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  5. Fort Lauderdale to Kennedy Space Center & St. Augustine Road Trip

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Fort Lauderdale to Kennedy Space Center & St. Augustine Road Trip

Florida Coastal Drive to Cape Canaveral & St. Augustine (Space & History Trail)

Trip Snapshot

  • Distance & drive time: ~290 miles from Fort Lauderdale to St. Augustine (about 4.5–5 hours of driving without long stops). With major attractions en route, this trip is best enjoyed over 3 to 4 days. For example: Day 1 to Cocoa Beach/Cape Canaveral (~3 hours, 180 miles), Day 2 exploring Space Coast, Day 3 to St. Augustine via Daytona (~110 miles), Day 4 explore St. Augustine, then return (~5 hours back to FLL).
  • Best time: Spring (March–May) and fall (October–November) are fantastic warm but not too muggy, and less crowded outside of school breaks. Winter (Dec–Feb) is mild on the Space Coast (you might need a light jacket at night) and a bit cooler in St. Augustine, but generally dry and pleasant for sightseeing. Summer is the busiest for beaches but brings heat, humidity, and afternoon thunderstorms (plus the risk of hurricanes later summer). If you’re hoping to catch a rocket launch at Kennedy Space Center, check the launch calendar they happen year-round; just avoid launch days for visiting KSC if you aren’t attending the launch (it gets very crowded).
  • Ideal for: Families with kids (space rockets! beach time! a old pirate-y city!), history buffs, and anyone who loves a mix of science, surf, and stories of the past. This road trip has a little of everything: NASA nerds can geek out at Kennedy, surfers can hit Cocoa’s waves, race fans can see Daytona, and history lovers will be in heaven at St. Augustine’s 17th-century fort and cobblestone streets.
  • Quick route summary: Take I-95 north from Fort Lauderdale, Florida’s main north-south artery along the coast. After about 2.5–3 hours, you’ll reach the Space Coast exit for Cocoa Beach/Cape Canaveral. Visit Kennedy Space Center by heading east toward Cape Canaveral on SR-528 or SR-405. Afterwards, continue north on I-95 past Daytona Beach (option to detour onto scenic A1A along the shore for parts of the drive). From I-95, exit for St. Augustine (just south of Jacksonville). On the way back, you can either retrace I-95 (fastest) or take the scenic route down A1A in sections (for example, from St. Augustine down through Daytona and Cape Canaveral Seashore, then hop back to I-95).
  • Top 3 highlights:Kennedy Space Center (NASA rockets and Space Shuttle) • Cocoa Beach (surfing & Ron Jon Surf Shop) • Historic St. Augustine (Castillo de San Marcos & old town charm).

Route Overview
This journey launches you from the modern cityscape of Fort Lauderdale into Florida’s Space Coast and beyond. The first leg up I-95 is straightforward about 180 miles of highway passing West Palm Beach, Vero Beach, and the “Treasure Coast.” You might catch glimpses of the Atlantic or Intracoastal Waterway at times, but it’s mostly an inland route until you purposefully detour east. As you approach Cape Canaveral, excitement builds: keep an eye out for roadside signs for the Kennedy Space Center and maybe even the silhouette of a rocket or the massive Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) on the horizon. The Space Center area itself is huge, with restricted NASA grounds; the main visitor complex is just outside the gates. Plan a full day there, it’s worth it. After immersing in space history, relax in Cocoa Beach, the classic Florida beach town known for surfing. The vibe changes from space-age to surf-town chill in just a few minutes’ drive. Continuing north, you can choose to drive along the coast on A1A through places like Daytona Beach (famous for its hard-packed sand you can drive on) or stay on quicker I-95 and pop over to Daytona only for specific stops. Reaching St. Augustine feels like stepping back in time it’s notably older and quainter than the glitzy South Florida you left. Park the car and wander on foot through narrow streets filled with Spanish colonial architecture. Every leg of this route is rich in sights, and the driving is generally easy: I-95 is wide and well-maintained (watch for variable speed limits and occasional congestion near cities), and A1A is slower but very scenic (with portions that hug the beach closely). One logistical note: if you prefer toll roads to bypass some urban traffic, Florida’s Turnpike can be used for part of the journey up to the Space Coast area (then cut across east), but you’ll need a SunPass or will get billed by plate. Otherwise, I-95 is toll-free.

Top Stops & Experiences

  • Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex (Cape Canaveral) Family-friendly. This is a must-do centerpiece of the trip. KSC Visitor Complex is basically a space-themed amusement park (minus the rollercoasters) combined with real NASA facilities. See the actual Space Shuttle Atlantis up close kids can even crawl into a mock shuttle cockpit. Stand in awe under the gigantic Saturn V rocket that took Apollo astronauts to the Moon (accessible via a bus tour to the Apollo/Saturn V Center). Don’t miss the Rocket Garden at the entrance, where Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo program rockets stand proudly. There’s also the Shuttle Launch Experience simulator, which gives you a taste of what an astronaut liftoff feels like (suitable for most kids over 44 inches tall it’s thrilling but not too scary). Plan on spending at least 5-6 hours here; there are cafes and snack stands on-site to refuel. If you’re lucky to be here on a launch day and have tickets, it’s an unforgettable experience but even on a normal day, the Visitor Complex is inspiring. Arrive early (opening time) to beat some crowds, especially on weekends. Parking is ample (costs about $10).
  • Cocoa Beach Pier & Beach Time Family-friendly. Just south of Cape Canaveral is Cocoa Beach, known for its sandy shores and surfing scene. The Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier is an 800-foot-long historic pier lined with restaurants, bars, and gift shops. It’s a great spot to grab a cold drink (maybe a piña colada or an ice cream for the kids) and watch surfers catch waves. You can even rent a fishing rod and drop a line off the pier. The beach around the pier is lifeguarded and has rental chairs, umbrellas, and even surfboard rentals if you’re feeling adventurous. First-timer surfers can book a lesson from any number of surf schools nearby this is the home of famous surfer Kelly Slater, after all. Across from the pier’s entrance, there’s usually paid parking lots if the pier lot is full. A beach afternoon here is the perfect cool-down after the Space Center: let the kids build sandcastles or take a dip in the Atlantic.
  • Ron Jon Surf Shop (Cocoa Beach)Family-friendly. Open 24/7, the original Ron Jon Surf Shop is more than a store it’s a Floridian pilgrimage. This enormous surf shop is chock full of beachwear, surfboards, souvenirs and an indoor waterfall you name it. Even if you don’t plan on buying, it’s fun to explore the multi-level emporium of surf culture. Pick up a classic Ron Jon t-shirt or sticker to prove you’ve been. It’s an iconic stop that’s conveniently right on the main road (SR-520) as you head into Cocoa Beach. (Pro tip: there’s also the Florida Surf Museum tucked in the back of the Ron Jon complex if you want a quick look into local surf history.) Kids often enjoy the bright atmosphere and maybe you’ll catch a live demo or surf movie playing. Plenty of free parking on site.
  • Daytona Beach & Drive-On Beach ZoneFamily-friendly (with supervision). Daytona Beach isn’t just famous for racing; it’s one of the few places you can drive your car on the actual beach. Cruising on the sand with the ocean next to you is a unique thrill. There’s a designated 11-mile stretch where driving is allowed at a slow 10 mph, typically between sunrise and sunset (and dependent on tides and weather). Enter through beach access ramps (for a fee, around $20 per vehicle). Once on the sand, you can park in marked lanes and have a beach day next to your car (handy for tailgating or keeping your beach gear nearby). Just follow the rules no reckless driving, obviously, and watch out for pedestrians. Kids will find it cool that the car is on the beach, but keep an eye on them as cars do share the space. If you prefer not to drive on the beach, you can still visit Daytona’s main beach area around the Boardwalk and Bandshell. There you’ll find arcades, a small amusement area, and snack stands a bit carnival-esque, but that’s classic Daytona. And if you’re a coaster fan, the Daytona Beach Boardwalk has a Ferris wheel and skyride with ocean views.
  • Daytona International Speedway TourFamily-friendly. For NASCAR or racing fans, or even just the curious, the Speedway offers daily tours that let you explore the “World Center of Racing.” It’s about a 15-minute drive inland from the beach. On a 30-minute tram tour, you’ll ride along the track’s infield, see the steep banked turns (you won’t believe the angle!), and visit the start/finish line. Longer VIP tours include access to the press box, garages, and a look at historic race cars and the Victory Lane. Kids usually love riding around on the tram and seeing the sheer size of the stadium seating (hold onto your hats on a windy day the stands are huge!). If you come in February during the Daytona 500, it’s chaos (in a fun way) but any other time, tours are easy to get on. There’s also the Motorsports Hall of Fame museum at the Speedway, included with some tours or a small fee separately, showcasing classic cars and memorabilia.
  • Castillo de San Marcos (St. Augustine) Family-friendly. Welcome to the oldest stone fort in the continental USA. The Castillo de San Marcos, built by the Spanish in the 1670s, still stands guard on St. Augustine’s bayfront with its formidable coquina walls. Exploring this historic fort is a highlight for all ages. Kids will get a kick out of walking the ramparts, peering out of cannon embrasures, and imagining pirates or British soldiers attacking. Park rangers (or volunteers in period costume) often give cannon firing demonstrations on weekends an awesome (and loud) spectacle. The fort is a national monument, so there’s a modest admission fee. You can roam the interior rooms that once housed soldiers and prisoners, see old cannons and artifacts, and enjoy sweeping views of Matanzas Bay from the top. It’s mostly open-air, so go in the morning or late afternoon in summer to avoid the heat reflecting off the walls. The site is stroller-friendly for the most part (except some stairs to reach the top level). There’s limited parking at the fort, but it’s walking distance from downtown, so you might park once and explore on foot.
  • Historic St. George Street (St. Augustine) Family-friendly. This pedestrian-only street is the heart of St. Augustine’s Old Town. Lined with preserved (and some reconstructed) buildings dating back to the 1700s and 1800s, St. George Street is like stepping into a time machine if that time machine also had ice cream shops, cafés, and boutiques! You’ll find everything from the oldest wooden schoolhouse to kitschy gift shops selling pirate-themed souvenirs. Street musicians often play guitar or violin, adding to the atmosphere. Pop into the ancient city gates at the north end (great photo spot) and then wander south. If you’re traveling with kids, consider a visit to the Pirate & Treasure Museum an interactive museum with real pirate artifacts and fun displays (yes, there’s a genuine pirate treasure chest inside!). Also along St. George or adjacent streets: the Colonial Quarter living history museum (demonstrations of colonial life), numerous artisan chocolate and popcorn shops for treats, and the beautiful Cathedral Basilica just a block over on Cathedral Place. In the evenings, the street stays lively with lantern-lit ghost tour groups (St. Augustine loves its ghost stories) a ghost tour can be a fun, not-too-scary family activity at night. Wear comfy shoes; you’ll be on your feet on old cobblestones for a while.
  • Beaches & Nature around St. AugustineFamily-friendly. If you need a break from history, St. Augustine offers lovely natural escapes. Anastasia State Park, just over the Bridge of Lions from downtown, boasts 4 miles of undeveloped beach plus sand dunes and nature trails a peaceful contrast to the city. You can rent kayaks or paddleboards on the salt run lagoon side or just enjoy the ocean surf (with lifeguards in summer). Another unique site is St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, which despite its kitschy name, is a well-respected wildlife park and the only place in the world with every crocodilian species. It’s part zoo, part alligator feeding show extravaganza, and also has a zip line course over the gator ponds (older kids and adults, check weight/age limits). It’s both educational and thrilling to see so many gators very fitting after your Everglades portion of the Florida adventures. Finally, for a small detour south of town, Fort Matanzas National Monument is a sister fort (much smaller) that you reach by a short free ferry ride kids enjoy the boat and it’s a quick, interesting jaunt if you have an extra hour or two.

Where to Eat & Stay

Food

  • Dixie Crossroads (Titusville) Just 15 minutes from Kennedy Space Center, this famous seafood restaurant is known for rock shrimp (they look like tiny lobsters and are delicious broiled with butter). It’s a fun, folksy place with a giant red shrimp out front and even a pond where you can feed fish. The menu is broad (fried seafood, chowder, steaks, etc.) so there’s something for everyone, and they bring free corn fritters dusted with powdered sugar to each table a sweet Southern touch. Very family-friendly, often filled with NASA memorabilia and local astronaut photos.
  • Coconuts on the Beach (Cocoa Beach) For a true beachfront dining experience, Coconuts is the spot. It’s a casual beach bar and restaurant where you can sit outside literally steps from the sand. Sip a tropical drink or a local craft beer and try their famous fish tacos or coconut shrimp. Often there’s live music on the deck. Kids can play in the sand nearby if you snag a table by the railing. It gets lively in the evenings (more adult atmosphere at night), but daytime and sunset it’s great for all ages. Note: you can park at public beach lots and walk here to avoid the small on-site parking hassle.
  • Columbia Restaurant (St. Augustine) A taste of Florida history on your plate, Columbia is Florida’s oldest restaurant (the original is in Tampa, early 1900s) and the St. Augustine location on St. George Street carries on the tradition. They serve Spanish-Cuban cuisine think paella, ropa vieja (shredded beef), and their signature “1905 Salad” prepared tableside. The dining rooms are beautifully decorated with hand-painted tiles and fountains. It’s a bit upscale in feel but still welcoming to families (they have a kids’ menu with things like chicken strips if little ones won’t try Spanish food). Try a pitcher of sangria (parents only!) and finish with Flan or Key lime pie. Reservations recommended for dinner, as it’s quite popular.
  • Pizza Time (St. Augustine) Sometimes after a long day of touring, you just want a quick, easy bite and Pizza Time on St. George Street has you covered. Frequently ranked among the best pizza joints in the U.S., this New York-style pizzeria has a cult following. Grab a few big slices (the variety is mind-boggling: buffalo chicken, Margherita, meat lovers, you name it) and a cold soda and perch on a stool, or take it to-go and sit in the plaza by the Cathedral. It’s cash only, and there’s often a line out the door, but it moves fast. Kids will love the cheesy goodness; adults will appreciate the quality. It’s a simple pleasure that hits the spot.

Lodging

  • Cocoa Beach/Cape Canaveral: If you want to stay overnight near Kennedy Space Center, you have options in Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral. There are beachfront hotels (Hilton, Westgate, Marriott Courtyard, etc.) that let you enjoy an evening walk on the beach and maybe even see a distant rocket on a launch pad. Many are mid-century establishments updated for modern comfort. Families might enjoy resorts like Westgate Cocoa Beach (with a small water park) or the Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront for the pool + beach combo. On a budget, look for the classic motels along A1A they can be a good value outside peak times. Cape Canaveral also has some newer hotels and is slightly closer to KSC (plus near the cruise port if that matters to you).
  • Daytona Beach: For a midpoint stay, Daytona has a huge range from high-rise oceanfront resorts to budget inns. If traveling with kids, consider staying along the quieter stretch of Daytona Beach Shores or Ormond Beach just to the north, where you can find family-friendly hotels/condos on the sand (and you won’t be right next to the sometimes rowdy main boardwalk area). If you’re a racing fan and in town during a big event (Daytona 500 in Feb, Bike Week in March, etc.), book extremely early places fill up fast. Otherwise, Daytona can be quite affordable. Waking up to a sunrise over the Atlantic is a perk of any oceanfront room here.
  • St. Augustine: To immerse yourself in the historic atmosphere, stay in or near the Old Town. There are numerous bed-and-breakfast inns housed in Victorian or Spanish-style homes these can be wonderfully charming for couples (some might have age restrictions for kids, so check policies). For families or those wanting more standard accommodations, there are modern hotels near the downtown visitor area (some right on the bayfront with views of the Castillo, like the Hilton or Marriott Renaissance in the historic district). These allow you to park and walk to almost everything. Another option is to stay across the Bridge of Lions on Anastasia Island or St. Augustine Beach there you’ll find beach hotels and still be only a 10-15 minute drive from the historic sights. It gives a nice mix of beach day and old town night. Keep in mind St. Augustine is a popular destination nearly year-round; booking ahead is wise, especially on weekends and holiday periods.

Detours & Extensions

  • Orlando Theme Parks If you have extra days and want to add world-famous fun, Orlando is only ~1 hour west of the Space Coast. You could detour inland after Kennedy Space Center and hit Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, or SeaWorld. It’s certainly not a small detour (you could spend days there), but geographically it fits if you’re making this a longer Florida tour. Perhaps do KSC in morning and drive to Orlando by late afternoon to enjoy an evening at Disney Springs or Universal’s CityWalk, then a theme park the next day. From Orlando, you can either cut back to the coast or drive north to rejoin I-95 near Daytona.
  • Canaveral National Seashore Between Cocoa Beach and Daytona, nature lovers might veer off to this undeveloped stretch of coastline accessible via New Smyrna Beach (north entrance) or Titusville/Playalinda Beach (south entrance, near KSC). Pristine beaches, no buildings just dunes, turtles, and tranquility. Note that facilities are minimal, and check ahead because parts close for rocket launches (Playalinda is very close to the launch pads!). Also, Playalinda has one section (Lot 13) informally known for clothing-optional sunbathing stick to lots 1-12 for a normal beach day with the family. It’s a beautiful detour if you want quiet beach time and natural dunes.
  • Savannah, GA Feeling extra adventurous? From St. Augustine, it’s roughly 3.5 hours further north to Savannah, Georgia, another city oozing with charm and history (think moss-draped oak trees and elegant squares). It’s beyond Florida, but if you wanted to extend your road trip into a cross-state adventure, Savannah pairs well with St. Augustine as two of the South’s best historic cities. You could then loop back down to FLL via I-95 or I-75. Just an idea for those with more time on their hands!

Practical Tips

  • Traffic & Driving: South Florida (Fort Lauderdale/Palm Beach) and the Orlando metro area can have heavy traffic. Try to time your departures to avoid rush hour (7-9am and 4-6pm) in those areas. I-95 around Daytona and Jacksonville sometimes slows during peak travel times or due to accidents stay alert and patient. Florida drivers can be… let’s say, enthusiastic, so keep to a safe speed and let the speedsters pass. If you use A1A for scenic portions, remember it’s a local road expect lower speed limits, stoplights, and occasional drawbridges that might open for boat traffic (especially around the Space Coast and Daytona areas). But A1A’s views can be worth the added time.
  • Tolls: Aside from Alligator Alley mentioned earlier, if you stick to I-95 there are no tolls on this coastal route. However, Florida’s Turnpike (optional route from South FL to Cape Canaveral area) is a toll road. Also, some bridges or express lanes in Miami have tolls. If you have a SunPass or the rental’s toll pass, you’re set. If not and you accidentally take a tolled stretch (like the express lanes in Fort Lauderdale/Miami or the Beachline 528 to Cape Canaveral which has a few toll booths), you’ll likely be billed by plate. It’s usually not a big fee, just something to be aware of. To avoid surprise bills, ask your rental company about opting into their toll program it might save hassle, though they do add service fees.
  • Launch Schedule: Kennedy Space Center is great anytime, but if you’re a space enthusiast, check the launch schedule on NASA’s or SpaceX’s website. A launch can draw big crowds to the area and even cause traffic jams on roads near the Space Center. If a launch coincides with your visit, you might need to adjust (either join the crowd to watch or schedule around it). Also note that KSC Visitor Complex sometimes closes early or has special requirements on major launch days (when they host viewing events). On the flip side, if you can catch a launch from anywhere on the Space Coast beaches, it’s a jaw-dropping bonus to your trip even if it’s a distant streak in the sky, it’s goosebumps time.
  • Weather Prep: Summertime on the Atlantic coast means afternoon thunderstorms. These can be intense but usually pass in an hour or two. If you’re at the beach and see dark clouds building after lunch, don’t be surprised if lifeguards clear the water due to lightning. It’s wise to schedule indoor attractions (KSC, museums) for the late afternoon in summer, and beach time in the morning. Also, St. Augustine can get surprisingly brisk in winter (nights in the 40s°F in Jan/Feb are not uncommon). Pack a light jacket or hoodie if coming in winter months you’ll appreciate it on those evening ghost tours or beach walks.
  • St. Augustine Logistics: The historic area has narrow streets and limited parking. The city has a big parking garage near the Visitor Information Center that’s a good all-day option (around $15/day). Once parked, you can pretty much walk everywhere in downtown or hop on the red sightseeing trolleys that loop around (ticket required, but they’re hop-on/hop-off and also function as a tour). If you’re staying in a downtown hotel or B&B, even better leave the car and enjoy the city on foot, it’s part of the charm. Also, if mobility is an issue, know that many of St. Augustine’s old brick sidewalks can be uneven wear comfy shoes.
  • Beach Safety: The Atlantic beaches (Cocoa, Daytona, etc.) have stronger surf than the Gulf. Swim near lifeguard towers when possible (Cocoa Beach has several city lifeguards, Daytona too in busy areas). Pay attention to flag warnings a red flag means strong surf/rip currents, so exercise caution or stay ankle-deep. If you’re not a confident swimmer, consider just splashing at the edge or using a boogie board with fins. Always keep an eye on kids; that big ocean can pull even adults unexpectedly. In summer, jellyfish can occasionally appear if you see purple flags or notices, take care (lifeguards have vinegar for stings if needed). But don’t worry, thousands swim daily just fine it’s just good to be informed.
  • Blend of Activities: This road trip packs a lot of different attractions. One day you might be on a beach, next in a museum, next exploring an old fort. Be sure to bring a variety of clothing and gear: swimsuits and towels, but also comfy walking shoes, maybe water shoes for rocky beaches or kayaking, a backpack or daypack for carrying water and snacks at places like KSC or the fort, and possibly costumes for the kids if they love pirates (St. Augustine’s shops can supply a toy sword and hat easily!). A little planning ensures you’re ready for anything from NASA to ghosts to gators to surf.

Rentals & Logistics

  • Choosing the Right Vehicle: For these road trips, comfort and space are key. A midsize SUV or minivan is an excellent choice if you have family or friends along you’ll have room for luggage, beach gear, maybe a stroller, and everyone can spread out. Many vans come with DVD players or USB ports, which can be a lifesaver on longer highway stretches (cue the kids’ favorite movie or charge those tablets). If it’s just two of you and you’re packing light, a sedan will do fine, but you might envy the higher vantage point of an SUV when wildlife spotting in the Everglades or looking over traffic. And while a convertible might sound fun for the coastal drives (and it is, with Florida’s sunshine and palm trees), remember you’ll need serious sunscreen and a tolerance for wind maybe rent one just for a day portion if you’re set on the top-down experience.
  • Toll Transponders: As mentioned, Florida has a mix of toll and toll-free roads. Airport Van Rental’s Fort Lauderdale location can equip your vehicle with a SunPass or toll transponder option definitely inquire when picking up your ride. It typically simplifies billing and can sometimes give discounted toll rates. If you opt out, you’ll be on camera-based billing for any tolls (which is fine, just watch for those charges later). Pro-tip: if you’re avoiding tolls on principle, use your map app’s “avoid tolls” function but in Florida, sometimes the toll route saves a lot of time, so weigh the small cost versus convenience, especially around Miami and Orlando.
  • GPS & Connectivity: All our recommended routes are well-charted a smartphone with Google Maps or Apple Maps will suffice. However, cell signals can drop in remote areas (Everglades, parts of A1A near Canaveral Seashore). It’s a good idea to download offline maps for Florida on your phone before you set out, just in case. If your rental offers built-in GPS, that’s a nice backup too. And bring a car charger navigating, music streaming, and kids’ entertainment can drain phones/tablets quickly. Many rentals now have USB ports, but having a 12V adapter is smart just in case.
  • Rental Car Checks: Before leaving the rental lot at FLL, do a quick inspection of the vehicle. Check the tires (Florida roads are generally flat and easy on tires, but you want them properly inflated, especially if you’re loading lots of luggage). Make sure you know how to use the AC (you’ll be using it often!) and defroster (for those sudden downpours Florida rain can fog up windows fast). If you’re not used to a bigger vehicle like a van, take a minute to adjust mirrors and get comfortable you’ll be glad you did when navigating tight spots in St. Augustine or parking at crowded stops. And toss a couple of plastic bags in the back to collect any trash road trip snack wrappers have a way of multiplying.
  • Fuel & Rest Stops: Florida’s highways have decent rest stops on I-95, there are periodic rest areas with bathrooms and vending machines. Alligator Alley has one main service plaza with gas and fast food. On US-41, gas stations are sparse until Naples, so fill up before you venture across. It’s a good practice to start each leg with at least half a tank, especially when heading into the Everglades or up the coast at night. As for fuel prices, they can be a tad higher in the Keys or touristy areas, lower in suburbs but differences aren’t huge. Maybe avoid filling up in the city of Fort Lauderdale itself (slightly pricier), and instead do so on the outskirts when possible. And don’t forget, Florida is a big state these trips will rack up miles. Unlimited mileage rentals are standard with AVR, so no worries there; just be prepared for a nice little pile of gas receipts (and lots of memories) by trip’s end!

Reserve the perfect vehicle for your adventure and start your journey from our Fort Lauderdale (FLL) location. With the right wheels and this guide in hand, you’re all set to hit the road and discover the best of South and Central Florida. Happy travels!