If you’ve been to the Sunshine State of Florida before, you know that there’s so much to see and do that it’s almost impossible to knock everything out in one go. The state is full of fun cities for visitors; it can be hard to decide where to go or what to do while you’re on vacation.
Fortunately, many of Florida’s most popular destinations are close
enough together that you can hit all of them in one day with a road trip!
For instance, to explore the beauty of Tampa, you can then make a Florida road trip to Siesta Key for even more beachy fun! Here’s everything you can do and see along the way from Tampa’s city as you travel down to our luxurious Siesta Key beach hotel.
How Far is the Drive from Tampa to Sarasota?
Taking a drive from Tampa to Sarasota (and, subsequently, Siesta Key) is quicker than you might think. A non-stop drive only takes about an hour (maybe an hour and a half with traffic), so you’ll have plenty of time for fun stops along the way!
You’ll start by making your way to the Highway 618 Toll E/Selmon Expressway ramp (make sure you bring change for the toll!). Follow this road for about 35 miles until you can take Exit 15A to merge onto I-75 South toward Naples. Then, take Exit 228 to merge onto I-275 North toward St. Petersburg, followed by taking Exit 2 for US-41 South. Once you’re on US-41 S/S Tamiami Trail, simply continue on US-301 S/1st Street W until it takes you into Sarasota!
Things to Do in Tampa
Before you leave Tampa, there are plenty of sights to see in the city. If you’re craving a good adrenaline rush, visit Busch Gardens, Tampa Bay, or Adventure Island with your family. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay transports you to Africa with thrilling amusement park rides and magnificent animals. While Adventure Island is an exciting waterpark that gives you all the thrill of the beach without the messy sands.
Searching for an indoor activity? Tampa has tons of interesting museums! The Museum of Science and Industry has countless hands-on exhibits that your kids are sure to love and a stunning butterfly garden to walkthrough! You can also visit the Henry B. Plant Museum to see some incredible European, Asian, and Floridian art, and if you have young kids, plan a trip to the Glazer Children’s Museum!
Things to Do In Between
Once you leave Tampa, you’ll have the chance for many fun stops along the way. First, get out and stretch your legs in Riverview. You can take a stroll through the Alafia Scrub Nature Preserve or let your kids release some energy at Paul Sanders Park. For a unique museum experience, head into the International Independent Showmen’s Museum to learn about American carnival history!
Next, you’ll come into the Sun City Center area. There are tons of beautiful outdoor spaces to explore nearby, like the Little Manatee River State Park and E.G. Simmons Regional Park. Sun City Center is also a great place to stop for lunch, with delicious options like BubbaQue’s BBQ, Bella Cucina Italian Family Restaurant, Sun City Café, and more.
The last major stop before you reach Sarasota will be Bradenton. Walk around outdoor attractions like Robinson Preserve, the Riverwalk, or Desoto National Memorial Park. Grab a snack and let your kids play on the playground at Mixon Fruit Farms, or escape the heat inside the Florida Railroad Museum or the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature. This city is truly a hidden gem, so be sure to plan ample time to explore!
Things to Do in Sarasota
Finally, you’ve made it to Sarasota! The fun has only just begun. To find a calm place to connect with nature, visit the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Or, if you’re looking to check out some incredible animals, the Sarasota Jungle Gardens is the perfect destination. Want to get up close and personal with some of the area’s most impressive marine life? Don’t miss the chance to visit Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium!
All throughout Sarasota, you’ll feel the influence of circus mogul John Ringling, so you’ll definitely want to visit his properties to learn more about the man behind it all. Destinations like the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art and Ca’ d’Zan are fascinating sites that give a unique perspective of the city. Sarasota is also full of locally-owned shops, markets, Sarasota restaurants, and cafes, so take the time to support local businesses and add a special touch to your trip!
Things to Do in Siesta Key
Once you’ve experienced a full day of fun in Sarasota, you’ll probably be pretty tired. You’ve been driving all day, after all! To escape the city and experience a more laid-back place to rest your head, take a 15-minute drive down to Siesta Key! There’s still plenty to do down here, but it’s a much more relaxing location than what the hustle and bustle of the city often provides.
One of the biggest attractions of Siesta Key is Siesta Key Beach. The gorgeous white sands are perfect for spending the entire day in the sunshine, and once the sun goes down, stick around to experience the fantastic Siesta Key Drum Circle! You can also spend time at Turtle Beach and Crescent Beach, whether you want to rent outdoor gear for watersports or simply stroll along the shores and collect some seashells. Get your shopping done at Siesta Key Village before heading to your Siesta Key resort for the evening.
Plan Your Visit
On your next Florida road trip to Siesta Key beach vacation, consider visiting us on the shores of Siesta Key. For more information or to book your stay at our Siesta Key resort, simply contact us today!
Luxury Siesta Key Hotel Resort
At the end of a long day of traveling, there’s nothing better than collapsing into a comfortable bed or enjoying dinner and a movie with the ones you love most. Tropical Breeze is here to make that happen! We offer Siesta Key accommodations for groups of all sizes, guaranteeing that you have a comfortable and luxurious place to stay when you arrive. Our properties are within walking distance of many of the island’s best attractions and restaurants, so you can wake up the next day and easily continue to explore Siesta Key!
Travel Insurance
There’s one last point to discuss before you embark on your Florida road trips from Tampa: travel insurance. Many people don’t think about travel insurance when they’re planning a road trip. Still, if you get a flat tire or your car breaks down in the middle of nowhere, you’ll definitely be glad you thought ahead! We encourage our clients to secure travel insurance through Generali. Their rates are incredibly affordable, and you’ll have the peace of mind knowing you’re covered should anything go wrong on your trip down to Siesta Key.
