Cruising from Arlington to Cedar Key: A Road Trip Guide

If you're feeling the call of white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and an old-school vibe, then heading from Arlington, Virginia to Cedar Key, Florida just might be the perfect road trip for you. With plenty of scenic routes to choose from, it can be a little tricky figuring out the best way to get there. Let's take a closer look at the different options and how long you can expect to be on the road.

The Fast Lane

If you're in a hurry and want to get to Cedar Key as quickly as possible, then your best bet is to take I-95 South all the way down to Florida, then catch US-19/98 West to Cedar Key. This route covers a distance of about 905 miles and has an estimated driving time of around 13 hours, 30 minutes with normal traffic. If you're traveling during peak traffic times, like on a Friday evening or Saturday morning, then add some time to that estimate. On the flip side, if you hit the road super early in the morning or late at night, you might be able to shave off some time.

The Scenic Route

Perhaps you're in no hurry and want to take your time enjoying some beautiful scenery on your way to Cedar Key. If so, then consider taking US-301 South to US-41 South, then cruising down the Gulf Coast on US-98 West. This route covers a distance of about 1,200 miles and has an estimated driving time of around 20 hours. Keep in mind that this is without any stops for sightseeing or breaks, so you'll want to add more time to your itinerary if you plan on doing some exploring along the way.

The Happy Medium

Maybe you want to find a route that balances speed with scenic views. In that case, you might want to consider taking I-85 South to I-75 South, then hopping onto the Florida Turnpike and catching US-27 South to US-19/98 South. This route covers a distance of about 850 miles and has an estimated driving time of around 13 hours. Since this route doesn't follow the coast, you won't have as many opportunities for scenic detours, but you'll still get to soak up some Florida sunshine and landscapes.

Final Thoughts

No matter which route you choose, make sure to plan your trip accordingly and account for potential roadblocks like construction zones or weather-related traffic delays. Also, be sure to stop and take a break whenever you feel tired or need to stretch your legs. With a little bit of preparation and a sense of adventure, driving from Arlington to Cedar Key can be a fantastic road trip experience that you won't soon forget!