Day Trips from St. Petersburg
← All St. Petersburg day tripsDay Trips from St. Petersburg: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of St. Petersburg, FL. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
11 scenic drives near St. Petersburg
South Lido Lookout Bridge
2201 Benjamin Franklin Dr, Sarasota
Just 1 hr 1 min from St. Petersburg, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Trail 11 Scenic Overlook
Floral City, FL 34436
Just 1 hr 26 min from St. Petersburg, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Joanne's Lookout
Naples, FL 34120
Just 2 hrs 23 min from St. Petersburg, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Central Florida Scenic
Lakeland, FL 33805
Just 59 min from St. Petersburg, rated 5.0 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Sunset Viewing Area
Sarasota, FL 34236
Just 53 min from St. Petersburg, rated 4.9 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive
Apopka, FL 32703
Just 1 hr 48 min from St. Petersburg, rated 4.8 stars by 2,290 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Viewing Platform
FL 32179, USA
Just 2 hrs 7 min from St. Petersburg, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Green Mountain Scenic Overlook & Trailhead
Minneola, FL 34715
Just 1 hr 53 min from St. Petersburg, rated 4.7 stars by 750 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
martin grade scenic highway
Okeechobee, FL 34974
Just 2 hrs 48 min from St. Petersburg, rated 4.6 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Lake Apopka observation tower
Astatula, FL 34705
Just 2 hrs 25 min from St. Petersburg, rated 4.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Green Mountain Scenic Overlook & Trailhead - Observation Tower
Clermont, FL 34715
Just 1 hr 53 min from St. Petersburg, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from St. Petersburg
What are the best scenic drives near St. Petersburg, FL?
The best scenic drives near St. Petersburg include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from St. Petersburg?
Most scenic drives near St. Petersburg range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near St. Petersburg?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near St. Petersburg, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from St. Petersburg?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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