A road trip to Florida is a perfect destination for a summer adventure. With its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and exciting attractions, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re traveling with a partner, the extended family or a group of friends, the Sunshine State is the place to be.
To make the most of your Florida road trip, take a gander at our guide. Hitting all the key spots, use this guide as a frame for your own personalized trip. From beautiful, natural nature preserves to world-famous theme parks, this Florida itinerary has you covered for a memorable experience! Feel free to adjust this Florida road trip itinerary as you see fit.
First Stop: Miami
The best Florida road trip begins in Miami! Arrive in Miami and spend the day exploring the city’s vibrant culture and art scene. Visit the Wynwood Walls, a street art district that features murals and graffiti by renowned artists from around the world. With sixteen pristine beaches to choose from, a day could be spent on Miami’s shoreline.
As a bonus, much of the area has amazing eateries and exclusive nightlife to cruise to once the sun sets. South Beach is the place to be seen for a night of revelry in the Magic City.
Live It Up in Key West
Key West is a four-hour drive to the south of Miami. As the name suggests, Key West resides in the Florida keys, a chain of islands surrounded by the tropical vibes of the Caribbean. Take a stroll down Duval Street to really soak in the vibes. Use this as a launching spot to explore the island’s picturesque beaches and quaint shops.
No trip to Key West would be complete without a visit to the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum to learn about the famous author’s life and work. In the evening, watch the sunset from Mallory Square and enjoy the street performers. Before you leave, you can visit the southernmost spot in the United States and take a picture to mark the occasion!
Florida at It’s Prettiest: Everglades National Park
Take a day trip to the Everglades National Park and explore the unique ecosystem of the wetlands. Take an air boat tour and observe alligators, birds, and other wildlife in their habitat. There’s nothing quite like seeing the coastal mangroves in this 1.5 million acre natural habitat. The Florida panther, leatherback turtle, and West Indian manatee all call the Everglades home.
In the afternoon, hike the Anhinga Trail and observe the park’s diverse flora and fauna, but don’t forget to bring bug repellent!
Theme Parks Galore!
No Florida road trip would be complete without a visit to the most magical place on earth: Orlando! This may require several days, but a quick visit is doable too if you play your cards right. Walt Disney World is the size of a metropolitan city with several theme parks within.
Experience the magic of Disney’s Magic Kingdom, explore the futuristic world of Epcot, or enjoy the thrills of Hollywood Studios. Every evening, fireworks and parades light up the night sky. Not too far away is Universal Studios featuring Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. With as much there is to do here, you could easily spend a week or longer
The Majesty of the Kennedy Space Center
Take a day trip to the Kennedy Space Center and learn about the history and future of space exploration. Explore the exhibits and displays and take a bus tour of the center.
Check the launch calendar for an event you won’t soon forget: a rocket launch. Viewable from a safe distance, the Space Center’s launches are unforgettable as they send manned and unmanned vessels into space.
Forts and History in St. Augustine
Drive up to St. Augustine and spend the day exploring the city’s historic sites and museums. Visit the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, the oldest masonry fort in the country, and learn about the city’s Spanish colonial history.
Hop on a trolley and explore this colonial city! Don’t miss an opportunity to climb to the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse for a picture perfect view. In the evening, enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Live It Up in Tampa and St. Petersburg
The ultimate Florida road trip must pass through the Tampa Bay area! Tampa is an exciting city to spend a few days in and is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. Football fans will want to check the schedule for the Superbowl Champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ games, played at Raymond James Stadium. For every touchdown, a real canon is fired!
Explore the city’s vibrant and historic Cuban neighborhood Ybor City for amazing food and cigars. Also, don’t forget to check out the city’s famous breweries, such as Cigar City.
St. Petersburg is to the west of Tampa right on the coast. Of course, we would be remiss not to mention that our very own Pirate Ship adventure cruise and Dolphin Quest eco-educational tours are based here at John’s Pass in Madeira Beach. Pay us a visit for an experience you won’t soon forget!
Pristine Clearwater Beach
Spend the day relaxing on Clearwater Beach, one of Florida’s most beautiful beaches. Swim in the clear waters, sunbathe on the white sand, and enjoy the beachside activities. In the evening, watch the sunset and enjoy the nightlife.
A Trip to the Circus in Sarasota
Drive down to Sarasota and spend the day exploring the city’s cultural attractions, including the Ringling Museum of Art. While there, you can learn about the famous circus family’s extraordinary history.
The Trip of a Lifetime!
This Florida itinerary provides a well-rounded adventure throughout Florida, combining culture, nature, and adventure. This itinerary is adjustable, depending on your time and desires.
A Florida road trip can be magical, memorable and unique all on its own. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to find the adventure you’re looking for on a road trip to Florida.
One of the escapades you can embark on is the Pirate Ship Royal Conquest, the most authentic Johns Pass pirate ship in the Sunshine State. It’s the most realistic pirate ship that you will ever set your eyes on and will surely transport you to a world of swashbuckling excitement. Call us today to learn more!
