Few things say freedom like rolling down the windows, queuing up your favourite playlist, and hitting the road with the sun on your face. Whether you're travelling solo, with friends or making it a family affair, a road trip to Orlando isn’t just about the destination — it’s about all the quirky towns, roadside stops and scenic views along the way! Here’s your guide to making the most of it.
Choosing Your Route
First things first, we need to talk about your route. This will depend on where you're coming from, there are a few classic routes into Orlando, each with its own flavour.
From the North (e.g., Atlanta, Jacksonville)
Route: I-75 S or I-95 S to I-4 W. Some of the highlights are:
- Savannah, GA: A perfect overnight stop with cobblestone streets, haunted history and charming squares.
- Gainesville, FL: Home to funky thrift stores, natural springs, and great cafés.
From the South (e.g., Miami, Fort Lauderdale)
Route: Florida’s Turnpike → I-4 W. The highlights are:
- Lake Worth & West Palm Beach: Artsy vibes and gorgeous beaches.
- Port St. Lucie: Peaceful parks and nature preserves make a great midday stop!
From the West (e.g., Tampa, St. Pete)
Route: I-4 E. The highlights are:
- Lakeland: Stop for a coffee and stroll around the cool downtown or check out Lake Mirror.
- Plant City: Known for strawberries (yumm!), but also a sleepy little town with charm.
Intermission: Safety Is Important!
Now that you know (hopefully) which route you're taking, let's talk for a moment about safety. This includes the obvious things like health insurance and knowing the local customs, but as you are on a road trip there are a few extra things to consider - car insurance for one or if you're travelling in a truck - truck insurance!
Additionally, failure to prepare is preparing to fail, meaning: you can never be too well prepared. So if you are travelling by truck, make sure to have a Orlando truck accident lawyer in your contacts. Trust me, it's better to have this information on hand now, rather than search around for it if you have an accident!
Worthy Pit Stops
Florida is full of surprises. If you’re not in a rush, here are a few spots worth stretching your legs for:
- Ocala National Forest: Think hiking trails, crystal-clear springs (like Juniper or Silver Glen), and that feeling of being miles away from city life.
- Blue Spring State Park: If you're lucky, you’ll catch manatees lounging in the warm waters.
- Kennedy Space Center: A detour for the science nerds, space lovers, or anyone who wants to feel tiny in the best way.
Where to Eat (Plant-Based & Road-Trip Approved)
Even on the road, good food matters. Here are some vegan-friendly gems to check out on your way:
Many gas station stops are also slowly stepping up — look for fruit cups, protein bars, hummus packs, and even plant-based jerky!
- Gainesville's Curia on the Drag: Coffee, brunch, and good vibes.
- Orlando's Soulicious Vegan Kitchen: Comfort food made vegan.
- Orlando's Market on South: A shared space with rotating vegan vendors (great for snacks and sweets).
- Leguminati: Home of the famed Crunchwrap.
Many gas station stops are also slowly stepping up — look for fruit cups, protein bars, hummus packs, and even plant-based jerky!
Once You're in Orlando…
Of course, you’ve got the theme parks — Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld, and more — but don’t sleep on Orlando’s other offerings.
- Lake Eola Park: Perfect for a sunset stroll or paddleboat ride.
- Leu Gardens: A peaceful, flower-filled break from the adrenaline of the parks.
- Winter Park: A chic neighbourhood with lakeside views, independent boutiques, and great food.
- Wekiwa Springs: Pack a picnic and your swimsuit for this stunning natural spring just a short drive from downtown.
Wrap Up & Some Final Tips Before You Go
Before you hit the road, make sure you're prepared for Florida's unpredictable weather — sunshine is almost guaranteed, but sudden rain showers can catch you off guard, so pack accordingly. It’s also smart to download offline maps in case you pass through areas with weak signal. Charge all your devices ahead of time — phones, cameras, portable fans — because chances are, you’ll want to use them all. Most importantly, stay curious. Some of the most memorable moments happen when you veer off the beaten path and stumble upon something unexpected.
