Road Trip! Driving from Annapolis to Sarasota

If you're planning a road trip from Annapolis, Maryland to Sarasota, Florida, it's important to know the different routes you can take and how long each route will take. There are a few options to choose from depending on your preferences. Here are the details:

The Fastest Route

The fastest route from Annapolis to Sarasota is via I-95 S and I-75 S. This is a distance of approximately 1,052 miles and would take about 15 hours to drive without stops. The drive can take longer depending on traffic patterns.

At peak traffic times, the drive can take up to 18 hours or more with a lot of traffic. By contrast, if you drive when the roads are less crowded, such as early in the morning or late at night, it can take as little as 13 hours to reach your destination.

The Scenic Route

If you're not in a hurry and would like to take a more scenic route, you could drive along the east coast and down through Orlando, Florida. This route would take you through cities such as Wilmington, Charleston, Savannah, Jacksonville, and Daytona Beach. It is slightly longer than the fastest route, totaling approximately 1,200 miles and takes about 18 hours to drive without breaks.

At peak traffic times, this route can take up to 20 hours to drive. At lower traffic times, the drive can take a little over 16 hours. This route is great for those who want to explore cities and enjoy a nice drive through Florida.

The Southern Route

Another option is to drive through the southern states, including Tennessee, Mississippi, and Alabama, before heading down to Florida. This route is approximately 1,200 miles and would take about 18 hours to drive.

At peak traffic times, the southern route can take up to 20 hours to drive. Alternatively, if you drive during low traffic times, it can be as little as 16 hours. With this route, you'll be able to see rolling hills and farmland in the south, which can be beautiful.

Final Thoughts

When planning a road trip from Annapolis to Sarasota, there are a few different routes to choose from. Consider your time frame and what you're hoping to see to decide which route makes the most sense for you. All routes offer compelling reasons to make the drive, so pack up your car and hit the road!