Road Tripping from Bartow to Tavares: The Best Routes for Your Adventure

Looking for an exhilarating road trip from Bartow to Tavares? This journey promises beautiful scenery, charming towns, and great memories. Whether you prefer the well-loved highways or the scenic byways less traveled, we’ve got you covered.

The Fastest Route: via FL-33 N and FL-19 N

Distance: 81.6 miles Total Driving Time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes

If you’re in a hurry and just want to get there, take the fast lane via FL-33 N and FL-19 N. This route is the quickest route, taking around 1 hour and 30 minutes. You’ll get on FL-33 N in Polk County and follow it for 37 miles before making a right on FL-19 N. Enjoy the view as you drive on Seminole State Forest along the way, which offers wilderness excursions, hiking, and horseback riding.

Get Off the Beaten Path: via US-27 N and CR-561

Distance: 83.6 miles Total Driving Time: Approximately 2 hours and 8 minutes

If you prefer to get off the beaten track and see more of the countryside, take US-27 N and CR-561. This route will take you through the heart of Florida. Starting from Bartow, take US-27 N for 44 miles before making a left on CR-561. You’ll drive through scenic hills and charming small towns like Howey-in-the-Hills, just 15 minutes south of Tavares. This route is around 2 hours and 8 minutes, but it’s worth taking the time to explore the hidden gems of the Sunshine State.

Enjoy the Best of Both Worlds: via I-4 W and FL-429 N

Distance: 94.7 miles Total Driving Time: Approximately 1 hour and 56 minutes

Looking for a balance of speed and scenic views? Take I-4 W and FL-429 N from Bartow to Tavares. You’ll get the opportunity to have a lively drive on the interstate with the charm of driving on Florida’s back roads. Get on I-4 W, then take exit 60 to merge onto FL-429 N. Take this road until you reach the turnpike and exit onto County Rd 448, then a quick left on Dead River Rd and a quick right on State Road 19. It’s around 1 hour and 56 minutes and offers stunning landscapes of the Ocala National Forest and Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive.

Don’t Forget to Stop Along the Way

No matter which route you choose, there are many places to stop along the way to break up your journey.

Stop by Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive to experience the beauty of Florida’s natural side, including aquatic activities, hiking, and wildlife sightings. For a taste of the local cuisine, drop by Yalaha Bakery for fresh and mouthwatering German pastries and bread. Finally, take a stroll through the historic town of Mount Dora, which has charming antique stores, galleries, and restaurants to explore.

Conclusion

The bottom line, the journey from Bartow to Tavares offers a great combination of both scenic and highways to make your journey exciting. Choose your route wisely depending on your preferences and schedule. But no matter what road you choose, don’t forget to stop and enjoy the journey along the way.