Road Tripping from Cambridge, MD to Cape Coral, FL: A Guide to the Best Routes
It's that time of year again! The sun is shining, the warm weather is beckoning, and you're itching for a good old-fashioned road trip. If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and bask in the sandy beaches and rich history of Florida, then Cape Coral is your perfect destination. So, pack your bags, fill up your tank, and hit the road – we'll show you the best routes to get you from Cambridge, Maryland to Cape Coral, Florida.
The I-95 South Route
The I-95 South route is the most direct route to get you from Cambridge, Maryland to Cape Coral, Florida. It stretches over 1200 miles and takes approximately 19 hours to drive. This route takes you through some of the most beautiful states in the country and offers plenty of opportunities to make pit stops along the way.
Starting from Cambridge, Maryland, take US-50 West, which merges into US-301 South. Follow US-301 South until it merges into I-95 South in Richmond, Virginia. From there, you'll pass through Georgia and Jacksonville, Florida before exiting I-95 and taking exit 423 to merge onto FL-867 South towards Palm Beach. Then, merge onto I-75 South towards Naples before taking exit 136 towards Ft. Myers and merging onto Colonial Boulevard. From Colonial Boulevard, take a right onto Del Prado Boulevard to reach Cape Coral.
The Scenic Coastal Route
This route, which is approximately 1700 miles long and takes approximately 28 hours to drive, is best for those looking for a more scenic route that allows you to take in the beauty of the East Coast. The route takes you through some of the most breathtaking coastal cities in the United States, including Myrtle Beach, Charleston, and Savannah.
From Cambridge, Maryland, take US-50 West and turn left to stay on US-50 West. In Virginia, take US-13 South towards Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel and continue on this route until it merges into US-17 South in North Carolina. From there, you'll pass through South Carolina and Georgia before arriving in Jacksonville, Florida, where you'll merge onto I-95 South and follow the same route as the I-95 route to reach Cape Coral.
The I-81 South Route
This route is perfect for those who want to take a more laid-back approach to road tripping and want to experience the natural beauty and historic landmarks of Tennessee and Georgia. This route is approximately 1200 miles long and takes approximately 20 hours to drive.
Starting from Cambridge, Maryland, take US-50 West and merge onto I-70 West towards Hagerstown. From there, take exit 1A to merge onto I-81 South towards Roanoke. Follow this route towards Knoxville, Tennessee, before merging onto I-75 South to reach Atlanta, Georgia. From there, take exit 246 towards GA-75 North before merging onto I-575 South. Follow this route until it merges with I-75 South again and eventually take exit 136 towards Ft. Myers and merge onto Colonial Boulevard. Then, take a right onto Del Prado Boulevard and you've arrived in Cape Coral.
Recommended Stops
A road trip is not complete without making stops along the way to refuel, rest, and explore new places. Here are some recommended stops for each route:
- I-95 South Route:
- Richmond, Virginia – Visit the Virginia State Capitol and stroll down Carytown for some shopping and dining options.
- Savannah, Georgia – Take an afternoon to explore River Street and try some Southern cuisine.
- Scenic Coastal Route:
- Myrtle Beach, South Carolina – Take a dip in the Atlantic and enjoy the beach town atmosphere.
- Charleston, South Carolina – Take a historic walking tour and visit the Charleston City Market.
- I-81 South Route:
- Knoxville, Tennessee – Grab some BBQ at Sweet P's Downtown Dive or take a hike at Ijams Nature Center.
- Chattanooga, Tennessee – Explore the Tennessee Aquarium or take a stroll along the Tennessee River.
No matter which route you choose, be sure to enjoy the journey and make the most of your road trip. From the sandy beaches to the historic landmarks, Cape Coral, Florida is the perfect destination to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.