Road trip Miami to Orlando

Question

Hi, my husband and I are flying to Miami in November this year and hiring a car. We have 9 nights before we fly back from Orlando. We have chosen to fly back from Orlando as we wanted to spend our last day visiting the shops. We have been to Orlando a few times before so we do not want to do anything other than shop and eat here.

Looking for suggestions as to a good route to take, thinking of the first 2 nights in Miami and last in Orlando but other than that no firm plans. Our thoughts so far are Miami - Key Largo - Islamorada or Marathon? - Naples - Venice or Sarasota? and maybe back to Orlando from here?

This is all new to us and we are in the very early planning stages so any help, ideas/suggestions would be greatly appreciated! Once we have the route sorted next stop will be booking the hotels so again any recommendations would be good or any must see do places to visit? Thanks so much!

Answer

It sounds like you have a great trip shaping up! With 9 nights and a focus on exploring South and Southwest Florida while ending in Orlando, you can plan a relaxed road trip with beautiful scenery, beaches, and local food experiences along the way.

Here's a suggested route for your itinerary:

Miami (2 nights): Start with 2 nights in Miami to adjust to the time zone and enjoy the city. Explore South Beach, Wynwood Walls, Little Havana, and enjoy the vibrant food scene. For a more relaxed day, consider a boat tour around Biscayne Bay or a visit to Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.
Key Largo / Islamorada / Marathon (2-3 nights): Drive the scenic Overseas Highway to the Florida Keys. You could either stop in Key Largo for the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park or go further to Islamorada for a mix of beaches, fishing, and snorkeling. Marathon is more laid-back with beautiful beaches and the Dolphin Research Center. You might choose either 2 nights along the upper keys or split time between two of these stops.
Naples (1-2 nights): Head back to the mainland along the west coast. Naples has stunning beaches, high-end shopping, and great dining. You can stroll along 5th Avenue South or enjoy a sunset at Naples Pier.
Venice or Sarasota (1-2 nights): Venice offers a charming, quieter beach experience with great opportunities for fossil hunting and relaxing walks. Sarasota is livelier, with cultural attractions like the Ringling Museum of Art, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, and Siesta Key Beach.
Orlando (1 night): End your trip in Orlando for shopping and dining. Consider the Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets or The Mall at Millenia for high-end and designer brands. For your last dinner, there are plenty of excellent restaurants in the area, from international cuisine to classic Florida seafood.

Additional tips and must-see stops along the route:

While driving from Miami to the Keys, make time for scenic stops at Key Largo's glass-bottom boat tours or snorkeling spots.
If you like nature, consider a short detour to Everglades National Park for an airboat tour and wildlife spotting on the way from Miami to Naples.
In Naples and Sarasota, explore local farmers' markets if you enjoy fresh local produce and artisan foods.
Consider early hotel bookings in the Keys, as accommodations can fill quickly, even in November.
Check for seasonal events, especially in Sarasota, as November may have local festivals or outdoor concerts that are worth timing into your trip.

With this route, you’ll enjoy a combination of city life, tropical islands, and cultural stops, ending with a convenient shopping-focused day in Orlando before your flight. The driving distances are manageable, with the longest stretch being Miami to Marathon or Naples, so you can keep the journey comfortable and scenic.

Road trip Miami to Orlando

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