The Time It Takes To Drive From Cedar Key, Florida to Tampa, Florida

Are you planning a road trip from Cedar Key to Tampa, Florida? The distance between these two locations is not too far, but the travel time can vary depending on the route you choose. In this blog post, we will explore the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of each route, the time it takes based on traffic patterns, and provide you with different options and drive times for your journey.

The Fastest and Slowest Routes

The fastest route from Cedar Key to Tampa is via US-19 S, which is approximately 116 miles and takes about two hours of driving time. This route is the quickest, but not the most scenic as it takes you through some larger cities like Gainesville and Clearwater.

One of the slowest routes is via FL-24 W and US-41 S. This route is approximately 160 miles and takes approximately three hours of driving time. However, if you are looking for a scenic drive with a lot of beautiful countryside and small towns, this route could be for you.

The Distance of Each Route

As mentioned earlier, the distance of the fastest route is approximately 116 miles and the slowest route is approximately 160 miles. It's essential to keep in mind the distance of each route to plan your stops for gas, food, and rest.

The Time It Takes Based on Traffic Patterns

The time it takes to drive from Cedar Key to Tampa can vary based on traffic patterns. During low traffic times, the fastest route can take anywhere from an hour and 45 minutes to two hours. However, during peak traffic times, the same route can take up to two and a half hours or longer.

Cut through the middle of the state to shave off time—even if there's traffic on the highways, there won't be much. This route will take three hours and fifteen minutes to get to Tampa, but it's mostly small, residential towns.

Different Options and Drive Times

If you want to avoid traffic and opt for a quicker drive, our recommendation is taking the fastest route, which is via US-19 S. However, if you are in no rush and want to explore some smaller towns and countryside, the scenic route via FL-24 W and US-41 S could be for you.

In conclusion, when choosing the best route for your road trip from Cedar Key to Tampa, you need to consider the distance, the drive time based on traffic patterns, and your priorities for sightseeing or a quick arrival. No matter which route you choose, you are sure to enjoy the charming towns and beautiful scenery along the way.