a break from the pool or the beach, Frost Science is the ideal place. There are everything from huge aquariums boasting stunning underwater wildlife, to interactive and very educational exhibits drawing kids and adults in to learn about biology, physics, geography – you name it. You can build sand sculptures while learning about contour lines, do a bit of aeronautical engineering courtesy of a paper aeroplane machine, or just have a cup of coffee and enjoy the view.

4) Escape city life in the Florida Keys

A strip of land stretching over 180km off the end of Florida, the Keys is just the place to test out the dynamics of a family road trip. It turned out that never-ending sea views, only one or two bad turnings getting out of Miami and an array of movies on the kids’ tablet meant our first foray into life as real American roadtrippers got off to a good start. We’d chosen a roomy Nissan Pathfinder for our 10-day adventure and having enough space in the boot to pack a bit less neatly than we had on departure from the UK was handy. One thing we learned half way through our trip (after a few panicked google searches) is that if you're in a Hertz rental, you can sail through the toll lanes without stopping to pay. 

Sunset at Duck Key

Tip: dedicate one bag to the swimming/beach bag and another to not-yet-quite-dry items so you always have your swimmers ready at your next destination and can hang up the wet things right away. Don’t be shy and British about valet parking either - both valet and luggage carts are the way to make sure the baggage side of road tripping doesn’t become a headache. Another tip - about tips, is to make sure you've got a few dollar bills to hand to show your appreciation to the valet man or bellboy. 

There are many spots to stop at in the Keys – we opted for Duck Key – about two and a quarter hours from Miami.

Where to stay: Duck Key is home to the family friendly Hawks Cay Resort  – a different vibe to Miami, at once very family focussed and the boys felt instantly at home, jumping in the pool and making pals with the other kids. There is a large swimming pool in the main resort area, which looks out onto the ocean and its stunning sunsets. There’s also a beach pool – a sectioned off area of seawater for families to swim, paddleboard and kayak around, safe in the knowledge there will be no drifting off to Cuba. And you don't have to worry about your kids being noisy as anybody who isn't keen on a bit of family fun can retreat to the Adults Only pool around the corner. 

Where to Eat:  In the resort there are a variety of dining options – we enjoyed the informality of the beach bar for our first dinner, and for the second, after enjoying a dip in the completely empty Sunset Pool to watch the sky turn orange, we wandered up to the Angler and Ale  restaurant – more formal but still relaxed and very child-friendly. The waiters remembered the kids from breakfast, one chatting to them eagerly about his lifelong desire to watch cricket at Lords. 

5) Get up close and personal with the fish in a snorkelling adventure

With water warm and inviting and fish in plentiful supply, jumping into the ocean with a snorkle, mask and fins is great experience for adults and kids alike. There are many snorkling possibilities - we headed out on a boat with Captain Hook's Marina and Dive Centre. It was a great family adventure. The sight of the fantastic fishes only compromised slightly by the jelly-fish dodging required to get to the perfect coral spot. 

6) Cuddle a dolphin at Hawks Cay's Dolphin Experience

One of the highlights of any stay at Duck Key is the opportunity to swim with dolphins. The resort has five dolphins living in the sectioned off areas of ocean around the edge of the resort and the trainers who look after them are inspiring with their knowledge and clear affection for the animals in their care. Being in close contact with these magnificent creatures is an astonishing experience and one the kids will carry with them for their lives (in fact our youngest is determined to become a dolphin trainer when he grows up). The experience is very educational, and the dolphins share their latest tricks with you before – if they feel like it – sidling up for cuddle.

7) Experience Florida's wild side in Martin County

Jumping waves in Martin County

The next stop on our road-trip adventure was one I’d not heard of before – Martin County. And had I known how beautiful it was we would have definitely planned to stay longer. While the Florida Keys has oceanfront resorts, Martin County has ocean front sand dunes and with its native wild turtles and stunning beaches it’s a nature-lovers delight. It was a three and a half hour drive from the Keys – and after an en-route Waffle House stop for lunch, we didn’t arrive until the afternoon. A sunset walk along the beach, some wave jumping while the surf pros did their thing, and a quick dip in the pool, we were left wanting more.

Where to stay: We stayed at the luxurious Hutchinson Shores Resort and Spa  – which was very A-list glam but wonderfully accessible for families too. Sipping a cocktail in your poolside cabana while the kids jumped in the water and we nibbled on a mid-afternoon pizza was pretty much my definition of bliss. Food here is delicious – again high end, but with a great provision for kids. Homemade pasta and pork belly got our thumbs up for dinner, while the breakfast was a to-the-table treat which set us up perfectly for the next stop on our roadtrip adventure.

8) Zeke’s Surf and Paddle SUP tour

Sadly, for our trip, the waves were not on our side and our paddle board trip was not to be. But Zeke ’s tour of the stunning waters around Martin County came well recommended.

9) Escape to infinity and beyond at the Kennedy Space Centre

100 miles up the road from Martin County is the Kennedy Space Centre , and this is truly a must-stop destination on any Florida adventure. Kids aside, I left my day at NASA wishing to become an astronaut, after an utterly inspiring and fascinating peek inside the lives of the scientists discovering details about the planets and galaxies around us on a daily basis. If you’re lucky and your trip coincides with an actual rocket launch, you can watch it here – and actually more rockets are zooming off into space each year than I’d ever imagined, taking care of the satellite demands we take for granted such as GPS and mobile phones.

The L unch with an Astronaut is an extra to the entrance price but if you can stretch to the $30 price tag ($16 for children) it’s an unforgettable experience. Not for the buffet lunch (which beats normal theme-park fair but isn’t anything to get too excited about) but for the fact that you have access to a real, live astronaut. Ours, Wendy Lawrence, addressed the room sharing details of life in space from how they avoid muscle depletion with daily treadmill sessions, to how they manage to go to the loo – something which enthralled the boys of course. A few questions can be asked, though naturally not everybody can be picked, and you’re left wishing you had an hour with Wendy across a small dinner table rather than in a huge banqueting hall. But her messages – written in the kids’ autograph books afterwards – were clear. Dream big and reach for the stars. Even I left the Kennedy Space Centre believing the world was my oyster. Exactly the kind of inspiring message you want your children to take away from a holiday of a lifetime.

10) Get speedy at Daytona Beach

An hour up the coast is Daytona Beach, and we headed there directly from NASA. This stop was for Dad – they Daytona Race Track was high on his wishlist for a trip to Florida. But there’s more to Daytona than that. With 23 miles of white sand beaches, with plenty of parks lining the beach, and huts for ice cream, you can spend some glorious sun days here. The boardwalk and amusement part is fun, plus you can even drive on the beach. 

Where to stay: Daytona Beach’s Hard Rock Hotel is a cool spot in a stunning location, and perfect for tweens. Again our only complaint is that time on our road trip was too limited so the boys could only enjoy a super-fast visit to the Roxity youth club – but with air hockey tables, computer games and a host of other kid and teen friendly activities, they could have spent a lot longer there. The swimming pool which plays rock music under the water was another quirkly highlight not be missed.

11) Become a surfer dude at Pure Life Surf School

There can be no two cooler surf dudes than Bernie and John but having once tried surfing before (as a much more appropriately aged 18 year old) with no success, I took their guarantees that I would be standing on the board by the end of our hour-long lesson, with a pinch of salt. With a look of awe in their eyes, my boys breathed in every word of dreadlocked Bernie’s directions and we all placed our boards on the sand and practiced jumping up to surf position out of the water. So far so good (actually even that was a challenge for me). But this 2 on 4 surf lesson proved equally successful even when we took our boards into the water. Staying side by side with us to catch the perfect wave and sending us off towards the shore, all 4 of us were up standing within a few tries (admittedly some of us for longer than others!). The boys got the hang of it instantly and excitedly wrote down Bernie’s details to look him up in the Guinness Book of Records when we returned to the UK, for being the person who can spin a basketball on his toe for the longest time while surfing. Sure enough, he’s in there!

12) Take a spin on the Daytona International Speedway

The Daytona experience is a morning or afternoon which starts with a tram ride first around, and then into, the iconic motorsports venue, giving you fun snippets of historical information alongside an photo opportunities galore. In fact, the first Daytona car races took place on the beach (and it’s still possible to drive your car down onto the beach at certain times – we didn’t think we’d risk it in our rental in case it was outside of our contract agreements!) but the Hall of Fame is a fascinating insight into the history of the famous track and the exciting races and champions who form part of its story.

13) Head to Orlando for some theme park fun

Speeding off from Daytona (remembering we weren’t Nascar racers, of course) it was an hour's drive to Orlando - the part of Florida most famous for its larger-than-life theme parks. Orlando can seem like a mission impossible to navigate; friends who have visited previously had recommended books and websites entirely dedicated to planning an Orlando visit and I was full of mild terror about making the wrong choices. In reality though, there is no need to stress. There are decisions to be made: staying in a Disney hotel allows you early access to park, so maybe worthwhile to avoid some queues. But making the wrong decision isn’t a disaster either – we stayed in a Disney hotel (the B Resort and Spa , with a stunning pool and very useful laundry room!) the night we went to Universal and it was only a short drive from one to the other.

If you want to make the theme parks the centre of your trip to Florida, then you absolutely can, and you can spend the months beforehand reading up on every last tip of how to find the best deals. Read our piece on a family visit to Disney here . But while the happiest place on earth is full of fireworks and fairytales, and any Harry Potter fan (I have two in my family) will have their little minds blown at the recreations in Universal which overshadow the UK’s WB Studio Tour completely, when asked what the highlights of our Florida road trip were, I was happy to discover that the rest of Florida was up there – and in some places miles above – the offerings of Orlando. So if queues and Mickey ears are not your bag, just hold on tight for a day or two – because there are alligators and airboat rides the other side!

14) Fly above Orlando on the Icon

Driving into Orlando from Daytona, the Icon Orlando was our first stop and a really pleasant and gentle introduction to the city of theme parks. A London Eye-style slow-moving Ferris wheel, we enjoyed a glass of champagne (with juice for the kids) as the sun set over the city, rollercoasters and magic kingdoms glistening in the distance. The restaurants around the Icon are fun – we pigged out on nachos and burritos at Uncle Julio's. With impossibly optimistic servers and platters so big you could dine on them for a week, it’s all very American and a lot of fun. The parking’s free too.

15) Find Mickey and Minnie at Disney World

Of course, no trip to Florida is complete without at least considering a trip to Disney World. And whether you want to hang out with Mickey, get Cinderella’s autograph or ride the terrifying Haunted Mansion, this is without a doubt the place to do it. HELLO!’s Laura Benjamin visited Disney last year and this is her advice on how to navigate the happiest place on earth.

16) Enjoy the magic of Harry Potter at Universal

If princesses and castles are less appealing than the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, then a Disney alternative is Universal's three theme parks – Universal Studios, the Islands of Adventure and the newly-opened water park, Volcano Bay. We did the first two parks in a day (and if you have a Harry wannabe in your party you’ll want to do the same, as the park-to-park transfer on-board the Hogwarts Express is definitely a highlight). There are terrifying rides (delicate mum alert: the Hulk is possibly not the best ride to start the day off with, it’s worth building yourself up to it slowly!) and with a front-of-line pass you can avoid the queues on the biggest rides. Definitely worth an indulgence if your park time is limited.

17) Go gator spotting at Boggy Creek Airboat Ride

An hour out of Orlando, but a world away, is Boggy Creek. Think Gentle Ben – with endless miles of mangrove swamps which you can explore at high speed (whilst wearing ear defenders!) on an airboat ride. Miles from anywhere, this is a spot of unspoilt beauty and the guides – who grew up swimming in the creek (dodging alligators – it doesn’t even bear thinking about) are full of fascinating insights into Southern living alongside these fascinating creatures. There are airboat rides in the Everglades – we didn’t have time to squeeze that into our time in Miami. But people who have done both rate Boggy Creek higher, and it’s a great antidote to the hustle and bustle of Orlando’s parks.

18) Enjoy peace, tranquility and real Southern Style in Crystal River

A sense of sadness in the air, as we knew we were embarking on our final adventure of this 10-day roadtrip, the two hours from Boggy Creek to Crystal River passed easily on a great American freeway. The lack of overtaking rules making us glad we were in a hefty SUV – personally on American motorways I feel bigger is always better. But our sadness lifted as soon as we arrived in Crystal river, and drew up to our lodgings at The Plantation on Crystal River . The location was utterly stunning and as I was welcomed at the front desk as Miss Sophie I felt fully at home and southern (the biscuits and gravy at breakfast only served to reinforce this feeling!)

Where to stay : The Plantation is situated on the banks of Crystal River and it’s really like stepping inside a cosy American TV series – you get the sense residents and holiday makers must be some of the most relaxed in the world as they watch the world go by from river-side verandas and pootle around on rowing boats, floating in some of the the most gloriously clear water I've ever seen. Bliss. The hotel is great for kids – more homely than super glam – with a swimming pool on the banks of the river, a giant chess board, a teenager’s games room, and al fresco family movie screenings (with popcorn).

Where to eat:  One restaurant that deserves a mention is the Greenhouse Bistro  – as you may well miss it otherwise. All food is local and fresh, and utterly delicious, also catering very well for vegans and vegetarians. You can lunch in the butterfly dining room (surrounded by butterflies) - at night they disappear and instead you're treated to birdsong.

19) Swim with Manatees

Having already kissed a dolphin in the Florida Keys, we didn’t really know what to expect of our manatee encounter – but the two could not have been more different. Manatees are most similar in DNA to elephants and, although water dwelling, you can see the resemblance at once. Huge, graceful and non-stop-eating, these gentle giants flock to Crystal Water river every year and bring with them hoards of tourists. But while their interest is welcomed by those working in tourism, their wellbeing is clearly of utmost importance, and in high season huge sections of the river are roped off, allowing the manatees peace and quiet when they want it.

Our visit occurred very early in the morning and thankfully the meeting point was our hotel. We got dressed in very buoyant wetsuits to make floating a doddle (and to enable us to disturb the creatures as little as possible), were fitted with snorkels and took off in our flat-bottomed boat. After 20 minutes or so we found a pair, and so our boat-load of eager swimmers descended into the water. We’d been taught how to act (slowly, no splashing, nice and quiet) and were delighted to find a mother and her baby, munching away on the seabed greenery, and squeaking at each other with high pitched sounds. Truly magical moments enjoying these animals in their home environment.

20) Kings Bay & Three Sisters Kayak tour

An incredible end to a whirlwind trip, a second trip on Crystal River, this time on board an entirely see-through kayak. Not only could we paddle across the manatees feeding (quite an awe-inspiring sight when you compare their size to yours) we also meandered our way into the stunning Three Sisters Springs, watching fish and turtles swimming beneath us as we hovered over three of the underwater springs that spew out crystal-clear water from their deep blue depths, giving the river its undeniably accurate name. Make no mistake, kayaking is a work out, especially when the wind picks up a little, but our guide and his knowledge about the history and nature of his stunning part of the world, encouraged us to push on when we felt tired. We loved hearing how the manatees are protected, how the crystal clear waters are being restored thanks to active planting and how much pride and love the locals have for their very special part of the world.

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The Ultimate Florida Road Trip Ideas

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Have you been hoping to plan the ultimate road trip in Florida? If you want to give The Sunshine State a visit, then keep reading to learn how a Florida Road Trip can be a great way to explore and see so much of what Florida has to offer.

Think beaches, amusement parks, historical towns, and exciting nightlife, there’s no other state like Florida.

Florida offers so many great opportunities for a vacation, even budget-friendly ideas. A road trip is one of them.

Florida Road Trip Ideas

We visited a lot of  Florida’s best destinations and can’t help but fall in love with the state. As a full-time RV traveling family, we have visited Florida three times. From a road trip to Florida experience to then travel around Florida for several months over two different winters. 

Then in 2021 we took a Spring Break trip to Florida and rented an SUV and enjoyed a visit to Venice Florida , Fort Lauderdale Florida , and then took a Miami to Key West drive and explored the Florida Keys for the third time in five years.

With our experiences and insights, we wanted to make this guide to help you enjoy the ultimate road trip in Florida.

Florida Theme Parks Itinerary

For some great Florida vacation ideas, here’s a family-friendly itinerary we made specific to visiting the many Theme Parks that Florida is famous for. Some of the best places to vacation in Florida are the theme parks.

Disney’s Magic Kingdom in Orlando

Florida has a lot to offer when it comes to family fun. Do you have kids on your road trip with you? Then you should visit Disney’s Magic Kingdom in Orlando Florida .

The ‘original Disney World’ is a classic family destination. During our visit, we enjoyed the best rides at Magic Kingdom and spent a full day in the park. The parade in the afternoon and fireworks at the end of the day were highlights of our time at Disney.

Disney has so much to offer from great food to fun shows. Oh, and the park that can be enjoyed by all ages!

Honestly, if you are looking for one of the best fall vacations in the US , we list Disney World as number 13 on our list. It’s the least busy that time of year and it’s not too hot either!

Disney Springs

For a free and great shopping experience, plan to spend an afternoon walking around Disney Springs . With covered and free parking and almost daily bands playing at the bandshell, it’s a great budget-friendly way to spend a day near Disney World.

Legoland  

Legoland Florida is just a 40-minute drive from Orlando and a fun park to visit with shorter lines and fun rides for the kids. We listed our best Legoland Florida tips and tricks here to help you plan out your visit. 

Legoland is a great place to visit, especially if you have some toddlers with you. Even if you bring the older kids, you don’t have to worry because the park also has some roller coasters and thrill rides.

It’s impressive how it’s so mom-friendly too. A nursing and changing room is even connected to an indoor play area.

Other activities include shows that are available for your whole family’s enjoyment like the Pirates Cove Waterski Show, 4D- Movie showings, Character Meet and Greet, and Pharos Revenge Play Structure.

The best time to visit is during January or February weekdays.

Universal Studios  Florida

Have you always dreamed of enjoying a butterbeer in Hogsmeade and living as a wizard for a day? You can do that in Universal Studios Orlando.

Universal Studios is a known as one of the most popular theme parks in Florida. Aside from Harry Potter World and all the many rides, the park also offers live shows for every guest to enjoy.

Check out these Universal Studios tips and tricks when planning a visit.

Florida Beaches Itinerary  

The best road trips in Florida have to include some of its infamous beaches!

Enjoy a vacation with your whole family by spending some time at the beaches we’ll mention below. Florida day trips can be made from just about anywhere in the state to a beach, it’s that easy to find beaches.

Smather’s Beach      

We visited some of the  best beaches in the Florida Keys and I have to admit, Smather’s Beach in Key West was my favorite.

Aside from the advantage of being near the airport, there was also plenty of free street parking. The beach also has the soft sand that we all look forward to during our beach escapades. 

Bahia Honda State Park’s Beach        

One of the beaches we really loved in our Florida Keys visit with our kids is the Bahia Honda State Park’s Beach.

This beach, like Smather’s Beach, has bathrooms and super white soft sand. Honestly, if you are looking for amazing photos in the Florida Keys, then head to this beach so you can take photos with the old bridge in the background. 

South Beach Miami

Famous even to non-Americans, South Beach is one of the most popular tourist spots in Miami, Florida. 

With its lively nightlife, it is known as a trendy place for anyone’s getaway trip.

Art Deco Architecture is also a big contributor to the place’s fame. 

Overall, the ambiance here is great, just know that it’ll be hard to find a time when South Beach is not too crowded.

Siesta Key Beach            

The first one on our list of things to do on the West Coast of Florida is visiting Sarasota’s powdered sand beach.

It has the softest and whitest beach sand among the many beaches of Florida so it surely is a must-visit! Fun fact: this beach’s sand is actually 99% quartz from the Appalachian Mountains. 

A city filled with cafes, shops, and dining choices is just a short walk from Siesta Key.

Additional Florida Beach Ideas

There are SO many beaches in Florida, that sometimes it can be hard to choose. You could take a relaxing trip to Navarre beach or an exciting Miami beach vacation. Or, combine several beaches and make it a full week’s worth of beach hopping!

Exciting Water Activities    

A family road trip near the beach is not complete without some water sports and activities. A Florida road trip from Miami will probably not be enough for a vacation, add some spice to it!

Driving the Florida Keys can give you a peek at the best water activities we experienced in Florida. Some of these activities can also be done in Key West. Check the list we made of our top water activities!

Jet Skiing              

One of the fun things to do in Key West is to go jet skiing. And if you want to do it again but you’ve left Florida Keys, you can find jet skiing on almost any coast of Florida offered. 

It’s one of our kids’ favorite activities and seeing the dolphins made it even better when we were in Key West, Florida.

Watch Marine Life                

Aside from the occasional sightings during other water sports, you can watch them on purpose in the Florida Keys when you ride the Glass Bottom Boat Tour in John Pennekamp State Park. Or, take a dolphin cruise on the Gulf coast of Florida in the Fort Myers area.

Parasailing                  

Something on my bucket list that I was able to cross off while visiting Florida was parasailing! There are many opportunities but we saw it the most in Key West or in Fort Myers, Florida. 

Snorkeling                    

Snorkeling can be a really fun way to get out into the ocean for a bit. Yet, if you have young children it can also be a little challenging if the waves are high. So find some calm water to practice in. We found some beginner snorkeling opportunities in the Keys and other parts of Florida. 

Kayaking                      

One of our favorite activities that we loved to do with our kids in the Florida Keys was kayaking at John Pennekamp State Park. 

We worked our way through the calm waters and Mangrove trees and saw some beautiful sights. The kids talk about the experience all the time!

Another great destination to Kayak in Florida is near Crystal River where you can be near the Manatees. 

Scenic Drives in Florida      

Most of the coastal Florida cities can offer beautiful scenic drives which can make for some fun day trips in Florida.

Among the several enjoyable routes, here are some of our suggested road trip Florida plans!

Florida Keys Overseas Highway Road Trip                  

Aside from its beach activities, a Florida Keys Road Trip can be such a beautiful way to see the Keys. I suggested that you take a Miami to Key West road trip which includes 42 bridges. 

Start by renting a car in Miami, Florida, or using your own. Then drive South to Key Largo, Florida. This is the first ‘Key’ in the Florida Keys. Take a stop anytime as you work your way further south into the Keys. 

You can drive over the infamous Seven Mile Bridge which connects Islamorada and Key West. Island mangrove trees and clear water will accompany your trip on this long bridge. 

This is also popular as a Key West Road Trip route. This scenic drive cannot be missed if you want a full experience of a road trip in the USA.

Southern Florida Road Trip

If you want to get to Naples, Florida from Ft. Lauderdale or Miami, then take this route and enjoy what Southern Florida has to offer. 

Spontaneous routes like this can make your road trip much more exciting and can even give you better views of the surroundings so try it on your next trip. On your way, you can stop and visit Everglades National Park, the only National Park in Florida. 

Enjoy some of what Naples, Florida has to offer for your family .

St. Augustine to Miami Road Trip                      

Start this road trip in Northeast Florida in the city of  St. Augustine Florida . A very historic city that you don’t expect to see in Florida.

Visit Castillo de San Marcos for a historic fort tour and then walk down St. George Street for some great shopping and good eats.

Follow Highway A1A south and make a few stops on your way to Miami, such as Daytona Beach, Palm Springs, and the Kennedy Space Center.

Plan Your Florida Road Trip

Road trips in Florida can be easy to plan or take spontaneously. Yet, it’s great to have some ideas and that’s why we hope these itineraries and tips help you to achieve the best Florida Road Trip.

For some more recommendations, you can check out our posts on other memorable places we visited when we were in Florida including St. Augustine and West Coast .

Or, read what to pack for your road trip here.

Do you think there’s more to taking Florida Road Trips aside from what we listed? Tell us in the comments below. 

2 thoughts on “The Ultimate Florida Road Trip Ideas”

Being a travel blogger in Florida, I approve of this whole list. I haven’t made it to the Florida Keys yet, but it is definitely on my list of things to do. Disney World and Universal Studios are 2 of my favorite theme parks in Florida. You have gave me some great ideas on where to travel throughout Florida. This a great article, thanks for writing this!

I’m glad you liked our post. You should really check out the Keys sometime, they are amazing!

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10 family-friendly stops on a Florida Keys road trip

See the world’s biggest lobster, bask on sandy white beaches, and journey to the southernmost point in the continental U.S.

By Amanda Adler & Roadtrippers

A drive through the Florida Keys, a chain of islands connected by a series of 42 bridges south of Miami, offers a wealth of ocean scenery, quirky roadside attractions, and countless eateries serving up fresh seafood.

The region is often considered the sport-fishing capital of the world, and marlin, mahi-mahi, and tuna are so prevalent that many dining establishments will cook up freshly caught fish that you reeled in yourself. Top it all off with zesty key lime pie, which you can find in traditional slice form, as well as deep-fried, frozen, or covered in chocolate, and you’re in for a feast for the senses in this subtropical paradise.

Florida Keys is the perfect warm-weather spot for families to enjoy in any season. Here are a few essential places you won’t want to miss on your next road trip.

Related: Top 10 things to do in Florida

1. Rain Barrel Artisan Village

The Florida Keys has no shortage of fun roadside stops. From an underwater hotel to an imposing sponge man, giant wooden mermaid, and more, the quirky stops along this 125-mile drive make roadtripping through the Keys an interesting ride. On your way through Islamorada, you’re sure to spot Big Betsy, a 30-foot-tall lobster sculpture. Be sure to get a photo and check out the Rain Barrel Artisan Village located directly behind the larger-than-life crustacean. Here your family can shop for local art, handmade crafts, and souvenirs in a tropical garden oasis setting.

2. Florida Keys Brewing Company

A brewery may seem like an unlikely spot to linger on a kid-friendly vacation, but the Florida Keys Brewing Company offers fun for all ages. While grown-ups sip craft beers in the scenic beer garden with live music, younger visitors can hula hoop or play a game of giant Jenga and corn hole. The onsite taco truck, Tacos Jalisco, serves up some of the highest-rated eats in the area. Dogs are also welcome, making it an ideal destination for your family to enjoy together.

3. Robbie’s Marina

Robbie’s Marina offers parasailing, fishing, and snorkeling excursions, along with waterfront dining, shopping, and sunset cruises. But for many, the main draw is the tarpon; these “Silver Kings” can weigh up to 280 pounds, making them a true sight to behold. For a small fee, visitors can feed the enormous fish that jump from the water to snatch baitfish from your hands (if the resident pelicans don’t steal them first), offering an inexpensive thrill for all ages. 

4. Bahia Honda State Park

Despite offering epic views of crystal blue waters as far as the eye can see, the Keys have surprisingly few beaches. Those looking to dig their toes in the sand can do so at Bahia Honda State Park : Bask on palm-lined beaches, kayak in crystal-clear waves, and snorkel among tropical fish. Boat excursions and camping spots are also available, although for RVers, the park’s precious few waterfront RV spaces are notoriously hard to come by due to their immense popularity.

5. Blue Hole

As you drive through Big Pine Key you’re sure to notice a drop in the speed limit; this is Key deer territory, an endangered species only found in the Florida Keys. Big Pine Key is home to the National Key Deer Refuge , where you can learn more about these small, white-tailed residents. But the best place to spot Key deer in the wild, along with some of the many alligators that also reside in the area, is the Blue Hole , a cenote-like pond and the largest body of freshwater in the Florida Keys.

6. Fort East Martello Museum

In Key West you’ll find numerous museums, including several dedicated to the region’s maritime past. But only one museum is home to Robert, a haunted doll. If your family enjoys a bit of supernatural and spooky fun, then Fort East Martello Museum is the perfect place to explore this local legend and see the infamous toy firsthand. This former battlement-turned-museum also contains a collection of relics from the Civil War, as well as artifacts that help to educate visitors about the wrecking and cigar-manufacturing industries that helped shape the Florida Keys.

Related: African refugees are memorialized outside of a Civil War fort in Key West

7. Mallory Square

The phrase “See you at sunset!” has long embodied the spirit and history of Key West, thanks to the beloved nightly Key West Sunset Celebration. Locals and tourists gather in Mallory Square , “where the sun sets, and the fun begins,” to watch the sun dip below the horizon and into the Gulf of Mexico. The celebration plays host to magicians, comedians, jugglers, psychics, musicians, artists, and food vendors who come together to offer an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

8. Dry Tortugas National Park

In terms of accessibility, Dry Tortugas National Park isn’t the easiest national park to stumble upon. A trip to this 100-square-mile park requires a journey on one of the ferries or seaplanes that make the nearly 70-mile trek over open water to Fort Jefferson. The 19th-century fort is just one sight to explore in the park, which spans seven small islands surrounded by breathtakingly blue waters teeming with coral reefs and marine life. Snorkeling is the star attraction of this picturesque remote destination, although bird watchers will also find plenty to see above the water.

9. Southernmost Point Buoy (90 Miles to Cuba)

No trip to Key West is complete without a photo op at one of the most-visited attractions in the U.S., the Southernmost Point Buoy . The concrete structure marks the lowest latitude land in the contiguous U.S., and signifies its location, 90 miles away from Cuba. Yes, it’s a popular tourist spot, but it’s worth adding a photo to your family scrapbook.

10. Boyd’s Key West Campground

If you’re traveling by RV, or prefer to save money on accommodations, you’ll find no better place to settle in for the evening than Boyd’s Key West Campground . Boyd’s, the closest RV park to Key West, is also the southernmost campground in the U.S., offering tropical waterfront camping and boating access to both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. Onsite amenities include a food truck, heated pool, kid-friendly game room, boat ramp, and more.

Meet the Authors

Amanda Adler

Amanda Adler is a writer who splits her time between traveling the U.S. in her RV and soaking up the air conditioning in her home in Orlando, Florida. While on the road she seeks out national parks, theme parks, kid- and dog-friendly hiking trails, and local businesses that tout their wares as being “craft,” “artisanal” or “bespoke.”

Roadtrippers

Roadtrippers helps you find the most epic destinations and detours—from roadside attractions to natural wonders and beyond.

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Christmas in Florida

Dear Travel Friends, if you have been following my blog for a while you know that every year I prepare a cool Christmas travel itinerary or a Christmas activities guide for you. This time won’t be an exception – let us talk about Christmas in Florida. If you are tired of freezing temperatures, snowstorms and …

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Top 5 Amazing Ideas for Your Family Vacation in Key West

What is the key to happiness? I think it is somewhere in the Florida Keys 🙂 I have never had a happier holiday than in Florida and I bet you will have a grand family vacation in Key West too. Key West is the southernmost city of the continental United States and a popular, family-oriented …

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15 BEST Family Road Trips in the USA

A family road trip is a classic American holiday, but it takes planning to make it great. Some places are better for road trips, while some are better treated as a single-focus destination. In addition to considering the sights and scenery, you need to factor in things like hotel costs and gas prices. Planning the …

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Top Dinosaur Museums in the U.S., Dinosaur Attractions and Jurassic Park Filming Locations

Do you have dinosaur lovers in your family, Jurassic Park and Jurassic World movies fans? Then this is the article for you! Here I have gathered all the information about our favorite dinosaur attractions and best dinosaur museums in the U.S. that we visited as well as must see Jurassic Park filming locations within the …

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Things to do in Key Largo with Kids

Key Largo Florida was the last leg of our epic 16 days Southeastern U.S. road trip that started in Raleigh North Carolina, then proceeded to Savannah Georgia, Amelia Island Florida, Kennedy Space Center Florida before culminating with one week family vacation in Key Largo. We chose this specific island from all of the Florida keys …

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Kennedy Space Center Review and Tips

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Amelia Island Boat Tour

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The Best Stops Along the Gulf Coast of Florida (Ultimate Road Trip Itinerary)

One of the most iconic road trip experiences you can have in the USA is to hop in your car and explore the best that the west coast of Florida has to offer. From world-class beaches, remote islands, trendy downtowns, lush state parks, mangrove forests and everything in between, this route offers something for everyone.

The overall purview of this route can be defined as a 660 mile stretch of road that starts in Pensacola, way up in the Florida Panhandle, and follows the Gulf coast all the way to Everglades City.

It includes iconic places like Panama City Beach, Crystal River, Tampa, St Petersburg, Sarasota, Fort Myers and so much more.

While it might only take you 9 hours to drive the route straight through, you could spend weeks diving into the best it has to offer. We took 9 days to highlight the best on offer along the St Petersburg to Fort Myers stretch of the drive.

Additionally, this guide will also offer some information on expanding your trip to include the Florida Panhandle, Crystal River, and Everglades City, should you want to add more days to your Florida road trip.

Ultimate West Coast Florida Road Trip Itinerary

Table of Contents

HOW TO USE THIS MAP:  Above you’ll find a map of our highlights in Key West, Florida. Click on the top left of the map to find separate layers marking the route and points of interest. You can hide and show different layers, or click icons on the map to see the names of places we mention in this travel guide. “Star” the map to save it to your own Google Maps, or open the map in a new window for a larger version.

The map above features all of the things to do, places to stay, and places to eat that are recommended in this guide.

St Petersburg Area

Our west coast Florida road trip started off in St Petersburg , a place that offers a perfect blend of culture, beach, and city life. The bulk of our time was spent digging into the downtown area and enjoying St Pete Beach, rather than traveling further afield.

That said, this area is fascinating and offers a variety of towns that each offer their own flare.

You could spend a week here and only scratch the surface. We’re offering you our highlights as a starting point, but don’t be afraid to venture further afield during your visit.

If you’d like to see video from our visit to the St Petersburg area, click here to watch our St Petersburg Instagram stories

St Pete Highlights & Activities

Fort desoto park.

Located not too far south of St Pete Beach is the largest park within Pinnellas County, Fort Desoto. The park spans more than 1,000 acres and offers 5 interconnected islands to explore.

It offers some spectacular beaches, mangroves, wetlands, and wildlife opportunities, among other natural environments to admire.

Most notably, it offers the chance to tour the decommissioned historic Fort Desoto. Constructed in the late 1800s, this fort has played a key strategic role through many conflicts and occupations of the land it sits on.

Be sure to check out the many cannons and wander to the top of the fort where you’ll be awarded with panoramic views over the ocean and Tampa Bay.

Speed Boat Adventures

One of the coolest ways to get out on the water in St Petersburg is by joining a follow the leader style speed boat tour with Speed Boat Adventures .

You’ll get your own speed boat that can seat up to 3 people, meaning you get to be the captain and are in full control of the boat.

You’ll follow a guide who will take you through several bays, under bridges and past dolphins while narrating the trip through speakers installed in each boat.

We had so much fun speeding around, looking at the beaches, wildlife, and areas around Tampa, Clearwater, and St Petersburg. Being in control of your own boat without having to worry about navigating unfamiliar waters makes this a thrilling adventure.

Don Cesar Day Pass

The Don Cesar is the most iconic hotel in St Petersburg and its commanding presence sits right on a spectacular stretch of powdery white sand on the Gulf of Mexico. It’s the perfect place to recharge and relax when traveling down the west coast of Florida.

If you’re not staying there it’s possible to purchase a day pass that will give you access to the pool area and beach. You’ll also be able to book spa appointments and enjoy a few other amenities during your visit. The day pass costs $75 per person and is available for purchase online or at the resort.

If you’d like to stay at the Don Cesar during your time in St Pete, consider booking the Life’s Reward Package. This includes a 2-night stay in a Dan-approved luxury suite with complimentary resort fees, complimentary Lionfish Larry valet parking and all of the Pink Palace perks.

You’ll also enjoy a daily $150 food and beverage credit to spoil yourself with coastal cocktails, beachside eats, fine dining, and a $250 recreation credit to treat yourself at the spa or go jet skiing on the Gulf of Mexico. You can book this package directly with the Don Cesar resort here , using the promo code REWARDS.

Bike Around Pass A Grille

Some of the best stretches of beach in St Petersburg can be found around Pass A Grille and one of the best ways to explore them is by bike.

We rented bikes and cruised from the Don Cesar all the way to the end and back one afternoon. This gave us the freedom to stop whenever we wanted without worrying about parking, which can be a headache.

In doing this we were able to see several different places in the area and enjoy the different boardwalks too. Be sure to pack a beach towel so you can spend some time relaxing and playing in the waves too.

The James Museum

The James Museum is one of those museums that you’re not sure you’ll like and then it totally surprises you. We spent 2 hours here because the art is incredible. Not only is the detail unreal, but each piece tells the story of the people it features.

The work in this museum is mesmerizing, telling stories of the Native Americans and how they used the land across North America. Of course, the art also carries you through history, from before colonial times, during, and after, taking you on an emotional journey.

Personally, if you only have time for one museum when you visit St Petersburg, I’d recommend this one, even though there are others in town.

Dali Museum

The Dali Museum is home to the largest collection of artist Salvador Dali’s work outside of Spain. A surrealist known for his technical skill and bizarre images; his work will take you on a bit of a magic carpet ride.

This museum offers large, tall ceiling galleries with ample room to observe and reflect on the pieces that are on display.

During our visit, we also had the opportunity to experience the temporary Van Gogh Alive exhibit. This display brought many of the works of the famed artist to a larger-than-life-size set to music from the era, as well as narrations from Van Gogh’s journals.

St Pete Pier

New to the St Petersburg landscape is the St Pete Pier. A place where people can come together to enjoy the water and culture of this area. One of the things we loved about the pier was that is mainly pedestrian, so you’re not competing for space with vehicles.

Locals utilize the pier for biking, walking, and rollerblading. It offers a few restaurants, a bar, a beach, and numerous grassy parks. We visited the pier in the evening, intent on exploring in the golden light and watching the sun go down.

Not only did we get a spectacular sunset, but we enjoyed watching dolphins swim in the waters right off the pier, too!

Participate in the Gulp Coast Challenge

If you like craft beer (who doesn’t?), then you’ll want to join in on the Gulp Coast Challenge during your visit to the west coast of Florida. Before you start, stop in at any craft brewery or tourism office to pick up your passport.

This book outlines all of the participating breweries and what you can expect to find there. Each offers a unique spin on beer and an opportunity to connect with local brewers. 

We personally enjoyed the varying atmosphere at each brewery we visited, with each one offering its own form of city oasis to enjoy.

Where to Eat in the St Pete Area

• IL Ritorno – This Italian restaurant features homemade pasta and traditional Italian dishes with a seafood flair. Everything we ordered here was delicious and we highly recommend you eat here during your visit to St Petersburg. It is a busy place, so be sure to make reservations.
• The Society Table – Located at the Don Cesar hotel, this poolside café offers a variety of seafood dishes and sandwiches in a relaxed setting.
• Snapper’s Sea Grill – If you’re looking for fresh-caught seafood, then you’ll want to put this place on your list! Affectionately known as the ‘Gem of St. Pete Beach Restaurants’, you really cannot go wrong.
• Bodega – This place offers traditional Cuban dishes in a street setting and it is wildly popular. We suggest ordering the Cuban and a hibiscus soda Fresca.
• Doc Ford’s Rum Bar and Grille – This place is all about the atmosphere as it’s located on the water along St Pete Pier. Serving up some amazing seafood dishes, the signature Yucatan shrimp are to die for, you can order any type of rum-inspired drink, too.

Where to Stay in the St Pete Area

Accommodation options are really endless, from city life spaces to beachside getaways. We opted for a VRBO vacation rental versus a hotel during our stay in St Petersburg and were able to find the perfect balance by staying on St Pete’s Beach. We could walk to the beach and were only a short drive to downtown St Petersburg.

Our vacation rental was a super cute, newly remodeled studio in a complex that offered a great pool and free parking.

Sarasota Area – Florida Gulf Coast Road Trip

If you’re looking for a destination with a lot to do but that also offers diversity, Sarasota is a good one. The area offers a rich history paired with stunning beaches and a very upscale vibe.

Getting out of the city affords the chance to discover smaller communities like Venice, where you can search the beaches for shark teeth, or Englewood, where you can enjoy tasty food and a quieter atmosphere.

We loved that we were able to bounce easily between city life and nature here, which gives a fantastic balance for any road trip. Below you’ll find our highlights from 3 days in the area to get you started on your own planning.

If you’d like to see video from our visit to the Sarasota area, click here to watch our Sarasota Instagram stories

Sarasota Highlights & Activities

The ringling museum.

The first thing we did when we arrived in Sarasota was head straight for the Ringling Museum ! This museum that is dedicated to the history of the circus sits on what was once the massive personal estate of John Ringling.

Give yourself several hours to visit, as the grounds feature the circus museum, personal residence of John Ringling known as the Ca’ d’Zan, a massive art museum, and several acres of lush gardens to explore.

Sunset on Siesta Key

When the sun sets in Sarasota, the place to be is on Siesta Key . It is here that you’ll find miles of gorgeous white sand beaches that set the perfect stage for sunsets that melt into the water.

Sprinkle in some palm trees, colorful lifeguard stations, lapping ocean waves and you have the perfect place to end your day. We recommend getting there early, around 1 hour or more before sunset to ensure that you can find a nice location that is close to the water.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

You don’t have to be a plant aficionado to appreciate all that you can find in the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens . However, you will find yourself in awe at the stunning collection of orchids that it offers. This is the only botanical garden in the world that is dedicated to the display and study of epiphytes.

Being part of the Smithsonian Affiliate Network means this place is popular. If your schedule allows it, head to the gardens in the morning, right when they open. This will give you a chance to stay ahead of the crowds and the heat.

Mangrove Tunnel Kayaking on Lido Key

To put a bit of adventure into your itinerary and get you out on the water, we’d highly recommend that you book a mangrove tunnel kayaking trip with Kayaking SRQ on Lido Key.

We spent 2 hours paddling the calm, protected waters on the Northside of Lido Key where we explored both open water and mangrove forests. The highlight, of course, is being able to paddle along a narrow and shallow channel tunnel within the mangrove trees.

Not only do you get an up-close look at some of the flora and fauna found along the west coast of Florida, but you’ll be led by a local guide that will offer some insight on what you are seeing both in the water and on land.

Search for Shark Teeth on Venice Beach

You cannot take a road trip along Florida’s Gulf coast without stopping in Venice to search for fossilized shark teeth on the beach! Before you head to the waters, start your day by stopping in at Shark Frenzy , a small shop located right in downtown Venice.

Here, you’ll want to rent or purchase a sifter and scoop. To increase your chances of good finds, you’ll need this stuff, trust us. The staff will show you how to use the tools and provide you with some insight on how to find areas that will provide a good opportunity for finding teeth.

Once on the beach, be sure to use sunscreen, wear UPF clothing, and stay hydrated. Looking for shark teeth is addicting, and you’ll find that hours have gone by without you even noticing. It’s easy to get burnt or dehydrated when you’re having so much fun mining teeth from the ocean.

We found more than 50 teeth the day we were in Venice and easily highlight this activity as one of our favorites out of 2 months spent road tripping through Florida.

Sarasota Ghost Tour

If you like to hear tales of ghosts, then we’d recommend you join a ghost tour with Discover Sarasota Tours .

This 90-minute tour cruises around the city sharing all the fables, folklore, and ghost tales that Sarasota has to offer. It also includes complimentary beer or wine before your departure, so get there early!

We thought this tour was really fun as the hostess is very animated and personally connected to some of the stories that are shared about strange encounters in the city. We also liked the history aspect, shedding some light on how Sarasota was established.

Where to Eat in the Sarasota Area

• Duval’s – Located in the heart of downtown Sarasota, this restaurant offers high-end seafood dishes with its own twist. Be sure to ask for a table outside to soak in the atmosphere of the city while you dine.
• Blu Kouzina – If you want authentic Greek food, look no further. Eating at this restaurant will transport you to Greece with each bite. Be sure to order a Greek salad, it is to die for!
• Sharky’s on the Pier – Who doesn’t love a beachside restaurant? Tropical drinks and seafood abound with fantastic views of Venice Beach.
• Farlow’s on the Water – This place is a bit of a gem and a total hidden oasis. Located in Englewood, it’s worth the drive from Sarasota. Be sure to ask for a table on the water.

Where to Stay in the Sarasota Area

Location is everything in Sarasota and you’ll have plenty of options from beachside to downtown. We chose to be just outside of the downtown, which was an ideal location for things both in the city and on the islands.

Sticking with our vacation rental theme we opted for another VRBO property and were able to score a super cool studio apartment in a historic Ringling building .

Fort Myers Area – Florida Gulf Coast Road Trip

Have you ever jived with a place even though you have never visited? This was Fort Myers for us. We’ve always known, somehow, that we would love this place and we totally did.

Why? Well, Fort Myers is a place that caters to outdoor and nature lovers. You can spend your time on the water, on remote islands, in state parks, hiking along trails, or paddling ancient waterways.

But not only that, it balances all of that with a social beach town and entertaining downtown area. You really can’t go wrong spending your time in the Fort Myers area.

We spent 4 days here, could easily spend a week or more, and are offering our highlights for you below.

If you’d like to see video from our visit to the Fort Myers area, click here to watch our Fort Myers Instagram stories

Fort Myers Highlights & Activities

Edison and ford winter estates.

The first place we stopped in Fort Myers was the Edison and Ford Winter Estates . Not only is it a lovely estate, but you have the chance to immerse yourself into the lifestyle of the famed inventors.

Thomas Edison purchased the property in 1885, when he decided to start relocating to southwest Florida for the winter. A visit includes the opportunity to tour the grounds, houses, and learn more about the people behind the inventions.

We both found this visit fascinating and insightful; it was an experience that humanized the lightbulb and automobile for us. The property is stunning, including huge gardens that overlook the water. It’s a fantastic place to spend a morning and make sure you don’t miss the museum.

Sunset Wildlife Cruise

One of the best ways to experience Fort Myers is by getting out on the water at sunset. It is at this time that you can see thousands of seabirds flying to the various islands in the area to roost for the night. This makes for good sightings and prime light for photography opportunities.

It’s also a great way to see dolphins, as they frequent the waters close to shore where they hunt for fish.

You have a lot of options for cruises, so choosing one comes down to your preferences. We decided on a pontoon-style boat as it offers more stability and room for photography. This is how we ended up with Adventures in Paradise .

The motorized pontoon offered plenty of space for people that wanted to have drinks and enjoy the view while others focused on photography. 

Jet Ski Dolphin Tour

The morning we spent jet skiing with Wind and Water Sports was some of the most fun we’ve had on the water. Not only did we have the thrill of the jet ski, but this motorized eco-tour allowed us to cover a lot of ground and see a lot of wildlife.

There were times when pods of dolphins not only approached our jet skis but also played behind them while we cruised around. We saw giant rays playing in the water and hundreds of fish and bird species during our tour.

We were also able to access the historical midden area near Lovers Key State Park from the water, which is a challenge to access from land.

Our tour left directly from Fort Myers Beach and lasted 2 hours. David and I shared a jet ski and followed our guide, who had his own jet ski. While we didn’t book a private tour, we got one because nobody else had booked for that morning!

Lovers Key State Park

The 712-acre Lovers Key State Park is one of the most beautiful state parks in Florida, offering a wide variety of activities, beaches, trails, and water access. You could easily spend a full day, if not more, exploring all it has to offer. For us, this park was where we were able to exhale and enjoy nature.

If you like to kayak, it’s possible to rent kayaks right in the park and then put in for some paddling on the Great Calusa Blueway. This is a great way to get on the water in a protected area and see Florida’s wildlife up close.

If you have time for nothing else, make a date to be here at sunset. It’s one of the most beautiful places in Florida to walk along the beach and see tall deadwood. Illuminated in the setting sun makes it an otherworldly experience.

Shelling on Sanibel & Captiva

Located just off the coast are the islands of Sanibel and Captiva . If you like to wander the beach looking for ocean treasures, this is the place for you.

With miles and miles of beaches that face the Gulf of Mexico and unique geography that both invites and traps, these islands offer mounds of shells that wash up on its shores every day in the tides.

Of course, you’ll want to get up early to not only beat the crowds but also have a chance for the good finds. Be prepared to pay for parking and bring something to collect shells with. Either a bucket or bag will do fine.

We went early in the morning and drove as far north on Captiva Island as we could. Here we found few people and thousands of shells. As the morning went on, we beach hopped our way back along the Gulf side before heading off to explore other areas of Sanibel Island.

JN Ding Darling Wildlife Drive

If you enjoy spending time in nature and seeing wildlife, as we do, then you’ll want to leave time to visit the 6,400-acre J.N. ‘Ding’ Darling National Wildlife Refuge . They offer a one-way drive that allows you to pull off anywhere along the way and observe what you see.

We enjoyed this drive so much we actually did it twice! Both times seeing many species of birds, alligators, and water critters. For the best light and wildlife spotting, go when they first open in the morning or later in the evening, when it’s cooler and the animals are on the move.

Something worth noting, if you have an America the Beautiful Annual Pass, it lets you into this reserve like it would any of the national parks in the USA.

Day Trip to Cayo Costa

Our last morning in Fort Myers we wanted to get a bit off-grid, so we booked a day trip out to Cayo Costa , a place that rests 24 miles from Fort Myers and is only accessible by boat. What an adventure that turned out to be.

Not only was our boat the only one there, but we got to experience the thrill of riding out a Florida storm on a remote island. Shortly after we arrived a decent storm system rolled in that brought high winds and completely soaked us.

Lucky for us, it was fleeting, and we spent the remainder of our time searching for large shells and sand dollars in large waves right off the beach. It was both exhausting and rewarding, we actually found a sand dollar!

Leaving the beaches of Cayo Costa we made our way to North Captiva, where we enjoyed lunch at a small beachfront restaurant before making our way back to Fort Myers.

Day Trip to Everglades

If you find yourself with an extra day in Fort Myers, you may want to consider booking a day trip to Everglades National Park and Everglades City. Personally, this area deserves its own set of 2 to 3 days, but if you don’t have that a day trip can be a great way to dip your toes in.

There is a variety of day trips available from Fort Myers that will offer you transportation and a selection of activities. The main ones offer kayaking, a swamp buggy experience, and/or an airboat ride.

Key West Express

Additionally, if you’re in Fort Myers and have the desire to visit the Florida Keys, it is possible to book transport there on the Key West Express . This catamaran-type ferry will have you in Key West in as little as 3.5 hours.

You will then have the option to stay a few hours before returning, making it a day trip, or you can plan ahead and stay a few days in Key West before returning again to Fort Myers. This is a great option if you want to visit the West Coast of Florida and see a bit of Key West too.

Where to Eat in the Fort Myers Area

• Pinchers – while you can find this locally owned seafood chain in a couple of different Fort Myers locations, we walked over to the location next to the Edison & Ford Museum in the downtown area. They are located on the water, so ask for a patio seat and order the seafood tower!
• Snug Harbor – this little place is located in the marina area of Fort Myers Beach, across the street from the more commercial Nervous Nellie’s. They offer a lot of outdoor seating and some creative dishes with a waterfront view.
• Mr. Tequila – if you’re craving Mexican food in Fort Myers Beach, this is the place to go! They serve authentic Mexican dishes, have a great outdoor patio, and endless chips with salsa.
• Salty Crab – for seafood on the beach, this place is a great option. We loved sitting at the picnic tables with our feet in the sand. They have a great menu, order the fish tacos! And an extensive drink menu to go with it.
• Doc Ford’s Sanibel – after enjoying Doc Ford’s in St Petersburg, we had to try it again in Sanibel and it was just as excellent the second time around. Again, order the Yucatan Shrimp , it’s an amazing dish. We also loved the Cuban sandwich and Caprese salad.

Where to Stay in the Fort Myers Area

If you want to be in the center of it all and within walking distance of things, then we would highly recommend you stay in Fort Meyers Beach. We were able to find a nice vacation rental right on the beach that offered free parking in an onsite lot.

Admittedly, it was loud in the evenings and into the night with people partying and loud music. If you’re a light sleeper, you might want to look at a different area.

It also possible to stay over on Sanibel, the mainland or a bit further down from the main area where all the bars and restaurants are. Depending on how you like to travel, this might be a better choice.

Expanding Your Florida West Coast Road Trip

The places highlighted above make up a small section of the wider west coast road trip route and if you find yourself with more time, you may want to expand on that to include more fabulous Florida vacation destinations.

We’ve personally explored more of the west coast and wanted to highlight a few areas that we really enjoyed, especially if you want to get off the beach and explore more of Florida’s natural side.

Everglades City

If you continue heading south beyond Fort Myers, you’ll pass through Naples and eventually end in the small town of Everglades City. This is the end of the road on the west coast and your only option here is to turn back around and head north or head east towards the Atlantic Ocean.

But don’t let that deter you. We absolutely adored Everglades City, it’s funky and the official gateway to the west side of Everglades National Park. That leaves no shortage of things to do when you visit.

We’d recommend spending 2 to 3 days here, if you can, taking the time for a boat tour around the 10,000 islands, a kayak trip to see alligators up close, an airboat ride, and a swamp buggy adventure into the Big Cyprus National Preserve.

If you’d like to see video from our visit to Everglades City, click here to watch our Everglades City Instagram stories

Florida Panhandle

If you want to start at the furthest north part of this drive before continuing south, you’ll find yourself in the Florida Panhandle.

Starting in Pensacola, this section of the drive also traverses through Destin, Fort Walton, Panama City Beach , and the Forgotten Coast of Florida before taking a sharp turn south.

This area has spectacular beaches and crystal-clear water, but it also offers a completely different vibe than what you’ll find in the beach towns in south Florida. That alone makes it worth exploring, in our opinion.

Crystal River

Between the Forgotten Coast and Tampa is one of the most spectacular natural areas in Florida and the jewel of this area is Crystal River .

It is here that hundreds of manatees seek protection in the warm spring waters during the cold winter weather. It’s the only place in North America that you can swim with manatees .

But that’s not all this area offers, and you’ll find a different side to Florida here. Beautiful springs abound, rich indigenous history and plenty of wildlife make it both interesting and enjoyable.

What you won’t find are beaches. But instead, miles of undisturbed natural coastline offer thick mangrove forests and the ecosystems that come with them.

We fell in love with this area on our last visit and to date, is one of our favorite places in Florida. If you can add only a couple of days to your itinerary, add Crystal River. It fits in well as an addition to the St Petersburg to Fort Myers route we highlighted above.

If you’d like to see video from our visit to the Crystal River area, click here to watch our Crystal River Instagram stories

You might also like:

• Essential Packing List for Florida
• How to Plan A Road Trip in 10 Easy Steps
• Ultimate USA Travel Guide
• 38 Beach Essentials: The Ultimate Beach Packing List
• Ultimate Florida Keys Road Trip Planner

Our Florida West Coast road trip was done in partnership with VISIT FLORIDA . All opinions, recommendations, and stories are 100% our own, as always.

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Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

2 thoughts on “The Best Stops Along the Gulf Coast of Florida (Ultimate Road Trip Itinerary)”

NOTHING from Ft. Myers to Everglades City? Really??!!

I mean, you could go to Naples and Marco Island, but we opted not to. So rather than write about something we haven’t done, we opted to omit it. Cheers!

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This Family Friendly Road Trip Through Florida Leads To Whimsical Attractions, Themed Restaurants, And More

Marisa Roman

A New Jersey native with over 15 years of writing experience, Marisa has studied at both New York University and Florida International University. She has lived all over the country, including a decade stint in South Florida. Marisa is well-versed in exploration as she travels a good majority of the year in her self-converted Sprinter van. Her articles have been featured in various notable publications over the years, she has a published collection of short stories, and three completed screenplays under her belt.

More by this Author

While it could be exceptionally easy to create a family-friendly road trip through Florida situated around the central part of the state, highlighting all of the best theme parks, we decided to honor a different area of The Sunshine State – the panhandle. This kid-friendly road trip will take you to some of the best spots in the panhandle, offering up a unique, whimsical adventure that the whole family will love. The entire trip takes under three hours in terms of travel time, but you’ll likely want to carve out much more time to stop and enjoy.

You can find the entire family-friendly road trip itinerary here .

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So, what do you think about this family-friendly road trip in Florida? Have you been to any of these stops before separately? Share with us your experience in the comments section!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Our First Family Road Trip… We Did the Drive to Florida

New Year, New Travels

Necessity is the mother of invention and sadly — for us — the “father” of new experiences. The year 2012 started sadly for me with the loss of my father , and ended much the same way with the loss of my father-in-law. Thanks to him we have had many wonderful visits to see him in Florida , and his sudden passing presented us not only with grief and sadness but also with a new challenge. We had an unplanned and un-budgeted-for family road trip to Florida. Flights were out of the question. We had to drive.

I may have mentioned it here before once or a dozen times, but we are not car people. My kids complained for the ten minutes we’d have to drive to activities or the grocery store. They did amazing on our family  road trip across Alberta. But the longest leg on that trip was four hours. The drive to Florida from Toronto takes anywhere from 20-24 hours depending on where you’re going and which route you take. I reached out to my wonderful family travel community for advice and got some great road trip tips that served us well.

The general consensus was to break it up into at least two days, with at least one overnight stay. According to our various online map generators, our drive to Florida would take roughly 21 hours. And that’s not accounting for stops for gas, washroom breaks, food, etc. We needed to get to Tarpon Springs , which is just outside of Tampa. The drive to Tampa is a bit longer and not as direct as the one to Orlando, thus the additional couple of hours.

And we did it, and we survived! Here is the gist of our trip:

Our First Family Road Trip: Getting There…

For the drive down we left at 9pm after our daughter’s Christmas concert. We packed up the car while silently cursing at the size of the Christmas gifts that we had to bring with us. I modified my road trip tips for a longer drive… The car was recently tuned up and I had a cooler bag and a snack bag within reach. I also had a bag of supplies close by with wipes, a stash of grocery bags to use for garbage and/or carsickness. (We were blessedly vomit-free in both directions!) I had all of our documents and our map and directions info on my iPad — these were the (ha!) days before everyone had GPS and using data in the US for us was unthinkably expensive.

Our son (then 3.5yrs) fell asleep by 9:45pm, and my daughter was up a little later. But both of them mostly slept straight through until a rest stop around 8:30am in North Carolina . We stopped for breakfast in Statesville, NC for about an hour, where I also got the kids out of their pajamas and washed faces/brushed teeth. We continued on to Savannah and got there around 3pm. Savannah was my stop choice even though it was much further than halfway. But I always wanted to visit there and I’m glad we made the effort. We were pretty much write-offs after checking in to our hotel and getting dinner, but we had a great sleep. My husband and I were both out by 8pm which is unheard of for us grown-ups! We then had a wonderful morning exploring Savannah before continuing on to Florida.

Our First Family Road Trip: The Second Leg…

We left Savannah for Florida at 1:30pm, and got to my brother-in-law’s place in Tarpon Springs by 7:30pm. Oddly, the second leg of the drive, at 6 hours, felt a lot longer than the first, which was 18 hours altogether.

Our First Family Road Trip: A Visit to the Mouse

We delighted the kids with a surprise visit to Walt Disney World after spending Christmas with family and attending my father-in-law’s memorial. More on that later, of course, but suffice to say a visit to “The Happiest Place on Earth”, no matter how busy, is wonderful during the Holiday Season and a great place to lift your spirits and close out a challenging year.

After our magical visit we figured we’d just dawdle our way back north to Toronto after visiting Disney, but we all just wanted to get home.

Our First Family Road Trip: Getting Home…

We’d decided to spend the night in St. Augustine, for pretty much the same reason we opted to visit Savannah on the way down. I heard St. Augustine was beautiful and historic and I was hoping for a little wander.

But my husband wasn’t feeling well and we were all shattered. So instead of exploring America’s oldest town, we checked into a hotel near I95, had McDonalds for our New Year’s Eve dinner, and headed for home at around 11am on New Year’s Day. We were going to play it by ear, but ultimately decided to “Give ‘er” and go for the drive home straight. We stopped for gas and snacks in West Virginia. There I changed the kids into their jammies (troupers after being in the car all day) and we blasted into the night.

We made it home from our first family road trip shortly after 5am. We carried the sleeping kids to their beds, unloaded the car as quickly as we could, and fell into bed ourselves. Luckily, the kids slept until 9:45, so we actually managed a solid four hours of sleep. It felt awesome.

The family travel community was incredibly supportive and offered a wealth of tips, but probably the one that stuck out most came from Linda Kramer who used to run a blog called Travels with Children .

She said, “If the kids are happy, keep driving no matter how hungry YOU are or how much you need to use the bathroom. The kids will let you know when they’re restless, and that’s a good time for a break. If they’re quiet and content (or especially sleeping) do not interrupt it or you may not get the peace back again for quite some time.”

Final Thoughts on Our First Family Road Trip:

Although the reason for this trip was sad, I’m glad we did it. The drives were actually quite cathartic after our crazy year. My husband and I managed to have long conversations about important and unimportant things that we never seem to have or make time for.

Also? This trip felt empowering. We would never have attempted this drive unless we had to. And since we did it, so many places that seemed out of reach since we could not justify the cost of flights became totally doable. New York City , Chicago , Philadelphia… Eight to ten hour drives were no longer daunting. The next one we did was North Carolina !

Our only regret was not realizing the power and freedom of the family road trip much sooner.

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• Baby & Toddler Road Trip Tips
• Tips & Advice for Road Trips with Baby
• Lessons Learned from Driving to Florida
• Driving Baby: Safety Tips for the Car
• Tips & Information for Traveling with Babies & Toddlers
• The Complete Guide to Baby Travel Gear
• Legal and Safe Car Seat & Stroller Alternatives
• Printable Baby Travel Packing Lists

Main photo by  Luqman Yasin  on  Unsplash

drive to florida , family road trip , Preferred Family , road trip tips

13 Responses to Our First Family Road Trip… We Did the Drive to Florida

You are both troopers! Our NY-FL drive was a haul I hope never to repeat, but it did allow us to see parts of the country we’ve never seen before.

I’ve made the Indiana to Florida road trip many a time with my kids and I’m happy we finally settled in Tampa. Those long car trips can be daunting and then add it the prep work and clean up after the trip and it reminds me while I only attempt them once or twice a year. We produced a very fun family video on getting your car road ready for vacation. You can check it out at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cDzTfYyn9ms&feature=youtu.be .

I also wrote a blog about the 8 Essential Items to Pack for a vacation. I’d love to share it:

http://destinationsafety.com/8-essential-items-to-pack-for-vacation/

Neither of these contents are available Marcia at # Care to repost please?? Thanks

I have heard that Florida is a great place to stop if you’re thinking of taking a road trip with the family. They have so many different theme parks!

Hi just wanted to give you a quick heads up and let you know a few of the

pictures aren’t loading properly. I’m not sure why but I think its a linking issue.

I’ve tried it in

two different web browsers and both show the same outcome.

Weird – they’re loading ok for me. Thanks for the heads up, Willis!

I appreciate, cause I found just what I was looking for. You’ve ended my four day long hunt! God

Bless you man. Have a nice day. Bye

I came across your site and see that you have a spot for reviews and deals for your followers.

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Traveling from IL to FL this month end with my family in my camry car with full packed luggage .

Would like to know where I need to break my journey which area wil be a good

What measure I need to take during this trip will be there any snowfall or storms or any hurdles which you can think about.

How to break my journey which help me to take a safe journey and to avoid long driving stress.

Please suggest me ..

Hi Chinni! Safe travels to you. When we did the drive it was shortly before Christmas, and we literally traveled through four seasons. The blizzard in the Smokey Mountains (at night) was particularly scary. Best to be prepared for anything, and don’t rush. Good luck!

Hi, This is an amazing article and you explained it very well I loved it. Thank you for sharing this great post.

This was cute. And very interesting. I am sorry for hubbys loss.😪

These trips seem to be very suitable for small families.

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• January 26, 2024

This Secret Beaches Road Trip In Florida Is The Ultimate Coastal Adventure Away From The Crowds

Ever feel like you’re spinning your wheels, looking for that perfect, peaceful beach escape?

One that’s not splattered all over every travel brochure?

Buckle up, buttercup, because I’ve got a secret map that’s going to lead us to the hidden coastal nooks of our very own Sunshine State.

This isn’t your average beach day—it’s an epic road trip to seven spectacular sandy spots that are just begging to be discovered by you.

Check out the map below to explore these hidden coastal treasures.

Imagine this: You’re cruising down Florida’s scenic routes, windows down, salt air teasing your senses, and anticipation building with every mile marker.

It’s not just a journey; it’s a treasure hunt for the most serene shores.

And I promise, these aren’t your overcrowded, towel-to-towel kind of beaches.

We’re talking about the kind of places where you can hear your own thoughts, serenaded by the gentle roll of the Atlantic or the calm lapping of the Gulf.

So, grab that sun hat and let’s uncover these off-the-beaten-path beach beauties together!

1. Little Talbot Island

First on our list is Little Talbot Island, a secluded spot that’s pure beach bliss.

Here, the sands stretch out like a welcome mat for miles, without a condo in sight.

It’s just you, the sun, and the sea oats swaying to the rhythm of the ocean breeze.

Perfect for those who love to wander without a crowd trailing behind.

It’s nature’s own theme park – minus the long lines and overpriced snacks.

Bring a picnic, bring a kite, or just bring your sense of wonder.

Little Talbot Island is where your beach daydreams come true, with extra sand between your toes, free of charge!

2. Vilano Beach

Next, we’re steering toward Vilano Beach, St. Augustine’s little slice of shoreline heaven.

Surfers and kiteboarders flock here for the waves, but if you’re more about kicking back with a good book or building the sandcastle of your dreams, this place is just as inviting.

Plus, you can’t beat the local eats just a stone’s throw from the surf.

And if you’re lucky, you might just spot a dolphin doing its best impression of a local surfer.

Come for the waves, stay for the smiles and scrumptious seafood shacks!

3. Pass-a-Grille Beach

Pass-a-Grille Beach comes third, offering pristine sands underfoot and a quaint beach town vibe.

Picture yourself watching the sky explode in colors as the sun sets, painting a masterpiece you’ll remember long after you shake the sand from your shoes.

Pass-a-Grille Beach isn’t just a beach; it’s a mood, a vibe, a gentle hug from the universe.

Stroll the charming shops, savor local eats, and let the kiddos build sandcastles—this is pure, unadulterated Florida fun!

4. Shell Key Preserve

Now, let’s add a sprinkle of adventure with Shell Key Preserve.

This slice of untouched paradise is only accessible by boat, giving you that ‘exclusive island’ feel without the price tag.

Related: Discover Florida’s Hidden Gems on This Family Road Trip Adventure

Related: The Sweetest Florida Road Trip takes you to 6 Old-School Chocolate Shops

Related: Must-Visit Destinations in Florida

It’s all about getting back to nature here—bird watching, shelling, and just basking in the beauty of the wild, untamed coast.

And if you fancy yourself a modern-day Robinson Crusoe—minus the solitude and volleyball friendships—Shell Key Preserve is your ticket.

Just don’t forget to pack a lunch… and maybe a map.

5. Keewaydin Island

Midway through, we’ll make waves over to Keewaydin Island.

This place knows how to party, with a beer boat and taco boat anchored in wait for hungry beach-goers.

It’s an island bash where flip-flops are the dress code, and every hour is happy hour.

At Keewaydin Island, the vibe is as chill as the drinks are cold.

This sand-fringed paradise is like a family barbecue, if your family served up sunshine with a side of salsa.

6. Sombrero Beach

Cruising down to The Florida Keys, we’ll hit the brakes at Sombrero Beach in Marathon.

It’s a tranquil spot ideal for families, complete with playgrounds and picnic areas.

And if you’re a fan of sea turtles, you’re in for a treat—just remember to give these ancient mariners the respect they deserve.

You know, Sombrero Beach is like that laid-back friend who always insists on a potluck—you bring the kids, they supply the sun and sea.

It’s a place where flip-flops are considered formal wear, and the biggest decision you’ll make is whether to build a sandcastle or a sandwich first.

7. Calusa Beach

Finally, we’ll wrap up this beach bonanza at Calusa Beach.

It’s a real-life postcard scene, with the Bahia Honda Bridge offering a breathtaking backdrop to your dip in the ocean.

Remember to keep that camera handy because this view is the cherry on top of our sun-kissed adventure.

It’s nature’s own photobomb—unforgettable, just like grandma’s secret recipe for that zesty lemonade we’ll need after a day in paradise.

It’s the perfect finale to a journey filled with sun, fun, and discoveries.

So, what do you say?

Are you ready to leave the beaten path and join me on a coastal quest that’s less about following the crowds and more about crafting your own sun-soaked saga?

Who knows what memories await on these lesser-trodden shores of Florida.

Now, who’s ready to dip their toes into a little bit of beach-bound bliss?

And just think, when we’re done, you’ll have your very own collection of secret spots to escape to whenever the mood strikes.

These are the places you’ll tell stories about, the ones that you’ll remember when you’re old and gray and chuckling about that time you found paradise in your backyard.

So, are you coming with me?

Let’s discover the uncharted sands and salty breezes of Florida’s hidden beaches.

And who knows, maybe we’ll find more than just a quiet spot in the sun—maybe we’ll find our new happy place.

Now, who’s already packing their beach bag for our next sunny escapade?

2 Week New York to Florida Family Road Trip Itinerary

Have you and your family dreamed about taking an East Coast road trip, but it hasn’t been possible until now?  

The journey from New York to Florida is filled with fascinating stops along the way, where people of all ages can find something to enjoy. In addition, cities like Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Petersburg, Virginia, hold many cultural, natural, and historical wonders. 

Florida also offers a delightful mix of entertainment, national and state parks , and pristine family beaches.  

It’s time to pull out your calendar app or planner, as we’ll walk you through how to plan your road trip from New York to Orlando, complete with the best attractions and stopping points along your route for this epic US road trip route.  

Distance From NYC to Orlando   

Driving distances calculator new york to florida, best time of year to drive from nyc to florida , new york city, new york (2-3 nights)  , washington, d.c. (2 nights)  , petersburg, va (1 night)  , charleston, sc (3 nights)  , jacksonville, fl (2 nights)  , orlando, fl (3-4 nights)  , adding more of florida to your itinerary, more tips for road tripping from new york to florida .

The shortest distance from New York City to Orlando, Florida, is 1,077 miles, and you make the drive straight through in about 16 hours. So with stops, it’s possible to drive from New York to Orlando in two days (depending on your children, of course!).  

You’ll spend most of your East Coast road trip on I-95 S if you avoid stopping along the way, but we encourage you to make plenty of stops to make the most of your journey to the southeast.  

Stopping regularly along your route allows you and your fellow travelers to go sightseeing, stretch your legs, and avoid too many rounds of “Are we there yet?” We think it’s a winning scenario for everyone! 

How Long Do I Need Driving From NYC To Orlando, Florida?  

You can easily customize your road trip from NYC to Orlando to fit your schedule and allowable days. Take a few weeks to stop along all of the recommended places, or only stop once or twice along the route and spend the bulk of your time in Florida.  

As we mentioned, driving direct in one hit will take about 16 hours – a tough call for any driver to stay awake this long – so we suggest breaking the journey up with several interesting city stops along the way.

2-3 weeks would be an ideal amount of time, splitting your time between NYC, the middle of the route, and key points in Florida to experience everything on offer. 

To help you plot out your route, here are some helpful driving distances between key destinations on the east coast where you could reasonably break up your journey. We’ve also included how long you’ll need to add further destinations in Florida, beyond Orlando:

The weather in Florida is warm year-round due to its subtropical climate. Summer highs range from 75 to 90 degrees. January is the coldest month, but it still averages 74 degrees!  

Winters in New York are another story, so we recommend driving from New York to Florida in the winter, spring, or early summer . You can escape the frigid NYC temperatures, the bulk of the tourist season, and the worst of the summer heat.  

If you do decide to travel during the summer, aim for June. The summer solstice occurs in the third week of June. This means the days will be longer, and you can fit activities – or lounging around – into each of them!  

We will warn you that Florida’s hurricane season is from June to November and peaks from late August to October. You can still visit during this time, but you will likely experience a more humid climate and extra rain showers.  

Our best recommendation for family road trippers traveling to Florida during hurricane season is to keep well-informed. Hurricanes generally don’t just pop up “out of the blue,” so you should be able to get advance warning of whether or not you’ll need to evacuate your location.  

Best Stops On An NYC To Florida Road Trip 

There are so many breathtaking places to see along your road trip from NYC to Florida. New York City itself is a treasure trove of museums, sightseeing opportunities, and must-try restaurants. In addition, the east coast offers countless beaches, million-dollar views, and numerous other roadside stops.  

Then there’s Florida itself – a paradise for nature lovers and those who are just looking for some rest and relaxation in the sun. Of course, you could easily spend most of your days in Orlando, especially if Disney World is your end destination. But we’ll leave that up to you!  

Our goal is for you to use this guide to recommend the best stops on the east coast from New York City to Orlando so that you and your family can make the most out of this fun and exciting adventure.  

Before you begin your drive from New York to Florida, we recommend spending a few nights in New York City. You can spend as much or as little time in the Big Apple as you’d like. This, of course, depends on your finances and the number/ages of your travelers.  

If you’re planning on staying a few nights in the city, we have a few family-friendly hotel options to suggest. The Belvedere Hotel is one of the most affordable and is close to Times Square, Broadway, and many restaurants. The New Yorker by Wyndham is another option with friendly staff and bicycle rentals nearby.  

You could easily spend a month exploring NYC, as it’s such a vast and fascinating city! However, we suggest choosing a few more popular sightseeing opportunities for your brief stay instead of cramming too much into each day.  

A brief NYC itinerary you could take a stroll through Central Park , marvel at the wonders of the Natural History Museum , or enjoy a Broadway show. Of course, visiting the Empire State Building in Midtown Manhattan is a must, and everyone needs a ferry boat ride from Battery Park to the Statue of Liberty.  

• Check out our guide to all the best FREE things you can do with the kids in NYC !

Now its time to grab your wheels as we hit the road heading south on the I-95 for our east coast road trip adventure!

NB – if you’re flying in and starting your east coast trip from NYC, don’t grab your rental car until you’re ready to head south! Use public transport, taxis or ride-share apps to get around in NYC

Distance from NYC to Washington, DC: 4 hours/229 miles  

Your first stop after New York City is Washington, DC , and there are so many exciting places for families to explore. Kids will love the Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute , and Beauvoir Outdoors Playground is an excellent area for young children to burn off some pent-up energy.  

There are many museums to explore as well, such as the International Spy Museum . This museum is filled with special spy equipment, and your kids can learn all about the fascinating spies throughout history. There are also special programs for kids under 10, where they can complete their own secret mission!  

We can’t leave out favorites like the National Museum of American History and the United States Botanic Garden . And, of course, glimpsing the White House and the US Capitol are in amongst the best things to do in D.C.! We recommend making a list with your kids and letting each person choose their favorite – this may help narrow down your options.  

Hotel stays in DC are a little on the expensive side, but we’ve found that the Embassy Suites by Hilton , Hampton Inn , and Holiday Inn are more reasonably priced chain options in good locations.

For restaurants, you must try 2 Amys if you’re craving a slice of authentic Neopolitan pizza. Are your kids up for catching grilled pieces of steak with their mouths? Then Sakura Japanese Steak Seafood House may be just the ticket.  

• With a longer itinerary you could also squeeze in a stop for a night or two in Philadelphia -packed full of history and plenty of free attractions, Independence Hall and seeing the Liberty Bell are a right of must for any American child!

Distance from Washington, DC to Petersburg, VA: 2 hours 15minutes/229 miles  

The shorter drive from Washington, DC, to Petersburg gives you a bit of a breather towards the middle of your New York to Florida drive. This also allows you to spend a bit more time in the area, as there are many fun family activities to experience! 

Petersburg is just an hour’s drive from Colonial Williamsburg , one of the most fascinating historical attractions in the United States. However, deciding where to go in Williamsburg can be overwhelming, so we suggest choosing an interest-based itinerary on their website, such as “family fun” or “first-timers.”  

Check out the Petersburg National Battlefield Park if you’d like to stay closer to Petersburg. This historical site marks where the Siege of Petersburg took place, and the area has many well-maintained trails to explore. If you’re traveling by car, there’s also a 33-mile scenic driving tour in Virginia where you can visit 13 different historical sites.  

History lovers will also love Petersburg’s National Museum of the Civil War , a 25,000 square feet facility known as one of the best Civil War Museums in the United States. Filled with interactive exhibits, it’s a great place where visitors can learn what life was like for a Civil War soldier.  

• If time in your itinerary allows, you could add an overnight stop in North Carolina too. Rayleigh is a great family-friendly city stop, or try Fayetteville, we love the fascinating Airborne and Special Operations Museum , or stroll the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks. Beach lovers could take the scenic route and add a night or two in Wilmington or Myrtle Beach if you take the coastal road route through the Carolinas

Distance from Petersburg, VA to Charleston, SC: 6 hours/402 miles  

Charleston is up next on our New York to Florida road trip itinerary, and we couldn’t be more excited. It’s a beautiful city with a treasure trove of cultural, historical, and natural sites to get out and explore.  

• Extend your road trip through South Carolina with these ideas

Children of all ages will love the South Carolina Aquarium , which allows visitors to get up close and personal with thousands of creatures. You could easily spend a full day enjoying hundreds of species of birds, sharks, turtles, and alligators.

There are also several educational programs, and children can feel different sea animals in the Touch Tank and even feed stingrays! Families with young children should also check out the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry , which is essentially a giant interactive playground!  

If you’re searching for outdoor activities, visiting the Angel Oak on John’s Island is a must. This magical-looking tree is over 400 years old and is the largest living organism east of the Mississippi River. It’s truly a sight to behold.

History buffs will love Magnolia Plantation and Gardens , one of America’s oldest and most eye-catching public gardens. There’s even a petting zoo and Nature Train!  

• Another itinerary option to add here is an overnight stay or rest stop in Savannah, Georgia

Distance from Charleston, SC to Jacksonville, FL: 3 hours 40 minutes/238 miles  

Congratulate yourselves! You’ve made it from New York to the state of Florida –  not an easy thing to do with kids! Spend the first night in Jacksonville, a fun city with tons of water activities, shopping options, and outdoor entertainment.  

Your children will definitely want to cool off in the water, and Jacksonville has 22 miles of beaches, rivers, and the Intracoastal Waterway.

Spend a few hours fishing and swimming at Jacksonville Beach, or take the whole family to the Adventure Landing Waterpark . Most areas are pet-friendly and have fresh seafood restaurants and local boutiques nearby.  

Jacksonville has several other fun family attractions besides its beaches and water parks. It also has several top museums, art, history, and cultural tours, and more. If you’re feeling adventurous, head to Autobahn Indoor Speedway & Events , where you can drive high-speed Go Karts and even try axe throwing!  

Jacksonville also has many family-friendly restaurants, such as the Bearded Pig . This mouthwatering BBQ joint offers an extensive kid-friendly menu while the adults get to savor their own selection. There’s also Clark’s Fish Camp , which houses America’s largest private taxidermy collection and a tank full of live alligators!  

• Take your time heading down the Florida coast; Amelia Island is another favorite first-stop in Florida, and a stop in at the historic city of St. Augustine is a must!

Distance from Jacksonville, FL to Orlando, FL: 2 hours, 14 minutes/140 miles  

If Orlando is your final destination, congrats! If not, keep right on exploring. It’s wise to spend at least three days in Orlando, as many family-friendly activities are available. This is also the final leg of your trip before returning home, so you want to make the most of it!  

Without a doubt, the largest family attractions in Orlando are the giant theme parks Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando . You could easily spend your entire time at one or the other, especially with all the shows, events, and rides on offer. Of course, this entirely depends on your preferences, finances, and patience!  

Sea Life Orlando Aquarium is also a popular family-friendly activity in Orlando with youngsters. You could also spend a few hours with crocodiles and alligators at Gatorland , where the largest collection of white leucistic alligators live. There’s also a zipline, aviary, and petting zoo on the grounds, so it’s perfect for kids of all ages.  

Another must-see attraction is Madame Tussauds Wax Museum , a tourist favorite. Take selfies next to your favorite wax personality, and you can enjoy the entire experience in about an hour. After a long day of sightseeing, cool off in the tranquil blue waters of Kelly Park . It’s a popular place to camp, swim, or go inner tubing.  

Accommodation options in Orlando are almost endless! For a longer stay your could try a VRBO property in Orlando, whilst for short theme park visits, it can make sense financially to bundle your accommodation and tickets and stay at an on-site hotel.

• Do be aware of exorbitant parking costs in Orlando, everywhere! If you are tackling this road trip as a one way journey, ditch the car once you get to Orlando; you’ll find using shuttles or ride share like Uber or Lyft cheaper than daily rental + parking fees.

Whilst Orlando is often the end destination for many Florida road trips, there’s plenty more to explore around the state. If time will allow and you can head further around FL, why not check out next:

• The drive from Miami to Key West along the Florida Keys is truly one of the most beautiful drives in the world you need to try once in your life! Some great stops include Everglades National Park and Key Largo.
• More to Florida than just the A1A! Check out all these incredible scenic drives in Florida to explore the beauty and diversity of the Sunshine State.
• An easy side trip to Orlando is a day out at Cape Canaveral and the Kennedy Space Center – you may even be able to catch a live launch!
• Combine a trip to Orlando with a Florida beach vacation – these are the best beaches in Florida close to Disney & Orlando that will make an easy addition to this east coast road trip.
• Are you visiting during the Florida sunflower season (its very different to NY!)? Why not add one of these colorful sunflower farms near Miami to your itinerary
• Pack as much of your own food, snacks , and bottled water as possible for your drive. That way, you’re not spending much besides stopping for gas and coffee.  
• Road-tripping with toddlers and young children can be rough! Pack games and activities to keep them as happy and occupied as possible.  
• Whether driving your regular vehicle, renting one, or taking an RV or camper, make sure you check everything mechanically before starting your NYC to Florida road trip.  
• As there are several major cities on our list, we highly recommend you avoid rush hour as this will add significantly to your journey times; It’s a good idea to set out super early each day or wait until morning peak hour has passed and try arrive at your next destination before the evening rush.
• Bugs are a part of life in the southern states, especially the Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida. So take plenty of bug spray and bite treatment with you. 
• Use a tool like Google Maps to plan out your itinerary and plan for tolls – many of them along the east coast only accept cash.  
• Never forget an important road trip item again! Use our Ultimate Family Road Trip checklist to prepare for your journey. 

© Family Road Trip

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The 15 Best Family Resorts In Florida

All products and services featured are independently selected by forbes vetted contributors and editors. when you make a purchase through links on this page, we may earn a commission. learn more, beth luberecki , contributor, forbes vetted.

F amily vacations and Florida go together like peanut butter and jelly. Miles of coastline appeals to families who want to spend time by the ocean, cities like Miami and Fort Lauderdale lure families looking for lots of activity and Orlando serves up plenty of thrills and nostalgic, character-driven fun for both kids and adults. It’s no surprise, then, that Florida is home to a wide range of family-friendly accommodations. The best family resorts in Florida offer everything from oceanfront escapes to amenity-rich experiences.

For families looking to touch down in the Sunshine State this year, our top recommendation is The Breakers , a high-end Palm Beach getaway that’s been welcoming guests for more than 100 years. From Miami escapes to properties along the panhandle , we’ve also hand-picked the best from across the state, from the stylish Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa to the tropical island getaway Cheeca Lodge & Spa and TradeWinds Beach Resort’s Island Grand , which offers nonstop family fun. Below, the best family resorts in Florida in 2024.

Editor’s Picks:

Best family resort in florida overall: the breakers, best family resort in orlando: wyndham grand orlando resort bonnet creek, best family resort in fort lauderdale: pelican grand beach resort, best family resort in palm beach: eau palm beach resort & spa, best family resort in miami: loews miami beach hotel, best family resort in the florida keys: cheeca lodge & spa, best family resort on the gulf coast: hyatt regency coconut point resort & spa, best family resort on the panhandle: hilton sandestin beach golf resort & spa, best beachfront family resort in florida: omni amelia island resort, best affordable family resort in florida: kimpton vero beach hotel & spa.

The resort’s stretch of private beachfront is a big draw, and four pools sit oceanfront, including a zero-entry family pool.

The Breakers

Who Will Love It: Families who appreciate both history and an amenity-packed, modern hotel stay

All-Star Amenities: Family Entertainment Center; a private beach and oceanfront family pool; “Spa Petite” hair and nail treatments for children ages 6 to 17; childproofing services and baby equipment for guest use

What Not To Miss: A family dinner at The Italian Restaurant located within the Family Entertainment Center, where parents can linger at the table while the kids play nearby

Location: Palm Beach

In operation for more than 100 years, The Breakers is a beloved Florida resort for a reason, and though it skews high-end, it’s also decidedly family friendly. The resort’s comfortably elegant guest rooms and suites can be childproofed ahead of a stay and must-have equipment like cribs, bottle warmers, strollers and mini-fridges are available for guest use. All 10 on-site restaurants welcome families, with all but one offering kids’ menus, coloring books and crayons for young diners. The resort’s stretch of private beachfront is a big draw, and four pools sit oceanfront, including a zero-entry family pool. Boredom should never be a problem here, with activities for the whole family that range from bike riding and kayaking to junior golf and tennis programs. Head to the indoor-outdoor Family Entertainment Center for arcade games, a nine-hole mini-golf course and outdoor basketball court, a shaded outdoor playground and activities for the whole crew like arts and crafts, family trivia and movie nights.

Book a family bunk room and the kids will have an area for themselves with their own TV.

Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek

Who Will Love It: Families who want to stay close to Orlando’s many attractions but also have a place to escape from it all

All-Star Amenities: Access to five pools, two lazy rivers and waterslides; playground; 18-hole putt-putt course; fitness center and spa; multiple restaurants

What Not To Miss: A stroll around the centerpiece 10-acre lake and sitting by a fire pit while theme park fireworks light up the sky

Location: Orlando

Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek is just a few miles from the Walt Disney World Resort theme parks, but staying at this 62-acre resort will make you feel like you’re in your own little world. The hotel sits at one end of 10-acre Bonnet Bay and shares a range of amenities with the multi-building Club Wyndham Bonnet Creek, which include five pools, two lazy rivers, eight hot tubs and a pirate ship-themed waterslide. There’s also a playground and 18-hole putt-putt course for even more family fun, as well as a fitness center and spa if parents want to trade off childcare duties and slip away for a little alone time. Book a family bunk room and the kids will have an area for themselves with their own TV, and end your day with a stroll around the lake, finding a fire pit or a bench swing by the water to catch the nightly fireworks shows at the nearby theme parks. If the family’s heading to Walt Disney World, the hotel offers a shuttle to the parks and a ticket desk in the lobby.

A private beach offers opportunities for sandcastle building and other family fun; beach games are included in the resort fee.

Pelican Grand Beach Resort

Who Will Love It: Families who want a quiet spot on the beach that’s still close to area sights and attractions

All-Star Amenities: Private beach with lounge chairs, umbrellas and beach games; zero-entry pool; paddleboard rentals; spa and fitness center; kids’ camp; daily activities calendar

What Not To Miss: Floating in Fort Lauderdale’s only lazy river and ordering an ice cream cone from The Emporium

Location: Fort Lauderdale

The coastal chic guest rooms and suites at Pelican Grand Beach Resort offer views of the Atlantic Ocean or Fort Lauderdale skyline, providing it an air of old school elegance. Alongside access to the hotel’s private beach, lounge chairs, umbrellas and beach games are included as part of the resort fee, and paddleboard rentals are available. A beachside zero-entry pool and the only lazy river in Fort Lauderdale provide other ways to cool off, and if those don’t do the trick, try The Emporium, the resort’s old-fashioned ice cream parlor. Grownups can sign the kids up for Funky Fish Ocean Camp, where activities include snorkeling lessons, boogie boarding, tie-dying and crafts. A calendar of daily events offers other family-friendly fun, like scavenger hunts, bingo, sandcastle contests and coconut races in the lazy river. The resort’s location makes it easy to explore the area’s many attractions but also provides a quiet spot removed from all the action.

At the Loggers kids’ club, young guests can imagine their own undersea worlds on the larger-than-life-sized Sketch Aquarium.

Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa

Who Will Love It: Families looking for a stylish getaway befitting Palm Beach’s glamorous vibe

All-Star Amenities: Private beach; two pools; kids’ and teen clubs; complimentary dog amenities; kid under five eat for free with the purchase of an adult entrée

What Not To Miss: Exploring the Atlantic Ocean on a kayak or paddleboard available to guests free of charge and a day by the pool or beach in a private cabana

Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa in Palm Beach sets the stage for a particularly dreamy family getaway. Bright and cheery guest rooms designed by Jonathan Adler include a private balcony with a hanging chair for taking in the views, and suites offer more space to spread out. You can even bring the family pooch along with you, and kids five and under eat free throughout the resort with the purchase of an adult entrée. Take a dip in the Family Pool and adjoining turtle-themed splash pad, or head out onto the resort’s private beach, where beach chairs, umbrellas and the use of non-motorized water sports are complimentary for guests. At the recently reimagined Loggers kids’ club, young guests ages three to 12 can create their own glowing masterpieces on the four-foot-tall Lite-Zilla or imagine their own undersea world on the larger-than-life-sized Sketch Aquarium. Complimentary bike rentals make it easy to explore the area, and an ice cream cone from Melt serves as the perfect post-pedaling treat.

At the SoBe Kids Club, kids can take part in arts and crafts, STEM activities and other experiences curated by the Miami Children’s Museum.

Loews Miami Beach Hotel

Who Will Love It: Families who want to be in the middle of the action in Miami Beach’s Art Deco District

All-Star Amenities: Beach with private play area for kids; zero-entry pool; kids’ club

What Not To Miss: A meal at the new Miami Beach location of Rao’s and the regular schedule of family activities that includes weekend poolside games, kids’ cooking classes, pop-up poolside treats and movies under the stars

Location: Miami Beach

Loews Miami Beach Hotel rolls out the red carpet for families with all kinds of amenities and programming offered year-round. That includes the SoBe Kids Club, where four- to 10-year-olds can take part in arts and crafts, STEM activities, cooking classes and other experiences curated in partnership with the Miami Children’s Museum and Frost Museum of Science. When it’s time to go for a swim, the hotel’s beachfront and zero-entry pool make it easy to cool off, and complimentary swim diapers, baby floaties and sunscreen are at the ready. On-site restaurants serve up plenty of options for pint-sized palettes, like the kid-sized buffet at Preston’s and the locally made ice cream at Miami Joe Coffee Co. There are options for adventurous eaters, too: a new Miami Beach outpost of legendary New York Italian restaurant Rao’s serves up penne vodka, linguine carbonara and other favorites. Sea Spa offers manis, pedis and haircuts for the 12 and under set (plus soothing treatments for the grownups), and guest rooms in the St. Moritz Tower provide easy access to many of the family-friendly amenities.

Accommodations include private villas ideal for family travel, with one or two bedrooms, full kitchens and plenty of room to spread out.

Cheeca Lodge & Spa

Who Will Love It: Outdoorsy families looking for a tropical island escape

All-Star Amenities: Two family pools; adults-only pool; 1,200-foot private beach; watersports facility for rentals and tours; Camp Cheeca kids’ activities and programming

What Not To Miss: A family dinner of pizza and other Italian favorites in view of the water at Mia Cucina; a stroll on the resort’s fishing pier

Location: Islamorada

Set on a 27-acre private estate on Islamorada, Cheeca Lodge & Spa has been welcoming guests since 1946 and recently underwent some major enhancements. Accommodations include guest rooms, oceanfront suites and bungalows, and 11 new private villas called The Casitas are ideal for family travel, with one or two bedrooms, full kitchens, furnished porches, a washer and dryer and plenty of room to spread out. Guests who opt for The Casitas also enjoy personalized butler service and access to an exclusive area with a private beach, pool and tennis courts. With its location in the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” the resort helps guests get out on the water with a full-service watersports facility on property for arranging fishing and snorkeling tours, equipment rentals and lessons. Send the kids to Camp Cheeca for some arts and crafts, games and other activities. Grownups can book a spa treatment or grab a cocktail at one of the open-air Tiki Bars overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Kids will probably be big fans of the resort’s three-acre waterpark, with five waterslides, multiple pools and a palm tree–lined lazy river.

Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa

Who Will Love It: Families who like to be in and on the water in a variety of ways

All-Star Amenities: Three-acre water park with pools, waterslides and a lazy river; kids’ activity programming; spa with meditation pool; multiple restaurants; watersports rentals

What Not To Miss: Racing down the dueling waterslides; the private island experience available to guests at Big Hickory Island in Estero Bay Ecological Preserve

Location: Bonita Springs

Recently renovated guest rooms at Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa set a coastal mood for a Florida family vacation, with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that let the sunshine in and make it easy to admire views of Estero Bay and the Southwest Florida coastline. Kids, however, will probably be bigger fans of the resort’s three-acre waterpark, which offers five waterslides (including a pair of dueling waterslides for a little family competition), multiple pools (including a walk-in lagoon-style pool ideal for little ones) and a palm tree–lined lazy river. The pet-friendly resort also offers multiple restaurants, kids’ camp programming, a video arcade, a spa and a 24-hour fitness center. A must-do is the resort’s private island experience at Big Hickory Island in Estero Bay Ecological Preserve; guests take a 15-minute boat ride to the island, during which they might spot dolphins and manatees. On the island, chairs and umbrellas are set up on the white sand beach for prime relaxation, and light food and beverage options are also available.

At the beach, families can rent standup paddleboards and kayaks for exploring the emerald-green waters.

Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa

Who Will Love It: Families looking for spacious rooms with water views in close proximity to the beach and other attractions

All-Star Amenities: Access to watersports rentals; three pools, including an indoor pool; spa and fitness center; multiple dining options; tram service throughout the Sandestin resort area

What Not To Miss: A special family dinner at Northwest Florida’s first AAA Four Diamond steakhouse Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood; spending time on the white sand beach

Location: Miramar Beach

The largest full-service beachfront resort on Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast, Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa has been a go-to family vacation spot for 40 years. A recent $35-million, property-wide refresh has made the resort even more appealing, with everything from the three pools and beachfront deck space to the multiple dining outlets getting an updated look. Rooms have modern, beachy decor and private balconies with partial or full Gulf of Mexico views, and the junior deluxe suites are perfect for families, with a bunk bed area with its own TV, one king or two double beds and a queen sleeper sofa. Down on the white sand beach, families can rent beach umbrellas and chairs as well as stand-up paddleboard and kayaks for exploring the emerald-green waters. Kids can enjoy the indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a toddler pool and a new pizza oven at Sandcastles Restaurant. The resort offers tram service throughout the Sandestin resort area, including to The Village of Baytowne Wharf, where families can find restaurants, shopping, a zipline and ropes course and other attractions.

There’s a family-friendly pool, nautical-themed splash pad and adults-only pool all surrounded by the largest pool deck in northeast Florida.

Omni Amelia Island Resort

Who Will Love It: Families who want to spend lots of time on the sand

All-Star Amenities: Expansive beach area with complimentary beach games; family-friendly pool and nautical-themed splash pad; “Gamer’s Lounge” with foosball and video games; 18-hole mini-golf course; bike rentals

What Not To Miss: The resort’s family-friendly, 10-hole Little Sandy golf course situated amid a scenic lowland oak marsh habitat; the Amelia Island Nature Center, where families can visit with rescued animals and book nature tours

Location: Fernandina Beach

Located on a barrier island off the northeast coast of Florida, Omni Amelia Island Resort makes it easy to get out on the sandy shores of the Atlantic Ocean. Chairs and umbrellas are available to rent; you can also spend your time strolling, shelling, building sandcastles or hunting for sharks’ teeth. There’s a family-friendly pool, nautical-themed splash pad and adults-only pool all surrounded by the largest pool deck in northeast Florida and overlooking the beach. Beyond the beach, families can play a round at the resort’s mini golf course, rent bikes for pedaling around the island or tee off at the family-friendly 10-hole Little Sandy golf course designed with beginning golfers in mind. Naturalists at the Amelia Island Nature Center share insight about the area’s flora and fauna, and families can book kayaking or biking tours or one of the Family Discovery programs offered by the resort. When it’s time to refuel after a day of fun, grab burgers and other pub food at Falcon’s Nest or order a pizza at Natural Slice. If parents need a little time alone, they can book a session for the kids at the resort’s Camp Amelia.

Best Family Resort In Florida For Activities: The Boca Raton

The Harborside Pool Club features three pools, two waterslides, a 450-foot lazy river and a new simulator for boogie boarding and surfing.

The Boca Raton

Who Will Love It: Families who like a lot of choices and a variety of ways to stay busy during a Florida vacation

All-Star Amenities: Harborside Pool Club with three pools, two waterslides, kids’ splash area and 450-foot lazy river; a half-mile stretch of private beach with watersports rentals and oceanfront pools; kids’ and teen clubs; junior tennis program

What Not To Miss: Riding the waves on the new FlowRider simulator; a snack delivery from The Tower’s two robot butlers, Johnnie and Ethel (named after the pet monkeys belonging to The Boca Raton’s original owner, architect Addison Mizner)

Location: Boca Raton

Families can choose their own adventure at The Boca Raton, where five different hotel options include the resort’s original, circa-1926 Cloister hotel and the recently renovated Tower with customizable suite layouts to best match your family’s needs. The Tower offers easy proximity to the Harborside Pool Club, which features three pools, two waterslides, a 450-foot lazy river, and a new FlowRider simulator for boogie boarding and surfing for hours of water fun. Kids ages four to 12 can head to the Banyan Bunch kids’ club for crafts, story time, yoga and other activities, while tweens and teens can hang at The Break, a new spot at the resort with a candy wall, virtual reality gaming system, podcast recording booth and 360-degree platform for recording TikTok videos. Complimentary water taxis travel around the resort, making it easy to take advantage of amenities like watersports rentals, tennis and pickleball courts, an 18-hole golf course, spa and fitness center (with complimentary classes) as well as bicycle rentals. An array of dining options includes the Burger Bar and a macaron and chocolate shop.

Best High-End Family Resort In Florida: Four Seasons Resort Orlando At Walt Disney World Resort

This AAA Five Diamond Award-winning property also offers a spa, golf course and multiple restaurants to keep grownups busy.

Four Seasons Resort Orlando At Walt Disney World Resort

Who Will Love It: Families who want to vacation in high style—even if they’re going to Florida’s theme parks

All-Star Amenities: The five-acre Explorer Island amenity with a family pool, lazy river, waterslides, and splash pad; complimentary kids club; The Hideout game room

What Not To Miss: The Good Morning Breakfast with Goofy & Pals character breakfast at the resort’s Ravello restaurant every Thursday and Saturday

You don’t have to visit the Disney theme parks to enjoy the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort. The expansive property is a vacation unto itself, with a five-acre playground for the whole family that includes pools, a lazy river, waterslides, a game room and a complimentary kids club with all kinds of activities for younger guests. If a theme park visit is on the itinerary, the resort provides complimentary motorcoach transportation to the Walt Disney World theme parks located just a few minutes away and offers a Disney Planning Center in the lobby to help guests with arrangements and questions. You can also get in the Disney spirit without even leaving the resort by booking a table for the Good Morning Breakfast with Goofy & Pals held at the resort’s Ravello restaurant every Thursday and Saturday. After a long day of playing in the sun or riding rollercoasters, sophisticated but still comfortable guest rooms and suites make getting a good night’s sleep easy.

There’s also an oceanfront pool ideal for cooling down after a family bike ride or workout at the fitness center.

Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa

Who Will Love It: Families who want to watch their budget but still have a great beach vacation

All-Star Amenities: Private beach with complimentary chairs and umbrellas; oceanfront heated pool; complimentary baby gear

What Not To Miss: Watching the kids zoom around on Micro Kickboard scooters available in two children’s sizes for complimentary use during a stay

Location: Vero Beach

With off-peak nightly rates around $200, Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa makes family travel a breeze. The resort’s 113 spacious guest suites range from studios to three bedrooms, some with full kitchens, ocean views and/or lanais. Complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas are available, as well as access to watersports rentals, tours and private beach cabanas. There’s also an oceanfront pool ideal for cooling down after a family bike ride or workout at the fitness center, and you can start the day with complimentary morning coffee and tea in the lobby and wind down with a complimentary evening wine hour each day. Opt for the resort’s Stargazing on the Sea package on select dates, and the whole family can take a private river cruise featuring a star talk led by a local astronomer. Through a new partnership with the nearby Environmental Learning Center in the Indian River Lagoon, interactive pop-up events will take place at the hotel every Friday afternoon where kids can learn about topics like butterflies, gopher tortoises and beach shells.

Best Family Resort In Florida For Pools: Orlando World Center Marriott

At the Falls Pool Oasis, the swimming pool and splash zone are ideal for younger kids, while two waterslides offer thrills for older kids.

Orlando World Center Marriott

Who Will Love It: Families who plan to spend a lot of time making a splash during their Florida vacation

All-Star Amenities: Zero-entry, lagoon-style swimming pool; seven waterslides; lazy river; two kids’ splash zones; arcade; mini-golf; scheduled shuttle service to the Disney theme parks

What Not To Miss: Plummeting down the speed slide and catching the high-energy nightly laser light show at the Falls Pool area

As the world’s largest Marriott property, Orlando World Center Marriott doesn’t skimp on amenities. That includes its pool scene, which offers gallons of fun for the whole family. At the Falls Pool Oasis, the zero-entry, lagoon-style swimming pool and splash zone are ideal for younger kids, while two twisting waterslides and a 90-foot speed slide offer bigger thrills for older kids (and grownups). The new River Falls Water Park (included in the daily resort fee) amps up the aquatic action with three high-octane inner-tube waterslides, including the aptly named Boomerango that sends riders up a seemingly gravity-defying chute. An “aqua playground” and 575-foot-long lazy river calm things down a bit. The fun continues after dark, when a nightly laser light show set to music illuminates the Falls Pool area and mermaids join the fun for glow parties on select nights throughout the year. Outside of the water, kids can head to the arcade, play mini-golf, or take part in regularly scheduled activities like arts and crafts and animal encounters. The resort also offers complimentary scheduled shuttle service to the Disney theme parks—if you can get the kids to leave, that is.

Best Family Resort In Florida For Adventurous Families: Tradewinds Beach Resort’s Island Grand

You’ll need a vacation from your vacation after enjoying everything that’s included with a stay.

Tradewinds Beach Resort’s Island Grand

Who Will Love It: Thrillseekers of all ages who want a Florida beach vacation with plenty of action and excitement

All-Star Amenities: Access to one beach cabana per room; five pools; inflatable surf simulator; touch tank experience; mini-golf; paddleboats; nightly s’mores

What Not To Miss: Ziplining by the beach and splashing down a three-story inflatable waterslide on the sand

Location: St. Pete Beach

Five pools, a three-story, 200-foot-long waterslide, an inflatable surf simulator and a three-story zipline over the beach are just some of the amenities included in the resort fee at TradeWinds Beach Resort’s Island Grand. The property shares acres of Gulf of Mexico beachfront with sister hotel RumFish Beach Resort , and a stay at either gives families access to lots of thrills and activities in the sand and surf. You’ll need a vacation from your vacation after enjoying everything that’s included with a stay, like volleyball and other beach games, a touch tank experience, mini-golf, paddleboats, family pirate shows, ping-pong, shuffleboard, nightly s’mores, morning beach yoga classes and use of one beach cabana per room. If you want to add even more to the experience, fee-based options include standup paddleboard and kayak rentals, jet ski tours and fishing charters, banana boat rides, parasailing and a floating water park with slides and trampolines. When everyone’s tuckered out, head back to your guest room or villa done up in tropical style with marine-inspired artwork, mini-fridges and microwaves.

Best Family Resort In Florida For Outdoorsy Families: Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo

Guests can choose their way to stay here, with options that include glamping tents, wagon–inspired cabins and lodge-style guest rooms.

Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo

Who Will Love It: Families looking for a dude ranch experience that doesn’t require roughing it

All-Star Amenities: Glamping and other unique lodging options; petting farm; seasonal outdoor pool; tennis and basketball courts; multiple dining options

What Not To Miss: Experiencing the resort’s Saturday Night Rodeo, featuring barrel racing and bull riding and admiring the scenic setting on horseback or by airboat

Location: River Ranch

Set on 1,700 acres overlooking the Kissimmee River in Central Florida’s Polk County, Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo gives families a dude ranch-meets-glamping experience with an Old Florida feel. Guests can choose their way to stay here, with options that include glamping tents, Conestoga wagon–inspired cabins and lodge-style guest rooms. A seasonal outdoor pool, tennis courts, basketball courts and petting farm are available to guests free of charge during a stay at the largest dude ranch east of the Mississippi. Families can pick from a range of add-on activities to create their perfect trip, with options like horseback rides, archery, airboat rides, a Saturday night rodeo and the new Cowboy Adventure Park with activities like a mechanical bull, bounce pad and rock-climbing wall. On-site dining options serve up everything from steaks and barbecue to pizza and ice cream, and the S'mores 'N Pours experience gives both the kids and grownups a treat with two deluxe s’mores kits and a bottle of Buffalo Trace Bourbon hand-delivered during a stay.

About Beth Luberecki, Your Florida Family Resorts Guide

I have been a professional writer for more than 25 years covering a range of topics including travel, business, real estate and home decorating. My travel stories have appeared in publications and on websites such as USA Today , FamilyVacationist , Smarter Travel , TripAdvisor , Times of the Islands and Gulf + Main . My work has also appeared in the Washington Post’s Express and Florida Trend . I have lived in the Sunshine State for almost two decades and have written about it extensively, from tips and advice on visiting Walt Disney World to where to stay for a romantic getaway or fun family trip. The Orlando area is a region I know well. I’m always looking for new places to discover in Florida with my husband and teenage daughter.

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Classic US Road Trips Perfect For The Whole Family

Posted: November 20, 2023 | Last updated: November 20, 2023

Hitting the road together

Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway, New York

Of the 11 spindly stretches of water that make up New York’s Finger Lakes, Cayuga is perhaps the easiest to explore via car. It’s skimmed by an 87-mile (140km) scenic byway that’s designed to be taken at a leisurely pace. Running from Seneca Falls in the north to Ithaca in the south and looping around the opposite shore, Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway is ideal for families seeking a mix of outdoor adventures, pretty scenery and cute villages to explore.

You could do it in a day or even a couple of hours, but that would mean missing out on fun such as exploring the water via boat or kayak, pottering around art studios and quirky shops in Ithaca and lunching at one of the wineries just off the byway.  Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge , home to bald eagles and waterfowl, is a particular highlight, as is the 215-foot (66m) cascade in Taughannock Falls State Park.

George Parks Highway, Alaska

You could drive long stretches of George Parks Highway and barely see another soul or vehicle, which makes it better suited to families with older children. It’s the perfect adventure for outdoorsy types, thanks to its 323 miles (520km) of awe-inspiring wilderness. It will take a full afternoon at least (including stop-offs) but it's well worth it. Running between the cities of Anchorage and Fairbanks, it skirts the eastern edge of Denali National Park, before cutting across a corner of the six million-acre wilderness.

As the only road that ventures into Denali, the highway provides an accessible way to see its alpine forest and mountain slopes, home to curly-horned Dall sheep, wolves, grizzlies and black bears. Look out for Denali itself – North America’s tallest peak – and hike by rivers and lakes. Allow time to explore Fairbanks and Anchorage, each with an appealing mix of galleries, museums and family-friendly dining. Visit in summer for the midnight sun, or from August to April for a chance to see the sky swirl with the Northern Lights.

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Extraterrestrial Highway, Nevada

Kids (and grown-ups) who love sci-fi will adore traveling along Nevada State Route 375. Running for 98 miles (158km) between Crystal Springs and Tonopah, it can be covered in a couple of hours and is an easy drive from Las Vegas. The fun is in the quirky attractions along the route, officially named Extraterrestrial Highway following numerous reports of alien sightings, and since Area 51 is located just off the road. The still-operational (and top secret) Air Force facility is strictly off-limits, though.

Instead, stop at E.T. Fresh Jerky to stock up on snacks for the road while checking out the alien murals plastered on the building, and be sure to spend some time at the Alien Research Center. You can’t miss it, thanks to the lofty alien statue outside, and it’s a fun spot for souvenir shopping and learning about the otherworldly associations of the route. For an Alien Burger or even an overnight stay, Little A’Le'Inn is a delight.

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Pacific Coast Highway, California

This classic cruise along California’s impossibly beautiful coastline is perfect for pretty much anyone, and that includes families – especially those with slightly older kids who might appreciate the scenery. Even toddlers will have fun playing in the sand, splashing in the waves and staring, saucer-eyed, up at some of the world’s tallest trees in forested parks studded with coastal redwoods. The Pacific Coast Highway, or Highway 1, officially starts in Dana Point in the south and stretches for around 660 miles (1,062km) up to Leggett in Mendocino County, north of San Francisco.

Following the entire route is highly recommended (even if it does take a whole day), because every inch is gorgeous, though of course you can pick a portion if you’re short on time (or the kids are short on patience). Highlights include pretty Santa Barbara, Morro Bay (look out for otters floating on their backs), the Madonna Inn – a pink palace of a hotel just outside San Luis Obispo – and Big Sur, home to arguably the route’s most jaw-dropping scenery. Its soaring cliffs and honey-hued beaches should keep everyone quiet, at least for a minute or two.

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Olympic Peninsula Loop, Washington

Olympic National Park is a dream destination for nature-loving families and the only thing better than visiting the wilderness is a road trip exploring its diverse landscapes. The Peninsula Loop edges the park for around 300 miles (483km), and you’ll want plenty of time to hike, camp or just gawp at the scenery, from glacier-capped mountains to sandy, often secluded coves.

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Part of Highway 101, it could be done in a day, but allow at least a week to take advantage of detours, from hiking trails to rainforest walks (the whole loop around the park is pictured). One of the prettiest pockets is Hoh Rain Forest, whose old-growth trees are cloaked with emerald moss. Adventurous families should set up camp there – it’s like being in a fairy tale.

Scenic Byway 12, Utah

With otherworldly landscapes that evoke any number of sci-fi films or perhaps the planet Mars, Scenic Byway 12 crams in much of what Utah is famous for: rust-red rocks, arches, hoodoos and slot canyons. There’s a lot to explore, whether kids are interested in learning about the fascinating geology or just want to skip through wavy rock structures and enjoy incredible places like the fossil-filled Escalante Petrified Forest.

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The route unfurls for just under 123 miles (198km) and the surroundings are eye-popping at every turn – this is why it'll take you longer than the standard two hours, 45 minutes. Must-stops include the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, where sandstone cliffs soar like rainbows above narrow slot canyons and abandoned movie sets. The finish point is the town of Torrey, near Capitol Reef National Park. Allow extra time to explore the latter, whose red rocks tower above patches of alpine forest.

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Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina and Virginia

Another classic road trip route, Blue Ridge Parkway is embarrassingly rich in natural beauty and wonders. Spanning two states and around 470 miles (756km), it’s easily doable over a week even with all the stops you’re bound to make, because the road, which sprawls from Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offers plenty to see and do. It’s also easy to follow, which means fewer opportunities to get lost and, in turn, fewer arguments.

If disagreements should occur, gazing across the fog-cloaked Appalachian Highlands and following trails through the forests should quickly stop them. The route is also home to family-friendly wineries (keeping the adults happy) and the brilliantly quirky Craggy Gardens, known for its rhododendrons and twisting trees. Other wild and wonderful stops include Linville Falls, a three-tiered cascade in North Carolina and an easy hike from the Parkway.

Lake Michigan Circle Tour, various states

Sloshing its way into Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois and Indiana, Lake Michigan serves up some glorious scenery – and it’s all accessible on a road trip following its shore. Each of the Great Lakes has a designated circle tour, with this one clocking up around 1,100 miles (1,770km). Non-stop, it would take you around 15 hours. But where's the fun in that? Spend a few days on this route and take older kids on an epic adventure or choose to travel a portion of the route, which has an ideal mix of outdoorsy fun and city attractions.

The southern part of the route is particularly packed with must-sees. Start in Manitowoc, Wisconsin and explore some of the state’s most exciting cities, including Milwaukee, before driving south to Chicago, whose art-filled parks and Navy Pier attractions are wonderfully family-friendly. The route (all of which is pictured) then takes you around the lakeshore and into Michigan, with dune-backed beaches, lighthouses and wilderness trails. Holland, home to windmills and, in May, the eye-popping Tulip Festival, is especially charming.

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Highway 98, Florida

If happiness to your family means sand between toes and sunshine on faces, then this might just be your perfect road trip. Highway 98 also runs through Mississippi and Alabama, but for pure seaside joy, it doesn’t come better than the stretch that spans the width of Florida. It runs for around 670 miles (1,078km) from the Alabama state line at Perdido Bay all the way to Palm Beach (pictured), with portions that slice through forest and others that cruise close to the ocean.

The prettiest part hugs the slate-hued Gulf of Mexico on Florida’s southern coast between Pensacola and fishing town Apalachicola, and this was the original part of the road in 1933 before it was extended in both directions. It skims by Destin – whose boardwalk and seafood restaurants make it a perfect pitstop – and Seaside, where the 1998 Jim Carrey movie The Truman Show was filmed. Along the way are bays, overwater bridges and swathes of state forest. It'll take a few days to really enjoy this road trip, but you won't regret it.

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Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway, South Dakota

For families with younger kids and less time to spare, this Black Hills byway covers just 70 miles (113km) but is the perfect introduction to South Dakota’s breathtaking landscapes. It’s ideal if you’re looking to combine adventure with a little history, because the route – combining several interlacing highways for a twisty-turny journey – packs in plenty of both, with everything set against dramatic landscapes of craggy mountains and thick forest.

The drive will take you past two of the state’s – and the country’s – most significant monuments, Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial. One of the most dramatically beautiful parts of the drive is Needles Highway, which takes you through narrow tunnels and below towering granite pinnacles. The byway also cuts through Custer State Park, where buffalo graze the fields, so there are plenty of opportunities for a longer trip (without stops, it'll take around four hours, otherwise take a day to enjoy the full experience).

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Historic Route 6A, Massachusetts

There’s no ugly way to pass through Cape Cod, the peninsula that flexes into the ocean from the Massachusetts coastline. If you really want to get close to the water, though, you can’t beat Historic Route 6A, also known as Old King's Highway. The route runs for 62 miles (100km) by Cape Cod Bay, passing pale sandy beaches, lighthouses, salt marshes, cranberry bogs, historic towns and state parks.

The blend of coastal views, opportunities to get out on the water and wonderful scenery and architecture makes it a dream of a family trip. The highway officially disappears – merging into Route 6 – for a short section before reappearing for the final stretch to Provincetown, which will take under two hours. Once there, take another scenic drive with an off-road tour through the sand dunes, which are dotted with 1920s artists’ shacks.

Natchez Trace Parkway, various states

With no billboards and very little traffic, the Natchez Trace Parkway embodies the ideal of a classic American road trip: all open road and inspiring scenery, with a healthy dose of quirkiness thrown in. Put aside a few days to really enjoy this trip, as the route unfurls for 444 miles (715km) from Natchez, Mississippi, to just outside Nashville, Tennessee, taking in parts of Alabama on the way.

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It’s especially suited to families who love music, with an abundance of places to see artists perform throughout the Southern states. Other musical highlights include visiting Elvis’ birthplace in Tupelo and dancing in the honky-tonks of Nashville , which is an easy add-on at the end of your road trip. On the way, stop to stretch your legs with woodland wildlife walks and hikes to waterfalls.

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High Road to Taos Scenic Byway, New Mexico

Both a High Road and a Low Road connect Taos and Santa Fe, with the former undoubtedly the most scenic option. This designated Scenic Byway is perfect for families seeking an outdoorsy adventure with a difference. There’s some incredible scenery and adobe architecture en route as the road weaves for around 75 miles (121km) through historic villages, opening up to epic views of the Jemez Mountains.

Spend at least an afternoon soaking up highlights which include Chimayó, a historic and picturesque village known for its weaving tradition and a 19th-century church, El Santuario de Chimayó. In Taos, explore cultural shrines like the Harwood Museum of Art and Taos Pueblo, an adobe settlement designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Though not as stunning as the High Road, the Low Road – tracing the edge of the Rio Grande into a slender canyon – is nevertheless rich in natural beauty and is worth driving if you’re returning to the start point.

Coastal Connection, Alabama

This designated scenic byway is an eye-opening introduction to the blazing beauty of Alabama’s coastline. The white sands of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are the perfect backdrop to a road trip designed for slowing down to enjoy the simple pleasures in life – and, hopefully, each other’s company. The route winds for around 130 miles (209km) to link up marshy wildlife preserves, dune-backed beaches, historic naval sites and seafood restaurants, so this trip will easily take two or three days.

Traveling from Grand Bay to Spanish Fort, the trip takes the long way round to cross Dauphin Island and pass through the imposing Fort Morgan, with opportunities to stop at parks and reserves with shrubby dunes and marshes. If you have a little more time, charming port city Mobile makes a convenient start and/or end to your trip. Be wowed by the Mardi Gras costumes on display at the Mobile Carnival Museum, or just stroll cobbled streets lined with antebellum architecture.

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Overseas Highway, Florida

Epic ocean views are the highlight of this 113-mile (182km) route, which begins close to Miami and stretches out through the Florida Keys, from Key Largo down to the quirky island city of Key West. Memorable experiences abound, especially for families who love spending time in, on and around water. The road really does soar over the waves, and the views alone make the two-day (at least) trip worthwhile.

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Be sure to stop at Islamorada – home to colorful galleries, boutiques and a brewery – and don’t miss Bahia Honda State Park, whose clear, gentle waters are perfect for snorkeling and kayaking. Adults and kids alike will love unique experiences like visiting Marathon’s adorable and thought-provoking Turtle Hospital, while Key West – though known as a party town – is wonderfully family-friendly with shops, over-the-top desserts and a nightly Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square.

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