Scenic Drive to Orlando

Question

Hello I am leaving Sunday May 18th to travel to Orlando from Delray Beach Florida. My mother who is 83 enjoys exploring scenic rides as do I. So I don’t want want to take 95 or the Turnpike to get there fast. I know I want to visit Bok Towers and Gardens in Lake Wales. Any other scenic drives along the way? Most gps say to take 95 to 60. I have also never been to Vero Beach wondering if that’s worth exploring. Thank you for your advice in advance again I have the whole day to get there so not in a rush.

Answer

Traveling from Delray Beach to Orlando offers several scenic alternatives if you want to avoid I-95 and the Florida Turnpike for a more relaxed, picturesque journey. Since you have a full day and your mother enjoys exploring, you can take routes that showcase natural beauty, charming towns, and the Atlantic coastline.

Starting from Delray Beach, you could head east toward the coast briefly and then take US-1 north through small towns like Stuart and Jensen Beach. This route runs closer to the Indian River Lagoon and offers views of waterways, marinas, and historic downtown areas with a slower pace.

Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales is an excellent stop for a scenic break. The gardens are famous for their Singing Tower, lush landscapes, and peaceful walking paths. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll and photography.

Other scenic routes and attractions along the way include:

Vero Beach: Worth a detour if you enjoy coastal scenery and small-town charm. The beachfront is calm and less crowded than other Florida beaches, and you can walk along the pier or stop for a seaside lunch.
US-441 through the Lake Okeechobee region: This route takes you around the southern edge of Lake Okeechobee, passing through farmland, citrus groves, and small towns. The vistas of the lake and surrounding countryside are very tranquil.
Scenic Highway 27: North of Lake Wales, this highway winds through rolling hills, orange groves, and natural preserves. It offers a more rural, slower-paced experience compared to main highways.
Historic towns along the way: Consider stopping in Mount Dora or Clermont for quaint downtown areas, antique shops, and lakeside views.

If you prefer a mix of coastline and inland scenery, you could start with A1A north to Vero Beach, enjoy the coastal drive and a lunch break there, then cut inland via State Road 60 toward Lake Wales and continue north to Orlando. This way, you balance ocean views, gardens, and rural landscapes.

Tips for making the most of your scenic drive:

Start early to maximize daylight and enjoy more stops without feeling rushed.
Pack water and snacks for short roadside picnics in natural areas.
Use a GPS with “avoid highways” or “scenic route” settings to explore smaller backroads safely.
Check local traffic or roadwork on US-441 and Scenic Highway 27, as they can occasionally have slowdowns.

Overall, taking your time and combining coastal, inland, and garden stops will make the journey enjoyable and memorable, giving both of you a relaxing, scenic drive to Orlando.

Scenic Drive to Orlando

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