Florida is a fantastic place for road trips, offering a wide variety of destinations that won’t break the bank.
From pristine beaches to fascinating historical sites, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or just looking to relax, Florida has plenty of affordable spots to explore.
In this article, we’ll take you through nine inexpensive road trip destinations in Florida.
These spots are not only budget-friendly but also provide unique experiences that make them worth visiting.
So, pack your bags, fuel up your car, and get ready to discover the best of Florida without spending too much!
1. St. Augustine
St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States, is a charming and historic destination that’s perfect for a budget-friendly road trip.
With its cobblestone streets, ancient forts, and stunning Spanish architecture, this city feels like a trip back in time.
One of the main attractions is the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fortress overlooking the Matanzas Bay.
Entry fees are minimal, and you can spend hours exploring its history.
The city also offers beautiful beaches just a short drive away, like St. Augustine Beach and Vilano Beach, which are free to visit.
The historic district is full of unique shops and quaint restaurants, where you can enjoy a meal without spending too much.
St. Augustine’s rich history and relaxed vibe make it an ideal spot for an affordable getaway.
2. Ocala National Forest
If you’re a nature lover, Ocala National Forest should be on your road trip list.
Located in central Florida, this massive forest offers a variety of outdoor activities that won’t cost you much.
You can hike through scenic trails, swim in crystal-clear springs, or camp under the stars.
Alexander Springs, Juniper Springs, and Silver Glen Springs are some of the top spots to visit, where you can swim, snorkel, or simply relax by the water.
Entrance fees to these springs are very affordable, and camping is a budget-friendly option if you want to stay overnight.
The forest is also home to diverse wildlife, so keep an eye out for deer, black bears, and many bird species.
Ocala National Forest is a great destination for an inexpensive adventure in Florida’s great outdoors.
3. Sarasota
Sarasota is a cultural gem on Florida’s Gulf Coast, known for its vibrant arts scene and beautiful beaches.
One of the best things about Sarasota is that you can experience its beauty without spending a lot of money.
Siesta Key Beach, consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the world, is free to visit.
With its powdery white sand and calm, turquoise waters, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind. For a dose of culture, head to the Ringling Museum of Art, where admission is free on Mondays.
The museum offers a fascinating collection of European paintings, Asian art, and contemporary works.
Additionally, the city’s downtown area is full of charming shops and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice meal or a cup of coffee at reasonable prices.
Sarasota’s mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences makes it an affordable and rewarding road trip destination.
4. Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Florida’s unique ecosystems.
As the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States, the park offers a chance to see rare wildlife and stunning landscapes at an affordable price.
Entrance fees are very reasonable, and once inside, you can explore the park through hiking, biking, or taking a scenic drive.
One of the most popular activities is an airboat tour, where you can glide through the park’s famous wetlands and spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife.
While the tours can be a bit pricey, they are often worth it for the unique experience.
For a cheaper option, you can hike the Anhinga Trail, which offers great views of the Everglades and opportunities to see wildlife up close.
Whether you’re exploring on foot or by boat, Everglades National Park provides a memorable and affordable adventure.
5. Pensacola
Pensacola, located in the Florida Panhandle, is a historic city with beautiful beaches and plenty of budget-friendly activities.
One of the top attractions is the Pensacola Naval Aviation Museum, which is free to visit.
The museum features an impressive collection of aircraft and exhibits that highlight the history of naval aviation.
Nearby, you can explore the historic Pensacola Village, where you can take a walking tour to learn about the city’s rich history.
The beaches in Pensacola, such as Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key, are also free to visit and offer pristine white sand and clear blue waters.
Whether you’re soaking up the sun on the beach or exploring the city’s history, Pensacola is a great spot for an inexpensive road trip.
6. Apalachicola
Apalachicola is a small, charming town located in the Florida Panhandle, known for its seafood and historic charm.
This hidden gem is perfect for a quiet and affordable road trip.
The town’s historic district is full of well-preserved 19th-century buildings, many of which now house shops, cafes, and galleries.
You can spend the day wandering through the streets, soaking up the laid-back atmosphere, and enjoying fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.
Apalachicola is also known for its oyster industry, so be sure to try some of the freshest oysters you’ll ever taste.
Nearby, you can explore the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve, which offers opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and learning about the area’s unique ecosystems.
Apalachicola’s combination of history, nature, and seafood makes it a delightful and affordable destination.
7. Gainesville
Gainesville, home to the University of Florida, is a lively college town with plenty of inexpensive things to do.
The city is surrounded by beautiful parks and natural areas, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
One of the top spots to visit is the Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park, a large sinkhole where you can hike down into a miniature rainforest.
Entrance fees are low, making it a budget-friendly option for nature lovers.
Another must-visit is the Florida Museum of Natural History, which offers free admission to its permanent exhibits.
Here, you can learn about Florida’s rich natural history, from prehistoric times to the present day.
The city also has a vibrant downtown area with shops, cafes, and live music, where you can enjoy the local culture without spending a lot.
Gainesville’s mix of nature, history, and college town vibes makes it an affordable and fun road trip destination.
8. Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach is a classic Florida beach town that offers a mix of relaxation and adventure at an affordable price.
Known for its surf culture, Cocoa Beach is a great place to catch some waves or simply enjoy the sun and sand.
The beach is free to visit, and you can spend the day swimming, sunbathing, or walking along the iconic Cocoa Beach Pier.
For those interested in space, the nearby Kennedy Space Center is a must-see. While admission can be pricey, it’s worth visiting for the unique experience.
For a more budget-friendly option, you can visit the Astronaut Memorial Planetarium and Observatory in Cocoa, where you can learn about space exploration for a much lower cost.
Whether you’re hitting the waves or exploring the cosmos, Cocoa Beach offers plenty of fun without breaking the bank.
9. Key Largo
Key Largo, the northernmost of the Florida Keys, is a fantastic destination for a road trip that combines natural beauty with relaxation.
While the Florida Keys are often associated with expensive vacations, Key Largo offers plenty of affordable activities.
The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a top attraction, where you can snorkel, kayak, or take a glass-bottom boat tour to see the vibrant coral reefs.
Entrance fees to the park are affordable, and it’s a great place to spend the day exploring the underwater world.
Key Largo also has several beautiful beaches and parks where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
For those interested in marine life, the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary offers opportunities for diving and snorkeling at reasonable prices.
Key Largo’s mix of adventure and tranquility makes it a great spot for an inexpensive road trip in the Florida Keys