Last Updated on September 24, 2024 by Kristin
With more than a dozen theme parks, including Disney World and Universal Studios Florida, Orlando can keep you busy for weeks. But the inland city is also a good starting point to visit many destinations, set between the Gulf of Mexico’s waters and the Atlantic Coast. Here are the best road trips from Orlando.
Fabulous Road Trips from Orlando
Saint Augustine
104 miles / 1 hr. 35 mins.
Among the road trips from Orlando, a jaunt up to St. Augustine is one of the best ways to get your fill of history. This coastal city, founded back in 1565, is considered the oldest continually inhabited city in the country. One of the main attractions here is the massive 1600s-era Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S. Scaling the 219 steps of the Saint Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum is also a must for the panoramic views of the city and ocean.
Clearwater
105 miles / 1 hr. 43 mins.
If hitting the beach is your main objective, head west for the white sands of Clearwater. Situated on a barrier island, Clearwater offers some of the most beautiful beaches in the state. It also boasts plenty of beachfront accommodations and restaurants, so you’ll never have to stray too far from the water. Clearwater is also close to St. Petersburg, a city home to art institutions including the world-famous Salvador Dalí Museum.
Miami
235 miles / 3 hr. 26 mins.
With its world-renowned art scene, exclusive clubs and fine dining scene, cosmopolitan Miami needs no introduction. However, there’s more to the city than just trendy bars and expensive condos. Stroll through the sprawling Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, an estate whose crown jewel is a huge outdoor area with intricate European-style landscaping. Head to Calle Ocho — a key spot in the “Little Havana” neighborhood — to try authentic Cuban cuisine. Visit Wynwood Walls, an outdoor museum featuring colorful murals from some of the world’s leading street artists. And, last but not least, no road trip to Miami is complete without taking a leisurely drive through the world-famous South Beach neighborhood, home to some of the city’s hottest clubs, restaurants and iconic Art Deco-style hotels. >> Recommended hotels in Miami
Everglades National Park
265 miles / 4 hrs.
Note: The park has three different entrances. Travel times are based on how long it takes to get to the Shark Valley Visitor Center.
If you’re craving an adventure off the beaten path and away from crowds, a road trip down to Everglades National Park is the perfect remedy. Hop on an airboat, a flat-bottomed vessel used to navigate The Everglades’ marshy waters. Walking along paths such as the Anhinga Trail also provides a chance to spot animals including alligators, fish, birds and turtles.
Savannah, Georgia
280 miles / 4 hr. 8 min.
Looking for a road trip with a heaping dose of Southern charm? Head about four hours north to Savannah, Georgia. This city is full of picture-perfect brick and cobblestone-lined streets featuring historic homes and oak trees draped in Spanish moss. Spend an afternoon browsing the chic boutiques and gift stores in the historic River Street district. >> Recommended hotels in Savannah
Augusta, Georgia
397 miles / 6 hrs.
Most famous as the home of golf’s Masters Tournament, the town of Augusta has plenty of year-round appeal. That’s thanks to its charming downtown, canals, and a riverwalk that lies along the low-key Savannah River. There are great restaurants and shops, and Augusta has some fun ways to get around, too. Petersburg boat tours run through the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area, or take the Historic Trolley Tour of Augusta. >> Recommended hotels in Augusta
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