10-Day Florida Road Trip Itinerary With Scenic Stops
Explore Florida's beauty with our 10-Day Road Trip Itinerary, weaving through scenic stops for an unforgettable journey.
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Summary
- Florida is the most popular state to visit in winter, offering warm weather and beautiful beaches for those seeking a tan.
- A 10-day road trip through Florida allows travelers to explore scenic stops and enjoy luxurious getaways.
- From the white sands of Pensacola to the vibrant culture of Miami, each day of the trip offers unique experiences and opportunities for adventure.
A 10-day road trip in Florida might be the perfect excursion for those on the search for scenic stops and luxurious getaways.
A study conducted showed that Florida is the most popular state to travel to in America during the winter season. This makes a lot of sense because, while most people spend December to March shivering in the cold, those who visit the Sunshine State can get that golden brown tan they always dreamed of. Florida is an ideal destination for snowbirds, individuals who prefer spending their winters soaking up the sunshine in the warm Florida weather rather than enduring the chilly temperatures of their home states. A 10-day journey through Florida might be a little daunting, but an itinerary should do the trick. Check it out!
This 10-day journey through Florida starts at the top and ends at the bottom. For those visiting Florida from out of state, the Florida panhandle is a great first stop. No matter where travelers are coming from, this is where the journey starts. With scenic stops all along the way, there is much to do on this long yet fulfilling road trip.
10 Day 1: The White Sands Of Pensacola
The perfect place to start this journey is in Pensacola, Northern Florida. Located in the panhandle, near the border of Alabama and Louisiana, Pensacola is one of those places that is downright divine. As one of the most popular places to visit in the state of Florida, Pensacola is great for those searching for a little privacy while they visit the beach. Its white sands and warm waters are more than ideal. Enjoy its serene views and the occasional roar of a Blue Angel airplane soaring by. While there are many places to visit in Florida, Pensacola is known for its welcoming atmosphere.
9 Day 2: Pensacola To Orange Lake Resort
Scenic stop: Historical Tallahassee
Next on the list is Orange Lake. It will be about a five-hour drive, but travelers can stop in Tallahassee for lunch and see some of the historic sights, such as the Florida State Capitol. This old city is filled with historic architecture and will be a great place to take a break from driving on the road.
Those looking for a more commercial vacation getaway will love Orange Lake Resort. With a massive lazy river, a putt-putt golf course, a real golf course, tennis courts, and a cute market, Orange Lake Resort is a luxurious escape from the toil of life. Located right next to the scenic Orange Lake, there is plenty to do in this rural town.
8 Day 3: Orange Lake Resort To Devil's Den
Scenic stop: Panagia Vlahernon Greek Orthodox Monastery
Photo by Cheyenne Wyrick via Pexels
A quick drive to Devil's Den means travelers have time to visit the Panagia Vlahernon Greek Orthodox Monastery, a beautiful monastery that would be perfect for a stroll.
Devil's Den in Florida is truly a special place to visit. Those looking for scenic spots, look no further because this one might be the most scenic of them all. Devil's Den is an underwater river, and visitors are free to scuba dive, snorkel, and swim in its waters. This fascinating natural phenomenon is nicknamed the Devil's Eye. With cabins, tents, and more, this place would be the perfect opportunity for road trippers to rough it a little bit.
7 Day 4: Devil's Den To DeLand, The Athens Of Florida
Scenic stop: Alexander Springs
The drive to DeLand is quite a long one, so tired drivers might want to take a relaxing soak in Alexander Springs, one of the best swimming holes in the Ocala National Forest.
Visiting DeLand is the perfect opportunity to mix things up. The drive to DeLand from Devil's Den is only an hour and a half, so travelers won't be losing too much time on the road. DeLand is known for its culture, arts, and architecture. The entire town gives off an ancient Athens feeling. Those hoping to enjoy something artistic on this journey might want to check out the Athens Theatre. For others, Daytona is less than an hour away.
6 Day 5: DeLand To Crystal River
Scenic stop: Flying Eagle Wildlife Management Area
It's time to jump in the car and drive all the way to the West side of Florida to Crystal Rivers. This drive should take most people just over two hours.
However, some may want to stop along the way to enjoy the Flying Eagle Wildlife Management Area, a marsh that encapsulates Floridian nature and wildlife.
Crystal River is a special place, too. Visitors can canoe, kayak, or float down the river, enjoying the rural atmosphere of this natural destination.
5 Day 6: Crystal River To Lake Wales
Scenic stop: Bok Tower Gardens
Looking to slow things down a bit? On day six, it's time to drive all the way from Crystal River to Lake Wales, a quaint town in the heart of Florida.
Travelers on this amazing journey should definitely visit the Bok Tower Gardens. The drive from Crystal River is just over two and a half hours. Drivers won't want to stop because Bok Tower Gardens is one of the most beautiful spots in all of Florida. Located in Lake Wales, this magical garden is surrounded by orange trees and miles of rolling hills. The garden itself is a sight to behold, but what most people come for is the tower that stretches high into the air. The tower is surrounded by a small mote home to some (not so coy) koi fish who love to be fed.
4 Day 7: Lake Wales To Lakeland
Scenic stop: Circle B Bar Reserve
Not far from Bok Tower Gardens, Lakeland is a cute, family town with great food and decent accommodation.
Circle B is a great day trip to enjoy some nature and walk about. Less than an hour away, visitors are welcome to an enjoyable stroll through the reserve, free of charge. This reserve is home to all kinds of wildlife, most notably many alligators. For those who have never encountered near-prehistoric reptiles, now is the time. This location is also not too far from Tampa.
- Distance from Lake Wales to Lakeland: 28.6 mi
- Lodging Prices in Lakeland: $55 - $160
- Great food spot: Cafe Zuppina
3 Day 8: Lakeland To Sarasota
Scenic stop: The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
It's time to jump in the car again! The journey continues South to Sarasota, a nature lover's paradise. While Florida is known for its marshes, mangroves, and many scenic destinations, Sarasota takes the cake. Its white beaches and lively atmosphere make this destination a perfect place to stay for a day or two.
Visiting travelers should consider the Ringling Museum, a stunning art museum founded in 1927. Within the museum's boundaries lies one of the most stunning gardens in the entire United States.
2 Day 9: Sarasota To Marco Island
Scenic stop: Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park
Keep going south, and road-trippers will find themselves on Marco Island, a beach-lovers' fantasy. That said, drivers will want to stop along the way because it's a long journey.
Take a rest at the Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park, a natural reserve with lots of water and islands scattered around.
Marco Island is renowned for its beaches, golf courses, and shopping districts. Marco Island is also home to many endangered animals. The only caveat to this destination is the higher-priced lodging options.
1 Day 10: Marco Island To Miami
Scenic stop: Big Cypress National Preserve
Another 2-hour drive will get travelers to their last destination, Miami. This is an ideal last destination because it allows those who are renting cars to fly back home from Miami International Airport (MIA).
The drive to Miami cuts right through the Big Cypress National Preserve. The entire drive should be a peaceful journey to this last destination. Miami is home to the best food and culture in the state of Florida. With a Latin charm not found anywhere else in the country, Miami is one of the most traveled-to destinations in the United States. Enjoy the city's intense nightlife, sports, and amazing food.
