The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving from Baltimore, Maryland to Sarasota, Florida
Are you planning a road trip from Baltimore, Maryland to Sarasota, Florida? This journey will take you through some of the most scenic and beautiful parts of the United States. With so much to see and do along the way, it may be hard to narrow down the best spots. Luckily, we have put together a list of the top places to see on your drive from Baltimore to Sarasota. So, grab your sunglasses and hit the open road with these must-see destinations in mind.
Beautiful Beaches
No trip to Florida is complete without a stop at the beach. With crystal-clear waters and white sands, Florida's beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world. Here are some of the top beaches to visit on your road trip from Baltimore to Sarasota.
- Virginia Beach, Virginia - Start your road trip off with a visit to Virginia's most popular beach. Virginia Beach has miles of stunning coastline, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or taking a stroll along the boardwalk. With plenty of options for dining and shopping, you could easily spend a day or two enjoying all Virginia Beach has to offer.
- Myrtle Beach, South Carolina - As you continue down the coast, make a stop at the Grand Strand's most well-known destination, Myrtle Beach. Known for its bustling boardwalk, exciting nightlife, and live entertainment, Myrtle Beach has something for everyone. Relax on the sandy shores or take a dip in the ocean before hitting the town for a night to remember.
- St. Augustine Beach, Florida - As you approach the Sunshine State, make your way to St. Augustine Beach, a charming and historic beach town. With pristine beaches and a quaint downtown area filled with shops and restaurants, St. Augustine is the perfect spot for a relaxing beach day.
- Siesta Key Beach, Florida - No Florida road trip would be complete without a visit to Siesta Key Beach. Voted the #1 beach in the United States by TripAdvisor in 2020, Siesta Key's powdery white sand and turquoise waters will take your breath away. Spend the day soaking up the sun and enjoying the warm Florida weather.
National Parks
Whether you're an avid hiker or just love being in nature, there are a few national parks worth exploring on your road trip from Baltimore to Sarasota.
- Shenandoah National Park, Virginia - Just a short drive from Baltimore, Shenandoah National Park is a must-see destination. With over 500 miles of hiking trails, scenic drives, and breathtaking vistas, Shenandoah is a hiker's paradise. Be sure to stop at the visitor center to learn about the park's history and grab a map of the trails.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee - As you make your way south, be sure to stop at Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Home to some of the most stunning scenery in the United States, the park boasts over 800 miles of hiking trails, historic landmarks, and cascading waterfalls. The park is also home to an abundance of wildlife, including black bears, elk, and deer.
- Everglades National Park, Florida - As you approach Miami, take some time to explore the unique wilderness of the Everglades. Known as the "River of Grass," the Everglades is a vast wetland ecosystem home to alligators, panthers, and countless species of birds. Take a guided airboat tour or hike one of the park's many trails to experience the beauty of the Everglades firsthand.
- Biscayne National Park, Florida - Just a short drive from Miami, Biscayne National Park offers visitors the chance to explore coral reefs, shipwrecks, and mangrove forests. Take a snorkeling trip to see the colorful marine life or explore the park's kayaking trails for a chance to see dolphins and manatees up close.
Southern Charm
As you make your way south, take some time to explore the charming towns and cities that make the South so unique.
- Charleston, South Carolina - As one of the South's most iconic cities, Charleston is a must-see destination on your road trip from Baltimore to Sarasota. From strolling along the cobblestone streets of the historic downtown area to dining on delicious Lowcountry cuisine, Charleston offers visitors a taste of Southern hospitality and charm.
- Savannah, Georgia - Named one of the most beautiful cities in the United States, Savannah is a picturesque town filled with historic landmarks, antebellum architecture, and Southern charm. Take a stroll through Forsyth Park or explore the cobblestone streets of the downtown area to experience the city's unique culture and hospitality.
- St. Augustine, Florida - As the oldest continuously inhabited city in the United States, St. Augustine is a charming destination filled with history and culture. Take a tour of the historic district to see landmarks such as the Castillo de San Marcos or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront.
- Sarasota, Florida - As you reach your final destination, be sure to take some time to explore the sunny shores of Sarasota. Known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant arts scene, Sarasota offers visitors a taste of the best of Florida. Visit the Ringling Museum of Art or take in a show at the Sarasota Opera to experience the city's unique culture.
Conclusion
From the stunning beaches to the picturesque National Parks and charming Southern towns, this road trip from Baltimore to Sarasota offers something for everyone. So pack your bags and hit the open road to experience the best of what the East Coast has to offer.