Orlando to Key West Road Trip

We were staying at the Westgate Lakes Resort and Spa when we decided to take this adventure. Since we chose to take the East Florida route to the Keys, we could have saved some time by driving down the Florida Turnpike. Still, we opted for the more scenic route and drove on FL-528 E toward Cape Canaveral. This allowed us to explore some of the amazing sights along the Eastern shore of Florida while taking this fun adventure. This route is about 400 miles and will take about 7 hours to get to Key West. However, you will be in Key Largo in about 5 hours taking this route.

If you have decided to do this in a day, you will not be stopping very often along the way. However, if you have some extra time, this is a great time to explore some amazing places along the way. Here are a few things to consider on the Eastern route to the Florida Keys:

• John F Kennedy Space Center
• Cocoa Beach
• Vero Beach
• Hutchinson Island (We rented a house here)
• West Palm Beach
• Boca Raton
• Fort Lauderdale
• Miami

These are just a few places to stop, but there are many more to explore if you have the time.

The roads are great along the Florida East Coast journey, with plenty of rest areas, gas stations, and places to eat. If you are taking a multi-day trip, there are plenty of hotels or other places to find using great tools like VRBO.

Since we were trying to cut down on the cost of this trip, and we wanted to extend it for as many days as possible, we decided to book a hotel in Homestead, Florida. Homestead is the last city before you get on US-1 S heading toward the Florida Keys. It is built up with many shopping areas, plenty of restaurants and hotels. There are also some great options if you prefer to have your own home during your journey. Just check for locations in Homestead, Florida, through VRBO. Also, you can be in the Keys from Homestead in about 50 minutes (depending on traffic).

Our main goal in this trip was to see Key West. Yes, we wanted to visit the Bouy at the Southern Most point, eat some Key Lime Pie, and walk around Duval Street, but we found a lot more than we expected. It took about 3.5 hours to get from Homestead to Key West, so our adventure started at about 3AM. It was dark for most of the drive along the other Keys, so we did not see much along the way, but let me tell you, the Sunrise was spectacular during the drive. In fact, the Sunrise was a great part of every drive to the keys. There is nothing like driving along the road with the ocean on both sides of you and the sun coming up over your shoulder. Take some time to enjoy the journey; Sunrise and sunset over the keys are must-sees.

If you have decided to take a few days or longer to make the Orlando to Key West Road Trip, you might be interested in some things you can do along the way. If you are planning to take the East Florida route down and the West Florida route back, we have some great options for each leg of the trip. Here are some ideas to break up the drive on the Eastern shores of Florida.

Space is fascinating, no matter who you are. Seeing the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is a must-do in Orlando. It is also a great way to kick-start your road trip to the Florida Keys. Explore the history of space exploration, see rockets and the Space Shuttle Atlantis, and check the times for the next launch. There is nothing like seeing a rocket take off from the Space Center. If you don’t mind a couple of tolls, you can hop on FL-528E and be there in about an hour, taking I-4 to FL-408 will add about 30 minutes but will bypass the tolls.

While at the Kennedy Space Center, it is worth dropping by the Canaveral National Seashore. This pristine stretch of barrier island offers beautiful beaches, peaceful lagoon waters, and wildlife viewing opportunities. If you get lucky, you might even see some sea turtles. The drive is about 30 minutes north, but it is worth the extra time.

We went looking for Jeanie but did not find her in her bottle. We hoped Major Nelson was ready to let someone else have a turn. If you are not familiar with what I am talking about, look at the old show “I Dream of Jeanie”; it will fill in the gaps. Cocoa Beach is a great place to visit, only 30 minutes south of the Kennedy Space Center. If you don’t want to veer off track and go to the Canaveral National Seashore, Cocoa Beach might be a better option. Stop by the Cocoa Beach Pier for shops, restaurants, and beautiful ocean views.

Jupiter stands out for its historic lighthouse and beautiful natural reserves. The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum offers guided tours with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Nearby, Riverbend Park offers kayaking, hiking, and wildlife viewing in a beautiful setting. For a unique wildlife experience, the Loggerhead Marinelife Center focuses on sea turtle conservation.

There are so many great beaches on the East Coast of Florida. As you are driving to the Florida Keys, taking a break and walking on the beach is a great way to relax and get some wonderful food. After you go to Jupiter, you will pass by well-known beaches, West Palm Beach, Boynton Beach, and Boca Raton. You won’t stop at all of them, but any of these are a great option to stretch your legs.

Getting closer to the Keys, visiting Fort Lauderdale’s Las Olas Boulevard might be worth visiting. This area is well known as a vibrant location filled with galleries, shops, and restaurants. If you passed up the other great beaches and made it to Fort Lauderdale, this is the place to stop, take a walk, and grab a great meal.

Whenever you think of Florida, the Everglades will come to mind. Amazing wildlife, vast open marshland, and, of course, alligators are waiting for your arrival. To get a good look at things in the Everglades, consider taking an airboat tour through the Everglades National Park for an up-close look at this unique ecosystem. It’s a thrilling way to experience the natural beauty and spot wildlife, including alligators and various birds.

Experience the iconic Art Deco architecture, lively nightlife, and gorgeous beaches of South Beach. It’s a great place to soak up some sun, enjoy some of Florida’s best dining, and do some celebrity spotting.

Okay, so you should consider this before you hit the Overseas Highway to the Keys, a stop at Coral Castle. Built by Edward Leedskalnin sometime in the early 1900s, you will be astounded by the size and weight of the structures, said to be built by a single, 100-pound man. This alone makes it worth the stop. The Coral Castle is surrounded by mystery and legend, making it a fascinating visit.

Once you get past Homestead, Florida, there is only one road to get on that takes you to the Keys, US-1 S. Well, that is not actually true; you do have the option of taking County Road 905 to North Key Largo, but we will talk about this more on our return trip. Our goal on Day 1 was to make it to Key West, so we booked the Home2Suites in Homestead and started our trek at 3 AM the next morning. It was an exciting start and not being to the Keys before, we did not know what to expect. The Sunrise was at 6:34 AM, so we made it down to Lower Sugarloaf Key before we started seeing the light of day. We reached Key West and parked near Mallory Square to enjoy the Sunrise. What a spectacular site. I will say that it was well worth the drive to get to the Southernmost Point of Florida before Sunrise.

Now that you have made it to the Keys, what are some fun adventures to enjoy while you are here?

One of Key West’s most peaceful experiences is watching the Sunrise. As long as you are on the Ocean side of the Keys, you will have a great view of the Sunrise. One of our favorite locations is the White Street Pier. As you come to the end of White Street, you will see a long, concrete pier that extends into the Atlantic Ocean. Once on the large platform, you will have an unobstructed view of the horizon. As the eastern sky gradually warms with pink, orange, and gold hues, the calm surroundings lend to the sound of gentle waves, creating a perfect setting for that romantic morning getaway. It is best to arrive early to secure a good spot for sunrise viewing. Still, it also adds to the moments you will experience of sheer peace, which makes this a perfect start to your Key West adventure.

Get ready to explore the world of one of America’s most celebrated authors at his beautifully preserved residence in Key West! This is your chance to step into his fascinating life and get up close with the famous six-toed cats. Don’t miss out on this thrilling adventure!

Discover the underwater wonderland at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo, the first undersea park in the U.S., featuring spectacular coral reefs abounding with marine life.

Mallory Square is a fascinating area to visit in the evenings in Key West. Everything comes to life with the nightly sunset celebration, where street performers, artists, and food vendors set up for a joyful farewell to the day. The stunning sunsets and the food and fun area are a wonderful end to any day.

Are you ready to experience the natural beauty of the Florida Keys in the most amazing way possible? Taking a kayak tour through the winding mangroves of the Florida Keys is an unforgettable experience. As you paddle through the maze of roots and branches, you’ll run across spectacular wildlife, from colorful fish and birds to playful dolphins and manatees. So, grab your paddle and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

It just wouldnt be right to go to the Florida Keys and not sample some of the amazing Key Lime pie. You will find Key lime pie at many local restaurants in the Keys, you job is to find out which one you like the most.

Each location claims to have the best recipe. Someone has to be the judge, it might as well be you! We really enjoyed the Key Lime Pie at Blue Heaven. We found this restaurant/bar on our way to the State Park while walking on Thomas Street. It was delicious.

As you are driving to Key West, you will come across the Old 7-mile Bridge which starts at Knights Key and spans all the way to Little Duck Key. For a great adventure, park your car at Vista Point, on the Knights Key side and take in the breathtaking views while you stroll along the historic Old Seven Mile Bridge. This stretch of old bridge offers a scenic path to Pigeon Key.

Note: While walking or riding a bike on the bridge is free, there is an admission fee to get onto Pigeon Key. Also, Pigeon Key does not allow Pets. If you are interested in visiting Pigeon Key, you can learn more at the Pigeon Key site.

Take a day trip to one of the most remote U.S. national parks, accessible only by boat or seaplane, featuring the impressive 19th-century Fort Jefferson and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling. This is an amazing trip to consider when visiting the Keys. While taking the Ferry is a great option, a private boat or seaplane might be fun to consider. Dry Tortugas is a journey worth taking for any traveler seeking an adventure that combines history, nature, and the thrill of exploration.

Beautiful clear blue water and experienced charters make for a fantastic deep sea fishing excursion. While there are plenty of locations to fish from a pier in the Florida Keys, if you have never had the experience of being on a private charter, looking for your best catch ever, it might be worth looking at the fishing tours available in the Keys. Here are some ideas to get you started.

We enjoy SeaWorld but have to say, if you are interested in seeing Marine life in a unique setting, the Theater of the Sea, in Islamorada is a fantastic stop. In fact, I have to say, it was the highlight of the time we had in the Florida Keys. The shows were amazing, the interactions with the staff was phenomenal, and you could feel the care that everyone had for the fish and animals involved. Be sure to check out the Sea Lion show and the Dolphin Show. Oh, and did I mention that the Theater of the Sea is pet friendly? We were able to take Jack along, and he loved the shows.

Find out more at Theater of the Sea

Surround yourself in a truly vibrant world of color with butterflies and exotic birds in this conservatory. It’s a unique experience and a colorful escape in Key West.

After the sun sets, Duval Street in Key West comes alive with bustling bars, live music, and a lively atmosphere, offering a fun and festive way to cap off your Florida Keys adventure.

These are just a few things to get you started in the Keys. There are so many other adventures to experience. But, it is time for the drive back to Orlando to finish out our time at Disney.  It was sad but we finally completed our Orlando to Key West Road Trip.

On our last day in the Florida Keys, we decided to take a different route back to Homestead, where we were staying, to keep the cost down. We did not plan this route but kept seeing signs for North Key Largo. Not knowing what was there, we took the detour and drove up to Card Sound Road, where we took a very scenic drive back to Homestead.

Our goal on this adventure to the Keys was not only to visit the many islands in the chain but also to see some of the sights on the East Coast on the way down and the Gulf Coast on the way back to Orlando. We started our drive up FL-1 N until we got to FL-41W, the Tamiami Trail. Once we made our turn, we had 85 miles of scenic driving through the Everglades until we would arrive at Marco Island.

There are many things to explore on the way back, and we were excited to tackle the Everglades on our return. We did not know then that you could not take a pet with you if you got out and walked around the trails in the Everglades. Since we had Jack with us, we made this more of a car adventure than a trail adventure. We still enjoyed driving through.

The Everglades offer a remarkable glimpse into a vast, subtropical wilderness, home to rare and endangered species like the American crocodile and the Florida panther. Airboat tours provide thrilling rides through this unique ecosystem. At the same time, walking trails and ranger-led programs offer deeper insights into its natural beauty and conservation efforts.

On our bucket list is to visit the “Ten Thousand Islands,” as a start, we wanted to at least see Marco Island as we drove up the Western shores of Florida. Marco Island is a beautiful location in Florida. Still, it is also the gateway to the Ten Thousand Islands off of Florida. We found the beaches stunning, and a stop at Tigertail Beach offers a chance at shelling, bird watching, and time for taking a break while sharing in the beauty of the Gulf of Mexico. If you decide to drive to the Keys from Orlando on the Western Coast, you might want to make Marco Island your base for exploring the nearby Everglades.

Naples is known for its world-class shopping, dining, and white sandy beaches. We stopped at a few beaches in Naples; they are some of the cleanest beaches around. When in Naples, you can feel the air of luxury. The Naples Pier is a great place to stop and enjoy the sunset if you have time.

For a more laid-back feel with family-friendly beaches, continue north to Fort Myers Beach. There are plenty of things to do in Fort Myers, and it is a wonderful place to enjoy water sports, Fishing, and dolphin-watching tours. Times Square area in the Town of Fort Myers is fun to visit, with a number of quaint shops, street performers, and casual eateries, making it a lively hub for evening entertainment.

Break out your pails and shovels. Sanibel is a utopia for shell collectors. Sanibel island’s unique orientation results in miles of shell-covered beaches. Look at the tide charts and hit the beaches during low tide. This is a fantastic way to find some of the best shells.

The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge inhabits a significant portion of the island, offering a sanctuary for native birds and wildlife.

Bradenton Beach is a small, friendly island community on Anna Maria Island. It is known for its historic Bridge Street, where you can find unique shops, restaurants, and a pier that extends into Sarasota Bay. The beach is typically a little less crowded than some of the other beaches in the area. Bradenton Beach is a good stop if you are looking for a more intimate setting for sunbathing and swimming.

While a little further north than you need to go, in order to make your way back to Orlando, Clearwater Beach could be worth taking a small detour. A movie, “Dolphin Tale”, was filmed using the dolphin “Winter” from the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. We were lucky enough to visit and see Winter on one of our visits. Unfortunately, Winter passed away, but it is a great family adventure to go by and enjoy the aquarium.

Clearwater is also known for its soft, white sand and clear, shallow waters. Families enjoy time at this beach, and Pier 60 is one of the focal attractions in the area. Check out the schedule as Clearwater transforms into an area of art with street performers and artists set to show off their amazing designs.

Tampa offers a diverse array of attractions, from the historic Ybor City neighborhood, known for its Cuban and Spanish culture, to the modern Tampa Riverwalk, lined with parks, museums, and restaurants. Thrill-seekers will enjoy Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, an African-themed amusement park with some of the country’s most exciting roller coasters.

The exploration is done, it is hard to believe we completed our Orlando to Key West Road Trip. It is time to head back to Orlando before heading home. Enjoy the rest of your time at Disney World, Universal Orlando, or SeaWorld. Florida has so much to offer; this is just the beginning of your journey. Stick with us; we will share more of our experiences as we travel. Our goal is to help you explore your surroundings and make it easier to make travel plans. We hope you have enjoyed this adventure. Look at some of our final thoughts before making your trek to the Florida Keys, and above all, have fun!

1. Can You Drive from Orlando to the Florida Keys?

Absolutely! The journey from Orlando to the Florida Keys is not just possible; it’s an adventure waiting to be embarked upon. Spanning approximately 400 miles, the Orlando to Key West Road Trip can take you through some of Florida’s most scenic landscapes, offering a glimpse into the state’s diverse environments. The most direct route takes you south through the heart of Florida, eventually leading you to the Overseas Highway, which connects the string of islands that make up the Keys. However, if you want a real adventure, and you have some extra time, it might be worth planning the way we did and take the East Coast Route to the Keys and the West Coast Route back to Orlando. What a great time and it was well worth the investment.

2. Duration of the Drive

Depending on traffic and your exact destination in the Keys, the drive can take anywhere from 6 to 10 hours. This, of course, is just and estimate and does not account for stops along the way. If you read through our article, we mentioned a few stops in each direction. If you take any of these, this will definitely extend your Orlando to Key West Road Trip but, it will also allow you to make more memories.

3. The Appeal of Extending Your Orlando Trip to the Keys

The idea of coupling a visit to Orlando with a trip to the Keys is more than just a matter of proximity; it’s about changing your experiences. Orlando offers a specific thrill with its Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld theme parks. It is an exciting entertainment scene that fits the whole family. However, the Florida Keys offers a more laid back getaway into natural beauty, beautiful views and great dining options. Transitioning from the non-stop running to a quieter setting makes this extension very appealing. It was also great getting back to Orlando after the time in the Keys to finish out the fun at the parks.

4. Accommodation in the Florida Keys

The Keys offer many accommodations, from luxurious resorts to quaint bed and breakfasts. Key West is the most popular Key in Florida and has plenty of options for your stay. If you are looking for a more quiet retreat, Key Largo even Marathon could provide a really great alternative. During our trip, we were cutting cost as much as possible by staying in Homestead Florida and driving to the Keys daily. While this was a money saver, it was certainly not the most efficient way to enjoy the Keys. Next time, we will definitely budget for a few nights to stay on one of the keys.

5. Choosing the Best Route

The eastern route is definitely the shortest, taking you through Miami and down the coast, offering beautiful ocean views as you approach the Keys. On the other hand, the western route provides a more laid-back journey along the Gulf Coast and beauty through the Everglades. Opportunities abound as you spot wildlife and take in the landscape only seen in the Everglades. Both routes have their charms, and choosing between them depends on how fast you need to get to the Keys. The East Coast path is faster, but the West Coast offers unique sights. If you plan along our route, you can take one route south to the keys and the other when you travel back north to Orlando. It’s hard to beat the best of both worlds.

6. Must-Visit Stops Along the Way

Consider stopping at Port Canaveral and the Kennedy Space Center on the eastern route. As you drive down the coast, stroll along one of the many great beaches. Take a detour to the Everglades for an airboat tour. If you take the western route, you can explore the Gulf Coast’s peaceful beauty and visit the Everglades National Park. Both paths merge at the Overseas Highway, where the Seven Mile Bridge awaits, offering breathtaking Florida Keys views.

7. Maximizing a Day in the Keys

If you have decided to make this a day trip, and Key West is a must-visit, you must have your plans to get everything in. The day will begin early to finish the 400+ miles trek, but what do you do once in Key West? Start with a walk through the historic Old Town, visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, and then relax at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park Beach. End your day with a sunset celebration at Mallory Square, where performers, artists, and food vendors create a festive atmosphere.

8. A Multi-Day Itinerary in the Keys

With more time, you can explore beyond Key West. Take a snorkeling trip to the coral reefs of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo, visit the Dolphin Research Center in Marathon, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of Islamorada. Each Key has its unique charm, making a multi-day itinerary a rewarding way to experience the diversity of the Keys. If you have carved out a few days to enjoy your Florida Keys adventure, you can craft your days on the islands by starting with our list of things to do in the Florida Keys.

9. Evaluating the Worth of the Trip

Reflecting on our journey, the drive from Orlando to the Florida Keys was absolutely worth the time. We had always wanted to tackle it, and having some extra time made it an easier choice. The drive was amazing. Going through all the different Southern Florida locations was a fun event. It was fantastic to take in the change in scenery at the Keys. The pace is very different from your stay in Orlando, and the experiences in the Keys made it a memorable extension of our Orlando vacation. It’s a trip that we will always remember and one that we will most certainly do again. If you have not been to the Florida Keys, you might be surprised at how vast this area is. There is so much to see and do, you could easily visit multiple times and spend a few weeks to explore it all.

10. Best Time to Visit the Florida Keys

The best time to visit the Keys is from December to May, when the weather is mild, and the risk of hurricanes is lowest. This period offers the most comfortable conditions for exploring the different Keys and enjoying outdoor activities. However, the Florida Keys are a great time to visit any time of the year. They offer unique experiences each season.

11. Is Key West the Ultimate Destination in the Keys?

While Key West is undoubtedly the most famous of the Florida Keys and offers a wealth of places to visit, it is important to consider what you want from your trip. Key West is perfect for those interested in history, vibrant nightlife, and a rich cultural tapestry. Key West has a fascinating past, from the days of Ernest Hemingway, who called Key West home and wrote some of his most famous works here, to the legendary treasure hunters who have scoured its waters. The Hemingway Home and Museum, the Key West Lighthouse, and the Harry S. Truman Little White House offer great locations to visit and peer into this colorful history.

However, Key West is just one of the Florida Keys to explore. If you are looking for a quieter getaway, more nature-focused, other Keys like Islamorada, known as the Sportfishing Capital of the World, or the natural beauty of Bahia Honda State Park, offer peaceful waters, beautiful beaches, and opportunities for outdoor adventures such as Fishing, snorkeling, and kayaking. You will also find the most amazing Marine Mammal Park, Theater of the Sea, in Islamorada, Florida. Trust me, it is worth the visit. We had one of our best days in the Keys exploring this wonderful park. Kids love the animals, and you can feel the love between the trainers and the animals.

Marathon is a family-friendly destination with locations like the Dolphin Research Center and the Turtle Hospital. You can learn about marine conservation efforts and see the dedicated staff caring for the animals in an up-close setting. For a more private experience, the Lower Keys provide more natural landscapes, small-town charm, and less crowded spaces to unwind.

While Key West is the most known island in the Florida Keys, what can make the trip to the Florida Keys special, depends on the type of experience you are looking for. Whether it’s the historical charm of Key West, the tranquil beaches of Marathon, the adventurous waters of Islamorada, or the natural beauty of the Lower Keys, the Florida Keys as a whole offer a mixed paradise waiting to be explored.