Route 50 Florida Map

If you’re planning a trip to Florida and looking for a scenic drive with plenty of attractions along the way, look no further than Route 50. This east-west highway stretches across the state, from the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico, and offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers of all interests. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, cultural immersion, or simply relaxing on a beautiful beach, Route 50 has something for you.

Top Attractions

Some of the must-see attractions along Route 50 include the Kennedy Space Center, where you can learn about the history of space travel and see real rockets up close; the Everglades National Park, a vast wilderness area that is home to a wide variety of wildlife; and Walt Disney World, the famous theme park that offers fun for the whole family.

Hidden Gems

In addition to these well-known attractions, there are also plenty of hidden gems to discover along Route 50. For example, you can visit the charming town of Mount Dora, which is known for its antique shops and annual festivals; or explore the Ocala National Forest, where you can hike, swim, and camp in a tranquil natural setting.

Food Scene

Florida is known for its delicious seafood, and Route 50 is no exception. Be sure to try some local favorites like fried shrimp, conch fritters, and grouper sandwiches. You can also find plenty of other cuisines along the way, from Latin American to Asian fusion.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling along Route 50 doesn’t have to break the bank. To save money, consider camping instead of staying in hotels, packing your own food for picnics, and taking advantage of free attractions like state parks and beaches. You can also find great deals on souvenirs and local products at farmers markets and roadside stands.

Outdoor Adventures

With its mild climate and diverse landscapes, Florida is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Along Route 50, you can go kayaking in the crystal-clear waters of the Silver Springs State Park, hike through the rolling hills of the Green Swamp Wilderness Preserve, or go fishing in the Gulf of Mexico.

Historical Landmarks

Florida has a rich history that is waiting to be explored along Route 50. You can visit the St. Augustine Lighthouse, which dates back to the 16th century, or the DeSoto County Courthouse, which was built in 1913 and is now a museum. You can also learn about the state’s citrus industry at the Showcase of Citrus in Clermont.

Family-Friendly Activities

If you’re traveling with kids, there are plenty of fun and educational activities along Route 50. You can take them to the Central Florida Zoo, where they can see animals from all over the world, or the Orlando Science Center, where they can learn about space, technology, and nature. You can also visit Gatorland, where they can see alligators up close and even zipline over a swamp.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

For travelers who want to get off the beaten path and explore the local culture, there are plenty of opportunities along Route 50. You can visit the Yalaha Bakery, a German-style bakery that makes delicious bread and pastries; or the Lakeridge Winery, where you can sample award-winning wines made from local grapes. You can also attend a rodeo in Kissimmee or a bluegrass festival in Brooksville.

Natural Wonders

Florida is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the country, and many of them can be found along Route 50. You can visit the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, where you can swim with manatees in their natural habitat; or the Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, where you can watch mermaids perform in an underwater theater.

Vibrant Nightlife

If you’re looking for a fun night out, there are plenty of options along Route 50. You can visit the bars and clubs of downtown Orlando, where you can dance the night away to live music and DJ sets. You can also check out the casinos and nightlife of Tampa or the beach bars of Clearwater.

Local Markets

One of the best ways to experience the local culture along Route 50 is to visit the many farmers markets and flea markets along the way. You can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique souvenirs at these markets, which are often held on weekends. Some of the best markets to visit include the Winter Garden Farmers Market, the Mount Dora Flea Market, and the Webster Flea Market.

Beaches and Mountains

Along Route 50, you can experience both the sandy beaches of the Gulf of Mexico and the rolling hills of the Appalachian Mountains. You can visit the white-sand beaches of Clearwater or the rugged cliffs of the Big Bend Scenic Byway. You can also explore the forests and waterfalls of the Ocala National Forest or the Appalachian Trail in Georgia.

Cultural Immersion

Florida is a melting pot of different cultures, and you can experience this diversity along Route 50. You can visit the Little Saigon District in Orlando, which is home to many Vietnamese-owned businesses and restaurants; or the Latin Quarter in Tampa, which has a vibrant Cuban and Puerto Rican community. You can also attend cultural festivals and events, such as the Zephyrhills Celtic Festival or the Greek Festival in Tarpon Springs.

Art and Music Scene

Florida has a thriving art and music scene, and you can see some of the best artists and musicians along Route 50. You can visit the Salvador Dali Museum in St. Petersburg, which has the largest collection of Dali’s works outside of Spain; or the Morse Museum of American Art in Winter Park, which has a stunning collection of Tiffany glass. You can also attend concerts and festivals, such as the Gasparilla Music Festival in Tampa or the Orlando Jazz Festival.

Walking Tours

If you want to explore the cities and towns along Route 50 on foot, there are plenty of guided walking tours available. You can take a historic walking tour of St. Augustine, which includes stops at the Castillo de San Marcos and the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. You can also take a food and drink tour of downtown Orlando, which takes you to some of the best restaurants and bars in the city.

Architectural Marvels

Florida is home to some beautiful and unique architecture, which you can see along Route 50. You can visit the Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales, which has a stunning Art Deco tower and gardens designed by Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. You can also visit the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Florida Southern College in Lakeland, which has the largest collection of Wright’s buildings in the world.

Historical Sites

Florida has a long and fascinating history, which you can learn about at the many historical sites along Route 50. You can visit the Fort Christmas Historical Park, which commemorates the Second Seminole War and has a replica of a fort from the 1830s. You can also visit the Stetson Mansion in DeLand, which is a beautiful Victorian-era home that has been restored to its former glory.

Biking Routes

For travelers who want to explore the scenery along Route 50 on two wheels, there are plenty of biking routes to choose from. You can bike through the Withlacoochee State Trail, which is a 46-mile paved trail that goes through forests and pastures. You can also bike along the West Orange Trail, which is a 22-mile trail that goes through parks and historic downtowns.

Wellness Retreats

If you’re looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience along Route 50, there are plenty of wellness retreats to choose from. You can visit the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat in the Bahamas, which offers yoga classes, meditation, and vegetarian meals in a beautiful beachfront setting. You can also visit the Safety Harbor Resort and Spa in Safety Harbor, which has a luxurious spa and wellness center.

Adventure Sports

For travelers who want an adrenaline rush, there are plenty of adventure sports to try along Route 50. You can go skydiving in Zephyrhills, which is known as the skydiving capital of the world. You can also go hang gliding in Wallaby Ranch, which is the first and largest hang gliding flight park in the world.

No matter what your interests are, Route 50 has something to offer. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to plan the perfect trip and experience all the best that Florida has to offer.