Florida
🚗 Florida Road Trip: Miami → Bradenton → Orlando → Miami
Embark on a sun-soaked journey through Florida's diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and family-friendly attractions. This itinerary offers a blend of relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable memories.
🚗 Florida Road Trip:
Miami → Bradenton → Orlando → Miami
Quick summary
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Start: Miami
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End: Miami
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Total Distance: Approximately 700 miles (1,125 km)
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Duration: 16 days
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Mode of Transport: Rental car
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Highlights: South Beach, Everglades, Gulf Coast beaches, Orlando theme parks
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Best Time to Go: October to April (to avoid hurricane season)
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Kid-Friendly: Absolutely! From beaches to theme parks, there's something for all ages.
Florida Dream Loop: Beaches, Magic & Wildlife – A 16-Day Family Road Trip from Miami to Orlando
Day 1-3: Miami – The Magic City
Accommodation: Shepley South Beach Hotel – A boutique hotel with Art Deco flair. Parking available across the street for $20/24h.
Activities:
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South Beach Stroll: Explore the iconic Ocean Drive, marvel at the Art Deco architecture, and relax on the sandy beaches.
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Lincoln Road Mall: A pedestrian-friendly promenade filled with shops, cafes, and street performers.
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Espanola Way: A charming, historic street reminiscent of Mediterranean villages.
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Wynwood Walls: Dive into Miami's vibrant street art scene.
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Little Havana: Experience Cuban culture, music, and cuisine. We went for a food & walking tour. Super
Dining:
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Breakfast: FL Cafe South Beach – Classic American breakfast with a Miami twist.
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Lunch: Nexxt Cafe on Lincoln Road – Diverse menu with generous portions.
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Dinner: Spiga Ristorante Italiano – Authentic Italian dishes in a cozy setting.
Tips:
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Parking can be challenging; consider using ride-sharing apps for short distances.
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Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen; Miami's sun can be intense.
Day 4-5: The Florida Keys – Island Paradise
Accommodation: The Capitana Key West – A waterfront resort offering stunning sunset views.
Activities:
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Overseas Highway Drive: Enjoy scenic views on one of America's most beautiful drives.
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Bahia Honda State Park: Pristine beaches and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
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Key West Exploration: Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home, Southernmost Point, and enjoy the lively Duval Street.
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Encounter & swim with dolphins! A super experience!
Dining:
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Breakfast: Harriette’s Restaurant in Key Largo – Famous for their Key Lime muffins.
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Lunch: The Boathouse in Key West – Fresh seafood with waterfront seating.
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Dinner: Hot Tin Roof – Upscale dining with a view of the Gulf.
Tips:
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Book accommodations in advance; the Keys are popular year-round.
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Watch out for speed traps, especially in Marathon.
Day 6-7: Everglades & Naples – Nature's Wonders
Accommodation: Naples Bay Resort – Offers luxury accommodations with family-friendly amenities.
Activities:
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Everglades Airboat Tour: Experience the unique ecosystem and spot alligators in their natural habitat.
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Shark Valley Tram Tour: A guided tour offering panoramic views of the Everglades.
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Naples Exploration: Stroll through the historic downtown, visit the Naples Pier, and relax on the beaches.
Dining:
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Lunch: Tin City – A collection of shops and eateries with a nautical theme.
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Dinner: The Turtle Club – Beachfront dining with a romantic ambiance.
Tips:
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Mosquito repellent is a must in the Everglades.
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Wear comfortable walking shoes for the tram tour.
Day 8-11: Sanibel Island & Bradenton – Coastal Charms
Accommodation: Shorewalk Vacation Villas, 4601 46th Street Ct W, Bradenton, FL 34210
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Sanibel Island: Known for shelling beaches and the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
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Bradenton Exploration: Visit the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, stroll along the Riverwalk, and explore the Village of the Arts.
Activities:
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Visit Anna Maria Island for pristine beaches and charming shops. Explore Coquina Beach and the historic Bridge Street.
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Go for a sunset dolphin cruise, its just absolutely stunning
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Discover local attractions like the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature and the Manatee Village Historical Park or Enjoy outdoor activities at Robinson Preserve or De Soto National Memorial. Consider a kayak tour or nature walk.
Dining Recommendations:
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Lunch: The Sandbar Restaurant on Anna Maria Island
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Dinner: Pier 22 in downtown Bradenton
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Day 12-14: Orlando – Theme Park Capital
Accommodation: Loews Royal Pacific Resort – Offers early park admission to Universal Studios.
Activities:
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Walt Disney World: Explore Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Animal Kingdom.
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Universal Studios: Experience the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and thrilling rides.
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Disney Springs: Shop, dine, and enjoy live entertainment.
Dining:
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Breakfast: Keke's Breakfast Café – Known for their waffles and pancakes.
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Lunch: Leaky Cauldron in Universal – A must for Harry Potter fans.
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Dinner: The Boathouse in Disney Springs – Offers waterfront dining with a nautical theme.
Tips:
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Download the park apps for real-time updates and reservations.
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Get & buy your Walt Disney tickets on time!
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Stay hydrated; Florida's heat can be intense, especially in the parks.
Day 15-17: Return to Miami – Final Relaxation
Accommodation: The Confidante Miami Beach – A retro-glam hotel with beach access.
Activities:
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Vizcaya Museum and Gardens: Explore the historic estate and its beautiful gardens.
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Little Havana: Enjoy Cuban coffee, music, and culture.
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Beach Time: Relax on Miami Beach before your departure.
Dining:
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Lunch: Versailles Restaurant – A staple for Cuban cuisine.
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Dinner: Joe's Stone Crab – A Miami institution known for its seafood.
Tips:
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Plan for traffic when heading to the airport; Miami's roads can be congested.
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Check out late checkout options if you have a late flight.
From sunrise strolls on South Beach to fiery sunsets over Anna Maria Island, wild airboat rides through the Everglades to magical moments at Disney—this Florida loop gave us everything: beach time, family time, adventure, and relaxation. Whether we were watching manatees in kayaks or sipping wine in Bradenton while Gisele crawled through the garden, this trip reminded us why we love the road (and why Florida is such a vibe).
If you’re dreaming of planning a similar route—with more time on the Gulf Coast or a few extra Mickey hugs—we’re here to help. We’ve traveled to 64+ countries, and our little one already checked off 15 before turning 18 months.
Ready for your own Florida loop?
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FAQ
1. What’s the best time to do this Florida road trip?
The sweet spot is March to May or October to early December. You’ll avoid hurricane season and peak crowds, while still getting great weather.
2. Is this trip doable with a baby or toddler?
👶 Yes! We did it with our 1-year-old. Many stops are kid-friendly (beaches, aquariums, Disney) and accommodations like Shorewalk Villas are perfect for families.
3. Is renting a car necessary?
100%! You’ll be driving between coasts, into the Keys, and through national parks. We recommend booking ahead and choosing a mid-size SUV for comfort.
4. Can I stay longer in Bradenton?
Yes – and you should! We recommend our very own Shorewalk Vacation Villas for a laid-back Gulf Coast escape.
5. What’s the biggest travel mistake to avoid?
Underestimating traffic in South Florida and Orlando. Plan for extra time, especially on weekend drives or near theme parks.