Embark on one of the fascinating journeys of America in our New Jersey to Florida road trip
There’s nothing like experiencing America on a road trip. I feel its one of the best ways to explore this vast country, that is so abundantly filled with bustling cities, charming towns, and picturesque countryside. Besides, the ever-changing landscapes from one state to another brings in a certain level of uniqueness to what you discover.
From the industrial allure of New Jersey’s urban sprawl to the tranquil beauty of the Carolinas’ rolling hills, every mile unravels new stories, experiences, and vistas. As you follow the highway’s winding path, you’ll witness the transition from vibrant autumnal hues to the sun-soaked shores of Florida’s renowned beaches. Along the way, historical landmarks, diverse cultures, and local delicacies beckon, inviting you to experience the diversity of each state.
In this guide, we tell you exactly how you can plan a perfect New Jersey to Florida road trip. Though perfecting one is never an easy task, but we got you covered with handy external guides, useful resources, experiential activities, accommodation options, and much more. Thus, making your efforts ease out on putting any additional work.
So without further ado, let’s get started.
Planning Tips for New Jersey to Florida Drive
Best Route to Reach Florida from New Jersey
The drive from New Jersey to Florida traverses through five American states of Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, Carolina, and Florida. This specific route is characterized by its inland trajectory, which does require a comparatively longer duration to reach Florida in contrast to the Coastal Route. However, depending on the points of interest and overall cities to cover, the inland region is by far the best to take a road trip on.
Driving Times for New Jersey to Florida
The drive from New Jersey to Florida is 1119 miles (1800 km). If you were to drive non-stop, arriving would take approximately 16hr 48mins. However, a direct journey is not recommended and it’s best to appreciate the viewpoints and pit stops dotted along the Blue Ridge Parkway Route.
Secondly, I recommend spanning your road trip for a minimum of seven days to maximum ten. This timeframe strikes a perfect balance to explore highlights of each cities, whilst also ensuring that you have ample time to relax and rejuvenate.
How to Rent a Car
To rent a car for your Chicago to Yellowstone road trip, I suggest Rentalcars.com. I’ve personally used their service and have found it incredibly affordable compared to other rental operators. With max safety assurance, you can be sure of booking the right vehicle for your entire journey.
New Jersey to Florida Road Trip Map
Here’s a driving route map (including stopover stops) –
New Jersey to Florida Road Trip Stops
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia beckons with a plethora of enthralling experiences, ranging from delving into its storied history to unearthing hidden treasures, savouring local bars, strolling through charming neighbourhoods, and immersing yourself in world-class museums. The city’s abundant offerings are enough to captivate your attention, leaving you yearning for an extended stay to fully indulge in its diverse allure.
Philadelphia is commonly referred to as a city known for its high historical significance. Beyond its historical roots, the city’s modern cultural influence shines through, particularly in its remarkable food and wine offerings that tantalize the taste buds of countless travelers. The iconic cheese sandwich, cheesesteak, and pretzels are some of the classics you cannot miss here.
Places to stay: Alexander Inn | The Windsor Suites | Philadelphia Marriot Downtown
I highly recommend spending a day or two exploring the landmarks of Philadelphia. Some of the prominent ones which should top your list include visiting the Independence Hall, the Christ Church and Burial Ground, Reading Terminal Market, Liberty Bell, and the Museum of the American Revolution. I also suggest touring Elfreth’s Alley which is one of the most beautiful locations in Philadelphia.
Read | The 10 Most Essential Things to Do on Your (First) Visit to Philly
Baltimore, Maryland
Baltimore, often lovingly dubbed “Charm City” by its residents, stands out as a vibrant and one of the most exciting destinations along our New Jersey to Florida road trip. Renowned for its picturesque waterfront vistas, charming cafes, and inviting restaurants, this city holds a special place in my heart. It’s my favourite place to come by, relax, and simply soak in the serene atmosphere.
Baltimore has all sorts of adventures packed for different age-groups, enabling them to experience the city like never before. Kids especially love it because of the large amusement parks it houses. While for adults, there are heaps of unique galleries, open market arenas, and cultural attractions to keep you occupied.
Places to stay: Lord Baltimore Hotel | Hyatt Place Baltimore | Inn at Henderson’s Wharf
When you’re in the city, I first recommend visiting Little Italy, which is a terrific neighbourhood for gastronomy scenes. Then head to Inner Harbour for a short sightseeing tour of Baltimore’s best museums and old historical buildings. Later, you could soak in the city’s energetic vibes by walking around Hampden and Fell’s Point neighbourhood.
Apart from the places you could visit, there’s loads of talent in the city which thrives on music and culture. From live performances and music concerts to comedy hoots and classic theatre shows, you could catch any event year-round in Baltimore.
Washington DC
What do you imagine when you hear Washington DC? Probably images of historical buildings, monuments, museums, and government buildings, correct? Well, that’s true to a certain extent, especially for first-time visitors exploring the capital city. But, what you may not realize, is that there is so much more!
However, beneath this familiar facade lies a world of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Beyond the well-trodden path, you’ll find charming neighborhoods that beckon with their unique allure, quirky cafes that offer obscure and intriguing themes, and art exhibits that remain underappreciated or await exploration.
So, if you aren’t a first-timer then do checkout this amazing guide – 37 Non-Touristy Things To Do in Washington DC Besides Museums and Monuments. It will absolutely be handy for you explore the different side of the capital city.
Places to stay: Hamilton Hotel | Hotel Hive | Washington Plaza Hotel
For the ones traveling to Washington DC for the first, here’s a list of all the prominent landmarks to visit.
Explore DC Monuments & Memorials
This 3 hour small night tour led by a professional expert perfectly guides you through the major spots of Washington DC. It’s quite an affordable option as it allows you to maximize your sightseeing while worrying less about traveling within. Moreover, landmarks such as Jefferson Memorial and the Lincoln Memorial are lit beautifully during nighttime.
Visit Georgetown
Often overlooked, Georgetown is one of the prettiest neighbourhoods to visit in Washington DC. Thanks to cobbled streets, narrow passageways, beautiful brick homes, and small garden spaces – it definitely feels like nice to be around amidst the serene tranquility. Moreover, do not forget to visit some of the famous bakeries and seafood restaurants here during your visit.
Marvel at the White House
You just can’t leave Washington DC without paying a visit to the White House. This majestic edifice has held its role as the residence of U.S. presidents since the 18th century, carrying with it a rich history that spans generations. Over the years, the structure has gone through many changes but it still stands mighty showcasing its sheer white beauty. On certain days, you can tour the insides of the building, however if not, you can still appreciate its views from the fence.
Some of the trips worth looking at –
Quick Exploration: Washington DC: Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour
Bike Tours: Washington DC: Monuments and Memorials Bike Tour
Day Trips: From Washington DC: Mt Vernon Day Trip, River Cruise & Lunch
Richmond, Virginia
From its vibrant downtown to many museums and historical sites, Richmond is one of the vibrant most cities of Virginia. Its typically known for its cultural significance, which itself is quite evident when you explore the city. However, the downtown area is what excites most travellers which often elevates your visiting experience.
In particular, I would like you to take Canal Walk which runs parallel to James River and the Kanawha Canal. The walk is a popular shopping spree street with great waterfront areas, outdoor seating restaurants, boutiques, and luxurious stores. If you want, you can also choose the Riverfront Canal Cruises for a guided boat trips to traverse across the downtown region.
Apart from this, there are other notable landmarks & attractions which are worth paying a visit. Some of these include exploring Hollywood Cemetery, The Poe Museum, Maymont Japanese Garden, and Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.
Read | The 16 Best Hotels in Downtown Richmond, VA
Charlotte, North Carolina
From indulging in the opulence of uptown Charlotte’s luxury hotels and dining establishments to experiencing the adrenaline-pumping NASCAR events at the iconic Charlotte Motor Speedway, the city offers a dynamic range of attractions. The historic charm of its architecture, spanning from resplendent Victorian mansions to quaint Craftsman Bungalows, provides a perfect backdrop for exploration.
Charlotte is home to fascinating museums which houses unique discovery points to marvel at. If you have a chance to spend a couple of hours, I suggest visiting the Levine Museum and the Charlotte Nature Museum. But if you’re a fast-paced person like me, who would like to explore the city’s outdoors, then why not treat yourself with the culinary delights of the town’s most exciting food scenes.
Places to stay: Grand Bohemian Hotel Charlotte | Hyatt Centric Charlotte SouthPark
While there’s a lot to do in Charlotte, I recommend exploring these places first: SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium, NASCAR Hall of Fame, and Zootastic Park. Also, do take walks around Freedom Park and Village Park to see what the city is all about.
Columbia, South Carolina
Columbia, a vibrant and bustling city, plays host to a range of charming attractions that define the essence of South Carolina. Often overlooked along the New Jersey to Florida road trip, this hidden gem radiates a tranquil ambiance that’s truly worth savoring. Moreover, this town could be a perfect base for relaxation before you head to Florida for some jam-packed sightseeing.
While in Columbia, you could either simply relax by staying in one of prettiest accommodations or you could venture outdoors exploring vibrant places likes Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Garden, Hampton-Preston Mansion and Gardens, South Carolina State House, and Columbia Museum of Art.
Places to stay: Hyatt Place Columbia | Hilton Garden Inn Columbia
Jacksonville, Florida
Florida, a true haven of sun-kissed beaches and swaying palm trees stands as an embodiment of tropical paradise. At every turn, the radiant sun blesses the land with its warm embrace, casting a golden glow upon endless coastlines that stretch as far as the eye can see. It’s a perfect holiday destination for bachelors, young youths, and families, who are looking to relax and rejuvenate amidst the amazing Flordia vibe.
The first destination to visit when you touchdown in this state will be Jacksonville. This city, with its abundance of pristine beaches and untouched coastlines, serves as a great introduction to Florida’s wonders. While I was here, I totally loved the time I spent. I was surprised by the number of places you could visit, eventually giving a tough battle to its counter cities like Miami, Fort Lauderdale or Orlando.
So, to help you get an idea of the best visiting places in Jacksonville, we dotted out some notable attractions for you.
Explore the Jacksonville River Walks
The Jacksonville River Walks is a collection of captivating urban trails guiding you to the town’s most cherished attractions. Meandering for 1.4 miles along the picturesque St. Johns River, this pathway offers breathtaking views of Downtown Jacksonville. As you stroll, be sure to scan the river’s expanse for playful dolphin sightings – an added delight to your waterfront experience.
Relax at Jacksonville’s beaches
Well, if there’s one thing you need to do on your arrival at Jacksonville is to hit its glorious beaches. Some of the famous ones which you should visit include Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, and Ponte Verda Beach. These beaches are home to amazing restaurants, serving classic seafood varietals and continental dishes. Moreover, kayaking and surfing are just a common day activity here. So ensure that you get your adventure hats on!
Hike at Big Talbot Islands State Park
Big Talbot Islands State Park is one of the must-visit places in Northern Florida. Featuring fancy outdoor settings, this unique spot is on the bucket list of many day trippers and localities living around the state. There are plenty of tidal creeks where you can simply relax and glide between the islands. The state park itself presents an exquisite fusion of wetlands, marshes, meandering bike paths, and secluded beaches. Among its popular routes, Blackrock Beach and Boneyard Beach stand out.
I highly recommend renting out a bike to explore the state park and its many unique hideouts. Alternatively, you can join the 3-mile-long Timucuan Trail, which runs through the stunning countryside of the park. The trails are nicely paved and structured, making it easy for beginner bikers to traverse.
Hotels | Discover some of the fascinating hotels in Florida
Orlando, Florida
While Orlando has earned its reputation as “the theme park capital of the world,” its allure extends far beyond exhilarating rides and outdoor attractions. Families with children are in for a paradise-like experience, making Orlando an ideal destination. But, travellers who’d like to enjoy the city more than just theme parks, will often find themselves amidst the vibing chaos of Orlando’s buzzing nightlife, street entertainment, and the great outdoors.
Read | 50 Things to Do in Orlando Besides Theme Parks
Walt Disney World Resort
Undoubtedly, Walt Disney World Resort is one of the most visited places in Florida. This comes as no shock, given its ability to captivate not only youngsters but also adults with an array of exhilarating rides, water parks, and entertainment galore. It’s like a whole new world inside, which apparently brings you into a dilemma in prioritizing your rides. What makes Walt Disney World the top attraction, is that it constantly evolves with new adventures and rides, keeping all age groups excited.
Universal Studios Orlando
Beloved fans of heart-throbbing franchises like Harry Potter, Transformers, and Jurassic Park would absolutely find Universal Studios a lifetime experience. This theme park masterfully delivers a once-in-a-lifetime encounter by immersing you in the worlds of your cherished characters whilst experiencing their unique theme-based rides and roller coasters. Even those who are unfamiliar with these series are utterly blown away by the rides and stunning visual settings.
Orlando: Universal Studios Park to Park Ticket (most booked)
2-Park Universal Express Passes (inclusive of Universal’s Islands of Adventure)
Miami, Florida
Nestled amidst its exquisite beaches, dynamic museums, endless shopping delights, and pulsating energy, Miami emerges as the ultimate embodiment of entertainment. The city’s year-round array of events and the rich tapestry of Cuban culture interwoven into its fabric amplify its vibrant essence. Miami is a bustling metropolis that beckons travelers globally. It stands as an essential highlight on our New Jersey to Florida road trip, embodying a thriving hub of exhilaration and a must-explore destination.
Whether you’re cruising past luxurious billionaire sailboats, scuba-diving deep into the turquoise waters, or bonding along with fellow localities, there are plenty of ways to discover the best things to do in Miami. I recommend exploring the below activities first to get a sense of what the city is all about.
Here are some of the notable things to do in Miami –
Explore Little Havana
Did anyone ever mention getting Cuban vibes in Miami? If not, then it’s time for you to take the Little Havana Food & Cultural Walking tour. It’s an amazing guided tour which takes you right into the heart of cultural Miami. From indulging in delectable Cuban street fare and cocktails to delving into inspirational tales of tradition, there’s a lot to venture into. You’ll be trying a variety of dishes such as guava pastries, chicken plantain cups and Cuban cigars.
Take a tour of the Everglades National Park
In addition to its renowned beaches and vibrant nightlife, Florida boasts a distinct reputation for its expansive swamplands and alligator inhabitants. For an up-close encounter with this diverse and unique landscape, there’s no better option than embarking on a guided tour of the World Heritage Site – Everglades National Park.
Everglades National Park: Airboat Tour and Wildlife Show (Top-Rated Tour)
Miami Combo: Panoramic Bus Tour, Bay Cruise, & Everglades (Bundle Trip)
Encompassing a sprawling expanse of 1.5 million acres, this area is a sanctuary to a beautiful ecosystem. I recommend opting for a guided tour of the national park, ensuring you cover key attractions in a single day. As an alternative, you can also traverse the Anhinga Trail on foot, allowing you to spot Florida’s mesmerizing wildlife in its natural habitat.
Popular Guided Tours & Excursions
Below are some of the optional excursions that could go well with your East American road trip.
Further Readings & Resources
New York to Boston: New York to Boston Road Trip: A Perfect Weekend Escape in 2022
Los Angeles to Yosemite: 9 Sensational Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip Stops
Los Angeles to Joshua Tree: 5 Beautiful Los Angeles to Joshua Tree Road Trip
Amarillo to Santa Fe: 9 Beautiful Amarillo to Santa Fe Road Trip Stops
Chicago to Niagara Falls: 9 Spectacular Chicago to Niagara Falls Road Trip Stops
A couple of in-depth American Itineraries –
California: 10-Day California Road Trip: One Epic California Itinerary
Highlights of Alaska: 7 Day Alaska Itinerary : How To Spend One Week in Alaska
Ultimate Alaska: 10 Day Alaska Itinerary: Kenai & Denali Road Trip
