Driving Time between Brandon, Florida and Winter Haven, Florida

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Road Tripping from Brandon to Winter Haven: A Guide to the Best Routes

Are you planning a road trip from Brandon to Winter Haven? This scenic trip through Florida is perfect for those looking for a fun adventure. With multiple routes to choose from, you can experience the beauty of Florida on your way to your destination. In this article, we've highlighted the top routes to take and recommended stops to make along the way.

Route 1: I-4 W

Distance: 45 miles Driving time: 45-60 minutes

The quickest and simplest route between Brandon and Winter Haven is via Interstate 4 West. This route will take you through the heart of central Florida and past many popular attractions. The drive time can vary depending on traffic, but you can expect it to take between 45 and 60 minutes.

Recommended stops:

  • Dinosaur World: Located in Plant City, Dinosaur World is a great stop for families. Kids will love exploring the outdoor park filled with life-size dinosaur replicas.
  • Winter Haven's Chain of Lakes: Take a breather with a leisurely stroll around Lake Howard or take a fishing break at Lake May.
  • Fantasy of Flight: If you're interested in aviation, make a stop at Fantasy of Flight in Polk City. The museum features vintage planes, interactive exhibits, and flight simulators.

Route 2: SR 60 W

Distance: 37 miles Driving time: 1 hour

If you're looking for a more scenic route, State Road 60 is the perfect choice. This route takes you through the rural countryside between the two cities. It may add some extra time to your drive, but it's worth it for the breathtaking views.

Recommended stops:

  • Keel & Curley Winery: This award-winning winery is located in Plant City. Enjoy a tasting of their unique fruit wines or grab some snacks from their café.
  • Florida Air Museum: Located in Lakeland, the Florida Air Museum features an impressive collection of vintage aircraft and exhibits.
  • Lake Wales Ridge State Forest: Take a break from driving and hike along one of the many trails in this state park.

Route 3: US-98 S

Distance: 49 miles Driving time: 1 hour 15 minutes

The US-98 S route takes you through suburban neighborhoods and smaller towns on your way to Winter Haven. This route is perfect if you're looking for a combination of city and countryside views.

Recommended stops:

  • Tampa Bay History Center: Learn about the rich history of Tampa Bay at this museum located in downtown Tampa.
  • Circle B Bar Reserve: Located in Lakeland, this nature preserve is home to wildlife such as alligators and birds. Take a hike or a bike ride through the trails.
  • Cypress Gardens: Now a theme park, this iconic attraction was once one of Florida's top tourist destinations. Stop by for a nostalgic look back at the historic gardens.

No matter which route you choose, the drive from Brandon to Winter Haven is sure to be a memorable one. Take your time and enjoy the beauty of Florida on your way to your final destination.