Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Clearwater, Florida to Orlando, Florida
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Image: Clearwater Beach, Florida | Source: Unsplash
Traveling from Clearwater, Florida to Orlando, Florida provides an exciting opportunity to explore some of the best attractions and natural wonders that central Florida has to offer. This road trip is filled with breathtaking sights, thrilling adventures, and relaxing stops along the way. With a midpoint in the picturesque city of Lakeland, travelers can experience a balanced mix of urban attractions and natural beauty. Buckle up and get ready for a memorable journey through the heart of Florida.
Highlights of the Trip
The road trip from Clearwater to Orlando takes travelers on an approximately two-hour drive filled with diverse attractions. From coastal beauty to cultural landmarks, this journey offers something for every traveler's taste. Halfway through the trip lies Lakeland, a vibrant city teeming with history and charm. While the options are abundant, here are the top five must-visit destinations along this exciting route:
1. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Experience thrilling rides, exotic wildlife encounters, and mesmerizing shows.
Image: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay | Source: Unsplash
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is an adventurer's dream come true. With a combination of exciting roller coasters, up-close animal encounters, and electrifying shows, this amusement park offers a little bit of everything. Whether you're a thrill-seeker braving the twists and turns of heart-pounding rides or a nature lover strolling through lush landscapes, Busch Gardens has it all. Interesting fact: The park's roller coaster, SheiKra, was the first dive coaster in North America.
2. Dinosaur World, Plant City
Transport yourself back to the prehistoric era and come face to face with life-sized dinosaurs.
Image: Dinosaur World | Source: Unsplash
A Jurassic adventure awaits at Dinosaur World in Plant City. With over 200 life-sized dinosaur replicas nestled among beautiful botanical gardens, visitors of all ages can explore the wonders of the prehistoric world. Embark on a fossil dig, participate in interactive exhibits, or go on a thrilling dino-themed treasure hunt. Interesting fact: Dinosaur World is home to the world's largest collection of life-sized, accurate dinosaur sculptures.
3. Circle B Bar Reserve, Lakeland
Discover the beauty of nature as you explore this vast nature reserve teeming with wildlife.
Image: Circle B Bar Reserve | Source: Unsplash
The Circle B Bar Reserve is a paradise for nature enthusiasts located in the heart of Lakeland. Spread across 1,267 acres, this stunning reserve offers a variety of activities such as bird-watching, nature walks along scenic trails, and photography opportunities. As you explore the reserve's diverse ecosystems, keep an eye out for alligators sunning themselves along the marshes or the majestic bald eagles soaring above. Interesting fact: The Circle B Bar Reserve is home to one of the largest concentrations of nesting bald eagles in the state of Florida.
4. Orlando Science Center, Orlando
Journey into the world of science with interactive exhibits and hands-on experiments.
Image: Orlando Science Center | Source: Unsplash
For a day filled with knowledge and wonder, the Orlando Science Center is a must-visit attraction. This state-of-the-art facility offers an array of interactive exhibits that cater to both children and adults. Learn about outer space, explore the depths of the ocean, or discover the fascinating world of dinosaurs. From a giant pendulum mesmerizingly swinging to the precision of a surgeon's hands, the Orlando Science Center brings science to life in captivating ways. Interesting fact: The Orlando Science Center has a rooftop observatory housing one of the largest publicly accessible telescopes in Florida.
5. Harry P. Leu Gardens, Orlando
Immerse yourself in the beauty of lush gardens spreading across 50 acres.
Image: Harry P. Leu Gardens | Source: Unsplash
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life with a stroll through the peaceful Harry P. Leu Gardens. Spread across 50 acres, this botanical oasis showcases a dazzling array of plants, flowers, and majestic oak trees draped in Spanish moss. Explore themed gardens, stroll through scenic pathways, and take in the captivating beauty of nature. Interesting fact: The Leu House Museum, located within the gardens, was once home to the Leu family, who played a significant role in shaping Orlando's horticultural landscape.
Trip Route and Duration
The road trip from Clearwater, Florida to Orlando, Florida spans approximately 105 miles and takes around two hours to complete. This route offers a splendid mix of coastal, urban, and natural attractions, catering to a variety of interests and preferences. By exploring Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Dinosaur World, Circle B Bar Reserve, Orlando Science Center, and Harry P. Leu Gardens, travelers get a taste of the region's diversity and beauty. So, pack up the car, roll the windows down, and set off on a remarkable adventure through central Florida.