Here is the Ultimate Orlando Summer Road Trip Bucket List

1. Learn the history of St. Augustine

Just a short drive away is a city full of history. St. Augustine is the oldest city in the US, founded by the Spanish in 1565! The city is full of landmarks and historic buildings making this the perfect destination for history buffs. Tour the oldest house, the oldest school, the oldest shop—see a theme here? And we can’t forget the Castillo de San Marcos! So spend the weekend immersing yourself in Florida’s rich history.

2. Hang 10 on Cocoa Beach

Located on the Space Coast and just over an hour away from Orlando, Cocoa Beach is the perfect oceanfront escape! This is especially a great spot for our surfing enthusiasts. Whether you’re a surfing pro or a novice, this beach is a great place to catch waves or sit in on a surfing class. And if the tide turns unfavorable, you can explore the Cocoa Beach pier, explore the world’s largest surf shop, and grab a bite from a beachside restaurant!

4. Enjoy the views on Siesta Key Beach

Indulge in a tropical escape without the long travel time. Siesta Key Beach is just a short 2.5-hour drive away and features everything you love in a Caribbean escape right here in Sarasota. Walk on the pristine white sand beach and swim in the tranquil Gulf of Mexico. And you have to stay to see the sunset it’s absolutely stunning! 

Catch up on your latest read, even out your summer glow, and then escape to Siesta Key Village to quench your thirst and hunger, plus snag some cute souvenirs! 

5. See the manatees at Crystal River

Swim with Florida’s gentle giants at Crystal River State Park. This picturesque park is great for anyone looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of The City Beautiful. Walk along luscious paths and paddle down the clear waters for a road trip like none other. This is perfect for anyone who needs a little quiet time, rest, and relaxation. This is also the perf destination for all our nature lovers out there! At Crystal River Park, you can enjoy hiking, camping, birding, golfing, and more!

6. Party hard on Miami Beach

If you’re ready to turn up the heat and dance the night away, there’s nowhere else better than Miami Beach. Bask in the glitz and glam of Miami Beach at some fantastic cocktail bars before hitting up the clubs to groove to the beat of all your fave songs.

Get the full SOBE experience by hitting up the mega clubs open seven days a week for some intense partying! Some of these bars are hard to get into, so be sure to buy tickets in advance and check out their dress policies!

7. Walk the white sands on Clearwater Beach

The ultimate goal of a summer vacay is to walk along a crystal clear ocean while soaking up the rays of the tropical sun on pristine white sand a two-hour drive away! Clearwater is an iconic Florida vacay spot with national recognition, and for a good reason.

This tranquil beach will transport you miles away from home to a tropical getaway perfect for recharging from your daily life. Here you can’t help but just lay back, enjoy the view, and live in the moment!

9. Rainbow Springs State Park

Just a short drive away from Devil’s Den Spring is another equally beautiful waterway. The possibilities here are endless. At Rainbow Springs you can go bicycling, swimming, kayaking, hiking, picnicking, fishing, tubing, camping, birding…you get the idea! You’re definitely going to want to arrive early so you can take advantage of everything this state park offers.

10. Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens

Take a stroll through this beautiful botanical garden. Wind your way through the 20+ acres of botanical creations—there’s a map available at the admission center to help guide you through the trails. Bring your cameras, your friends, your furry friends, and get ready for the perfect afternoon getting lost amongst some of Central Florida’s most beautiful flora and fauna.