The Road to Sunshine: The Time it Takes to Drive From Atlanta to St. Petersburg

Are you thinking of taking a road trip to the Sunshine State? One of the most popular road trip routes is from Atlanta, Georgia to St. Petersburg, Florida. While this trip is doable in a day, you may want to consider breaking it up into multiple days and enjoying some of the sights along the way.

Fastest and Slowest Routes

The fastest and most direct route from Atlanta to St. Petersburg is via I-75 South. This route is approximately 465 miles and will take you around 7 hours at a steady pace. However, keep in mind that this route can be heavily trafficked during peak travel times.

The slowest and least direct route is via GA-27 South and US-19 South. While this route is only 460 miles, it is a winding, slow drive that will take around 9 hours. This route may take you through some scenic areas, but keep in mind that it may be rough terrain and hard on your vehicle.

Distance and Time

If you're looking for a more scenic route with fewer cars, you may want to consider taking GA-27 South to US-19 South, although this route takes longer at around 9 hours. On the other hand, if you're pressed for time and want to get to St. Petersburg as quickly as possible, then I-75 South is your best bet. However, this route can take much longer during peak travel times.

For a safe bet, it's best to plan for around 8 hours of driving time from Atlanta to St. Petersburg. If you leave early in the morning or late at night, you may be able to shave off an hour or two. But during peak travel times, such as holidays or weekends, expect traffic jams and potential delays.

Making the Most of Your Trip

While the drive from Atlanta to St. Petersburg may be long, there are plenty of fun stops and scenic outlooks to make along the way. If you're taking I-75, there are several interesting stops to make along the way, such as the Georgia Peach Outlet where you can shop for local Georgia products. Moreover, for animal lovers, there's the Wild Adventures Theme Park, where you can enjoy thrilling rides and see fascinating wildlife exhibits.

If you're taking the scenic route, you'll want to make a stop in Tallahassee, Florida, where you can tour the Florida State Capitol and explore the historic district. Further into your drive, you may want to take a detour through Crystal River, where you can enjoy amazing shoreline views, and perhaps do some fishing and swimming.

In conclusion, while the drive from Atlanta to St. Petersburg may be long, it offers plenty of must-see sights and natural vistas. Whether you prefer to take the slow scenic route or the faster direct route, be sure to prepare for any potential traffic delays and make the most of your journey by enjoying the beautiful sights along the way. Safe travels!