Feedback on a Florida road trip

Hi there,

I’m planning a road trip for July 2026 in northern Florida. Could you let me know if my itinerary makes sense? Day 1: Orlando Day 2: Amelia Island Day 3: Amelia Island Day 4: Tallahassee Day 5: Panama City Beach Day 6: Panama City Beach (visit to Destin) Day 7: Crystal River (stop in Cedar Key on the way) Day 8: Crystal River Day 9: Anna Maria (stop in Clearwater) Day 10: Anna Maria (St. Pete) Day 11: Anna Maria Day 12: Orlando Day 13: Orlando Day 14: Orlando Day 15: Departure

Thanks in advance for your tips!

Hi Celine,

You haven’t shared much about your interests, so it’s a bit hard to give advice or feedback. Your itinerary makes sense as a well-structured loop, but it’s quite unusual for Florida—especially the first part (Amelia Island, Tallahassee, Panama City), which aren’t exactly popular tourist spots. Any particular reason? No visit to the Kennedy Space Center, even though it’s on your route?

Between Panama City and Crystal River, there’s Apalachicola Park and, more importantly, St. George Island State Park, which is absolutely worth a stop for its stunning white-sand beaches. I’m guessing Crystal River is for swimming with the manatees—that’s definitely worth it.

Between Crystal River and Anna Maria, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is a fun half-day stop. It’s delightfully kitschy but so relaxed! And right next door, you can spend the other half of the day canoeing down the river—highly recommended.

For days 9, 10, and 11, it’d be best to pick one base since the areas are pretty similar. Clearwater isn’t interesting, but nearby Honeymoon Island is a guaranteed change of scenery (just for the day, though—no accommodations there, it’s wild). Personally, I love St. Pete—it could be a great spot to stay and explore from.

On day 11, you could spend the night and hit the road for Orlando in the morning—it’s an easy drive. See what works best for budget/practicality.

Happy planning!