Most Scenic Route from West Melbourne to Tampa

Question

Hello, everyone. We are planning to drive from West Melbourne to Tampa next weekend, and we are looking for a good scenic route. The amount of time is not very important, we just want a beautiful and scenic drive. Thank you. P.S.: To those who previously responded to my question for a route from Melbourne to Orlando, I am sorry I'm sort of switching it up on you all, but we have decided to instead drive to Tampa and stay 1 night there at a hotel. We will be doing a few different things, so there is not one single place we will be driving to.

Answer

Driving from West Melbourne to Tampa can be a great opportunity to explore some of Florida’s natural beauty and charming small towns. Since you’re prioritizing scenic value over speed, there are a few routes that offer lakes, rivers, coastal views, and quaint communities along the way.

Here are some scenic options to consider:

US-192 W through Central Florida lakes: Start by heading west on US-192, which passes through the Kissimmee and Lake Tohopekaliga areas. This route offers views of open lakes, wetlands, and the rural Florida countryside. Stop in small towns like St. Cloud for local charm.
Scenic byways via State Road 50: Take SR-50 from the Orlando area westward. This road winds through rolling landscapes, including past Lake Apopka and Lake Hancock, with occasional glimpses of swamps, old oak trees, and historic towns such as Clermont and Winter Garden.
Via the Nature Coast and Withlacoochee River: For a more natural route, consider veering north from SR-50 toward the Withlacoochee State Forest area. This route includes tree-lined roads, river views, and less traffic, providing a peaceful, scenic drive through Central Florida’s wooded areas.
Along the Gulf Coast (coastal route): If you want a more coastal experience, you could take US-192 to US-27 then connect toward US-19/US-41 as you approach the Tampa Bay area. This route passes near small Gulf Coast towns and parks, giving occasional glimpses of tidal waters and marshlands.

Additional tips to enhance the scenic drive:

Consider stopping at Lake Louisa State Park
If you enjoy wildlife, Circle B Bar Reserve
Look for back roads and local highways; they often have less traffic and more charm than the main interstates.

Overall, combining elements of SR-50, US-27, and select county roads will allow you to experience a mixture of lakes, rolling hills, historic towns, and some natural areas without the monotony of I-95 or I-75. Take your time, plan a few stops, and enjoy the diversity of Florida scenery on your way to Tampa.

Most Scenic Route from West Melbourne to Tampa

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