Whether you're starting on Anna Maria Island or in Orlando, both of these Florida hot spots are known for great attractions, plenty to do, and a lot of family-friendly fun. Regardless of which of our vacation rentals you're based at, a road trip between the two cities is definitely recommended.
Here we'll cover all the best tips for a road trip starting on Anna Maria Island and ending in Orlando, highlighting the best stops along the way. You could easily flip this guide, though, and start from the end if you'd rather start in Orlando and end on AMI.
Taking a scenic route between Anna Maria Island and Orlando allows travelers to enjoy beautiful landscapes and picturesque stops along the way. Let's dive right into how to make the most of your road trip from beautiful Anna Maria Island to fun-filled Orlando, Florida.
What to Know: Anna Maria To Orlando
Whichever way you choose to drive, the total driving time shouldn't be longer than 2 hours and 40 minutes, but the total travel time could be much longer, depending on how much time you want to spend at our recommended stops.
If you're dreaming of the ultimate Florida getaway, a road trip from Anna Maria Island to Orlando is the perfect adventure. This scenic journey takes you from the laid-back charm of Anna Maria's stunning beaches to the vibrant energy of Central Florida's world-famous theme parks and bustling cities.
Along the way, you'll discover a blend of relaxation and excitement, with plenty of opportunities to explore unique attractions, soak up the sunshine, and create unforgettable memories. Whether you're a family seeking fun, a couple in search of romance, or a solo traveler ready to explore, this road trip offers the best of Florida's beaches, parks, and attractions—all set against the backdrop of the Sunshine State's famously pleasant weather.
Get ready to experience the magic of Anna Maria Island, the thrills of Orlando, and everything in between on this one-of-a-kind trip.
Planning Your Trip: Essentials for the Journey
Before you hit the road, a little planning goes a long way to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip from Anna Maria Island to Orlando.
The driving distance between these two destinations is about 125 to 150 miles, with a drive time of roughly 2 to 3 hours, depending on your chosen route and stops along the way.
For a truly scenic experience, consider taking the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, which offers breathtaking views of Tampa Bay and the sparkling waters below. Be sure to check for any tolls or fees on your route—purchasing a toll pass in advance can save you time and hassle. It's also a good idea to book your accommodations early, especially during the busy travel season, and to map out the restaurants and attractions you'd like to visit.
Where to Stop Along the Way: AMI to Orlando
With a little preparation, you'll be ready to make the most of every mile on your Florida road trip adventure.
1. Grab Food To-Go and Visit the Riverwalk
Photo Credit: val_nesh via InstagramBy this point, if you've already spent a few days or longer enjoying a vacation rental on Anna Maria Island, you've already experienced the island's hot spots. If you're ending your trip here and are excited to see those, we recommend you:
- Visit Bean Point for the best public beach on the island and enjoy stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
- Walk the small downtown areas of the island's 3 main areas: Anna Maria City, Bradenton Beach, and Holmes Beach. You can also explore local art galleries for a taste of the island's creative scene.
- Eat some fresh seafood at any of the island's best restaurants.
- Make your sweet tooth happy at the Donut Experiment
Now, back to the road trip! When leaving Anna Maria Island, stop at the Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe for a to-go meal on the road before heading out on Florida-64 to US-41 in Bradenton. While in Bradenton, you could do some sightseeing along the Manatee River and the downtown Riverwalk at Rossi Park.
Don't forget your swimwear as the park features a splash pad and shopping area. The area can get a little hot and humid, so be sure to grab some ice cream to cool off when you aren't enjoying the water.
And, if you're anything like me, you'll be happy you took advantage of the clean, public restrooms before you hit the road!
2. Drop Some Change in Tampa
Photo Credit: Valerie via Flickr CC2.0Eventually, the Tamiami Trail takes you to I-275 and I-75 near Tampa. Before making the turn to I-4 East, take I-4 West to visit the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Tampa Bay. Tampa is a vibrant city with numerous entertainment options, making it an exciting stop on your journey.
The casino offers all of the popular table games and slots, which makes for a bit of excitement on the way to Orlando. The casino isn't too far from Tampa, giving it easy accessibility from the highway and not adding too much time to your road trip.
Only about 1 hour outside of Anna Maria Island, according to Google Maps, this is a great spot for some adult fun before you make it to family-friendly Orlando. If you're traveling with your family, though, you can make an alteration here and visit Clearwater Beach instead of the casino. Catching one of Tampa's minor league baseball games is another fun and affordable option for families.
3. History in Lakeland
Photo Credit: lakelandflorida via InstagramAfter you've reached your limit at the casino, hop on I-4 East and head toward Lakeland. Several lakes surround the small town, but that's not the most notable feature of the city, along with Lake Parker.
It's the home of Tigertown, where the Detroit Tigers visit for Spring Training. They've been playing in Lakeland since 1934, and their Low-A team plays there during the Major League Baseball (MLB) season. No other MLB team has had a long relationship with a Spring Training venue other than the Tigers and Lakeland. All sports enthusiasts will enjoy visiting Tigertown!
4. Celebrate with Some Golf
Photo Credit: celebrationgolf via InstagramBefore you get to Orlando, take a golf break in Celebration. Disney built this quaint city with friendly streets and convenient shopping, with delicious bars and grills sprinkled in.
Celebration also features a golf course that offers a stunning view of the perfectly manicured neighborhood, making it the ideal spot to relax and enjoy a peaceful break before reaching Orlando.
Anna Maria Island has some excellent golf courses to hit a few balls at as well.
5. Shopping in Kissimmee
Photo Credit: experiencekissimmee via InstagramKissimmee is another popular destination on the way to Orlando. It's the home of Disney World, but it has a few other worthwhile stops, like Old Town and the Fun Spot. You can ride the go-karts or slingshots at the Fun Spot, and you can shop the old-timey main street at Old Town. Visitors can also browse unique items at the local gift shop. Time it right, and you might catch the car shows, where vintage car owners show off their prizes.
6. Get to the Big Parks
Photo Credit: diy.disneyworld via InstagramIt isn't a trip to Orlando if you don't visit at least one of the big amusement parks. Walt Disney World makes its home at the southwestern end of Orlando in an area called Lake Buena Vista. If you head northeast on I-4, you'll eventually reach the exits for SeaWorld and finally Universal Studios.
Universal Studios is also home to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, an immersive experience for fans that features detailed recreations of iconic locations, magical shops, and thrilling attractions, bringing the wizarding world to life.
If you only plan on a day trip, the best stop is Disney Springs. This amusement and shopping area is free and filled with fun. You can go bowling, take in a movie, and eat everything from vegan baked goods at Erin McKenna's Bakery to pulled pork at The Polite Pig. You can shop at Alex & Ani, the Coca-Cola Store, or several large Disney-themed shops. There are plenty of must-see theme parks in the area.
There is so much to do during your island vacation in the state of Florida, and with so much within driving distance, why wouldn't you want to plan your next family vacation here? For a longer road trip, we also suggest you head south and visit:
- Longboat Key
- Sarasota
- Naples
- The Everglades
- Miami
- The Florida Keys
Get your bags packed and your car ready, a true getaway is waiting for you!
Tips and Recommendations: Make the Most of Your Road Trip
To truly enjoy your road trip from Anna Maria Island to Orlando, take time to explore some of the top attractions and hidden gems that appeal most to you along the way.
Nature lovers will enjoy popping into manatee hot spots in search of the floating sea cows. For thrill-seekers, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay offers a day packed with exciting rides and up-close animal encounters. If you're traveling with kids, Universal Studios in Orlando is a must-visit, with immersive attractions and behind-the-scenes experiences that bring your favorite movies to life. Prefer a slower pace? The beaches of Clearwater and Bradenton are perfect for relaxing by the turquoise waters, enjoying soft sand, and catching a stunning sunset.
Be sure to sample some fresh seafood at a local eatery, and don't leave without visiting Bean Point on Anna Maria Island for panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. With so many unique stops, your road trip will be filled with adventure, relaxation, and plenty of delicious food.
Your Unforgettable Florida Road Trip Begins Here!
A road trip from Anna Maria Island to Orlando is more than just a drive—it's an unforgettable journey through the heart of Central Florida. From the island's stunning beaches and scenic routes to the world-class theme parks and vibrant attractions of Orlando, every mile offers something new to explore. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this trip has it all.
Take your time, soak in the views, and make the most of every stop along the way. With a spirit of adventure and a little planning, you'll create memories that last a lifetime. So get ready to stay at our luxury vacation homes and enjoy all the Sunshine State has to offer.
