"Roadtrip from Pennsylvania to Florida: The Best Routes, Distances, and Travel Times"
If you're planning to hit the open road and travel down from Carlisle, Pennsylvania to Sarasota, Florida, you're in for a treat! There are several routes you can take, each offering varying distances and drive times. To help you decide which one to choose, we've done the research and laid it all out for you.
Route 1: I-95 South (1,017 miles, 15.5 hours)
The most direct route to take is I-95 South, which stretches all the way down the east coast. The total distance is around 1,017 miles and takes approximately 15.5 hours to drive. However, bear in mind that traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hour, so it's good to factor in additional time.
Along the way, there are plenty of places to stop and stretch your legs. From quirky roadside attractions like South of the Border and Dinosaur World to gorgeous beaches like Myrtle Beach and Daytona Beach, there's no shortage of options. If you're looking for a fun experience off the beaten path, you can also visit the town of Savannah, Georgia, and tour its historic district.
Route 2: I-95 to I-10 West (1,201 miles, 18.5 hours)
For those who prefer a more scenic route, I-95 to I-10 West is an excellent option. This route takes you through the Carolinas, Georgia, and Alabama before ending up in Florida. The total distance is around 1,201 miles, but the added distance brings with it stunning views.
Along the way, you can take in the sights of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, The Biltmore Estate, and the beaches of Gulf Shores, Alabama. You can also visit the Crescent City Connection Bridge in New Orleans, Louisiana, or explore the vibrant arts scene in downtown Pensacola, Florida.
Route 3: I-81 to I-77 South (922 miles, 13.5 hours)
If you prefer to avoid the hustle and bustle of I-95, another option is to take I-81 to I-77 South. This route offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains and takes you through Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina before ending up in Georgia.
The total distance is around 922 miles and takes approximately 13.5 hours to drive. Along the way, you can stop at beautiful natural attractions like Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Mountains. You can also check out the motorsports-themed Virginia Museum of Transportation or the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Route 4: I-80 to I-77 South (1,074 miles, 16.5 hours)
For those coming from the western side of Pennsylvania, you can take I-80 to I-77 South. This route takes you through the Appalachian Mountains and offers stunning views of the countryside. You'll pass through Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia, and North Carolina before reaching Georgia.
The total distance is around 1,074 miles and takes approximately 16.5 hours to drive. Along the way, you can explore historical sites like the Flight 93 National Memorial in Somerset, Pennsylvania, or the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in West Virginia. You can also check out the stunning views of the Appalachian Trail, which runs parallel to I-77.
Final Thoughts
No matter which route you choose, the drive from Carlisle, Pennsylvania to Sarasota, Florida is an epic road trip. With plenty of sights to see and places to explore, it's a journey you won't soon forget. Be sure to pack plenty of snacks, bring your favorite tunes, and make stops at iconic roadside attractions along the way!