Florida’s Most Scenic Drives for Your Winter Road Trip
Between COVID-19 and cold wintry weather, it might be time for a road trip to warmer climates. If that sounds great, then there are few places more laid back than Florida. There are countless things to do. Whether you’re interested in hitting the beaches, visiting Walt Disney World, or getting in some fishing, there is something for everyone.
You could always fly, of course, but there’s nothing like a road trip to get away from it all. Just pack your bags, and hit the road. Just make sure you pick the best route first. Here are the top five routes courtesy of Visit Florida, starting from the north and ending in the south.
A1A from Jax to Flagler Beach
The great thing about the A1A from Jacksonville to Flagler Beach is that you can travel by car or bicycle. It’s about 72 miles long, and you’ll be sure to enjoy each mile. The byway is a blast to drive, the water is perfect, and the scenery is ever-changing.
Green Mountain Byway from Mount Dora to Winter Garden
Considering this byway is only 19 miles long, this is a bit of a short ride, but it’s totally perfect. It’s ideal for anyone looking for a quick ride on their motorcycle. For anyone who loves to go shopping, this is considered the best place to find Florida’s best antique stores and flea markets.
There are also plenty of festivals going on during the winter months, like the Birdapalooza in February. These might change due to COVID-19, so be sure to check for updates on closings.
Tamiami Trail on the West Central coast
This highway goes through several cities including the cities of Palmetto, Bradenton, Sarasota, Venice, and North Port. It’s about 70 miles long, and there’s plenty to do along the way. If you’re interested in hitting the beach while in Florida, then Siesta Key is considered one of the top beaches in America.
There are plenty of restaurants to keep you full, ranging from pizza, southern BBQ, and even Amish Cuisine. If you’re more interested in relaxing, then the Warm Mineral Springs of North Port will do the trick. Once you’re ready for something a little more exciting, stop by the Ringling Museum of Art or the Sarasota Opera.
A1A Palm Beach to Miami-Dade County
If you get to Florida and find you’re looking for a quick trip, then this is the perfect route. It’s only 25 miles long, which is just long enough to see the sights without getting worn out.
It’s more urbanized than some of the other routes on this list, and even has a couple of casinos to keep weary travelers entertained.
Florida Keys Overseas Highway
The Keys are home to some of the most beautiful scenery in America, so why waste your time flying in? According to The Florida Keys and Key West,
“The Overseas Highway, sometimes called “the Highway that Goes to Sea,” is a modern wonder. It is the “magic carpet” by which visitors from Florida’s mainland can cross countless coral and limestone islets through that special world of the Florida Keys.”
The entire trip takes around four hours, but that’s only if you don’t make any stops. Considering all the places you can swim, fish, and just watch the wildlife, you should take your time and enjoy what the Keys have to offer.