Day Trips from Tampa
← All Tampa day tripsDay Trips from Tampa: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Tampa, FL. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Tampa
Scenic View - Tampa Bay
FL 34250, USA
Just 37 min from Tampa, 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.
Sunset Overlook
FL 34747, USA
Just 1 hr 8 min from Tampa, rated 5.0 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
South Lido Lookout Bridge
2201 Benjamin Franklin Dr, Sarasota
Just 1 hr 15 min from Tampa, 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 15 min from Tampa, 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 37 min from Tampa, 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 38 min from Tampa, 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 1 hr 8 min from Tampa, 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.
Scenic view of The Sunshine Skyway Bridge
Terra Ceia, FL 34250
Just 37 min from Tampa, rated 4.9 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.
Observation Tower Trailhead
, St. Petersburg
Just 23 min from Tampa, rated 4.9 stars by 190 visitors, 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.
Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive
Apopka, FL 32703
Just 1 hr 27 min from Tampa, 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 1 hr 46 min from Tampa, 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 33 min from Tampa, 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Tampa
What are the best scenic drives near Tampa, FL?
The best scenic drives near Tampa 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 Tampa?
Most scenic drives near Tampa 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 Tampa?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Tampa, 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 Tampa?
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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