With sparkling coastlines, lush springs, quirky small towns, and vibrant cities all within a few hours’ drive of Orlando, there’s no excuse not to explore. Buckle up, pack some snacks, and crank the playlist—here are the best Florida road trips to take this summer.
1. St. Augustine – Where History Meets Coastal Vibes
Drive Time from Orlando: ~1 hour 45 minutes
The nation’s oldest city is a charming mix of cobblestone streets, Spanish colonial architecture, and ocean breeze. St. Augustine offers a perfect blend of history and beachy relaxation.
Must-Do Activities:
Explore the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fortress with stunning water views.
Stroll down St. George Street for boutique shopping and local eats.
Cool off at Anastasia State Park—a hidden gem with hiking trails, calm beaches, and kayak rentals.
Hidden Gem:
The Pirate & Treasure Museum – It’s fun, a little kitschy, and surprisingly fascinating for all ages.
2. Crystal River – The Manatee Capital
Drive Time from Orlando: ~1 hour 45 minutes
If swimming with gentle sea cows is on your bucket list, Crystal River is the place to be. It’s one of the few places in the U.S. where you can legally swim with manatees in their natural habitat.
Must-Do Activities:
Book a manatee snorkeling tour (go early for the best chance to spot them).
Paddle the serene waters of Three Sisters Springs.
Grab a bite at a dockside restaurant like Crackers Bar & Grill.
Hidden Gem:
Peck’s Old Port Cove – This low-key seafood joint is worth the detour for fresh oysters and unbeatable sunset views.
3. Mount Dora – Small Town, Big Personality
Drive Time from Orlando: ~45 minutes
Mount Dora is a quick getaway with a historic downtown, antique shops, and lakeside views that make you feel worlds away.
Must-Do Activities:
Wander through Renninger’s Antique Center.
Take a boat tour on Lake Dora at golden hour.
Indulge in homemade treats from Cupcake Delights.
Hidden Gem:
Mount Dora Modernism Museum – A tiny but well-curated stop for mid-century design lovers.
4. Sanibel Island – Seashell Heaven
Drive Time from Orlando: ~3 hours 30 minutes
For laid-back island vibes and some of the best shelling in the world, Sanibel is a tropical treasure without needing a passport.
Must-Do Activities:
Go shell hunting on Bowman’s Beach.
Visit the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge for wildlife watching.
Bike around the island—it’s flat, scenic, and the best way to explore.
Hidden Gem:
Blind Pass Beach – Less crowded and known for epic shelling, especially at low tide.
5. Apalachicola – Old Florida at Its Finest
Drive Time from Orlando: ~5 hours 30 minutes
This underrated Gulf Coast town feels like a step back in time. Think historic inns, friendly locals, and world-famous oysters.
Must-Do Activities:
Walk along the working waterfront and watch fishing boats come in.
Try oysters every way imaginable at Up the Creek Raw Bar.
Pop into quirky local shops on Market Street.
Hidden Gem:
Gibson Inn – A restored historic inn with a wrap-around porch perfect for people-watching.
6. The Florida Keys – Tropical Road Trip Royalty
Drive Time from Orlando to Key Largo: ~5 hours; Orlando to Key West: ~7 hours 30 minutes
It doesn’t get more iconic than a road trip down the Overseas Highway. With 42 bridges and endless blue water, the drive is just as much a part of the adventure.
Must-Do Activities:
Stop at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for snorkeling.
Feed tarpon at Robbie’s Marina in Islamorada.
Explore Key West’s Duval Street, then catch the sunset at Mallory Square.
Hidden Gem:
Bahia Honda State Park – A slice of paradise for swimming, snorkeling, or just swinging in a hammock.
Tips for a Florida Road Trip Done Right:
Start early to beat the heat and avoid afternoon storms.
Don’t forget sunscreen, bug spray, and refillable water bottles.
Download offline maps—cell service can be spotty in rural or coastal areas.
Hit a roadside citrus stand for fresh juice or a bag of Florida oranges!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re craving beach days, historic charm, or off-the-beaten-path adventures, these Florida road trips from Orlando promise memories that outshine even the brightest summer sun. So gas up, grab your shades, and let the sunshine state show you what summer dreams are made of.