Roadtrip with RVshare Houston to Orlando

For your road trip from Houston to Orlando, you'll travel from the Lone Star State to the "Theme Park Capital of the World." Houston is also known for its ties to NASA as well as its Theater District and Historic District. On your journey, you'll also pass through New Orleans, which is renowned for live jazz music, historic buildings, and delicious food. As you get near Orlando, there are plenty of Florida cities to visit, including Tallahassee and Gainesville. In Orlando, you will find tons of attractions and entertainment options throughout the area. You can use this Houston to Orlando road trip itinerary to see all the fascinating spots along your travel route. 

Nearby National Parks

When planning your next road trip itinerary from Houston to Orlando, you should take a few days to pull off the route and visit some National Park Service attractions. RVshare’s national parks guide will give you more information about these locations. 

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

If you don't mind heading three hours from Houston to start your trip, check out San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. This attraction has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While you are there, you can see four of the five Spanish frontier missions that were established in San Antonio. All the mission sites still contain active Catholic parishes and hold regular services. If you are looking for a unique way to explore the historic buildings, there is a Hike & Bike Trail that connects all four missions to downtown San Antonio.

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park

If you want to learn more about the 36th President of the United States, then you should head over to the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park in Stonewall, TX. This park protects the birthplace, homestead, ranch, and resting place of the former president. During his time in office, the ranch was often called the "Texas White House." There are two sections of the park: the LBJ Ranch and the Johnson City District. The ranch was used as the family's retreat during his presidency and is the site of his final resting place. In Johnson City, you can visit the boyhood home of the president, his grandparents' log cabin, and the park's visitor center. 

Everglades National Park

Once you get to Florida, you will not want to miss the opportunity to visit Everglades National Park. This park, which is about four hours south of Orlando, contains the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Everglades cover over 1.5 million acres of the wetlands near the southern tip of the state. The park contains sawgrass marshes, pine flatwoods, and coastal mangroves. It is also home to hundreds of animal species, including the Florida panther, West Indian manatee, and endangered leatherback turtle. At the park, you can camp or hike throughout the area. If you want a unique experience, an airboat will take you into the mangroves to see the native wildlife.

Nearby State Parks

During your Houston to Orlando road trip, you might want to take a break from driving and visit a state park. When you visit RVshare's website, make sure to check out the state park guide to learn more about these relaxing spots. 

Gulf State Park

Gulf State Park is located about an hour from Mobile, Alabama. At this location, you can enjoy the 2 miles of white sand beaches. There are plenty of opportunities to see marine animals or collect seashells on the beach. Gulf State Park has several boardwalks that will take you over the sand dunes and swamps to the seashore. If you have a dog, there is a designated pond where your pet can swim in the warm waters. Anglers will not want to miss out on the chance to catch redfish, bass, flounder, or speckled trout. 

Fontainebleau State Park

When you get to the New Orleans region, you can visit the former estate of Bernard de Marigny de Mandeville. Today, the area is called Fontainebleau State Park. Since it is located on Lake Pontchartrain's shores, it has become a popular spot for New Orleans residents to sunbathe, sail, or swim. There is also an old railroad track that has been converted into a hiking and cycling trail. 

Rainbow Springs State Park

Rainbow Springs State Park has been the home of several native Florida tribes for over 10,000 years. You can visit this park in Dunnellon to see the lush greenery, natural springs, and sapphire-colored waters. There have been several improvements added to the park throughout the years, including man-made waterfalls and ornamental grasses. If you are looking for recreational activities, Rainbow Springs is a great place to swim or snorkel in the waters. 

Along the Way

You'll find dozens of interesting destinations during your Houston to Orlando RV road trip. Most are in the big cities of Houston, New Orleans, and Orlando. 

Space Center Houston

If you're a space enthusiast, you will not want to miss the chance to visit Space Center Houston. This is the official visitor center of the Johnson Space Center. It is the home of astronaut training and Mission Control. Throughout the year, the Space Center welcomes more than a million guests. You can experience the exhibits, attractions, and hands-on activities at this fascinating attraction. 

Houston Museum of Natural Science

This natural history museum was established in 1909, and it consists of a central facility with four floors of natural science exhibits and science halls. You will want to visit the Cockrell Butterfly Center, Burke Baker Planetarium, and Wortham Giant Screen Theatre. This is one of the most popular museums in the country as it welcomes roughly 2 million visitors per year. The Morian Hall of Paleontology features 60 large dinosaur skeletons.

Bourbon Street

No trip through New Orleans will be complete without a stop at Bourbon Street in the French Quarter. These 13 blocks are filled with shops, bars, and other tourist spots. With over 17 million visitors per year, this location ranks as the top attraction in the Big Easy. 

Walt Disney World Complex

For many, Orlando is synonymous with theme parks. The Walt Disney World complex is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the United States. Spanning over 25,000 acres, the resort includes the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. After you visit the parks, make sure to stop by the Disney Springs area or plan a stay at one of Disney's hotels. 

Main Cities You Will Pass Through

When it comes time to take a rest break during your road trip from Houston to Orlando, the route passes by many exciting cities with campgrounds and RV parks. There are also dump stations where you can take care of business with your RV.

Mobile

The city of Mobile is located on the Gulf Coast in Alabama. With its close location to the shores, it is a popular spot for vacationers. This city was the first to hold a Mardi Gras celebration. It's also known for its restaurants that serve fresh seafood. When you need to park your RV, Mobile is home to several local campgrounds close to the beach. You can find a dump station at Island Retreat RV Park in nearby Gulf Shores.

Metairie

Metairie is just outside of New Orleans, and it is a great place to get a break from the big city. Many locals head to Lafreniere Park to kick back and relax. At the Jefferson Performing Arts Society, you can enjoy a local theater or musical performance. When you want to find a campground for the night, you will find several options in Metairie. 

Panama City Beach

If you are looking for a top beach destination in Florida, you will want to stop at Panama City Beach. There are over 27 miles of sandy beaches with plenty of opportunities to participate in a few water activities. While you are there, you can hit the water on a boat, paddleboard, or kayak. Enhance your trip by getting a spot at a Panama City Beach campground near the shore.

Find Adventure from Houston to Orlando

Find your One-Way Rental

With this Houston to Orlando road trip itinerary, you will have many opportunities to explore the local areas and experience the attractions. If you want to see the country, you might want to consider renting an RV from RVshare. You can find a large selection of recreational vehicles in Houston as well as Orlando.