Florida
Orlando to the Keys
Florida
A visit to Florida might feel like you are stepping into a sun-soaked realm of bright skies, coastal breezes, and an irresistible sense of possibility. From the vibrant array of islands that form the Florida Keys to the bustling attractions that shape Orlando’s global allure, the journey could evoke a delicious blend of tropical relaxation and playful adventure.
A road trip through Florida, from the adrenaline-fuelled playgrounds of Orlando to the island allure of the Keys, might present you with memories both thrilling and serene. In one moment, you could be soaring high on a rollercoaster; in another, you might be sipping a cool drink by a peaceful harbour, watching manatees graze among the sea grass. It’s this juxtaposition that often gives the journey its charm, reminding you that the Sunshine State is more than just a single story.
Distance and Journey time
The driving distance between Orlando and Key West (often considered the highlight of a Florida road trip) spans roughly 390 miles (about 630 kilometres). If you were to drive straight through with minimal stops, you might complete the journey in around seven hours. However, many travellers choose to break it up over a couple of days, taking time to explore vibrant coastal cities—such as West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, or Miami—before continuing south along the scenic Overseas Highway through the Florida Keys.
Picture yourself cruising under Florida’s ever-present sunshine, the window slightly down as the balmy breeze ushers you southwards from the buzzing magic of Orlando toward the tranquil charm of the Florida Keys. It could be a journey of contrasts, where thrilling theme parks and sunlit cityscapes gradually yield to shimmering waters and a languid island tempo. From rollercoaster excitement to oceanfront calm, the best of Florida might be waiting right at the edge of the next highway sign.
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Set out from Orlando with its famous theme parks and electrifying attractions. You might decide to linger in town for an extra day of enchantment at Walt Disney World or a cinematic adventure at Universal Orlando. Or perhaps you’ll spend a more relaxed afternoon strolling Lake Eola Park in the city centre, taking in the skyline and feeding the resident swans. As you continue, you might sense a subtle shift: the roads begin to stretch out in gentle curves, and the silhouettes of palm trees become a regular sight.
Departing Orlando
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Before reaching the Keys, many travellers choose to pause along Florida’s eastern coastline. Whether it’s to dip your toes in the Atlantic at West Palm Beach, explore the art and café culture of Fort Lauderdale, or experience Miami’s vibrant energy and pastel-hued art deco districts, there’s a feeling that each stop offers its own taste of Florida living. In Miami, you may wander around the bustling streets of Little Havana, enjoying Cuban coffee and pastries while salsa music drifts from nearby doorways. By the time you depart for the Keys, you might already feel as though you’ve embraced a world of lively flavours and cultures.
Down the Coast
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Crossing over onto the Overseas Highway, you’ll likely find the scenery shifting dramatically into a series of low-lying islands linked by graceful bridges. The water, often a mesmerising blue-green, seems to stretch out endlessly on either side. In Key Largo, the northernmost Key, you might sample the world of scuba diving and snorkelling within coral reefs teeming with rainbow-coloured fish. Further along, Islamorada could tempt you with its laid-back bars and the possibility of a postcard-worthy sunset over the bay.
Entering the Florida Keys
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Before reaching the Keys, many travellers choose to pause along Florida’s eastern coastline. Whether it’s to dip your toes in the Atlantic at West Palm Beach, explore the art and café culture of Fort Lauderdale, or experience Miami’s vibrant energy and pastel-hued art deco districts, there’s a feeling that each stop offers its own taste of Florida living. In Miami, you may wander around the bustling streets of Little Havana, enjoying Cuban coffee and pastries while salsa music drifts from nearby doorways. By the time you depart for the Keys, you might already feel as though you’ve embraced a world of lively flavours and cultures.
Marathon and Beyond
Down the Coast
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Eventually, you’ll arrive at Key West, often considered the crown jewel of the Keys. The streets here might exude a bohemian energy, where colourful conch houses, free-roaming roosters, and the lingering echoes of Hemingway’s tales create a unique tapestry of tropical life. After a leisurely amble down Duval Street, you might find yourself at Mallory Square, ready to witness the nightly sunset celebration that transforms the waterfront into a lively gathering of street performers and wide-eyed spectators. As the sky glows in shades of peach and coral, you may feel as if you’ve reached a personal paradise—one defined not only by scenic vistas, but by the relaxed yet spirited atmosphere that the Keys seem to embody.
