Plan the Perfect Orlando to Miami Road Trip in 2024
We have traveled extensively in Florida, and some of our favorite spots are along the way from Orlando to Miami. If you’re looking to make some fun memories, the trip to Miami from Orlando is what you want to take. With this road trip, we promise you will have exciting stops, some beautiful scenery, and a taste of Florida’s diverse cities and towns.
Whether you prefer the freedom of the open road or the comfort of a train ride or are looking for a flight or a bus from Miami to Orlando, we’ve got you covered. We will give you all the details and explore all the options that there are on your journey from Orlando to Miami.
Map of Orlando to Miami
Getting From Orlando to Miami
There are many ways that you can get from Orlando to Miami, and we’ve got you covered with this list. As a traveling family, we appreciate getting to make stops and exploring new places.
However, we understand that not everyone has the time or budget to make all the spots we recommend. So, here we will offer you the best ways to travel from Orlando, FL, to Miami, FL, and we know that you’ll find something that fits you.
Orlando to Miami Drive
You can always choose to embark on a memorable road trip from Orlando to Miami by driving there. We love that driving provides us the flexibility and the opportunity to explore along the way. If you choose this route, you will find lots of hidden gems. We have a couple of options if you’re driving.
Car Rental
You can start your road trip adventure by driving to Miami. If you’re coming out of state, there are lots of great deals when it comes to car rental options. The Orlando to Miami drive is a great way to have flexibility, and you get the chance to explore at your own pace.
A great thing about these routes is that you will also get to enjoy the scenic beauty of Florida. The driving travel time will be approximately 3.5 hours (with tolls) and 4 hours (no tolls) without making any stops.
There are tolls on some roads between Orlando and Miami, including the Florida Turnpike and the Homestead Extension. The Florida Turnpike runs from northwest of Orlando to below Miami. The Homestead Extension connects Interstate 95 to Homestead, south of Miami.
The cost of tolls from Orlando to Miami depends on the toll road and the type of vehicle. You’ll be looking at anywhere between $3.00 – $11.00, depending on what you use.
Car rentals from Orlando to Miami can range from $70 to over $200 a day. If you want to save some money on rentals, try to avoid renting a car at Orlando International Airport. Something we’ve learned the hard way is that it is more expensive to rent at the Orlando airport, so we recommend renting from a downtown Orlando location for the best deals.
RV Rental
If you’re like us and you prefer to embrace the great outdoors, an Orlando to Miami road trip on an RV would be a great alternative. We know that RVs are a great way to connect with nature while having all the comforts of home. You will find that the cost of renting an RV in Florida varies by the type of RV, the season, and the number of days rented.
On average, you can expect to pay between $75 and $150 per night for small trailers and campervans. Larger trailers and motorhomes could cost $100 to $250 per night. You also have to consider that the total cost of gas for your road trip would increase.
However, this cost could be offset by the practicality of having a place to rest and not having to rent a hotel room. We know how overwhelming travel can be, but RVs offer a convenience that you will not find in others.
Orlando to Miami Train
If you want a more unique travel experience, try the train from Orlando to Miami. Usually, you can’t find many opportunities to travel by train. We love that train rides feel like a special travel experience. With train rides, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the views as you glide toward your destination.
The Brightline Orlando to Miami train is a comfortable and efficient way to cross the state. This train can travel as fast as 130 miles per hour and can complete the Orlando to Miami trip in just 3 hours. One-way lowest fares start at $79 for SMART service and $149 for the best seat PREMIUM service.
Amtrak also offers a direct Miami to Orlando train. The trains have two daily departure times, and the trip takes about 5 hours and 40 minutes. The average price of Amtrak tickets from Orlando to Miami starts at $27 and goes up to $39.
Orlando to Miami Flights
If you’re short on time, Miami to Orlando flights are a convenient option. Spirit Airlines, American Airlines, and Silver Airways offer regular direct flights between the MCO to Miami International Airport. They are some of the area’s most popular airlines and offer some of the cheapest flights around.
Orlando to Miami flight time usually averages 1 hour and 10 minutes for nonstop flights. The costs for an Orlando to Miami flight can vary depending on the day and season. In some cases, you can pay as little as $63 for cheap flights.
▶️ BOOK Orlando to Miami Flights
Orlando to Miami Bus
Another cost-effective option is taking a bus from the Orlando bus station to Miami. It might take a bit longer, but it’s a comfortable and budget-friendly choice.
Bus companies like Greyhound offer cheap bus tickets from Orlando to Miami anywhere, with the best ticket prices ranging from $42 – $75 per trip. They also offer a Miami to Orlando bus trip.
If you’re looking for some tour options that offer roundtrip transportation from Orlando, there are a few around. You can try the “From Orlando: Miami Day Trip with Upgrade Options” tour that lets you explore all of Miami’s best spots in a day.
▶️ BOOK From Orlando: Miami Day Trip
Starting Point: Orlando
Your journey begins in the magical city of Orlando. This place is famously known for its world-class theme parks like Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando. These family-friendly destinations offer a variety of thrilling rides, magical experiences, and enchanting shows.
Outside of the theme parks, there are lots of fun opportunities to explore. If you are a fan of astronomy, you should consider taking a tour of the Kennedy Space Center. Here you can explore NASA’s space history and witness the marvels of space travel.
▶️ BOOK Kennedy Space Center Tour
If you only have a small time to be here, consider exploring the Orlando Museum of Illusions. This is a great place for children and adults and is full of quirky displays and exhibits.
▶️ SHOP Museum of Illusions Admission Ticket
We’ve enjoyed visiting Orlando no matter the time of year we visit. It is even a lot of fun during Halloween and Christmas. Whether you are in it for the thrills of the theme parks, learning about outer space history, or simply enjoying the ambiance, this place is an adventure to remember.
Orlando to Miami via Florida Turnpike
Mileage: 235.2 miles
Drive Time: 3 hours and 30 minutes
The Florida Turnpike is smooth and scenic and one of the most popular routes from Orlando to Miami. This route also offers several interesting stops along the way to break up your journey.
Fun Stops Along the Way
Kissimmee, Florida
Kissimmee is just south of Orlando. This is a great place to experience the Old Florida vibe. You can take a stroll through Historic Downtown Kissimmee and explore its shops and restaurants. You can also take an airboat tour on Lake Tohopekaliga and try to spot some local wildlife.
▶️ BOOK Kissimmee: Boggy Creek Everglades Sunset Airboat Tour
Lake Okeechobee, Florida
Lake Okeechobee is the largest freshwater lake in Florida. Here we recommend taking a scenic detour. If you drive along the Herbert Hoover Dike, you can enjoy picturesque views, and you’ll get to stretch your legs. It’s an easy stop since the drive encircles the lake, so you can get back on the road pretty easily.
Vero Beach, Florida
We love the beautiful sandy beaches of Florida, and Vero Beach is a great example of this. Only 90 minutes out of the city, it’s one of the best beaches near Orlando. It’s the perfect spot to break out the boogie boards and beach toys and just enjoy the day.
We’ve found there’s nothing quite like loading up your beach tote with all the beach day essentials and just relaxing in a beach chair with an umbrella.
This coastal gem also has a charming downtown area and is a great place to make a stop. There are also plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature here in the non-traditional beach way.
Just on its outskirts is the serene McKee Botanical Garden which has water–lily–filled streams and tropical plants. To the north, you can explore the Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge.
This is the first national wildlife refuge in the United States. The refuge is home to at least 16 species of birds, including brown pelicans, great egrets, roseate spoonbills, and wood storks.
Jupiter, Florida
The coastal town of Jupiter is famous for its beautiful Lighthouse and Maritime Museum.
We love it when a small town gives us big-city benefits, if you like this too, Jupiter is the place to go. Jupiter has world-class restaurants, quaint shops, live entertainment, and all sorts of water sports.
The beaches here are surrounded by natural features like dunes, mangroves, and sea grape trees. We love to travel with our dog and appreciate that Jupiter has some dog-friendly beaches.
We also love visiting lighthouses when we are traveling through coastal towns, and Jupiter’s 1860s bright red lighthouse is stunning. This is a luxury pocket town that makes a big splash.
West Palm Beach, Florida
West Palm Beach is a vibrant city that has a blend of culture, art, and outdoor activities. Every chance we get, we try to visit museums for a more authentic experience. Here you can visit the Norton Museum of Art. If that’s not for you, you can also explore bars and nightclubs at Clematis Street.
Delray Beach, Florida
Delray Beach is a quaint beach town with inviting weather. It’s a great place to throw on your backpack beach chair, grab the baby beach gear and beach kites to keep the kids busy, and just enjoy the day.
Delray Beach is also known for its lively main street and thriving arts scene. You’ll want to head over to Atlantic Avenue, which is lined with galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.
The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is also a wonderful spot to visit. This place has a peaceful aura, and you’ll enjoy its stunning landscapes and exhibits.
Boca Raton, Florida
Boca Raton is a haven for shopping and upscale dining as it is one of the wealthiest cities in Florida. If you’re looking for high-end shopping and dining, you’ll want to visit Mizner Park. You can also explore the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center. This is a coastal and marine preserve with educational programs and a sea turtle rehabilitation facility.
Boca Raton is also a great place to stop if you’re traveling with kids. There are so many great parks and amenities at the beach for families. My kids love all of the different splash pads and themed-parks here.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Fort Lauderdale is famous for its boating canals and stunning beaches. Here we recommend you take a water taxi tour along the canals.
You can also visit the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens. This historic 1920s plantation home is located on a barrier island between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway.
Keep in mind that if you’re visiting during the winter months, Fort Lauderdale has one of the warmest beaches in Florida in December. It’s a great place to stop off and take a dip in the 77° water!
▶️ BOOK Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi – All Day Pass
Pompano Beach, Florida
Pompano Beach is your last stop before reaching Miami. This place is a fantastic spot for water activities, and it also has a great fishing pier. If you’re into underwater adventures, check out Shipwreck Park. This is an artificial reef site with so many cool creations that have been submerged.
Orlando to Miami via the West Coast
Mileage: 335 miles
Driving Time: 5 hours
For a different experience, consider taking the West Coast route. The Gulf Coast also offers its own charm and perspective of Floridian beauty that is hard to resist. The route will be a little longer, but it does provide an opportunity to explore the Gulf Coast’s beauty.
Fun Stops Along the Way
Tampa, Florida
We love that Tampa offers a mix of cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. Here, you can explore the historic Ybor City, which is known for its Cuban heritage and has lively nightlife. You can also visit the Florida Aquarium and check out these marine creatures with the family.
We’ve loved taking a stroll along the Tampa Riverwalk. There are many impressive hotels along the riverwalk, so it would be a fun place to stay too.
St. Petersburg, Florida
St. Petersburg is just a short drive from Tampa. This place is known for its beautiful beaches, restaurants, and cultural attractions. A personal favorite is the Salvador Dali Museum. You could also explore the Sunken Gardens and check out their impressive collection of exotic tropical plants and birds from around the world.
Sarasota, Florida
Sarasota is a haven for art and culture enthusiasts. You can visit The Ringling, a 66-acre estate that includes an art museum, two circus museums, and beautiful gardens. You could also take a walk through the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens or enjoy the white sands of Siesta Key Beach.
If you have time, the Sarasota Opera House offers beautiful events and showings.
Fort Myers, Florida
Fort Myers is a great opportunity to enjoy a mix of history and nature. If you stop here, you should visit the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, where you can tour the winter homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. We also loved the pier and pavilions at Centennial Park on the Caloosahatchee River.
Every time we visit Florida, our family tries to see more of nature. If you choose to stop here, we recommend you take a dolphin & manatee tour. We love getting to meet these lovely gentle giants, it’s something you will not regret doing.
If you have any shell-lovers, be sure to take a quick detour out to Sanibel. We love shell-hunting here and always find the most amazing shells.
▶️ BOOK Dolphin and Manatee Adventure Tour of Fort Myers
Cape Coral, Florida
Cape Coral is a waterfront paradise with over 400 miles of canals. You can enjoy all kinds of outdoor activities like fishing and kayaking. We recommend boating in the Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve. The Rotary Park Environmental Center is also a great place to get a glimpse of local wildlife.
Marco Island, Florida
Marco Island is the largest of Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands. It is known for its beautiful Gulf Coast beaches, crystal blue waters, and fantastic warm weather. You can visit Tigertail Beach and go shelling, check out the shorebirds, or just relax in the sun. This beach also has some of the best sunset viewings we’ve seen in the state.
Marco Island is one of the best places in Florida to visit during the winter months. December and January bring wonderful weather and a fun chance to soak up the sun.
After you’ve got your vitamin D fix, be sure to check out some of the delicious Marco Island restaurants. There are so many great options to try, we promise!
Everglades National Park
As you approach Miami, you should consider making a detour to the Everglades National Park. Here you can take an airboat tour to explore the unique ecosystem of the Everglades. This place is home to alligators, birds, and lush marshlands.
We love exploring Florida’s national parks as a family. We definitely recommend a stop here on your journey from Orlando to Miami.
▶️ BOOK Everglades National Park: Airboat Tour and Wildlife Show
Biscayne National Park
Close to Miami, you’ll find Biscayne National Park, a paradise for water lovers. This park is 95% water! The park also protects a rare combination of coral reefs, mangrove coasts, and undeveloped islands. Here you will want to snorkel, dive, kayak, or fish. They truly have every water activity available to do.
Destination: Miami
Miami, known as the “Magic City,” is a vibrant and culturally diverse city waiting to be explored. It is located on the southeastern tip of Florida. This is a city where you’ll discover the perfect mix of contemporary and historical treasures with a tropics flair.
Our family loved South Beach, we were just captivated by the pastel-colored buildings that line Ocean Drive. The clear blue waters of Miami Beach make for the perfect day of sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying fun water sports.
You also cannot leave Miami without getting a taste of Cuba. You can immerse yourself in Latin culture by visiting Little Havana. Here you can explore Calle Ocho and sample delicious Cuban food.
Miami is more than just a destination; it’s an energetic experience. Here you can create unforgettable memories in stunning beaches and among lively cultural people and their neighborhoods.
Where to Stay Near Orlando
Magnificent Room with 2 DBL Beds Close to Must-see Attractions – Budget
⭐️ Rating 9.6/10 | 📍 Location: Kissimmee, Florida | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
This little place offers some really nice budget-friendly rooms for your stay in Orlando. It can sleep up to 4 people and has all the regular amenities you would expect and more. The place has its own outdoor pool as well as a clean outdoor space to relax in.
It even has a gym and an on-site tennis court. We love that it is still close to all the theme parks like Disneyworld and Universal Studios.
– Alisa F. (read more reviews)
Was a little nervous because it was a great price, but it was so nice! Very clean, Newly renovated, the check-in lady was a sweetheart. Definitely would love to stay here next time I’m in town! Thanks for having us 🙂
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Magnificent Room with 2 DBL Beds
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel at the Entrance to Universal Orlando – Mid-Range
⭐️ Rating 8.4/10 | 📍 Location: 5780 Major Blvd in Orlando | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
As the name suggests, the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel is just a 2-minute walk from Universal Orlando Resort. They offer all the comforts of home away from home: a flat-screen TV, a fridge, a microwave, and a coffee maker. When we travel, we usually opt for the convenience of having nearby food options so we are not left overthinking it.
– Charlotte (Read more reviews)
Great location just across from Universal and close to shopping.
This hotel has 2 bars/lounges, a coffee shop, a poolside bar, a snack bar, and two restaurants. They even offer a local shuttle for those opting out of car rentals. You can’t go wrong with this kind of stay.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel at the Entrance to Universal Orlando
Where to Stay Near Miami
Crest Hotel Suites – Budget
⭐️ Rating 8.0/10 | 📍 Location: 1670 James Ave in Miami Beach | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
Crest Hotel Suites is a great option if you’re traveling on a tight budget. We always appreciate a good bargain but not at the cost of comfort and security. Thankfully this hotel has it all.
You will have a very clean and comfortable suite and housekeeping. You will get a TV and free internet access to unwind after a long fun day. They also have a restaurant and pool onsite.
If you’re planning for a longer stay, there are suites with kitchenettes offered at a pretty reasonable increase in price.
Well equipped and very clean. The location was ideal. The facilities were lovely. The room that I was in was very nice and the bed was very comfortable. I would stay there next time.
– Alba (Read more reviews)
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Crest Hotel Suites
Roami at Habitat Brickell – Mid-Range
⭐️ Rating 8.4/10 | 📍 Location: 1700 SW 2nd Ave. in Miami | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
Roami at Habitat Brickell is a unique stay in Miami, but we love that you get a 4-star apartment with all the luxuries and amenities that we always need and even more. The place offers many booking options from a one-bedroom up to five.
They have a 24-hour fitness center and a pool. You’ll also get a kitchen with a refrigerator, free Wi-Fi, and a TV with cable. This place is within walking distance of some delicious restaurants and food spots.
– Mike (Read More reviews)
“I felt like I was in an apartment, not a hotel room & liked it very much. The management was very helpful & accomodating. I would definitely recommend to friends & family.”
You are also within a three-minute drive of the Downtown Miami Shopping District and a fifteen-minute drive from Little Havana.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Roami at Habitat Brickell
FAQ: Orlando to Miami
How Far is Orlando from Miami?
The driving distance from Orlando to Miami is approximately 235.2 miles.
How long will Brightline take from Miami to Orlando?
The Brightline train takes about 3 – 3.5 hours to travel from Miami to Orlando.
The non-stop trains take 3 hours, while the regular service takes 3.5 hours. The regular service stops at all Brightline stations, which are West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, and Aventura.
How Much is the Train from Orlando to Miami?
Prices for the Brightline train vary depending on the class and time of booking. One-way fares start at $79 for SMART service and $149 for PREMIUM service.
Amtrak also offers a direct train from Orlando to Miami. Tickets with them start at $27 and go up to $39.
Is it Better to Fly or Drive from Miami to Orlando?
The choice between flying and driving depends on your preferences and schedule. Flying is faster while driving allows you to explore more.
When is the Best Time to Drive from Orlando to Miami?
The best time for a road trip from Orlando to Miami is during the cooler months, typically from November to April, to avoid the scorching Florida heat.
Is it Hard to Drive From Orlando to Miami?
The drive is straightforward and well-marked. Just be prepared for potential traffic in larger cities.
Conclusion: Orlando to Miami
Whichever mode of transportation you choose, your journey from Orlando, FL, to Miami, FL, will bring you unforgettable experiences. We know that both coasts offer their unique cities, sceneries, and flair, but they both will charm you.
No matter the transportation, from scenic drives to train rides and coastal explorations, your vacation awaits. Start planning your adventure today and make it a year to remember.
