24 Best Road Trips From Miami, Florida

Nicole
Contributing Writer
Updated
| 12 min read
road trips from miami

The stunning city of Miami nestles in Miami-Dade County. It brags a marvelous cityscape where skyscraping buildings dominate proudly in the busy skies. Aside from being a cultural hub, this upscale metropolis is also the heart of economics and finance of South Florida. It houses fascinating museums, exciting recreational areas, high-end businesses, exquisite restaurants, and more. Additionally, it is famed for its spectacular sandy beaches that captivate tourists from all over the US. When you visit Miami, choose among the top Airbnb vacation rentals and kosher hotels as your accommodation. After a short satisfying vacation in the city, you might want to take the adventure elsewhere. For your guidance, here is a list of the best road trips from Miami, Florida.

What can you look forward to in Miami before your road trip

  • Located in the heart of Miami, Little Havana is where you can experience the art, culture, and food scenes of this vibrant city. There are also several spots in this neighborhood where you can click amazing pictures. Head to Little Havana’s walk of fame with names of Latin stars inscribed on pink tiles and recreate your favorite pose in front of the bright murals of Calle Ocho.

  • Art lovers can take the Art Deco Walking Tours to admire the beautiful architecture of the area, while foodies can sample local delicacies in the Miami Culinary Tours.

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1. Key West, FL

key west postcard shot
Source: Photo by Flickr user Ed Schipul used under CC BY-SA 2.0

There’s no arguing that one of the best places to visit in Florida (and in all of the US, even) is Key West, especially if you’re all about the ocean! With just 157 mi (252 km) between Miami and Key West, your scenic road trip will take just a little over 3 hours. It sure is going to be one of the most beautiful drives of your life, passing through the towns of Florida Keys. The Historic District is a place you should visit when driving to Key West, with attractions like Duval Street, Mallory Square, and Fort Zachary Taylor. Come down to Key West if a much-needed vacation to the beach is what you’ve been craving!

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2. New Orleans, LA

New Orleans, Louisiana
Source: Photo by user Pedro Szekely used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Billing itself as the city that never sleeps, New Orleans is a breathtaking city that has a rich cultural heritage. If you have extra time after your long vacation in Miami, drive straight to New Orleans. This city is known as the Big Easy and has been featured in numerous Hollywood films through time. New Orleans is the ultimate destination for party-goers as the city lights up with festive spirits, and here is where the enchanting Mardi Gras festival happens yearly. A road trip from Miami to New Orlean might be lengthy as it takes 12 hours of travel. However, you can take rest in the stunning cities of Jacksonville or Tampa, as they are in the middle of the journey.

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3. Hilton Head Island, SC

Beach Houses on Hilton Head Island
Source: Photo by Flickr user Lee Coursey used under CC BY 2.0

Going on a road trip isn’t just about getting to your destination; the drive itself is part of the journey and must be appreciated just as much. If you’re looking for a destination with a scenic drive throughout, Hilton Head Island is a top contender. With a distance of 518 mi (833 km) from Miami, the travel time will be around 7 hours and 45 minutes. You’ll be driving along the Atlantic coast of Florida and Georgia, passing through places like Daytona Beach, Jacksonville, and Savannah, before you finally arrive on the island. Some of the things you can enjoy in the area are, of course, the endless beaches and world-class golf courses.

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4. Naples, FL

Naples
Source: Photo by Flickr user ERIC SALARD used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Let’s face it, some of us just don’t have the luxury of being on the road for too long. Sometimes, we just want a quick vacation before going back to our busy lives. If short road trips from Miami are what you’re looking for, Naples in Florida should be included on your list. The drive doesn’t take more than 2 hours, with the distance being only 127 mi (204 km). Naples is known for its 10-mi (16 km) pristine shore along the Gulf of Mexico. The best attractions to visit in the city are the Naples Fishing Pier, Vanderbilt Beach, and Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park.

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Miami Tour Guide

Alexander Gorn

Alexander Gorn

I was born in Leningrad, now St. Petersburg, in the Soviet Union, and left for the USA when I was 23 years old, just out of college. Leningrad was and still is a city with great cultural traditions. I fell in love with its world-famous museums, art galleries, theaters, and other attractions. I have been guiding tours for most of my life and began while still in high school. During the summer... Read more

Tours by Alexander

5. Jackson, MS

State Capitol - Jackson, Mississippi
Source: Photo by Flickr user Visit Mississippi used under CC BY-ND 2.0

If you’ve always dreamed of driving up to Mississippi, consider visiting the capital city of Jackson. The distance between the cities is a whopping 910 mi (1,464 km) and the travel time is about 14 hours. You can make stops at Tallahassee, Pensacola, and Hattiesburg. Jackson is home to quite a lot of museums and historical places like the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, Mississippi Governor’s Mansion, and The Oaks House Museum.

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6. Mobile, AL

IMG_2573
Source: Photo by Flickr user Erin Kinney used under CC BY-SA 2.0

While the travel time to Mobile, Alabama, takes an estimated 11 hours, it is one of the best road trip destinations coming from Miami. It is a port city on the state’s Gulf coast and houses the World War II USS Alabama battleship at Battleship Memorial Park. The oldest celebrations of Mardi Gras and Carnival are said to have transpired in Mobile. When you visit this vibrant city, see to it that you experience the wonders of attractions like Oakleigh Historic Complex, Mobile Carnival Museum, and Bragg-Mitchell Mansion.

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7. Atlanta, GA

Atlanta, GA at night
Source: Photo by user James Rintamaki used under CC BY-SA 2.0

After a few days of a satisfying vacation in Miami, move the escapade with your loved ones to Atlanta. If you like going on road trips with your family, a romantic partner, friends, and even solo, Atlanta may seem like a fantastic road trip destination. The journey from Atlanta will only take you 9 hours of travel and cover 664 mi (1068 km) of land. If you find this long and tiring for you, you can stop by Charleston for some rest. Atlanta will surely charm you with its rich history and modern upscale attractions.

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8. Myrtle Beach, SC

Myrtle Beach, SC Spring Break 2007 33
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Curtis and Eric used under CC BY 2.0

If you can’t get enough of the sea, travel all the way to Myrtle Beach in South Carolina from Miami. A road trip to this stunning city will only take 11 hours of scenic travel. You will pass through Atlanta, and there you can go on a wonderful side trip, rest, and even try local restaurants. Myrtle Beach will take your breathe away with its gorgeous shores, wonderful amusement parks, seafood restaurants, and lots of other offerings. Plus, it is also an ideal hideaway destination for boys (or girls) who are into world-class golfing.

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9. Montgomery, AL

Montgomery, AL
Source: Photo by user James Willamor used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Just like Myrtle Beach, a road trip from Miami to Montgomery will take 11 hours as it covers a distance of 689 mi (1108 km), but the long ride will be worth it when you get to this captivating city and indulge in its delightful offerings. It boasts a fascinating history, as it played a big part in the Civil Rights Movement. Here, you’ll find lots of remarkable antebellum mansions, 18th-century Alabama State Capitol, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, and many others. Also, your family will surely have the time of their life at Montgomery Zoo & Mann Wildlife Learning Museum.

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10. Knoxville, TN

100th Block Gay St Knoxville, TN - panoramio
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user yourmanstan used under CC BY-SA 3.0

If you’ve already been to the first four road trip destinations, and you want to go to a place that you have never been to, you might consider an exciting escapade to Knoxville. Set on the Tennessee River, Knoxville will charm you with its dramatic cityscape, high-end offerings, an abundance of recreational areas, and interesting history to tell. If you are a history buff, be sure to explore Museum of East Tennessee History, and discover Civil War stories, witness regional art, and browse through textile displays. From Miami to Knoxville, expect a lengthy 877 mi (1411 km) road trip.

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11. Virginia Beach, VA

Virginia Beach from Fishing Pier
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user SchuminWeb used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Been itching to spend a much-deserved vacation in Southeastern Virginia and make lasting memories with your loved ones? Virginia Beach is one of the most gorgeous and picturesque destinations in the US. In this city, the vast Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay converge, providing locals and tourists with a wonderful swimming and watersports sight. Because of Virginia Beach’s geographical location, this city is also a paradise of sumptuous seafood. If you’re traveling with family, make sure to take them to Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, and watch as the kids’ eyes glow with so much joy. From Miami to Virginia Beach, you’ll be driving a 14-hour journey. You can stop in South Carolina or Georgia for a few hours of sleep.

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12. Charleston, SC

Charleston, SC
Source: Photo by user James Willamor used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Considered the largest of the cities in North Carolina, Charleston is an old charming port city that will give you so much pre-colonial vibes. The city is accentuated by cobble-stone streets, and these streets are most of the time graced by horse-drawn carriages. Also, a road trip in Charleston will take you through a trip down the past as you will see picturesque antebellum houses that are colored in pastel aesthetics. You can also spend some lovely time at Battery Promenade, and enjoy the best views of the oceans from there. From Miami, a trip to Charleston will take 859 mi (1382 km) of driving.

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13. Charlotte, NC

Third Ward, Charlotte, NC, USA - panoramio (1)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user James Willamor used under CC BY-SA 3.0

A big densely populated city that has so much to offer, Charlotte is another fantastic road trip destination. It has a thriving economy, and its modern uptown district is a testament to that. When you explore the uptown area, you’ll find a version of Los Angeles’ Hollywood Walk of Fame - the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Instead of stars, the NASCAR Hall of Fame celebrates iconic auto racers with the fascinating museum exhibits, old photographs, films, and memorabilia. Enjoy a 10-hour ride to Charlotte from Miami and pass through the beautiful state of Georgia.

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14. Columbus, GA

Downtown Columbus, Georgia skyline
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user PghPhxNfk used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Need more road trip suggestions? Why not check out what western Georgia has to offer? Explore the charming city of Columbus and learn more about the war era of America. Perfect for history buffs, Columbus holds so many historical tales to tell. Did you know that Columbus was where the Civil War’s final battle took place? Dig deeper and learn interesting facts as you visit The National Infantry Museum, The Columbus Museum, and The National Civil War Museum. If you are heading to Charleston, Columbus is a fantastic stopover along the way. It’ll only take you 9 hours and a total of 609 mi (980km) drive.

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15. Nashville, TN

downtown Nashville
Source: Needpix

Officially the stunning state of Tennesee’s Capital, Nashville is where the remarkable Vanderbilt University nestles. It is known for its delightful country music heritage, and a number of lovely museums, music venues, and themed-bars in the city is a testament to that. Spend a wonderful time at the Grand Ole Opry House and check out Country Music Hall of Fame while on a road trip to Nashville. Plus, if you are a big fan of the iconic country singer, Johnny Cash, you’ll fall in love with Nashville even more as it has The Johnny Cash Museum & Cafe that revolves solely on the actor’s life, fame, and success. If you plan to go to Nashville from Miami, expect a rather long road trip of 13 hours, spanning 913 mi (1469 km) of driving.

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Car rental services in Miami for your road trip

Eager to go on a road trip from Miami but don’t have a personal car? Worry not, as Miami offers some excellent car rental services featuring regular as well as luxury cars. From cool Chevrolets to flashy Ferraris, you’ll have a variety of models to choose from for your epic journey!

16. Florida Car Rentals

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Florida Car Rental is an unconventional car rental company supplementing the new Age Car Rentals and Leasing Company which was founded in the year 2005. Florida Car Rental provides a wide selection of auto rental services in Greater Miami daily, weekly and monthly car rental market. A variety of cars are offered, including economy car, full-size car, sports utility car, luxury car, convertible car among other selections. When you rent with Florida car rental you are sure to enjoy good rates as they have the best rental rates in Miami. You also get a free t-shirt as a complement from their company.

Florida Car Rentals

Website: Florida Car Rentals

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17. MVP Exotic Car Rentals

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by MVP Exotic Car Rentals on Saturday, 21 January 2017

MVP Exotic Car Rentals is Miami’s premier luxury rental platform. Their concierge service provides helpful airport escorts to both MIA and FLL airports. The package includes a large and elegant fleet with or without a driver who will make your tour movements easy. You can also rent one of their yachts to enable you to have more fun cruising on the Miami water. At an extra cost, MVP exotic makes sure you enjoy a relaxed night in their luxurious rental houses after a long day of fun. If you are looking forward to spending some quality time in Miami, be sure to contact MVP Exotic Car Rentals because they will get you sorted.

MVP Exotic Car Rentals

Website: MVP Exotic Car Rentals

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18. Prime Luxury Rentals

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Great experiences left awesome memories! ☀️??

Posted by Prime Luxury Rentals on Monday, 4 March 2019

Prime Luxury rentals is Miami’s premier yacht and exotic car rental company with a mission to take care of all your events and tour needs. From small, immediate family get-togethers and large extended family celebrations tours, you can choose either the private charter boat or yacht and have all the party organized by the charter specialist. Prime Luxury Experiences also has a variety of luxury rental boats to choose from for anniversary parties or weddings, which comes with charters in all sizes and for all budgets. At Prime Luxury Rentals, it is guaranteed that you will find what you are looking for.

Prime Luxury Rentals

Website: Prime Luxury Rentals

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19. Dynasty Luxury Rentals

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Dynasty Luxury Rentals on Friday, 21 December 2018

Dynasty Luxury Rentals is one of the best auto rental companies in Miami. The company offers a very extensive collection of vehicles in its fleet, to choose from among the most exclusive cars. You will be pampered by choices such as exotic car rentals, luxury sedans car rentals, convertible car rentals and SUV car rentals. When you choose Dynasty Luxury Rentals, be sure to enjoy several benefits including delivery and pick-up of your perfectly-detailed exotic rental vehicle to and from your door and free in-car GPS navigation systems which suggests safe driving roads. Book one on the exotic cars and get ready to enjoy your time in Miami.

Dynasty Luxury Rentals

Website: Dynasty Luxury Rentals

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20. Fox Rent A Car Miami

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Fox Rent A Car in beautiful Miami is a rental company located next to the International airport. Fox offers a varied selection of high-quality vehicles including economy, family-size, hybrids, SUVs, minivans, sport, luxury vehicles. Vehicle makes and models are from famous auto manufacturers such as Toyota, Chevrolet, GM, Ford, Kia, Hyundai, Dodge, Mazda, and many more popular companies (availability vary with location). The best part about Fox Rent A Car is that you can opt to join the Fox Rewards program whereby you earn rental reward points, which allow you to enjoy all members-only special deals, coupons, and benefits.

Fox Rent A Car Miami

Website: Fox Rent A Car Miami

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21. Diamond Exotic Rentals Miami

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Diamond Exotic Rentals Miami on Wednesday, 13 February 2019

Diamond Exotic Rentals company is famously known for offering the best concierge service for luxury car rental and exotic car rental in the US. At Diamond, prices of vehicles vary depending on the car type, rental location, and seasons. This company provides you with the largest collection of luxury and exotic cars including Lamborghini, Bentley, Rolls Royce, Ferrari, Porsche, Aston Martin, Audi, BMW, Bugatti, Land Rover, Cadillac, McLaren, Mercedes-Benz, Maybach, plus much more. If you are interested, give them a call and secure your luxury dream ride for your next holiday and enjoy a free delivery service in Miami and Las Vegas.

Diamond Exotic Rentals Miami

Website: Diamond Exotic Rentals Miami

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22. AddCar Rental

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Tallinn parking

Posted by AddCar on Wednesday, 25 November 2015

AddCar rental company offers the most affordable rental cars in Miami allowing travellers to comfortably explore the popular destinations of this beautiful continent in their own car, in an economical way. This company offers a wide selection of cars including Skoda Superb Wagon Automatic, Ford Transit, Volkswagen Sharan, Honda CRV, Opel Vivaro, Volkswagen Passat Automatic, Renault Traffic Diesel plus many more. Once you choose AddCar rental services, you’ll enjoy several benefits including attractive discount offers, first-class customer support and service, a wide range of car options to choose from, and a very easy rental car booking process.

AddCar Rental

Website: AddCar Rental

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23. Carefree Lifestyle

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Looking for the best car rental in Miami? check out Carefree Lifestyle car rental company which offers a vast inventory of luxury cars to complete your vision of the best possible experience in South Miami. At Carefree Lifestyle car rental company, you will find high-quality vehicles such as McLaren, Mercedes Benz, Lamborghini Huracan Spyder, Ferrari 360 spider, Bentley Continental GTC, Chevrolet Stingray, Bentley Flying Spur, Rolls-Royce Ghost, plus many more. Additionally, Carefree Lifestyle offers rental for condominium apartments which come with concierge services, such as chefs, maid service, yacht rental, South Beach club entry, and the ability to rent the newest exotic cars.

Carefree Lifestyle

Website: Carefree Lifestyle

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24. Motion Rent-A-Car

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Motion Rent-A-Car is among the top car rentals offering a vast inventory of luxury cars to complete your vision of the best possible experience in Miami. Its varied selection of cars includes Audi, BMW, Bentley, Cadillac Escalade ESV, Fisker, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Land Rover, Mercedes, McLaren, Porsche, and Rolls-Royce plus many more. If you are interested in contacting Motion car rental officials and booking the car of your desire, you’ll enjoy free delivery within Miami International Airport, the South Beach Hotel of Miami, Private Jet Center, the airport of Fort Lauderdale, and the beach West Palm.

Motion Rent-A-Car

Website: Motion Rent-A-Car

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Enjoy a fun-filled road trip with your loved ones

Miami Avenue
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Averette used under CC BY 3.0

Miami is a captivating city that will charm you with its upscale attractions, vibrant art scene, and exquisite dining options. It is a modern metropolis peppered with towering buildings and a multitude of city lights flickering from every corner of the city. It also boasts a number of hotels with private beaches and romantic places. When you’re done exploring this side of Florida, take the adventure elsewhere for an experience of a lifetime. Use this list of road trip ideas from Miami as your guide in planning a travel itinerary.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Nicole, a writer and traveler, also identifies herself as a free spirit with a wild heart. She is dedicated to telling authentic stories in a relatable manner. Nicole also enjoys exploring new,...Read more

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