If you are traveling throughout the Sunshine State, you might want to try out this Tampa to Miami road trip itinerary. As you start in Tampa, you can take in the beauty of the Gulf Coast beaches or visit one of the city's fascinating museums. Once you head south in your RV, you will pass through Orlando and all its family-family attractions. When you end in Miami, make sure to take the time to visit the world-class restaurants and shops in this South Florida city.
Florida is home to three national parks. You can easily travel to all of these parks on this Tampa to Miami RV road trip.
Biscayne National Park
When you are in Miami, you are only an hour away from this national park. Biscayne National Park is filled with plenty of colorful coral reefs and crystal blue waters. This park was designated to protect Biscayne Bay and the surrounding offshore reefs. Some of the reefs are part of the Florida Reef. Biscayne National Park encompasses over 172,000 acres of water and land, and it is home to many shallow-water shipwrecks. If you are looking to explore these shipwrecks, you can take the underwater Maritime Heritage Trail to the dive sites.
Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park is a massive park that covers over 1.5 million acres of land in the southern part of Florida. It is the third-largest national park in the continental U.S. The body of water in the Everglades is like a slow, grassy, moving river with sawgrass marshes, coastal mangroves, and pine flatwoods. Its importance to the world has been noted with a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation. Everglades National Park is home to hundreds of animal species, including the endangered leatherback turtle, West Indian manatee, and Florida panther. This park is a popular one for visitors, and it is an excellent place to explore by airboat or to camp out in throughout the park.
Dry Tortugas National Park
If you want a unique experience, then it is time to head down to the Florida Keys. While this park is located near the Keys, you cannot drive to it. A trip to Dry Tortugas National Park will require you to take a seaplane or boat, and it takes about 70 minutes from Key West. This national park is home to several coral reefs and islands. On Garden Key, you can enjoy the beach or head off to explore the 19th-century Fort Jefferson. Sea turtle fans will want to visit Loggerhead Key. This area also has a historic lighthouse and the remains of an 1875 ship.
During your Tampa to Miami RV road trip adventure, you should take time to visit several Florida state parks. These parks are the perfect way to take a break from driving and admire the Sunshine State's beauty.
Bahia Honda State Park
This Florida state park was founded in 1961, and it is located right outside of Homestead. Bahia Honda State Park is a good place to have some fun in the sun. The beach is one of the best in the area, and it is a popular spot for snorkelers. If you want to see some historic spots, then make sure to check out the bridge that once connected Bahia Honda Key to Spanish Harbor Key. Bahia Honda is more than a leisurely time on the beach. You can pump up your heart rate as you head off on the hiking trails. This state park provides plenty of opportunities to see the local wildlife, including sea turtles, bottlenose dolphins, and giant rays.
Blue Spring State Park
When you come to Florida, you probably want to see some of its most famous residents. You can visit the manatees at Blue Spring State Park near Orange City. During the winter, hundreds of manatees will head to the warm waters of the spring. You can view these magnificent creatures from the boardwalk or the water. However, there are strict laws in the state to protect the manatees from human interaction. If you visit Blue Spring State Park during other times of the year, you will see plenty of native creatures roaming the area, including alligators, herons, and turtles. You can even get a closer look at the spring's crystal-clear waters by paddleboard or kayak.
Silver Springs State Park
For a trip to the oldest tourist attraction in the state, stop by Silver Springs State Park. This park is home to the largest artesian spring in the United States. Visitors have been heading to this location in Silver Springs since the 1870s. Northern visitors often came to Silver Springs by steamship. Throughout the park, you will find historic and well-manicured gardens. If you want to hit the water, kayaking is a popular activity on the Silver River.
On your road trip from Tampa to Miami, there are several famous attractions and cities on the route. You should take a day to visit these thrilling points of interest.
The Florida Aquarium
This 250,000-square-foot aquarium is located in Tampa's Channel District. The nonprofit organization focuses on conservation and education. The organization presents several educational programs for kids and adults throughout the year. While you are there, you can learn about the native animals of Florida.
Gatorland
Located just outside of Kissimmee, Gatorland has dubbed itself the "Alligator Capital of the World." You can see an extensive collection of alligators and crocodiles at this park. Gatorland features many educational shows and activities throughout the day. If you want a closer look, you can even take part in a backstage tour.
Bayside Marketplace
Miami is known for its world-class shopping centers. If you want to grab a souvenir of your visit, stop by the open-air Bayside Marketplace. However, Bayside Marketplace is more than a few retail stores. It is an entertainment complex with restaurants, bars, and live music. There are even events throughout the year that are designed for the whole family.
When you travel from Tampa to Miami, your route will wind pass a few major cities and towns. You can find plenty of campgrounds that will accommodate your rig, and there are several dump stations to help you maintain the cleanliness of your RV.
Lakeland
Lakeland is situated between Tampa and Orlando. This city is a great location to stop by the beach or hit the local theme parks. In addition to that, Lakeland has a historic district with art galleries, museums, and restaurants. You can also find a few campgrounds to park your rig for the day or night.
Kissimmee
Kissimmee is in the heart of Central Florida. You can easily reach SeaWorld, Universal Studios Orlando, and Walt Disney World from this city. If you are looking to escape from the hustle of the theme parks, Kissimmee is located on the shores of Lake Tohopekaliga. For more water-based fun, the Kissimmee Waterfront Park is a great place to check out the fishing pier or hit the local walking paths. This city is the perfect spot to rest for the day, and there are several campgrounds throughout the Kissimmee area.
West Palm Beach
West Palm Beach is often called the jewel of South Florida. Many people head to this town for its cultural events and recreational activities. If you want to shop like a local, then you must visit the downtown shopping district. However, you should also check out the beaches in town. Some people say they are the best in the state. West Palm Beach is a great spot to enjoy those Floridian vibes, and you can find a campground to relax after the end of your road trip.
When you follow this road trip itinerary from Tampa to Miami, you will enjoy historic locations and beautiful scenery along the way. If you want to travel in comfort and style, consider an RV rental from RVshare. From large motorhomes to compact campervans, there is a rig that will meet your travel and budget needs. Once you hit the road, you are protected by our renter guarantee and 24/7 roadside assistance. Find the perfect vehicle for your travel needs in Tampa or Miami.
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