kentucky to florida road trip

Road Trip from Kentucky to Orlando, Florida

If the idea of weaving through rich history, stunning natural beauty and renowned landmarks before indulging in outdoor activities and getting a thrill at famous theme parks stirs your soul, then this epic road trip from Kentucky to Orlando, Florida is just what you are looking for.

This 1,020-mile road trip from Kentucky to Orlando, Florida takes almost 17 hours, taking you through Knoxville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Charleston, Savannah, Jacksonville, St Augustine, The Peachoid, Pinball Palace, and The Great Smoky Mountains.

With no limitations to fun or natural beauty, you are in for an exciting and memorable road trip. Read on to discover the best routes to take, places to stay overnight, hotel recommendations, key places to visit and the best times to set off.

How far is Orlando, Florida from Kentucky, and how long will the road trip take?

The Nashville Route covers 870 miles and takes 13 hours and 13 minutes to drive, taking you along the interstate with many big cities and natural attractions.

The Great Smoky Mountains Route is a bit longer, covering 1020 miles in almost 17 hours, housing small towns with the general vibe of gorgeous ocean views.

With so much to see and do, not only on the destination but also on both the routes, we recommend taking at least 4 to 5 days to avoid missing anything on this once-in-a-lifetime trip.

READ MORE - Ultimate Florida Road Trip Itinerary

Best road trip route from Kentucky to Orlando, Florida

Without a large time-difference between the routes, your choice will depend upon the vibe you are after as both offer an opposite experience in terms of views, one housing big cities and the other lined with small towns.

If you want to reach Orlando in as little time as possible while visiting the bigger, more developed cities, take the Nashville Route that offers you a chance to enjoy sunny weather in Atlanta and Gainesville. With a perfect balance between city and natural attractions, it has something for everyone.

You can pass through the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest while staying on the interstate, taking away your worries of navigating small roads. You won't get to explore the coast or The Great Smoky Mountains on this route.

The Great Smoky Mountains Route is longer and more leisurely, favoring smaller cities and the stunning Atlanta coast with several stops in stunning Tennessee. You can stop in bigger cities like Knoxville and Charleston while exploring the stunning Great Smoky Mountains.

It includes a beautiful stretch from Charleston to St. Augustine, offering gorgeous views of the ocean. This is a longer and less direct route, not ideal if you are on a strict timeline. You also won't have a chance to stop in any of the bigger cities on the other route.

Whether you're flying into Kentucky or you simply don't have your own transport in the city, renting a car for your road trip is something you'll want to take care of ASAP.

For an easy-to-compare view of rental options for your road trip from Kentucky to Orlando, Florida, take a look at our partner site, RentalCars.com .

How to drive from Kentucky to Orlando, Florida

The map above shows our suggestions for the best road trip routes between Kentucky and Orlando. Keep reading for detailed descriptions of both routes, where to stay on either, and the best things to do on the way.

The Nashville Route

If you would prefer to cover this road trip from Kentucky to Orlando, Florida on a route filled with bigger cities with all the amenities at your disposal, get on Interstate 65(I-65) S from W Liberty St and follow it to Interstate Dr in Nashville.

From there, get on I-40 E and follow I-24 E to Carter St in Chattanooga. Continue on Carter St to your destination. Then head south and follow I-75 S to M.L.K Jr Dr SE in Atlanta. Take Capitol Sq W to Capitol Ave SW.

Stop here for the night and enjoy the vibrant nightlife. When you are ready to resume your journey, make your way to I-75 S from Washington St SW and follow it to Gainesville. Take NW 8th Ave to S Main St.

Now get on I-75 S from S Main St and Us-441 S. Take Florida's Turnpike to S Lucerne Cir E in your thrilling destination at Orlando. Check out our ultimate Florida road trip itinerary to see the best way to extend your trip.

The Great Smoky Mountains Route

For a more scenic route, get on I-64 E from W Liberty St. Keep following it to US-441 in Knoxville then drive to Henly St. Stop here for a while and explore “The Marble City” with its unique attractions before continuing your road trip from Kentucky to Orlando, Florida.

Resuming your journey, head northwest and get on I-40 E. Follow TN-66 to Old Mill Ave in Pigeon Forge. Now head southwest and make your way to Baskins Creek Bypass in Gatlinburg.

From there, get on I-40 E in Hartford ad follow I-26 E to Meeting St in Charleston. Explore the rich history, architecture, culture and scenic beauty of this city. Then get on I-16W from Martin Luther King Jr Blvd. follow I-95 S to W Union St in Jacksonville.

Follow N Main St to FL-16 E and drive into St. Johns County. Continue into St. Augustine from there. Then head south on Water St toward Mulberry St. Continue on I-95 S and take I04 W to E Anderson St in your destination, Orlando.

If you want a longer road trip, check out our ultimate Florida road trip itinerary .

Best places to stop between Kentucky and Orlando, Florida

The success of a road trip does not depend on the destination alone, the routes also need to be offering a variety of attractions that are worth seeing to qualify as a true escape.

The road trip from Kentucky to Orlando, Florida is one of those trips so you would need to stay overnight during your journey to avoid exhaustion and get the complete experience.

Enjoy the energetic nightlife of Atlanta

After covering about half of your road trip from Kentucky to Florida on the Nashville Route, you will find yourself in the buzzing city of Atlanta. Lined with galleries and museums, Atlanta is home to a lively culture, music and art heritage.

While exploring this vibrant city, visit Zoo Atlanta which is a dream come true for animal lovers with more than 1,500 animals including adorable pandas. Just outside of Atlanta, sits Delta Flight Museum with hands-on exhibits and antique aircrafts.

Before you head back on the road, be sure to visit the World of Coca-Cola. Learn about the history of the most famous soft drink and its impact on pop culture through the exhibits and interactive displays.

For lodging, our choice is the new and stylish Epicurean Atlanta located in Atlanta's cultural and commercial center. This hotel boasts a fantastic location, close to famous attractions like the Symphony, The Fox Theater, Piedmont Park, and the Botanical Gardens.

It also takes away your worries about navigating and driving around Atlanta with easy access to public transportation systems and free parking to leave your car safely behind.

READ MORE - Click here for more great hotel options

Indulge in Southern food at The Marble City, Knoxville

After covering about one-third of the road trip from Kentucky to Florida from the Great Smoky Mountains Route, you will reach “The Marble City” of Knoxville. This city offers a historic, picturesque stay, cradled along the Tennessee River.

Acting as a gateway to The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Knoxville offers you a chance to explore Zoo Knoxville which spans over 53 acres of land and is home to over 1200 animals. It is an educational center as well as an animal park.

You can also visit the Knoxville Museum of Art which highlights both established and emerging artists from the local area by displaying their art. Before hitting the road again, don't miss the World's Fair Park, famous for the massive gold-tipped Sunsphere.

We recommend staying at The Tennesseean Personal Luxury Hotel during your stop in Knoxville as it is ideally located downtown allowing you to explore fine dining, local shops and entertainment on foot. With chic interiors and world-class amenities, you can experience true southern hospitality here.

It also offers on-site dining in the form of The Drawing Room which offers a seasonal menu. You can start your day early thanks to the European breakfast served daily. It also has a bar on-site.

It gives you easy access to famous attractions like the city's historic district, the Frank H. McClung Museum and the Tennessee River. Being minutes away from the highway allows you to easily resume your journey.

Where to stay when you reach Orlando, Florida

Once you reach your thrilling destination of Orlando, you will need to put down your things and rest for a while before heading over to enjoy the adventures Orlando has in store for you.

Our vote for accommodation goes to Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort . This award-winning resort gives you the ultimate Orlando experience a private water park and various fun activities for adults.

Lined with beautiful gardens, pools, palm and cypress trees, this hotel also features a deluxe spa and salon on-site that will provide you with the relaxation you need to regain your energy after the long trip.

This hotel offers 6 on-site restaurants which means you won't have to worry about dining even if you don't want to go outside. It also offers luxury transportation service to the four Disney Parks, making for the most convenient and comfortable hotel to end the road trip from Kentucky to Florida.

Things to see on a road trip from Kentucky to Orlando, Florida

The road trip from Kentucky to Orlando, Florida is lined with history, nature and adventure that you wouldn't want to miss. Read on for our curated list of the must-see places on both routes.

• Sam Davis Home – Experience a piece of history firsthand in this former home of a Civil War soldier built in 1810 that offers exhibits on American slavery practices in the South.
• Tennessee Aquarium – Visit the Tennessee Aquarium, which is nestled alongside the scenic Tennessee River in Chattanooga and is home to an impressive assortment of marine life, birds and butterflies.
• Chief Vann Historic Site – Indulge in tours, exhibits and stunning gardens in this historic home which was the first brick residence in the Cherokee Nation, built in 1804.
• Tellus Science Museum – Step into a cosmic world at this fascinating museum and explore the various fossils, geological displays and observatory.
• Zoo Atlanta – Worth a detour from Atlanta, this zoo is home to more than 1500 animals including dozens of cute pandas that you can see before 3:30 on weekdays and 4:30 on weekends.
• Southern Belle Farm – Enjoy homemade jams, pastries and preserves in this 330-acre, family-owned working farm that offers fresh, delicious snacks, berry and peach picking, especially during harvest season.
• Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park – Showcasing Native American ceremonial earth mounds and a museum displaying artifacts dating back to the 12000 BC, this national park is worth a visit.
• Jarrell Plantation State Historic Site – Take a somber look at Georgia's history of slavery at this historic site located just a drive away from Macon.
• Stephen Foster Folk Center Museum – Boasting a 200-foot-tall Carillion Tower, this museum gives you the chance to honor the memory of the legendary American composer and explore Florida's Folk History.
• Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park - Cradled between Orange and Lochloosa Lakes, this national park houses Pulitzer Prize-winning author Marjorie Kinnan's restored 1930s farmhouse.

• International Friendship Bell – Commemorating the works of the Manhattan Project, Oak Ridge and peace, this bell weighs in at over 8,000 pounds.
• Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum – Explore interactive and educational exhibits in this 38,000-sq-ft museum housing over hundred rare motorcycles.
• Chimney Rock State Park – Located within a beautiful state park, this iconic rock formation boasts breathtaking panoramic views and gives you a chance to explore waterfalls and hiking trails.
• The Peachoid – This famous landmark located off the beaten path is a 135-ft tall water tower designed like an enormous peach.
• South Carolina State Museum – Offering exhibits on history, art, nature, science and technology, this contemporary museum is housed on four floors of a textile mill.
• McLeod Plantation Historic Site – Learn more about the dark period in American history while walking along this plantation site with a Georgian-style mansion and slave cabins.
• Dungannon Plantation Heritage Preserve – Discover diverse habitats and wildlife in this 6430-acre wooded preserve nestled among South Carolina's rivers and lakes, offering hiking, hunting and birdwatching.
• Pinball Palace – Enjoy almost 100 pinball machines, 40 classic arcade games and 3 bouncy castles in one of the USA's best Pinball Arcades.
• McIntosh Sugarmill Park – Featuring ruins from a 19th-century sugar mill, with picnic tables under the canopy of massive oak trees, this historical landmark sits just a short drive away from Jacksonville.
• St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park – Perfect for the adventurous, this 100-year-old alligator sanctuary offers daily wildlife shows, displays of dozens of species of birds and reptiles, and a thrilling zipline ride.
• Ponce De Leon Inlet Lighthouse – Constructed in the late 1800s, this lighthouse made of brick and granite offers magnificent vistas of the Florida Coastline and a museum with tickets under $10.

Best time to go on a road trip from Kentucky to Orlando, Florida

Orlando, Florida is definitely a year-round trip with its warm and humid sub-tropical climate. Housing several theme parks, attractions and outdoor activities, Orlando is busy with tourists throughout the year, especially in summer.

Summers in Orlando are typically hot and humid, with temperatures ranging between 69 degrees Fahrenheit and 91 degrees Fahrenheit. Even though the humidity can make outdoor activities uncomfortable, tourism peaks during this time, especially in theme parks.

Generally mild and pleasant, winters are slightly less busy with tourism, except for the holiday season. The temperatures range between 52 degrees Fahrenheit and 74 degrees Fahrenheit, sometimes plunging down to 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Spring and fall are the intermediate seasons with average temperatures between mid-50 degrees Fahrenheit and mid-70 degrees Fahrenheit. These are great times to visit Orlando with less tourism and beautiful weather. You will find better prices during this time.

Disney and Universal Orlando host various festivals and holidays, but the city itself is also close behind with several events scattered throughout the year. Orlando Renaissance Festival is held in December and features a living chess board, various acts and plays that you can enjoy.

Florida Puerto Rican Parade and Festival in April promotes the achievements made by Puerto Rican industries. May brings in GayDays Orlando while June celebrates Girls in Wonderland.

During November and May, you can enjoy the Orlando Pottery Festival. Light Up UCF multiplies the celebration of Christmas with staking, Ice Slide and the Carousel. Bach Festival and Indie Folkfest in February celebrate folk music that you can enjoy.

If you are visiting during the summer, you will have a chance to attend the Florida Strawberry Festival and indulge in delicious strawberry recipes.

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The direct drive from Louisville to Orlando is 858 mi (1,380 km) , and should have a drive time of 12 hrs 49 mins in normal traffic.

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Florida Road Trip: 31 Amazing Places You Won’t Want To Miss

Florida is the perfect family road trip destination and a great family vacation idea with relaxation , art and culture , plus family-friendly activities ! We have road tripped the state 4 times and can’t wait to share with you all about the beautiful beaches , theme parks , natural wonders and historic sites .

The state is huge and has so much to offer from white sandy beaches to Disney World to Universal Studios to natural springs . Our Ultimate Florida Road Trip will take you from one end of the state down to island hopping in the Florida Keys and back up to the Florida panhandle.

High level List Of Top Activities To Do

• Orlando CityPass
• The Fury Ultimate Water Adventure
• Little Havana Tour
• Visit the Dry Tortugas

Have you thought about renting an RV for your trip? We highly recommend it!

*Be sure to check out our FREE Ultimate Florida Road Trip With Your Family eBook below!

Table of Contents

The Ultimate Florida Road Trip Map

St. Augustine

There are so many things to do in St Augustine Florida , it’s an amazing way to start your ultimate Florida road trip. We recommend 2 nights, but really you could stay a week. If you are staying 2 days visit:

St. Augustine Alligator Farm

You can spend hours here exploring all the different alligators, feeding them, and watching the shows. Plus for only $5 you can take your picture with a baby alligator!

Fountain of Youth

It seemed like such a tourist trap to us, but really there is more to it than just the fountain. The grounds are beautiful and filled with multiple history lessons – including the Timucuan Village and seeing them fire a cannon! The road to get to the Fountain of Youth is also amazing with a canopy of old oaks covering the street. Needless to say it is worth it to go.

St. George Street

You can end your day by visiting St. George Street. It is filled with restaurants and one of our favorite stops: Hyppo for homemade popsicles! They even had a champagne flavored one.

And yes, those are our dogs. St. Augustine is super dog friendly!

We also recommend checking out Historic Tours of America , they offer great packages and other ideas of things to do in the area. The trolley was an amazing way to get around town and really learn a lot about St. Augustine. It also meant we didn’t have to drive and find parking everywhere we went.

Or you could check out this trolley tour that takes you to three of St. Augustine’s museums: The Old Jail, St. Augustine History Museum and The Oldest Store Museum!

For even more history, consider visiting the Castillo de San Marcos Monument, booking the Old Jail Tour, or visiting the Oldest Store Museum!

Check out more fun activities in St. Augustine! Where to Stay:

Compass RV Resort offers another good location in St. Augustine with only a 15-20 minute drive to get downtown. This campground also has two dog parks!

Another option is Ocean Grove RV Resort that is about 7 miles from the historic district. This campground includes a boat launch, restaurant, golf cart rental, and more!

If you want to rent an RV check out our post on How To Rent An RV and How To Plan An RV Trip .

Hotel:  Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront

We did not stay in a hotel when we were there but given where this hotel is located we think it would be a great place to stay. If you stay here you could walk to a lot of the downtown attractions or easily get on the trolley.

You can’t come to Florida and not go to Orlando. Plan on at least 3 days for all of these things to do in Orlando, Florida :

Magic Kingdom

Visit Magic Kingdom for 1 day. We have done it multiple times and really feel you can see the majority of the park in 1 day. Here is a post we wrote about our tips for visiting in 1 day here: 11 Tips For Visiting Magic Kingdom In 1 Day

Here are some tips from Global Munchkins:  Disney World Tips & Tricks and also The Best Disney Family Shirts for your trip!

Plan on heading to Animal Kingdom? Our friends at We3Travel share what the best ride is in Animal Kingdom and all of Disney!

Universal Studios

We had put off going to Universal Studios until our kids were a little older. When our youngest turned 6 we figured it was a good time to go! We had an absolute blast and loved every minute of it. There was plenty to do with younger kids and the older ones could go on almost all of the rides.

We also had a great time going to Volcano Bay and highly recommend if you are going to Universal plan a day at Volcano Bay!

Ideally we would recommend 3 days to explore Universal. 1 day for each park and 1 day for Volcano Bay. There are 2 parks in Universal – Universal Studios VS Islands of Adventure we recommend visiting both and have done both in one day if you are short on time. Great tips from Global Munchkins on visiting Universal: The Best Universal Orlando Tips From A Pro Have teens? Merlot Mommy shares: The Best Rides for Teens at Universal Orlando Resort

Visiting during Halloween? Be sure to check out The Ultimate Guide to Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights

Go tubing at Kelly Rock Springs and visit Downtown Disney. This has been one of our favorite things. The water is crystal clear and with all the beautiful greenery and perfect water it is a can’t miss destination!

You start from the top of the spring on an inner tube and float all the way down to the beach. AMAZING!

You can learn more about it in our post: Tubing By Orlando The Best Non Disney Experience and for more springs check out: Best Springs In Florida

If your kids are 12 or younger we recommend also making a stop at LEGOLAND Florida for a day. The size of the park is so much easier to manage then Disney World and in a day you can pretty much do every ride and see the shows.

If you are interested in visiting Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando or LEGOLAND Florida, you may want to consider using the Orlando CityPass ! CityPass will allow you to order tickets to any of these locations on one convenient website and give you a great discounted price!

Escape Game

If you haven’t checked out the Escape Game yet, you are missing out! At Escape Game Orlando you can test your teamwork and sleuthing skills by trying to escape from one of eight themed rooms with your team or family in under an hour. It is a ton of fun for the whole family and a great teamwork exercise as well!

You can check out our post about our experience at The Escape Game here!

Orlando Museum of Art

If you are looking to take in some culture or expand your horizons a bit while in Orlando, check out the Museum of Art! Take a look at the museum’s calendar of events and see if there is something exciting happening in the art gallery, or just stop in anytime and take a tour!

You could also plan a trip over to the Kennedy Space Center and maybe catch a launch, or Swim or Snorkel with the Manatees!

Get tickets here for the Kennedy Space Center!

Have older kids? Check out this post on things to do with teens in Orlando .

Where to stay:

Luxury Villa :  If you are looking to kick back with a big group or want to experience a luxury vacation home check out the Luxury Villas! We stayed here for a week with friends and it was AMAZING!!

Orlando RV Resort With our RV we always stay at the Thousand Trails Orlando. Its proximity to all of the things we listed above is great and you are a little ways away from the hustle and bustle of Orlando. If you want a more glamorous place to stay than Disney’s Fort Wilderness is for you. We spent a day there and it was pretty awesome and we know other RVers who call it their FAVORITE place to stay in the whole US.

Camp Margaritaville – For a fun vacation style RV resort stay here!

If you want to stay outside Orlando, Mill Creek RV Resort is in Kissimmee – only about 30 minutes from the Orlando theme parks. Also, all of these sites are on concrete patios!

Another option outside Orlando is in Davenport. Only 25-30 minutes from the Orlando theme parks, Mouse Mountain RV Resort offers a selection of standard and premium sites.

If you want to splurge stay at the Fort Wilderness Resort ! We haven’t stayed here but went and visited once and it was amazing.

Embassy Suites on International Drive If you are looking for a hotel and want to give your kids a special treat then stay at the Legoland Hotel . They have gifts for your kids once they complete a scavenger hunt in your room, all the legos you want to play with in the lobby and some amazing shows.

Then of course there are all the Disney properties. To be honest we always look for ways to cut costs so we can take more trips and do more things. In that mindset we stayed at an Embassy Suites that provide breakfast was close to Disney – so that is always an option too.

Here is a great list of the Best Hotels For Families In Orlando .

If you are a waterpark family check out: Best Water Parks In Orlando. 

From here you could head to our next stop Miami or make a stop in Jupiter. There are a lot of great things to do in Jupiter, Florida and it is a more under the radar location!

Welcome to Miami! Miami has a very cool vibe to it. We recommend doing the following:

Little Havana

Miami has an amazing Cuban presence and vibe to it. Head into Little Havana and grab some ice cream at Azucar and then walk down the street to see if you can hear any cuban music coming from the bar/restaurants and do a little dance in the street.

Next head into Wynwood and check out the amazing artwork on the sides of the building. This is an up and coming area in Miami and has an awesome vibe to it! You can also park and get out and walk around Wynwood Walls to check out the artwork and restaurants in the area.

South Beach

Go to South Beach and see what South Beach is really like! We didn’t get a chance to get out of our car due to how busy it was. But it was cool to drive down A1A and take in everything South Beach has to offer.

Miami Seaquarium

We had a great time exploring the Miami Seaquarium and all the exhibits. Grab your Seaquarium tickets here ! Don’t forget to check out Miami Beach while you are there!

If wildlife is more your thing check out Tropical Botanical Garden & Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary at Flamingo Gardens

Check out our post on: 7 Things To Do with Kids in Miami

Check out these other great activities in Miami!

RV Park: Miami Everglades RV Park 

We stayed at the Encore RV park. We had to drive a ways to get into downtown Miami – but it was still worth it since the RV park was so nice and quiet. Plus they had a great pool, hot tub and mini golf course!

Hotel:  Check out this highly rated family friendly hotel:  InterContinental Miami

VRBO: Check out this Mediterranean-style cottage with private swimming pool!

Luxury Villa : If you are looking to house up to 12 guests in style with an infinity pool, fitness room and home theater, consider this Luxury Villa !

Another idea is to take a cruise when you are in Miami! The Carnival Vista looks amazing!

Florida Keys and Key West

Ever wonder the distance from Miami to Key West ? Well, it’s about 160 miles. Crazy, right?! That 3 hour drive could be a road trip in itself! Well, now you know the distance from Miami to Key West , on your Florida Keys Road Trip , check these amazing stops:

Feed the Tarpons

Stop at Robbie’s and feed the Tarpons. It is a really cool experience. For just a few bucks, you get a bucket of fish that you then feed to the large tarpon that hang out by the pier.

So fun! Just look out for the Pelicans, they’re savage!

Grab lunch at Sunset Grille

This is a cool restaurant on the water that has a pool! It is a great place to stop, eat lunch and take a swim before heading on. Make sure to check out their Key Lime Pie! Once you are done swimming walk up the stairs that go under the bridge and walk out on the famous 7 Mile Bridge.

7 Mile Bridge

You can’t avoid it on your way down to Key West, but I wanted to add it so you can be sure you have your camera ready. I love this bridge and the idea of the water surrounding you on all sides!

While you are on the way to Key West, you might want to check out Long Key State Park! Here is a video of our time there:

Key West – Fort Zachary Taylor

Explore the fort and spend time at the beach enjoying the Atlantic Ocean! The beach doesn’t have soft white sand beaches, most in the Keys don’t due to the reef but that’s OK. The color of the water and the ability to snorkel right off the beach make up for it! There is also a small restaurant here where you can grab lunch and a beer.

Key West – Mallory Square

Then head to Mallory Square for the Sunset Celebration. There are a variety of fun shows for the whole family. Yes, some of the comments can be a little crude (they do try really hard to make it family friendly) – but normally will go right over your kids head. We were able to drink from a coconut and enjoy some great food too.

Key West – Fury Ultimate Adventure

The Fury Ultimate Adventure is one of our favorite things we have done! Spend 6 hours on a large catamaran where they feed you all day and provide all you can drink soda plus beer and wine at the end the end of the trip. While you snorkel, parasail, jet ski and play on huge inflatables in the middle of the ocean. Such an amazing time!!

You can learn more at our post: The 4 Best Water Activities With Kids In Key West.

Key West – Dry Tortugas

If you can fit it in, take the boat tour out to the Dry Tortugas. It is an amazing and magical place. Seriously, it is an island 70 miles off of Key West with the bluest water you have ever seen and a beach filled with conch shells. And the fort offers the best photo opportunities.

Get Dramamine and be prepared for the long and bumpy boat ride.

Here is our post on it: Dry Tortugas – One For The Bucket List Or if you have enough time, plan on camping on the Dry Tortugas! We didn’t get a chance to do it but it is on our list to go back and stay for a few nights. Here is a post from a family of 5, Currently Wandering, who spent a few days on the Tortugas (lucky!): Family Camping In Dry Tortugas National Park You can check out: https://www.historictours.com/keywest/index.php for more ideas and discounted packages on things to do in Key West. We really enjoyed the aquarium and the kids loved being able to feed the sharks!

More On The Florida Keys

We spent 2 1/2 months in the Florida Keys. You can check out all of our posts on our time there on our: Florida Keys page .

Check out these post from We3Travel: Family Fun In The Florida Keys and Florida Keys Roadtrip to learn more as well!

You can check out even more activities in Key West here! Check out all the great kayaking options in Florida parks here !

Where To Stay:

RV Park: Boyds Campground We haven’t stayed here but we have heard if you want to be close to Key West this is a great place to stay with your RV.

Another option located a little over an hour from Key West is Pelican RV Resort in Marathon.

If you are looking for a less expensive option and somewhere that is in a quieter location, we recommend Sunshine Key – which is where we stayed. It is a good 90 minute drive into Key West so be prepared for that. Or, if you can get in, the Bahia Honda State Park is amazing – especially if you get right on the water.

Hotel: Casa Marina Resort , in Key West. The property is beautiful and not right in the middle of downtown Key West – which we think is a great fit for being with a family in Key West.

If you can stay in the Keys for longer we also recommend Hawks Cay! The only problem with staying here is you won’t want to leave but will instead want to stay at the hotel and enjoy all the amenities.

For a road trip it would be great for a couple day break but we really recommend it if you are looking for a week long stay in one place.

Everglades National Park

Shark Valley

Make a stop at the Shark Valley Visitor Center in the northern end of the Everglades and take a tram ride (may have to buy tickets well ahead of time for this) or if you have your bikes or want to rent them you can take the 15 mile bike ride into Shark Valley – which we recommend! You don’t need tickets to do the biking.

You can learn more about the tram and about renting bicycles here: Shark Valley Tram Tours

It is one amazing and wild ride as you pedal right past gigantic alligators!!! And depending on the weather you may even be riding through rain puddles with alligators sitting right in them. Once you reach the lookout you can climb to the top and have an amazing view of the Everglades.

At 15 miles round trip it is a long ride, but the path is paved and flat – but like in our case – if it is windy, it can be challenging.

Be prepared when you get to Shark Valley Visitor Center that there may be a line to get into the parking lot. They have a small parking lot and they only let so many people in.

We just sat in our car and waited our turn. It took about 20 minutes or so. A few other people parked on the road outside the entrance.

If you have your bikes I recommend waiting for a spot in the lot since you will be there a while.

You can also tour Everglades National Park by Airboat!

Check out even more things to do in The Everglades here!

Check out our post on Shark Valley here: 7 Things To Do With Kids in Miami .

Where to Stay:

RV Park:  If you are up for National Park Camping we recommend Midway Campground. It is a 21 minute drive from there to Shark Valley. If you don’t mind a 45-minute drive, Riptide RV Resort in Key Largo is another good option.

Hotel:   Best Western Plus Kendall Hotel & Suites We did not stay here but do to its location it would be great for visiting Shark Valley. It is about a 38 minute drive to Shark Valley Visitor Center.

Highlands Hammock State Park

Looking for things to do in central Florida other than Orlando? Stop at the Highland Hammock State Park. It is a beautiful park and we recommend taking at least 1 of the hikes before heading out.

The Cyprus Swamp – Highland Hammock Trail is one of our favorite hikes. A couple of our kids were a little freaked out about it but when it was said and done everyone had fun!

RV Park: Highland Hammock State Park campground. We stayed here and it was great! Lake Josephine RV Park and Buttonwood Bay RV Resort , located in Sebring, are two other great options since they’re only about 20 minutes from the State Park.

Hotel:   The Inn On The Lakes   We did not stay here but due to its location we would recommend it.

Clearwater Beach

Voted one of the best beaches in Florida. Clearwater is a beautiful beach with white sand and aquamarine water and beautiful beach resorts . Just be prepared that it can be very busy.

If you can spend a day hanging out at the beach and then head to the main street to check out the shops and restaurants and grab some food and drinks.

Bring Florida home with you with this awesome hurricane drink recipe!

Dolphin Tale

Visit Hope from the movie Dolphin Tale 2 at the Clearwater Aquarium and be sure to take the free boat ride over to the museum that is dedicated to the movie. And be on the look out for dolphins in the ocean on the ride!

If you are looking for something different to try while in Clearwater, why not try a customizable helicopter tour? Check it out here!

Check out more great activities to do in Clearwater! Plus things to do in Tampa Bay with families ! Or maybe take a road trip to Siesta Key .

RV Park: It is a bit of a drive, but we stayed at Lazy Days and made the 1 hour drive into Clearwater Beach. The Dunedin RV Resort , a closer option, is only a few miles from Clearwater.

Hotel: Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort would be a great place to stay due to its proximity to the beach! Check out these three spacious Clearwater Beach resorts perfect for families too.

VRBO: Check out the Clearwater Beach Vacation Rentals .

Luxury Villa: Check out these villas .

Port St Joe Florida in Gulf County

We recently spent a week in Port St Joe, Florida and were so pleasantly surprised with how awesome the forgotten coast is! If you are looking to visit a new place in Florida this is it. 

You can kayak and snorkel in the bay. Take a boat out to look for dolphins. Have a campfire on the beach and find some of the best shells we have ever found! 

Gulf County, Florida is beautiful! The beaches are huge and you can walk for miles up and down them. I am so glad we found this hidden gem in Florida! 

You can learn more about it here: 21 Fun Things To Do In Port St Joe Florida

Finish your trip by stopping in Destin for a day of relaxation. If the weather is going to be warm enough when you go then get a hotel room on the beach and plan on just kicking back and relaxing for your last few days.

If you aren’t ready to relax Destin also offers an amazing pirate boat adventure for the kids, private catamaran tours with Smile N Wave and a dolphin cruise . Plus there is under the sea bowling and a lot of yummy restaurants in the area. We also loved The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park  just outside Destin!

The sunsets are amazing so be sure to catch it each night you are there! And you will want to try the Crab at the Crab Trap !

Here is our post on Destin (we have visited multiple times and we totally miss it when we leave!).

Check out more activities to do while you are in Destin!

RV Park : Camp Gulf on the beach! It is by far one of our favorite RV parks and we highly recommend paying the extra to stay on the beach.

About half an hour from Destin is The Hideaway Retreat in Navarre, FL. With large, beautiful oak and magnolia trees surrounding the sites, this campground on the Santa Rosa Sound offers lots of shade and a true outdoor atmosphere.

About an hour the other direction is Emerald Coast RV Resort in Panama City Beach. With two heated pools, a hot tub, fitness center, and more, this campground offers plenty to do when you aren’t visiting Destin.

Hotel: Hilton Sandestin The hotel is actually pretty close to the RV park. You can walk on the beach to the hotel from the RV park and get a drink at their bar/restaurant. A great way to watch the sunset!

VRBO: Check out this awesome house with a pool and hot tub and only a few blocks from the beach!

Recommended Itinerary for 14 nights

You could replace Clearwater with Port St Joe if you wanted to spend more time on the Panhandle of Florida. 

And if you want to get our free eBook on the Ultimate Florida Road Trip With Your Family click here!

The ebook documents everything in this post, along with an area for notes under each city. You can easily print it and use it for your planning and when you go on your trip.

You’ll see the Atlantic Coast and the Gulf Coast on your trip and enjoy one of the best road trips for families in the United States!

More Florida Travel Ideas

Florida has so much to offer. If you can, we recommend staying for months – we stayed for 6. But if that isn’t an option this road trip could take approximately 2 weeks.

It could be longer or shorter depending on how much time you spend at each location. You will be covering a lot of miles but it is worth it to see all of these amazing places.

There are so many amazing places to visit in Florida, from small towns to big cities. It is impossible to list them all! Here are a few more awesome stops that our blogger friends have written about:

Things To Do In Naples Florida

20+ Things To Do In Florida On The Ultimate Sunshine State Road Trip

Florida Beaches: 25 Best Family Vacation Destinations

Places To Visit In Florida

29 Things to Do in Amelia Island

17 Best Florida Beaches

Things to Do in Tampa Bay in a Day . Don’t forget to check out St. Petes Beach in St. Petersburg while you’re there! You can also visit Cocoa Beach, Blue Springs, Crystal River, Vero Beach and so many more amazing places!

A trip to Florida can be spent doing day trips all over the state. Or you can pick one place to stay for your whole trip. 

You may also want to check out some of the great things to do in Fort Lauderdale. See JN Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island. Or check out the Barrier Islands in the Gulf of Mexico.

There are some great scenic drives in Florida to check out too and some awesome Florida Small Towns !

Anna Marie Island is another great place to check out!

More Posts To Check Out

Looking for another Road Trip? Check out these great East Cost Family Vacation Spots !

How about other fun things to do around Florida?! Check out:

Where to see Manatees in Florida

9 Delicious Port St Joe Restaurants You Will Want to Try

25 Exciting and Fun Things To Do In Myrtle Beach, SC

9 Outstanding Places to Visit with Kids in Atlanta, Georgia

7 Amazing Things To Do In Asheville With Kids

29 Brilliant Things To Do In Gulf Shores, Alabama

National Park Road Trip

14 Amazing RV Parks in Destin Florida

East Coast Road Trip 25+ Spots You Don’t Want to Miss!

The Ultimate Guide to The Harry Potter World Rides

8 Things to do in Jupiter Florida

6 Best Springs in Florida

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42 thoughts on “Florida Road Trip: 31 Amazing Places You Won’t Want To Miss”

This seriously has me questioning renting an RV and heading off on a road trip adventure. I never thought of laying out a 14 day itinerary like that. It sounds amazing!!! What a fantastic post!

Finally going to take a few days off this weekend to be with family. Thanks for the list of florida road trip ideas. Really great photos too, especially of Dry Tortugas, wish I could jump right into the photo. Can you tell I really need a break? haha

Thanks! Dry Tortugas is amazing – we can’t wait to get back!!

Good site for those who want to travel here in Florida, one trip I would suggest is instead of heading towards Orlando on route 4, go over to Route 1 after Daytona and take the turn in to the Cape Canaveral Seashore. It has hiking trails, bike trails and you can also go to the beach. For the children continue on to the Space Center and take the tour, we had our grandson and he had a wonderful time there. After that yes on to Disney. Good blog.

Great suggestion! Hoping to visit this area on our next time in the state!

Hi, great itinerary. Any chance of a link to the original google map please?

Unfortunately, no. We plotted the map just to grab the picture of it. Next time, we’ll try to save them. Thanks for the idea!

HI could you confirm the period of year in which you did the trip?

We did this mainly in the fall/winter months, but it could be done pretty much at any time. Parts of Florida can get uncomfortably hot during the summer months, but the coastal areas can still be nice.

What were some of the most Dog friendly places you visited. The reason I ask is I am wanting to do a spontaneous road trip and wanted to make sure my four legged friend could come with me as I will not have anywhere else to put him while I am on the road. Or visiting certain places.

To be honest, there are tons of dog friendly places we’ve visited. It seems more and more businesses are being accommodating to pets. But off the top of my head, St. Augustine, Asheville, San Diego and Denver were all very dog friendly cities. Pretty much all of those cities had water bowls on the side walk, we went to a dog night at a brewery in Asheville (including a special dog-safe brew) and other events that dogs were welcome. Hope that helps!

Hello! We are going on our first ever RV holiday next month – March 2018 – around Florida. We are heading to Destin from Clearwater. Where should stop on that last leg? It’s a bit far for our 2, 7 & 8 yr olds. We managed to get the last beach front spot at Camp Gulf! Thanks, Isabel

We’ve heard great things about Apalachicola National Forest, although we’ve never been there. That may be somewhere to consider.

Certainly you found a bunch of Florida road trips spots. Amelia Island, 30A, and Anna Maria Island are among my Florida favorites.

Thanks! We need to explore Amelia Island and Anna Maria Island!

Sorry you forgot the Space Coast! There are so many fun & interesting things to do, including the Kennedy Space Center which is totally geared for the entire family (and maybe a rocket launch!), wonderful beaches, cruise ships, surfing and fishing possibilities, air boating, eco river tours, Brevard Zoo. Our state has so much to offer. Hope you’ll come again and check out our Space Coast fun!

We’ll definitely be back that way at some point. I didn’t really think of Florida as a big state, but it’s huge! So many places to see, we just ran out of time.

I ytuly enjoyed your honesty and thoughts about this. We are taking a road trip there soon amd have seen much, but not the keys!!! Thanks for the inspiration!!!

The Keys are an amazing destination, one of our favorites. Hopefully you can get down there.

If someone asks me about great post for weekend, which probably create a wonderful mood, definitely it would be yours!

What a beautiful post, I am preparing to move to Fl and I am looking forward to it and freaked out at the same time! I will have to take some time and explore the keys for sure. Thank you.

You’re welcome! The Keys are amazing!

Hi, We are coming over from England with our 5 & 7 yr olds and want to do an RV trip but have a couple of concerns; 1) Are RV parks very expensive 2) Are they isolated ie: do you need a car to get to all the places or can you drive your RV to them. Such as staying at Orlando for 3 nights how do you get to all the parks?

Great blog has given us a great guide on what to do thanks.

Thanks, The Jefferson family

Some RV parks can be expensive. If you stick to state parks, it ranges around $40 USD per night. RV parks are usually a bit away from attractions. If you rent a relatively small RV (something like 30′ or less) you can drive that around town to grocery stores, restaurants, etc. and find parking for it. If you plan to visit attractions like Disney, they do have oversize and RV parking. Worst case scenario, in places like Orlando, you can always get an Uber. Best of luck, have a great trip!

You should really add Naples and if you can. It has great beaches and other things like zoos

Thanks for the suggestion! We’ll add that to our list for next time!

South Florida- our old stompin’ grounds! Our first stop when we hit the road was the Keys. We love it so much down there. The camping has really gone crazy in price since then. But we hope to get back down there soon. Key West has so many awesome places to explore and fine- the back streets off Duval are so much fun to explore. Thanks for the walk down memory lane!

Frank and Grainne The Roving Foleys

The Keys are amazing, and yes, a bit pricier than other places! We hope to get back down there again soon too!

Thank you for your suggestions. You hit the tourists spots, do you have a blog that maybe hits the places in between that are more off the path and less tourist oriented?

We don’t at the moment, but pass along some good spots if you find them.

I think If you have a positive attitude and constantly strive to give your best , you will always find home!) No matter what!

Great advice!

I’ve enjoyed exploring your blog. So many great places – so little time : ). We just got back from camping in Florida over Christmas break and enjoyed St Augustine, too. We spent two nights but could easily have spent more, but Sanibel used up most of our time. If you get a chance, try kayaking at Blue Spring State Park – the manatees swam right under us! Perhaps next winter we can make it to the Everglades and Keys and try out some of your ideas. Best, Gwen

We definitely want to check out Blue Spring State Park. We’ve heard great things about it! Glad you had a fun trip!

I have lived in Florida for 49 yrs and have never taken a road trip here to see what all I have been missing. The keys is our first stop. We live in High Springs Florida right across the road from Ginnie Springs, Poe Springs and Blue Springs. We will start in Pensacola and travel the beaches down to Naples and cut over to Miami and head down to the keys, back up and hug the coast all the way up to St Augustine. Our next trip will be inland and discover all the things we have missed.

• Pingback: 12 RV Parks In Florida That You Will Want To Visit

This is a great list. Florida has so many fun things to do.

Thanks! Yes it does!

Thanks “Bryanna” for sharing a great recommended list. I really love Florida and make a vacation with road trip. I’ve been visited Maximum’s places on your list. I mostly like Shark Valley, Clearwater Beach, Mallory Square, 7 Mile Bridge. But you can also add Disney world to your list.

We tried to give some options other than the usual things people do in Florida.

Comments are closed.

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Planning a road trip from Kentucky to Florida - Florida Forum

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How many days do you have?

Drive from Kentucky (where in Kentucky?) to Memphis (Graceland), will need 2 nights in Memphis

Stay in Ft. Myers Beach, FL or Naples / Marco Island (how many nights do you want to stay here?)

Visit Everglades ( Shark Valley , take tram tour or an airboat tour )

It will be very hot in July/August in the Everglades, be sure to have mosquito repellent.

Head east, stay near Miami Beach or Ft. Lauderdale . (how many nights?)

Drive to Cocoa Beach , visit Kennedy Space Center from there. ( 2 nights minimum)

Head home to Kentucky. (one night on the road minimum)

Maybe post another question on the Road Trips Forum.

"Maybe post another question on the Road Trips Forum."

I agree, repost on the Road Trips forum. Look at posts by Peachbelle as she has a good itinerary from Memphis south. Others will help there too. Let them know where in Kentucky you are starting from and how many nights total you have to get to your destination. Also look at map quest or google maps to see the routes and cities along the way.

I believe there are some airboat tours near Ft. Lauderdale and Miami. Take a look at their forums for more info. Also click on the Things to Do tab on each cities forum.

Your answers are extremely helpful! I really appreciate all that you shared. Our travel friends are coming from out of the country; I'm trying to find out how long they can stay in the US before I can pursue any more plans. Thanks again!

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Kentucky Road Trip Ideas: 11 Best Road Trips + Itinerary

Chris Muras

Every adventure starts with a single step. And then another, and another, until you find yourself somewhere new and undiscovered. That’s the journey of a writer. You never know where the next word will take you. Hopefully, together, we can experience some amazing new adventures at OnlyInYourState.

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Taking a road trip can be the best way to get to know an area. Even if you’ve lived in Kentucky your whole life, we guarantee there is still more to see. If you enjoy traveling and feeling like a tourist in your own state, then try out one of these Kentucky road trip ideas we’ve put together to show you some extraordinary sights in the state. Each place includes a link back to the original article so you can read more details about each stop. You’ll also find links to an interactive Kentucky road trip map so you can customize it the way that’s most convenient for you.

1-Day Road Trip In Kentucky

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• Route : Stearns > Williamsburg > Corbin > Harlan > Hazard > Jackson > Paintsville > Prestonburg > Pikeville
• Distance : 967 miles
• Trip Time : 6 hours driving time

• Route : Gunpowder Creek > Barebone Road > Marion > Paradise > Dry Fork > Barthell > Packard > Jonican > Hays Cemetery Road > Boonesborough
• Trip Time : 18 hours driving time

• Route : Louisville > Bardstown > Loretto > Lexington > Frankfort
• Distance : 145 miles
• Trip Time : 3 hours driving time

• Route : Owensboro > Bowling Green > Russellville > Mayfield > Paducah > Madisonville > Owensboro
• Distance : 365 miles
• Trip Time : 7 hours driving time

• Route : Thoroughbred Park > Calumet Farm > Manchester Farm > Keeneland Race Track, > Three Chimneys Farm > Donamire Farm > Darby Dan Farm > Kentucky Horse Park > Old Friends Stable
• Distance : 49 miles
• Trip Time : 1.5 hours driving time

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• Route : Lake Cumberland, > Corbin > Buckhorn Lake > Laurel River Lake
• Distance : 261 miles
• Trip Time : 5.5 hours driving time

• Route : Old Louisville > Versailles > University of Kentucky > Red River Gorge > Corbin > Western Kentucky University > Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area
• Distance : 509 miles
• Trip Time : 12 hours driving time

• Route : Bardstown > Louisville > Charlestown, Indiana > Louisville
• Distance : 78 miles
• Trip Time : 2 hours driving time

• Route : Louisville > Clermont > Bardstown > Louisville > E.P. Tom Sawyer State Park > Big Bone Lick State Historic Site > Union
• Distance : 165 miles

• Route : Jamestown > Whitley City > Daniel Boone National Forest > Natural Bridge State Resort Park > Stanton > Oneida, Tennessee
• Distance : 351 miles
• Trip Time : 7.5 hours driving time

• Route : Danville > Harrodsburg > Nicholasville > Winchester > Lawrenceburg > Taylorsville > Bardstown
• Distance : 168 miles
• Trip Time : 3.5 hours driving time

When the traveling bug bites you and those iconic Kentucky rolling hills start calling your name, start planning your next weekend getaway with one of these Kentucky road trip ideas. What are your favorite picks for the best road trips in Kentucky? Share your best getaway in the comments!

For road trip planning and packing tips, check out OnlyInYourState’s Ultimate Road Trip Packing List . Whether you’re leaving for a single day or a week-long road trip, you can’t forget the snacks: here are 50 on-the-go snack ideas perfect for traveling.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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More to Explore

More places to explore in kentucky, what are the most popular landmarks to visit in kentucky.

From natural wonders to historical landmarks there are many places in Kentucky that are worth visiting. Here are a few of the most popular landmarks to visit in Kentucky:

• Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park
• Louisville Slugger Museum
• Kentucky Horse Park
• Mammoth Cave National Park
• Louisville Water Company Pumping Station
• Ark Encounter

For even more historical landmarks check out this list of must-visit Kentucky landmarks .

What are the most popular state parks to visit in Kentucky?

As natural wonders go in Kentucky, from the Ohio River in the north to the Appalachian Mountains in the east, our beautiful state parks are a popular draw for outdoor enthusiasts. The most popular state parks in Kentucky include:

• Natural Bridge State Park , Slade, KY
• Cumberland Falls State Park, Corbin, KY
• Big Bone Lick State Historic Site , Union KY
• Fort Boonesborough State Park, Richmond, KY

What are the major highways in Kentucky?

With so many scenic drives in the state and a number of iconic scenic byways to enjoy our natural wonders, the best Kentucky road trips take us through some wonderful areas. But if you want to get through the state quickly try its major highways:

• Interstate 24
• Interstate 64
• Interstate 65
• Interstate 69
• Interstate 71
• Interstate 75

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Featured Addresses

Worth the Drive: 8 museums across Kentucky to visit this spring

It's no secret that there are many things to do and places to explore in Kentucky, including parks and monuments, but the commonwealth is also home to some memorable museums, including right here in Louisville. 

From cars to sports, Kentucky's museums have plenty to offer, covering not only the history of the commonwealth, but exhibiting the impact the Bluegrass State has on the entire country.

While some great places like the Kentucky Derby Museum and the Louisville Slugger Museum are right here in town, if you're making plans to try a road trip this spring, here are some special sites to add to your list:

1. National Corvette Museum

350 Corvette Drive, Bowling Green ; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Central daily

If you are a fan of cars, the National Corvette Museum is for you.

Along with seeing Corvettes from across the decades on display, people can take pictures inside the classic cars and there's even an activity area for children, according to the Kentucky Tourism page . 

For an additional price, people can take a ride in a historic Corvette or drive a C6 Corvette in a racing simulator.

People visiting can enjoy go kart racing at the NCM Kartplex, located near the museum in the Motorsports Park.

More: From Corvettes to caves: Bowling Green is the perfect Kentucky getaway

2. Kentucky Railway Museum

136 S. Main St., New Haven; 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday, 12-4:30 p.m. Sunday during the spring season.

The Kentucky Railway Museum offers a unique experiences by taking visitors on a 22-mile ride through Rolling Fork River Valley, according to the Kentucky Tourism webpage.  

There are several trains for children and adults, including the Dinner Train, Mystery Train and Day Out With Thomas, according to the museum's website. 

More: Kentucky Derby Museum named among top sports attractions in US in reader's choice awards

3. Mammoth Cave Wildlife Museum

409 Happy Valley Road, Cave City; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Central daily

This one is for animal lovers.

The Mammoth Cave Wildlife Museum features 1,600 species of rare and exotic animals including tigers, bears and marine life, according to its website . 

Dozens of species of rare insects are also on display at the museum's butterfly house, which is part of its 14,000 square foot facility.

More: Explore Mammoth Cave: Your guide to a unique Kentucky attraction, world's longest cave

4. The Lincoln Museum

66 Lincoln Square, Hodgenville; 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 12:30-4:30 p.m. Sunday

The best way to learn about the 16 th President of the United States is in his home state of Kentucky. 

The Lincoln Museum “brings to life the major events in Abraham Lincoln's life” through dioramas, artifacts and wax figures, according to the Kentucky Tourism website .  

5. Great American Dollhouse Museum

344 Swope Drive, Danville; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday

Travel to Danville where you will see with more than 200 dollhouses and buildings that show the country’s social history in miniature form.  

“Unlike the traditional museum configuration, the (Great American Dollhouse Museum) unfurls its exhibits in a vast, continuous landscape representing an American yesteryear,” the Kentucky Tourism website states. “Hundreds of antique and artisan-sculpted, historically-dressed citizens interact with family, friends and business associates in neighborhoods, rural lands and forests.” 

6. Kentucky Military History Museum

128 E. Main St., Frankfort; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday

“The State Arsenal for more than 100 years and a Civil War-era munitions factory, this Gothic Revival style building houses the exhibits Kentucky Military Treasures and George M. Chinn: Sights Set on Innovation and 19th-century war records (available for use by appointment),” the museum’s website states . 

People can enjoy a guided tour of the State Arsenal at 1 p.m. on the days the museum is open.

7. Kentucky Museum

1444 Kentucky St., Bowling Green; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday

There's much more to Kentucky than bourbon and horses and the Kentucky Museum at Western Kentucky University is a great road trip destination to do learn about it.  

The museum features rotating exhibits so there's always something new to discover, but it also has permanent exhibits including the Jonesville Buon Fresco Mural, Lego Big Red (yes, THE Big Red) and Basketmaking: Our Handmade Heritage.  

Some exhibits are closed or seasonal, therefore it is recommended to look online before making a trip. 

8. International Museum of the Horse

4089 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington; Seasonal hours vary.

Both a museum and a research center, the International Museum of the Horse is a great destination for horse fanatics.  

“The largest and most comprehensive museum in the world dedicated to exploring the important history of all horses and their impact on human civilization,” its website states.  

Some of its current exhibits are the Legacy of the Horse, Black Horsemen of the Kentucky Turf and Draft Horse in America. The nearby Kentucky Horse Park also allows visitors to see and even pet live horses. 

More: The Babe's special order and Ted Williams' returns: Dive into Slugger's private records

It's better to fly from Kentucky to Florida

The fly or drive score is:, 328   /   594, what is the fly or drive score.

The fly or drive score is an estimate of the true cost of travel. A lower score is better . Our score includes factors like airline prices and fuel costs, but it also takes into account the value of your time spent traveling. If you're taking time off work because you have to drive an extra day, it might be better to fly even if driving is technically cheaper. Tap on a blue or green value to customize it.

Enter the total number of travelers. This will be used to calculate the sum of plane tickets for everyone, as well as the number of cars you need if you're planning a road trip. We assume a max of 4 passengers per car , but you can change the number of cars if your situation is different. Number of travelers:  

We estimated the cheapest price for a round trip plane ticket from LEX to MCO at $262. To change the price for your flight, enter it here: Airfare price: $

Enter the total amount you're planning to spend on extra costs for local transportation at your destination. This might include a car rental to drive around the area, or the cost of a cab or airport shuttle to get to your hotel. You could also include an extra cost for food at the airport, and any other miscellaneous spending along the way. Enter your total estimate below. Total extra costs: $

Enter the total number of cars you'll be taking on the road trip. This will be used to calculate the total cost of driving for everyone. The default is a max of 4 passengers per car , but you can adjust the number of cars to fit your situation. Number of cars:

Enter the fuel efficiency of your vehicle in miles per gallon (mpg). If you're unsure of the exact number, you can look it up on the fueleconomy.gov site. Vehicle fuel efficiency: mpg

Enter the average fuel price for your trip in U.S. dollars. If you're taking a long road trip, the gas price in each state may vary. Remember to adjust for premium or diesel fuel prices. Average gas price: $

We chose Blue Grass Airport (LEX) as your departure airport. For your home location, this is the only nearby major airport. If you are looking for another airport, change your locations.

Enter the amount of time it takes you to get to the departure airport. This can vary depending on whether you take a cab, get a ride from a friend, or drive your own car. Make sure you include extra time for parking if you are driving yourself. Time to get to the airport: minutes

Enter the amount of time you plan to allow for check-in at the airport. Some airlines require you to check-in by a certain time if you haven't done it online beforehand. Remember to leave enough time to get through security lines. Check-in and wait time: minutes

Enter the amount of time it takes you to get to your destination after you've landed at the arrival airport. This can vary depending on whether you take a cab, get a ride from a friend, or drive a rental car. Make sure you include extra time to get to the rental agency and pick up the rental car if you are choosing that option. Time to get to your destination: minutes

We chose Orlando International Airport (MCO) as your arrival airport. For your destination, this is the only nearby major airport. If you are looking for another airport, try changing your destination.

Enter the total amount you're planning to spend on hotel nights. We estimate you'll need to stay at a hotel for every 12 hours of driving, and the average cost of a hotel will be around $75. It doesn't really matter how many times you stay overnight, the important thing is the total sum of all of your hotel costs. Enter that number below. Total hotel costs: $

Enter the amount of time you plan to allow for pit stops, rest stops, gas, naps, or detours along the way. Enter your total estimate below. Total extra time: minutes

Enter the total amount you're planning to spend on extra costs for the road trip. Think about the cost of tolls, food or snacks if you're bringing groceries or stopping at restaurants, and any other miscellaneous spending along the way. You can also include the cost of a car rental here. Enter your total estimate below. Total extra costs: $

Enter the amount per mile you want to use to estimate the wear and tear on your car. This can vary depending on your preference. Some companies might pay 50 cents per mile for business travel, and the IRS has various rules for standard mileage rates. On the other hand, you may want to focus more on typical maintenance costs and depreciation, which might be closer to 10 cents per mile. Set this to zero if you're renting a car. Enter your wear and tear cost per mile below. Wear and tear: cents per mile

Driving is usually cheaper, but it takes a lot longer. So in order to get a better comparison, we include a special "value of time factor" that estimates how much your time is worth. If you take a day off work for a long road trip instead of a quick flight, you might add up your lost earnings. The default we use is $10/hr but you can enter any value you want below. If there are multiple travelers, you can enter the sum of everyone's value. Value of time factor: $ per hour

Cost to fly or drive

You can adjust any of the settings above to customize the calculation for your exact trip. We assume some simple default values to get a quick answer to start.

The Fly Score is an estimate of how much it would cost you to take a flight, including factors to account for the value of your time getting to the airport, checking in, and waiting for the plane to take off and land. The default fly score is 328 from Kentucky to Florida.

The Drive Score is a comparable calculation that estimates the total cost of doing a road trip. You might spend less on gas than the price of airfare, but it could take you longer to get there if you're driving. So we include the value of your time spent in the car, as well as additional costs for things like hotel, tolls, food, and whatever else you want to include. The default drive score from Kentucky to Florida is 594 .

So in this case, it's better to fly from Kentucky to Florida.

These results are based on the actual driving distance from Kentucky to Florida , which is 836 miles or 1 345 kilometers . You can also check the cost of driving from Kentucky to Florida .

 Kentucky (KY)

Is it better to fly or drive to Kentucky from where I am now?

 Florida (FL)

Should I fly or drive to Florida?

Reader's Digest

Your Guide to a Florida Keys Road Trip: Key Largo to Key West

Posted: March 12, 2024 | Last updated: March 13, 2024

Your road trip guide to the Florida Keys

One of the best state road trips in America has to be the sun-kissed drive from Key Largo to Key West in the Florida Keys. This road, known as the Florida Keys Overseas Highway, takes you through a 125-mile island chain that begins just south of Miami. It hopscotches over 42 bridges and five islands, and has turquoise waters stretching in every direction into the Atlantic Ocean, Florida Bay and Gulf of Mexico.

So if you're looking for the perfect Atlantic Coast road trip or cheap beach vacation , look no further than this road trip guide from Key Largo to Key West. And if you'd rather travel from Key West to Key Largo, rest easy—the route works either way. There are shuttles that run from Key Largo to Key West, but keep in mind, you'd be missing out on all the fun in between.

By the way, once you embark on the Florida Keys Overseas Highway, you'll notice that many sites along the way use mile markers (MM) in their address. We use those mile marker points in this story to help you navigate the drive.

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Mile marker: 108–90

The first of the Florida Keys you'll hit after driving about an hour south from Miami en route from Key Largo to Key West is, well, Key Largo. Often referred to as the Dive Capital of the World, Key Largo includes one must-see stop: John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (MM 102.5), the first underwater preserve in the United States.

Experienced and novice snorkelers and SCUBA divers will be enthralled by the teeming marine life that lives just below the water's surface, like parrot fish, barracudas and sea turtles. More experienced divers enjoy exploring the USS Spiegel Grove, one of the largest ships ever intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef where pretty fish can thrive.

Back on dry land, travelers can wander nearly six miles of trails at Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park, home to more than 80 species of plants and animals. You can also peruse the work of local artists at myriad galleries.

Best beach: Cannon Beach, found within John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, has shallow waters that are perfect for wading. You may even spot cannons and anchors on the beach that remain from a 1715 Spanish shipwreck.

Where to eat: Dig into the catch of the day at The Fish House, Key Largo Conch House or Snook's Bayside Restaurant & Grand Tiki Bar, some of the best traditional restaurants in the area. If you'd rather turf than surf, check out Jimmy Johnson's Big Chill.

Where to stay: If you can't get enough of the underwater world, stay at Jules' Undersea Lodge , the world's first underwater hotel. If you'd rather keep dry, try the adults-only Bungalows Key Largo .

Mile marker: 90–63

Next up en route from Key Largo to Key West is the fisherman's paradise known as Islamorada. Considered the Sport Fishing Capital of the World, it's where backcountry sport fishing and saltwater fly-fishing got their start. Countless seasoned boat captains are ready for hire to take you out to catch the wahoo, marlin, mahi-mahi and tuna that swim in these waters.

There's an even quirkier way to interact with fish here: hand-feeding the tarpon off the docks of Robbie's Marina (MM 77.5). Since 1976, countless Keys visitors have stopped to feed them, and more than 100 kinds of fish gather at the docks for their daily snacks. Feeding the fishies there is so popular, it's been named the No. 1 activity in all the Florida Keys.

Islamorada is also a terrific spot to kitesurf, stand-up paddleboard, go for a hike or take a bicycle ride. Stop by the Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary, where injured or displaced birdies now make their homes. Or visit the History of Diving Museum, which boasts one of the world's largest collections of diving helmets.

Best beach: Anne's Beach is popular with families (and dogs) because of its shallow waters and lack of waves. Take a walk along the boardwalk or enjoy a picnic at one of the covered tables.

Where to eat: For a quintessential casual Florida Keys meal, go to the Hungry Tarpon. If you want more elegant fare, make reservations at Chef Michael's for creatively inspired local dishes.

Where to stay: When it's time to lay your head for the night, check in to one of the new oceanfront suites at Cheeca Lodge & Spa , or your own cottage at The Moorings Village & Spa .

Mile marker: 63–40

Marathon is the island chain's top boating destination—and for good reason. The area boasts nearly 2,400 boat slips and plenty of facilities to accommodate sailors passing through. But you don't need your own boat to enjoy Marathon and its waters.

For a truly different experience, hop on over to Cruisin' Tikis and have a floating tiki bar adventure. Sunset, mangrove and harbor cruises are all available, as is a swim-stop cruise for a chance to jump into the water.

While you're here, you should also visit Pigeon Key, an island that is accessible by boat, trolley or walking the 2.2-mile Old Seven Mile Bridge. It has a museum to explore, either on a guided tour or on your own. The Bridge is open for walking, running, bicycling, rollerblading and, of course, watching the killer sunrises and sunsets.

Best beach: Sombrero Beach is one of the prettiest beaches in the Florida Keys—not to mention one of the best beaches in Florida . And it's not just popular with humans; sea turtles nest here between April and October.

Where to eat: For any meal, stop by Castaway, which has been serving guests for more than 70 years. Or make a night of it at Hide Away Café, which has an extensive wine list.

Where to stay: The Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club is set on the waterfront and gives you a taste of marina life. Lime Tree Bay Resort on Long Key has spacious townhomes for rent.

The Lower Keys

Mile marker: 40–4

After crossing the Old Seven Mile Bridge out of Marathon, you'll find yourself in the Lower Keys, where natural habitats and wildlife refuges thrive. It's no wonder this part of the Florida Keys is known as the Natural Keys. You might even want to consider taking an electric vehicle on this road trip so you don't disturb the animals.

Your best chance to spot a native Key deer, a subspecies of the Virginia white-tailed deer that somehow made its way south, may be in the National Key Deer Refuge, comprised of 9,200 acres stretching from Bahia Honda Key to Sugarloaf Key on the edge of the Gulf of Mexico. More than 20 endangered and threatened plant and animal species can be found within the refuge. Take a quiet walk at dusk or dawn for your best chance to glimpse a Key deer, or join a ranger-led tour to learn more about the area.

Aside from all the eco-friendly fun, Stock Island is well worth a stop. Their maritime history goes back generations, and the marina is filled with shrimping and fishing boats. Artists have been flocking to Stock Island, too, and share their works in galleries dotted across the small island.

Best beach: The shallow, clear water and white sand at Calusa Beach make it a locals' favorite. The beach is a perfect spot for snorkeling too.

Where to eat: In addition to the freshest of seafood, Big Pine Rooster serves up ribs and a special-recipe meatloaf. Or sip like the locals at No Name Pub, located on Big Pine Key.

Where to stay: Consider the waterfront Sugarloaf Lodge , stay in an Airstream at Big Pine Key Resort  or pop a tent on one of the reserved campsites at Bahia Honda State Park.

Mile marker: 4–0

You've made it to the end! Closer to Cuba than Miami, Key West is known for its nightly sunset celebrations, party atmosphere and laissez-faire vibe, but it's really so much more.

If you're a writer or bookworm, you'll certainly want to make plans to visit the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, where you should keep an eye out for the famous six-toed cats. Then wander through Key West's Bahama Village, a 12-block area of historic homes and restaurants.

Consider a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park, about 70 miles west of Key West in the Gulf of Mexico, where you'll find some hidden gems . The island, accessible by boat or seaplane, is popular for snorkeling and feeling like you're on your own private island, not to mention touring the Civil War–era fort.

Best beach: Fort Zachary Taylor Beach—or Fort Zach, as locals call it—predates the Civil War and boasts the island's very best sandy stretch.

Where to eat: No visit to Key West is complete without a meal at Blue Heaven, where you can dine with wandering roosters for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Or snag a spot on the tiny balcony at Santiago's Bodega for tapas and flowing wine.

Where to stay: The boutique Gardens Hotel , the adults-only Kimpton Hotels Ridley House  or the new Capitana Key West , to name a few. Wherever you stay, you're sure to find your place in Key West, and it's likely you'll follow so many others' lead and start planning your return visit before you even leave.

Art and history in the Florida Keys

Road-tripping from Key Largo to Key West, it's easy to appreciate all the natural beauty. That said, the Keys aren't just a terrific destination for eco-travelers, but artists and history buffs too.

It's easy for artists to find inspiration throughout the Florida Keys. Fortunately for road-trippers, there are many spots to stop and admire their work. One of the largest artists' communities in the Florida Keys is Stock Island in the Lower Keys, just about three miles from the commercial area of Key West. What was once a shrimping boat marina is now a blend of fishermen and painters, sculptors and other artisans who have created an energetic and supportive community.

For history buffs, in addition to Pigeon Key in Marathon and the Civil War–era Fort Jefferson in Dry Tortugas National Park, other must-stops in Key West include the Audubon House & Tropical Gardens, Harry S. Truman Little White House and the Southernmost Point in the continental United States.

Planning your Florida Keys road trip

Now that you're inspired to hit the road, it's time to start planning. After budgeting for a road trip , your next step is to decide whether you will travel south from Key Largo to Key West, or north from Key West to Key Largo. Or maybe you'll opt for a roundtrip.

If you're starting off in Key Largo, it's important to note that the Florida Keys Overseas Highway begins at the Miami-Dade/Monroe County line. So if you're flying to Florida, Miami International Airport (MIA) is the way to go. If you begin in Key West, the airport (EYW) is on the island.

If you're already driving one of the best road trip cars to get to Florida, you're all set. But if you need a loaner, choose one of the best cars to rent for a road trip . Consider packing these road trip essentials and download some of the best podcasts for road trips to make the miles fly by.

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The driving time from Louisville, Kentucky to Florida (FL) is:

13 hours, 25 minutes.

Average driving speed: 66.8 mph Kilometers per hour: 107.4 km/h This is based on typical traffic conditions for this route.

Change your driving speed:

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Map of driving directions from Louisville, KY to Florida

View a map with driving directions using your preferred map provider: Google Maps , Bing Maps , or MapQuest .

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Driving time from Louisville, KY to Florida

How long is the drive from Louisville, KY to Florida? The total driving time is 13 hours, 25 minutes .

Your trip begins in Louisville, Kentucky. It ends in the state of Florida.

If you're planning a road trip, you might be interested in seeing the total driving distance from Louisville, KY to Florida .

You can also calculate the cost to drive from Louisville, KY to Florida based on current local gas prices and an estimate of your car's best gas mileage.

Since this is a long drive, you might want to stop halfway and stay overnight in a hotel. You can find the city that is halfway between Louisville, KY and Florida .

Planning to fly a plane instead? You might be more interested in calculating the flight time from Louisville, KY to Florida.

Louisville, Kentucky

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Driving time calculator

Travelmath helps you find the driving time based on actual directions for your road trip. You can find out how long it will take to drive between any two cities, airports, states, countries, or zip codes. This can also help you plan the best route to travel to your destination. Compare the results with the flight time calculator to see how much longer it might take to drive the distance instead of flying. You can also print out pages with a travel map.

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Bowling Green (Kentucky) to Orlando drive

Bowling green (kentucky) to orlando road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Bowling Green (Kentucky) to Orlando. If you're planning a road trip to Orlando, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Traveling with a dog or cat? Find pet-friendly stops . Camping along the way? Search for RV campgrounds . Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

10:00 am  start in Bowling Green (Kentucky) drive for about 1 hour

11:08 am   Nashville eat at Bluebird Cafe stay for about 4 hours and leave at 3:08 pm drive for about 2 hours

5:17 pm   Chattanooga stay for about 1 hour and leave at 6:17 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 5 hours find more stops

9:00 am  leave from Marietta drive for about 1.5 hours

10:41 am   Macon stay for about 1 hour and leave at 11:41 am drive for about 2.5 hours

2:05 pm   Valdosta stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:05 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

4:44 pm   Gainesville stay for about 1 hour and leave at 5:44 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

7:26 pm  arrive in Orlando eat at Cafe Tu Tu Tango stay at Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort

day 2 driving ≈ 7.5 hours find more stops

Where should I stop along the way?

Nashville   (233 answers)     Grand Ole Opry   (8 mentions)     Country Music Hall of Fame   (6 mentions)     Ryman Auditorium   (6 mentions)     Centennial Park   (6 mentions)     The Parthenon   (5 mentions)     restaurants around Nashville:         Bluebird Cafe         Opryland Hotel         Pancake Pantry         Hattie B's Hot Chicken - 19th Ave         Peg Leg Porker BBQ     questions about Nashville:         What's the best neighborhood in Nashville for a first time visitor?         Nearby small towns or outdoor areas?         Top of the line hotels in Nashville?         What are some must sees in Nashville during the weekend         Best Location to Stay Chattanooga   (41 answers)     Ruby Falls   (5 mentions)     Rock City   (3 mentions)     Tennessee Aquarium   (2 mentions)     Creative Discovery Museum   (2 mentions)     Lookout Mountain   (2 mentions)     questions about Chattanooga:         Is April a good month to visit Chattanooga?         Activities in Chattanooga for families with active kids Marietta   (10 answers)     Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park   (3 mentions)     Marietta Square   (2 mentions)     Silver Comet Trail   (2 mentions)     restaurants around Marietta:         Pappasito's Cantina         Canoe         Marietta Diner     questions about Marietta:         What is your favorite restaurant in Marietta?         Best free things to do in Marietta? Macon   (6 answers) Valdosta   (12 answers) Gainesville   (13 answers)

Where's the best place to stay in Orlando?

Are you going straight to a hotel, or looking for a vacation rental or Airbnb?

The best resource on neighborhoods, areas, and hotels is the Trippy page on where to stay in Orlando .

If you're looking for a quick answer, you can check out Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort , which was mentioned 2 times on Trippy.

Here are some more hotels people talk about:

Want to research more popular hotels in Orlando? Click the blue button below.

Where's the best place to eat in Orlando?

Need some recommendations on somewhere to get food?

Trippy members suggest Cafe Tu Tu Tango , which was mentioned 5 times.

Here are some more restaurants people talk about:

Want to research more popular restaurants in Orlando? Click the blue button below.

What are some things to do in Orlando?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on Trippy:

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Orlando. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Orlando.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Orlando to Bowling Green (Kentucky) drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Bowling Green (Kentucky) to Orlando . Or get a full Bowling Green (Kentucky) to Orlando flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend. Maybe try typing in a faraway location like London, Hong Kong, or Sydney, and get inspired for your dream trip around the world.

And if you know Bowling Green (Kentucky) well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Bowling Green (Kentucky)!

More info on this route:

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How to watch the 2024 florida derby: tv/live stream info, entries, and more.

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The top thoroughbred horses are back in action this Saturday, March 30 in the 2024 Florida Derby in Hallandale Beach, Florida. Saturday’s race is another stop on the road to the 2024 Kentucky Derby which takes place on May 4. 100-50-25-15-10 qualifying points will be awarded to the top five finishers.

The Florida Derby has proved to be one of the most significant stops in the lead-up to “The Run for the Roses”. Since 2000, 7 Kentucky Derby winners have run in the Florida Derby—that’s more than any other prep race that offers 100 points to the winner. Last year’s Kentucky Derby champion Mage finished second in the 2023 Florida Derby.

Saturday’s race features old and new faces. Fierceness , the 2023 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile (G1) champion, looks for redemption after a shocking third-place finish as the 1/5 favorite in last month’s G3 Holy Bull, while Conquest Warrior is set to make his graded stakes debut here for Hall of Fame trainer Shug McGaughey . Click here to see the entries for the 2024 Florida Derby.

Live coverage begins at 6:00 PM ET on CNBC and Peacock . See below for additional information on how to watch/live stream the 2024 Florida Derby.

How to watch the 2024 Florida Derby:

• Where: Gulfstream Park in Hallandale Beach, Florida
• When: Saturday, March 30
• Time: 6:00 PM ET
• TV Channel: CNBC
• Live Stream: Peacock

What is the post time for the Florida Derby?

Post time for the Florida Derby is set for 6:42 pm ET on Saturday.

Who won the 2023 Florida Derby?

Forte, who was trained by Todd Pletcher , won last year’s Florida Derby.

How to watch Horse Racing on Peacock :

NBC Sports is the exclusive home to the most important and prestigious events in horse racing, including the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, the Breeders’ Cup World Championships, Royal Ascot, and Pegasus World Cup Championship Invitational Series.

Click here to sign up and follow all of the horse racing action.

When is the 2024 Kentucky Derby?

The 2024 Kentucky Derby takes place on Saturday, May 4 at 2:30 PM ET on NBC and Peacock .

What devices does Peacock support?

You can enjoy Peacock on a variety of devices. View the full list of supported devices here .

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Severe weather threat lingers in mid-atlantic as storm system begins final leg of trip across us.

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A  severe weather outbreak that caused damage from Texas to the Ohio Valley and the Southeast and led to the death of one person in Kentucky continued for the third straight day Wednesday.

This time, the worst weather happened along the East Coast, particularly in parts of Virginia and Florida.

Due to atmospheric conditions not being as conducive for severe weather, chances for damaging winds, large  hail and tornadoes  are lower than Monday and Tuesday.

“So, we go from a (Level) 4 out of 5 risk now to a 2 out of 5,” FOX Weather Meteorologist Steve Bender said.

“It doesn’t mean you let off the gas pedal. You still think about what those threats can be.”

NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center highlighted two separate areas as having the greatest risk of severe weather Wednesday – one stretching from Delaware to northern North Carolina and another extending across North and Central Florida.

A Tornado Watch  has been issued in the mid-Atlantic region but does not include Washington or Baltimore.

Overall, nearly 30 million people in these regions face the risk of damaging wind gusts, large hail and a tornado or two.

What are the storms doing right now?

A cold front continues to march past the East Coast, with plenty of showers and thunderstorms ahead of it.

The storm system is fast-moving, with some thunderstorms moving east at more than 50 mph.

Some of the storms continue to turn severe, prompting warnings for several counties.

The majority of the storms are expected to move off the East Coast by sunset, but the winter weather on the northern end of the storm system will linger through at least Thursday.

April is usually 2nd-busiest month for severe weather

The fourth month of the year typically sees an increase in severe weather outbreaks as seasonal air masses clash over the eastern half of the country.

In fact, April is usually the second busiest for tornadoes, only outdone by May.

A global climate pattern known as El Niño is known to clamp down on severe weather outbreaks in the Lower 48.

The year seems to be following the norms set during previous El Niño events.

Data from NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center shows tornado activity for the year is below average, while hail and damaging wind reports are closer to average.

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